Veneers or Crowns—Which Is Right For You?

When looking to repair a tooth, there are two major dental treatments you can consider: veneers or crowns! While both procedures are effective at improving the strength and appearance of your smile, it can be challenging to decide which is the right option for you. Keep reading to learn the differences between both treatments and when you should choose one over the other.

The Differences Between Veneers & Crowns

There are certain differences in how veneers and crowns repair or change your teeth:

• Purpose of Treatment: Veneers are designed to cover up teeth that are discolored, oddly shaped, mildly damaged, or even crooked. They also provide a brighter and more youthful smile. Crowns can also whiten your smile, but they’re mainly intended to restore the strength and function of damaged teeth.
• Size/Shape: Veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells that cover the front of your pearly whites. Crowns, however, are about the same size and shape as your natural teeth.
• Length of Procedure: Porcelain veneers typically require several dental visits before cementing on. The process requires teeth preparation, impressions to be sent to a lab for construction, and then to receive the final veneers to be attached and assessed. Crowns may take a few visits as well, unless your dentist provides CEREC crowns which can be completed in just one visit.
• Cost of Treatment: The cost depends on the complexity of each treatment, but most insurance providers typically don’t cover veneers because of their cosmetic purposes. Crowns are restorative and necessary to protect a patient’s dental health

Which Treatment Is Right For Me?

Whether you want to purely restore your teeth or completely change your smile will determine which treatment is best for you. Crowns will help you with more essential dental issues to maintain a strong and healthy smile, especially when it comes to major tooth damage. Veneers can address more minor imperfections and are for those who want to beautify their smile above all.

You can be sure to benefit from both veneers and crowns, but knowing what each are for can help in your decision! Speak with your dentist if you want to explore your options further, and they’ll be more than happy to help.

About the Author

Dr. James M. Peery earned his dental doctorate from the Medical College of Virginia. He is a former President of the Lynchburg Dental Society and an active member of the American Dental Association and the Rotary Club. He provides outstanding and passionate dental care for all patients, with multiple treatments available including veneers and CEREC same day crowns. If you want to know more about the differences between veneers and crowns, feel free to visit his website or reach him at 434-847-5331.