When Should You Consider Dental Crowns or Veneers?

Deciding between dental crowns and veneers depends on your specific dental needs and goals. Here's a breakdown of when each option is typically considered:

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are also known as "caps" and are designed to cover an entire tooth. They are often used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros of Dental Crowns

Durability: Crowns are highly durable and can last for many years.

Protection: They provide strong protection for weakened or damaged teeth.

Functional Restoration: Crowns are used when a tooth is severely damaged, broken, or missing.

Versatility: They can be placed on any tooth, including premolars and molars.

Cons of Dental Crowns

More Tooth Reduction: Preparing the tooth for a crown often involves more significant reduction of the natural tooth structure.

Cost: Crowns tend to be more expensive than veneers.

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are ultra-thin shells that cover only the front surface of a tooth. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros of Dental Veneers

Aesthetics: Veneers are known for their ability to create a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

Minimal Tooth Reduction: Veneers require less tooth reduction compared to crowns.

Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining and discoloration.

Quick Results: Veneers can deliver quick and noticeable improvements in the appearance of your front teeth.

Cons of Dental Veneers

Less Durability: Veneers are more delicate than crowns and may need replacement sooner.

Limited Restoration: They are primarily cosmetic and not suitable for severely damaged teeth.

Cost: While generally less expensive than crowns, veneers can still be a significant investment.

Difference Between Dental Veneers and Dental Crowns

Here are some key differences between dental veneers and dental crowns:

Covered Area

Dental veneers are limited to covering the external face of the tooth to improve its appearance. Crowns, on the other hand, must completely cover the remaining real tooth or the implant to ensure that there is no leakage. Only in this way will it also have the necessary adjustment to carry out the biting function and support occlusal loads.

Grinding

Tooth grinding consists of reducing the natural volume of the tooth so that the prosthesis to be placed, be it a veneer or a crown, fits correctly.

Purpose 

Veneers are used if you are looking for cosmetic improvement only. This is, if you have chipped teeth, or you want to change the shape, size, color of a tooth. Crowns, on the other side, have a more complete, functional purpose. They are used when a tooth is severely damaged, broken, or missing, and needs replacement.

Teeth On Which They Are Placed

Veneers have an aesthetic purpose, so they are generally bonded to the teeth that are visible in the smile: the upper central and lateral incisors. Crowns have a functional purpose, so they can be placed on any tooth. It is common to get caps placed on the premolars and molars, as these are the teeth that tend to accumulate more decay.

Material

Veneers can be made of porcelain or composite. Porcelain or ceramic veneers have the main advantage of being more aesthetic, resistant, and durable.

Are Dental Crowns Better for Front Teeth vs Dental Veneers?

The decision between dental crowns and veneers for front teeth depends on your specific dental conditions and goals. To make an informed choice, it's essential to consult with a cosmetic dentist who can evaluate your individual case and recommend the most suitable option.

Get the Best Cosmetic Dentist in Brick, NJ for your Next Dental Veneers/Crowns

For the best results in enhancing the appearance of your front teeth with dental crowns or veneers, it's essential to choose a skilled and experienced cosmetic dentist. 

At Cambridge Dental, you'll find qualified professionals who can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us to schedule your consultation and explore your options for dental veneers or crowns.