Comparing Dental Veneers and Crowns for Improving Smiles

If you want a brighter, healthier smile but have suffered from some decay, damage, or other imperfections, you may be a candidate for dental veneers or crowns. Many people are confused as to what the difference is between these two procedures and which might be best for them. Here is a comparison of the two.

Procedure

The procedure to affix crowns or dental veneers to the teeth is where one of the greatest differences between the two lies. For crowns, the damaged part of the tooth must be removed as well as enough structure to make room for it to fit between existing teeth. If too much of the natural tooth has to be eliminated, more material must be used to give an anchor for the crown to be set. The crown is then created by the dentist and later placed in the mouth. Because it isn't affixed directly onto the tooth, it can be tailored to fit and look as natural as possible.

Dental veneers can't provide as much coverage as crowns, but the procedure to place them on teeth is significantly simpler. A small area of damaged enamel is shaved off the surface where they are to be placed and then they are simply bonded tightly on. They can help make subtle but noticeable changes to the smile including fixing asymmetry, cracks, and discolorations. 

Cost

One of the bigger factors influencing costs will be what your insurance covers. Dental veneers are considered strictly cosmetic as they only cover the surface of the tooth and don't provide protection. Crowns, however, can be used for health purposes, sealing and strengthening teeth that have significant damage or decay. You should consult with your insurance company and check to see what is covered as it can be complex. A crown procedure that is purely cosmetic will likely be rejected, so there must be a medical reason for it. If paying out of pocket, dental veneers can be a few hundred dollars cheaper than crowns. The price you pay is usually determined per tooth and if there are any other procedures that need to be performed first.

Durability

The thin and delicate nature of dental veneers may make it seem quite temporary in comparison to the more substantial crown structure. Ultimately, how well you take care of each will determine their longevity and durability. Both can last ten years and even longer in some cases, but still need to be treated like normal teeth which means regular brushing and professional cleaning. Since dental veneers cover the surface of the sides, there is less of a chance of damage through bite impact.

Appearance

Both dental veneers and crowns can be made to match your existing teeth and can look quite natural. Crowns, however, can help improve a wider range of problems. Dental veneers work strictly on the surface but cannot address issues such as bite problems and significant missing portions such as those created by cavities. Color-wise, a good dentist can match either option to fit with the rest of the smile.