What Is The Difference Between Porcelain Veneers and Dental Crowns?

When it comes to Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers and Dental Crowns are two popular options for enhancing the appearance of teeth. While both can help with various dental issues, these procedures differ significantly. Our patients in Pasadena can rest assured that our dentists at Prestige Dental, Dr. B and Dr. Megan Doudian, are experts on this subject and can assist you in determining which one is best suited for you. We will explore the differences between veneers and crowns to help you decide the best option.

Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer is a thin porcelain shell covering the front of the tooth. In this procedure, your dentist takes digital impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a dental lab to create custom veneers. During application, a small amount of enamel is removed from your teeth before carefully bonding the veneers. Porcelain veneers are incredibly durable and can help conceal dental imperfections.

Dental Crowns

This procedure involves placing a cap over the existing tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Initially, your dentist takes an impression of the tooth and creates a custom-made crown that will fit securely over the tooth. Then, they prepare the tooth by removing damaged or decayed parts and shaping it to fit the crown. Finally, the crown is permanently cemented onto the tooth, leaving you a natural, healthy-looking smile.

What Is The Difference Between Veneers And Crowns?

The main difference between Porcelain Veneers and Crowns is that veneers only cover the front surface of a tooth while crowns encase the entire tooth. Veneers are typically used to fix minor cosmetic issues such as small chips or cracks, discoloration, or gaps between teeth. On the other hand, crowns are used to correct more significant dental problems, such as severe decay or damage. Crowns are also often used in cases where the tooth has undergone a root canal.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers:

They provide a durable restoration option for discolored, chipped, broken, or misshapen teeth, bringing an aesthetically pleasing and permanent renewed smile. They are also highly customizable, as they can be color-matched, shaped, and sized to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are also durable and long-lasting, offering a solution to maintain oral health for years.

Benefits of Crowns:

Dental Crowns can last for many years with proper care, making them a durable and reliable solution for improving oral health. They are incredibly versatile and can treat a wide range of dental issues, such as tooth fractures, decay, and root canal therapy. Dental Crowns improve your bite and chewing efficiency, reducing strain on other teeth.

Many people may be curious about the costs of these procedures. Generally, dental crowns and porcelain veneers have a similar cost. Porcelain veneers may require replacement more frequently than dental crowns, especially in patients with a heavy bite, or those who tend to tear or bite into harder foods more frequently. However, veneers require less removal of tooth enamel than crowns, leaving the tooth underneath stronger. On average, when cared for properly, both porcelain veneers and dental crowns can last up to 15 years or longer. Visit Prestige Dental and discuss with your dentist in Pasadena what option is best for your oral health and budget. Investing in either of these procedures can dramatically enhance your smile and give you the confidence you deserve.

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