According to reports, cosmetic dentistry is becoming more popular than ever and demand for cosmetic procedures is expected to grow by 5% every year. 

Are you feeling self-conscious about your smile and want to take action? Crowns and veneers are two ways dentists can rectify unsightly teeth. 

However, there are some big differences between veneers vs crowns, and it’s imperative that you pick the right procedure, otherwise you might risk the integrity of your teeth. 

Ready to get clued up on whether you should get dental crowns or veneers? Keep reading. 

Veneers Explained

Veneers are a purely cosmetic dental procedure. As the name suggests, veneers are thin sheets, usually made out of porcelain or composite materials that fit over your natural teeth. 

They can cover up cosmetic flaws such as cracks, irregularly shaped teeth, chips, staining, small gaps, and more. However, veneers are not suitable for addressing tooth decay. In fact, if your teeth are in poor shape, and their strength is compromised, this might eliminate you as a candidate for veneers. 

This is because veneers need relatively strong, healthy teeth to attach to. 

What’s Involved

If you want to get veneers you will need to consult with your dentist to find out whether you are a good candidate. If you are, the first step involved is sitting down with your dentist and deciding exactly what shape and color you want your veneers to be. 

After this, you will need to attend an appointment where the dentist will reshape your teeth in preparation for the veneers. This usually involves shaving off a paper-thin amount of the tooth surface. After this, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and attach a set of temporary veneers. 

At the final consultation, the dentist will remove your temporary veneers, polish and etch your teeth, and adhere the permanent veneers. 

The Cost

Veneers can vary in cost depending on what type of veneer you get. Composite veneers are the most affordable and usually cost between $250 and $2,500 per tooth. Porcelain veneers are longer-lasting, but cost between $900 and 2,500 per tooth.

Pros and Cons of Veneers

The main advantage of veneers is they offer a way for you to have a smile makeover without having to undergo orthodontic dentistry, which can often take years to complete. They can also eradicate the need for tooth whitening procedures because veneers are highly resistant to staining. 

The veneers process is relatively quick and easy and allows for a semi-instant transformation. 

As far as disadvantages go, one thing to think is that https://www.overnightglasses.com/ veneers are irreversible. Once you get veneers you can not go without them. Because some of the enamel of your teeth has been removed, they require protection from the veneers.

Fortunately, most patients who get veneers done by a good dentist are so happy with the results that they wouldn’t want to reverse the process. 

Another potential con is that while they are a permanent procedure, you will probably need to replace your veneers every few years. Porcelain veneers typically last about 10 years. 

After having veneers done, you might also experience some tooth sensitivity, however, this wears off for most patients in a matter of days or weeks. 

Crowns Explained

Crowns are a very common dental procedure and roughly 15 million people in the US have either crown or bridge replacements. 

Dental crowns are essentially caps that fit over damaged teeth or implants. Most of the time dentists use them to strengthen and restore teeth that have been weakened or eroded by decay. If you have had multiple fillings in one tooth, the next step is usually to get a crown. 

Crowns can also be done on severely cracked teeth.

In some cases, dentists also recommend crowns for cosmetic reasons, but this is usually if there is a non-cosmetic issue also present in the tooth.

What’s Involved

Crowns typically require two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will take X-rays and assess the state of your teeth. If there is advanced decay or risk of infection to your tooth’s pulp, your dentist might need to do a root canal first.

Next, the dentist will shape the surface of your tooth to prepare it for the crown. They will also take impressions of the area (or digital scans) including the surrounding teeth. After this, the dentist will attach a temporary crown for you to chew with while your permanent crown is manufactured in a dental lab. 

Manufacturing of the crown usually takes around 3 weeks. 

Once the crown is ready your dentist will permanently cement it in place. 

The Cost

Dental crowns usually cost between $800 and $2,500 per tooth. However, exact costs can vary widely based on location and the experience of the dentist. 

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a reliable procedure for restoring decayed teeth. Not only do they strengthen teeth that have been eroded by cavities, but they can also fix cosmetic issues. 

Veneers vs Crowns: Which Is Right for You?

If you’re wondering which is better for you, veneers vs crowns, the answer will depend on your teeth. If you have a tooth that has advanced decay or multiple cavities, then a crown is usually the best solution. 

However, if your teeth are relatively sound and healthy, and you just want to address cosmetic issues, then veneers can be a good option. 

If a dentist recommends you get a set of crowns simply for cosmetic reasons, this should be a warning bell. 

As veneers have been growing in popularity, a dangerous trend has sprung up where young people travel overseas to get “veneers” done which are actually crowns. This involves far more tooth removal than is necessary, and can seriously compromise healthy teeth. 

Always make sure you consult with a trusted dentist before choosing between veneers vs. crowns. 

Looking For a Dentist Who Can Guide You on Deciding Between Veneers vs Crowns?

If you’re trying to decide between getting veneers vs. crowns, the most important thing to do is speak to an experienced dentist. They will be able to advise you on what’s best for the overall health of your teeth and help you select the right treatment. 

Looking for an exceptional dental experience? Awesome Smiles is a multispecialty dental practice. We are a one-stop location for all your dental needs and offer same-day service and new patient consultations, as well as financing options free from credit inquiries. 

The comfort of our patients is our top priority. Through great design, friendly and empathetic staff, and industry-leading dental expertise we make sure that your visits are as comfortable and pleasant as possible. 

Book a consultation today. We promise that your Awesome Smiles experience won’t disappoint.