Dental Veneers vs Dental Crowns Compared for Aesthetics and Functionality
By Dr. Bhumit Shah
20th December 2023
13 mins read
When it comes to improving your smile and maintaining your dental health, dental veneers and crowns provide numerous advantages. These two dental treatments serve specific purposes while sharing a common goal of enhancing your oral health.
In this discussion, we will discuss the key differences between veneers and crowns, shedding light on how these cosmetic dentistry procedures contribute to your overall dental health.
Contents
- 1 Summary of The Content
- 2 Exploring the Beauty of Dental Veneers Through the Art of Aesthetics
- 3 The Functional Strength of Dental Crowns
- 4 Cost Comparison Between Veneers and Crowns
- 5 Dental Procedures and Timeframes for Veneers and Crowns
- 6 Longevity and Maintenance of Veneers and Crowns
- 7 Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers Uncovered
- 8 Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns
- 9 Final Thoughts
Summary of The Content
- Veneers enhance appearance, restore teeth, and align slightly crooked teeth.
- The veneer process involves consultation, minimal tooth preparation, dental impressions, temporary restorations, and bonding.
- Dental crowns protect weakened teeth, restore their function, and can match the appearance of natural teeth.
- Crowns are durable. They require extensive tooth preparation, impressions, temporaries, and cementation.
- The cost of crowns varies. Ceramic, porcelain, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have different prices.
- The cost of veneers differs based on the material used. There are porcelain veneers, composite veneers, Lumineers, and more.
- Veneer treatment takes 2-3 visits. With care, they can last 10-15+ years.
- Dental crowns restore teeth within weeks, lasting 5-15 years with regular care.
- Both dental treatment options offer functional and aesthetic benefits and serve unique purposes.
Exploring the Beauty of Dental Veneers Through the Art of Aesthetics
Dental veneers are made with materials that mimic the natural aesthetics of teeth. Every material, whether it be porcelain or composite resin, is selected with precision to accurately reflect the way light interacts with teeth, creating a seamless match with your smile.
The transformational power of dental veneers
- Enhancing tooth appearance:
Dental veneers do wonders in addressing various cosmetic dental issues – from misshapen teeth to stubborn stains that teeth whitening methods cannot resolve. - Restoring damaged teeth:
Veneers cover up chips, minor cracks, and other dental imperfections, restoring the appearance of your teeth. - Aesthetic harmony:
Although not a replacement for orthodontic treatment, veneers can be used to camouflage slightly misaligned teeth. They can be shaped to create an illusion of straight teeth, improving the aesthetic harmony of your smile.
Tailoring veneers to suit you
Dental veneers are customised to fit your unique smile. These restorations are carefully shaped to match not just your teeth but also your face, seamlessly blending in and boosting your overall appearance.
Minimal intrusion, maximum transformation
- Preserving healthy tooth structure:
Getting a new smile with veneers requires minimal reshaping of teeth. A thin layer of enamel is removed from the front surface of the teeth to create space for the veneer. - Surface brilliance:
Veneers can brighten stained teeth, restore chipped or cracked teeth, fill spaces between teeth and improve the appearance of misshapen teeth.
Dental veneers give you a fresh look and let your unique personality shine. It’s a partnership between you and your dentist that involves considering your dental goals, the health of your teeth, and professional advice.
The Functional Strength of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns have become a cornerstone in modern dentistry due to their remarkable functional strength. Here’s a deeper dive into this aspect.
Durability redefined
- Protecting teeth:
Think of dental crowns as armour for weak teeth. They restore teeth with severe damage or extensive decay, replacing the lost tooth structures to strengthen them. - Chewing confidence:
With dental crowns, you can enjoy your meals without worries. They give you the ability to bite into your favourite foods comfortably.
The longevity factor
- Built to last:
Dental crowns are designed to stand the test of time. They can last for 10-15 years with proper care. - Strengthening weakened teeth:
Damaged or decayed teeth become fragile due to lost natural tooth structure. Crowns restore teeth and strengthen them.
Addressing various dental needs
- Managing what’s broken:
Dental crowns can restore broken teeth, manage decayed ones, and even strengthen teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. - Ideal combination with implants:
Crowns, along with dental implants acting as artificial roots, are utilised for the replacement of missing teeth.
Balancing form and function
Dental crowns do more than restore damaged teeth; they also make your smile shine.
- Matching right in:
Crowns can be customised to match your natural teeth, seamlessly fitting into your smile. - Boosting confidence:
Beyond function, crowns also enhance your appearance, boosting your confidence.
Examining the functional benefits of dental crowns reveals a practical method for maintaining oral health. From protecting fragile teeth to creating beautiful smiles, crowns combine functionality and aesthetics, delivering substance and style.
Cost Comparison Between Veneers and Crowns
When it comes to transforming your smile, budget considerations naturally arise. Let’s talk about the financial aspect of your treatment and compare the costs associated with dental veneers and crowns.
Dental crowns: Pricing insights
When considering dental crowns, you’re looking at various choices. The cost can vary based on the type of crown you choose:
- Porcelain crowns:
These come in at around $2,100 each. They offer superior aesthetics with a more natural and translucent appearance, closely mimicking the look of real teeth. - Zirconia crowns:
Known for their exceptional strength and durability, zirconia crowns are more expensive than porcelain crowns due to the material and manufacturing process. - Full metal crowns:
For those prioritising durability, full metal crowns might be your pick. Their price usually ranges from $1,800 to $4,700. - Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns:
These versatile options fall between $1,700 to $2,500. They combine the benefits of both porcelain and metal.
Dental veneers: The price range
The costs of dental veneers vary depending on the type of veneer you choose:
- Porcelain veneers:
On average, you’re looking at an investment of about $2,036 per tooth. These offer exceptional aesthetics and durability. - Composite resin veneers:
This is a budget-friendly choice, starting at around $836 per tooth. They’re versatile and can address various cosmetic concerns. - Lumineers:
Lumineers have an average price of $2,100 per tooth. They offer a painless and transformative experience. - Snap-on veneers:
This type of veneer is a convenient option that comes at a price of up to $900 per tooth. They provide temporary cosmetic enhancement. - Prepless veneers:
These range from $1,200 to $3,000. They offer a minimally invasive approach to transforming your smile.
Understanding Health Fund Considerations
Insurance coverage can play a role in your decision-making process:
- Dental crowns:
Crowns may be covered by your health fund, either fully or partially, particularly if they are necessary for restoring tooth function. - Dental veneers:
In most cases, veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by health funds. If this is the case, ask your experienced dentist about the payment plans they offer. - However, it’s worth checking with your provider.
Dental Procedures and Timeframes for Veneers and Crowns
Embarking on a smile transformation is an exciting endeavour. Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of dental veneer and crown procedure, shedding light on the steps, timeframes, and recovery involved.
The path to a dazzling smile with veneers involves several key stages:
- Initial consultation and planning:
Your journey begins with a consultation. During this initial phase, your dentist will assess your oral health, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine if veneers suit you. - Tooth preparation:
To achieve a seamless fit, a thin layer of tooth enamel is removed. This step creates space for the veneers and allows them to blend naturally with your teeth. - Impressions and customisation:
Accurate impressions of your teeth are taken, serving as a blueprint for fabricating your custom veneers. This process allows the veneers to fit snugly on your teeth and enhance your smile’s aesthetics. - Temporary veneers:
While your final dental veneers are being meticulously fabricated, temporary veneers are placed to protect your teeth and provide a preview of your new smile. - Veneer bonding:
Once your custom porcelain veneers are ready, they are skillfully bonded to your teeth using a strong adhesive. This step brings your dream smile to life.
Dental crowns: Reinforcing and transforming
The journey to dental crowns also involves a series of steps:
- Consultation and evaluation:
Like veneers, your treatment begins with a consultation. Your dentist will assess the health of your teeth, discuss your needs, and determine if crowns are the right choice. - Tooth preparation:
A portion of your natural tooth is removed to accommodate the crown. Unlike veneers, where only the front surface of teeth is trimmed, crowns require reshaping of the entire tooth surface. This step promotes a secure and natural fit. - Impressions and crown fabrication:
Impressions are used to create a mould that will be used in fabricating your dental crown in the dental laboratory. The type of crown you’ve chosen will influence its design. - Temporary crown placement:
While your final dental crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown is placed to provide protection, maintain the appearance and prevent movement of adjacent teeth. - Crown bonding:
Once your custom crown is ready, it is cemented to your prepared tooth. This step restores both the aesthetics and function of teeth.
Timeframes and recovery: What to expect
- Veneers:
Getting veneers requires two to three dental visits over a few weeks. After placing the final veneers, you might experience minor sensitivity, but this should subside quickly. - Crowns:
The dental crown procedure is also spread over 2-3 visits, usually within a couple of weeks. Any discomfort or sensitivity is temporary and manageable following the final crown placement.
Longevity and Maintenance of Veneers and Crowns
As you embark on your smile transformation with dental veneers or crowns, it’s natural to wonder about their longevity and maintenance. Let’s explore the durability of these dental restorations, the care they require, and other factors to consider for the long haul.
Veneers: A lasting investment
Veneers are designed to stand the test of time, offering numerous benefits. Here’s what you can expect in terms of their longevity:
- Lifespan:
With proper care, porcelain veneers can maintain their appearance for 10 to 15 years or even longer. The durable porcelain makes them stay vibrant and resilient. - Maintenance:
Veneers require proper care to last longer. Practise good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, and attend regular dental check-ups. - Potential considerations:
A veneer can chip or crack over time, often caused by excessive force from chewing hard foods or experiencing facial impact. If this occurs, a dental professional can assess whether a replacement is needed to maintain the desired aesthetics.
Crowns: A strong shield for your teeth
When it comes to crowns, their durability and protective function shine:
- Lifespan:
Dental crowns, depending on the material used, can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. This remarkable longevity makes them an investment in your smile’s future. - Maintenance:
Like veneers, crowns demand routine proper care. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits help keep your teeth and crowns healthy. - Potential considerations:
While crowns are strong, they can still experience wear and tear. If you notice any signs of damage or discomfort, seek prompt dental attention.
Extra tips for long-term success
- Guard against grinding:
If you tend to grind your teeth at night, a night guard can help protect your natural teeth and veneers or crowns. - Opt for protective gear:
If you’re into contact sports or activities with potential impact, consider using a mouthguard to protect your attractive smile. - Stay mindful of stains:
While veneers and crowns are stain-resistant, it’s a good idea to avoid excessive consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, and tobacco.
Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers Uncovered
Dental veneers stand as a popular choice when it comes to creating a captivating smile. These ultra-thin shells of porcelain have the power to transform your teeth. However, like any treatment, there are pros and cons that must be considered.
Advantages of dental veneers: Elevating your smile
- Dazzling aesthetics:
Veneers are the artists of cosmetic dentistry, enhancing the appearance of teeth with precision. Stains, discolourations, and minor chips are concealed beneath the brilliance of porcelain, offering a radiant smile. - Minimal tooth reduction:
Preserving the integrity of your teeth, veneers require only minimal removal of tooth enamel, promoting a snug fit while keeping most of your tooth intact. - Customised appeal:
Each veneer is meticulously crafted to harmonise with your natural teeth, resulting in a seamless blend that complements your facial features and individuality. - Versatility:
Veneers can address multiple cosmetic issues, like slightly misaligned teeth, discoloured teeth and gaps between teeth, providing a comprehensive aesthetic approach.
Considerations for dental veneers: Weighing the aspects
- Sensitivity:
In some cases, the enamel removal process for veneers may lead to temporary tooth sensitivity. However, this usually subsides as your mouth adjusts. - Not reversible:
The enamel removal for veneers is irreversible, meaning that once you opt for veneers, you commit to the decision. - Cost:
While veneers offer remarkable transformations, they can be a substantial investment. Weigh the value of the enhancement against the financial aspect. - Potential replacement:
Veneers are durable but may need replacement over time due to natural wear, requiring future maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns emerge as a steadfast approach to various dental concerns. These versatile restorations offer functional and aesthetic benefits, as well as other considerations.
Advantages of dental crowns: Reinforcing your smile
- Exceptional durability:
Dental crowns are designed to withstand the pressures of daily use, providing reliable protection for compromised teeth. - Comprehensive restoration:
Crowns envelop the entire tooth structure, making them an effective approach for teeth with extensive damage, fractures, or decay. - Customised appearance:
Crafted to mimic the natural appearance of teeth, crowns seamlessly integrate into your smile, achieving both aesthetic appeal and function. - Versatile applications:
Dental crowns are a versatile option, addressing various concerns such as strengthening weakened teeth, supporting dental bridges, or topping dental implants.
Considerations for dental crowns: Weighing the aspects
- Tooth alteration:
The process of fitting a crown requires the removal of a portion of natural tooth enamel, making this treatment an irreversible procedure - Cost:
While dental crowns provide comprehensive restorations, they are a financial investment. Consider the value they bring to your oral health and appearance. - Potential sensitivity:
Some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after crown placement, which usually subsides over time. - Replacement over time:
Although durable, crowns may require replacement due to natural wear or damage, potentially leading to future maintenance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between dental veneers and dental crowns is about finding what suits your needs and smile goals. At Dentalcare of Forrestfield, we’re here to support you in your smile transformation. Our team is dedicated to helping you make informed decisions and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Whether you opt for veneers or crowns, the beauty of your smile and your oral health are our priorities. Contact us today to begin your smile transformation with care and guidance. Your beautiful, natural-looking smile awaits!
