If you're dealing with damaged, discolored, or misshapen teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental restoration. Two popular options are full coverage crowns and veneers. While both can improve your smile, they serve different purposes.
Below is information about full coverage crowns and veneers, including what they're used for and which option might be a better fit for your individual needs.
Full Coverage Crowns
A full coverage crown is a dental restoration that completely covers a damaged or compromised tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, size, strength, and overall appearance.
Full coverage crowns are often recommended in the following situations:
- Protection: To prevent a weakened tooth (perhaps due to decay or fracture) from breaking further.
- Restoration: To rebuild a severely worn down or broken tooth, allowing for normal chewing and biting function.
- Support: To cover a tooth with a large filling or after a root canal, where the tooth might be more brittle.
- Aesthetics: To improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth—boosting smile confidence.
Veneers
Veneers are custom-designed, wafer-thin coverings made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain or composite resin. They are carefully bonded to the front of teeth, transforming the appearance of the patient’s smile by addressing their cosmetic issues.
Some of the issues veneers help to address include:
- Discoloration: Veneers can help by covering severe discoloration or stains that don't respond to traditional whitening treatments, providing a brighter, more uniform smile.
- Damage: Veneers can help to mask chips, cracks, or minor wear on teeth, restoring a flawless appearance.
- Spacing: Veneers can help close small gaps between teeth and create a more even smile.
- Shape: Veneers can be used to lengthen, reshape, or improve the overall appearance of teeth, enhancing smile aesthetics.
- Minor Misalignment: In some cases, veneers can correct slightly crooked or misaligned teeth, offering a less invasive alternative to orthodontic treatment.
Full Coverage Crowns vs. Veneers: Which Option is Right for You?
While both crowns and veneers improve the appearance and function of your teeth, choosing the right option depends on your specific needs. Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
- Tooth Coverage: Crowns encase the entire tooth, while veneers only cover the front surface.
- Strength and Protection: Crowns offer more strength and protection, making them ideal for badly damaged or weakened teeth.
- Tooth Preparation: Crowns typically require more tooth reduction for placement compared to veneers.
- Purpose: Crowns often address structural issues, while veneers primarily focus on cosmetic concerns.
- Cost: Crowns are usually more expensive than veneers because of the materials used and the extra preparation they require.
Contact Us
The best way to determine whether full coverage crowns or veneers are right for you is to consult your dentist. They'll assess your teeth, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate treatment to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
Contact us today for an evaluation. We’ll take a look and see which restorative option is best to meet your needs, then set an appointment to provide you with the restoration best suited for you.