What’s the Difference Between a Veneer and Crown

Veneers and crowns restore the functionality and beauty of teeth. While they both have similar results, they are quite different. Knowing the differences between a veneer and crown are what help people decide between them.

About Veneers and Crowns

Veneers and crowns provide dental restoration. They cover an existing tooth to enhance its appearance and functioning. 

A veneer covers the front part of a tooth. It looks like a natural tooth, so it’s effective in covering staining or white spots due to bleaching. It can also help restore the look of a damaged tooth – one that is chipped, worn, or crooked. 

A veneer can be made from porcelain or composite resin material, and each has pros and cons. For instance, porcelain veneers are durable, long-lasting, resist staining, and are natural-looking. Composite resin veneers require less tooth enamel to be removed, don’t need as many visits to the dentist, are less expensive, and can be easily fixed if damaged.  You can use a Lumineers as another solution for whitening teeth.

A crown is a cover or cap for a tooth. It restores the shape, size, and function of a tooth. Crowns are made of metal alloys, ceramics, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or composite resin. Click here to read more about crowns.

Veneer and Crown Differences

• Veneers are very thin (about one millimeter). They are bonded to the front of the teeth. 
• Crowns are twice as thick (about 2 millimeters). They are placed over teeth.
• Veneers can only be made of porcelain or composite resin material. 
• Crowns can be made of many materials.
• Veneers are best for people who have teeth intact, and the dental restoration is primary cosmetic dentistry purposes.  
• Crowns are better for functional repairs, such as when teeth are worn or cracked. 
• Veneers can be slightly less expensive, ranging in price between $250 to $2,500 per tooth. Composite resin veneers are cheaper, ranging from $250 to $1,500 per tooth. 
• The cost of crowns can range from $1,000 to $3,500 per tooth, not including the cost of preliminary dental work to prepare the tooth for crown placement. 
• Many people prefer veneers because they look more natural since they do not show a gum margin after a few years. 
• A crown protects teeth from decay because the entire tooth is covered.
• Veneers are often not covered by dental insurance because they are for cosmetic purposes. 
• Crowns are more likely to be covered because they promote oral health. 
• Veneers can become damaged, which means they may need to be repaired in the future. 
• Crowns are stronger and more durable, so they may never have to be repaired.
  

Choosing Veneers or Crowns

Speak to a dental professional about whether veneers or crowns are best for you. Each of them is effective in restoring damaged teeth, but deciding on the best one for you depends on your individual needs and desires. 

Contact Lasting Smile Dental today for more information about veneers and crowns, and how they can help you improve your oral health and beauty. We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about any of the dental procedures or services that we offer.  Whether it is tooth decay, tooth erosion, tooth sensitivity or tooth ache.

Our Dentist Provides Dental Services In Washington Township Michigan, Shelby Township and Surrounding Areas such as Utica, Monroe and other cities In Macomb County. Call Dr. Lana Tello if you have any questions or concerns or contact us.