Crowns or Veneers: Which One Should You Go For?

Crowns and veneers are just two tools in a dentist’s arsenal to help improve the appearance of your teeth, but each has their own applications. Which one is most suited to you will be determined by your specific needs. Let’s take a look at crowns and veneers in more detail to see which might be best for you.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap which is made out of resin, porcelain, ceramic, stainless steel or another metal. It sits over the entire tooth requiring restoration, from the gum line up and is glued to the tooth using dental cement. When created out of stainless steel the crown is usually temporary, but for other restorations, a ceramic, porcelain or resin crown is commonly used to closely replicate the existing tooth.

The aim of a dental crown is two-fold. It is used to improve the appearance of a damaged tooth and is also used to strengthen the existing tooth structure. Specific applications include using a crown to support a filling when there is relatively little original tooth left, further preventing the signs of decay by encasing the existing tooth, and to hold a dental bridge in place.

Inlays and Onlays

Crowns can also be used for cosmetic reasons if a patient wishes to improve the appearance of their existing teeth, but inlays and onlays can be used as a more conservative alternative.

Inlays and onlays are partial dental restorations which either sit over or into the tooth structure and are used to strengthen the tooth when large fillings are removed, thereby improving the strength of the remaining original tooth. Like crowns, they can be made out of composite or ceramic to accurately match the colour of the patient’s existing tooth. Alternatively, they may be formed from metal such as gold.

What is a Veneer?

Veneers are also a good option for cosmetic improvements. They are made out of thin slices of porcelain which are cemented to your existing teeth. They can be used for a number of applications.

Whitening Your Existing Teeth

Dental Veneers are a very popular choice for those looking to address tooth discolouration. The thin veneers can be added to the teeth in a lighter shade than the existing teeth to permanently whiten them. This is a good option when the patient is unable to use traditional tooth whitening techniques which utilise peroxide.

Improving Minor Cosmetic Issues

For those looking to avoid dental braces, veneers can be used to effectively remove a gap between teeth or straighten crooked teeth. Dental veneers are very strong, which makes them suitable for replacing damaged enamel. It’s worth noting that the process is irreversible once veneers are fitted as the outer layer of the teeth may be removed to make room for the veneer to fit correctly. As such, it’s always worth discussing any treatment with our dental team in full before proceeding.

Choosing the right dental treatment is usually a collaborative process between the patient and our dental staff. This way, we can ensure a great result that is hard-wearing and right for your individual needs.

If you’re interested in dental crowns, veneers or any other cosmetic treatment, please contact our friendly team on 01730 266 350 today.