Veneers and crowns are dental procedures that aim to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. When you’re looking at these options, it’s essential to know the difference between how they work and their rough cost estimates to make the best decision for you. Here we will go through the differences between crowns and veneers.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a 2mm thick cover that covers the whole tooth and usually used for damaged teeth that have a large filling, root canal or is very worn. If you do have tooth decay, then your dentist will need to remove the infected area before they can place the crown in place. Dental crowns are either made from all-porcelain, porcelain fused to a metal allow or all metal. All-porcelain and porcelain fused to metal match the colour of your teeth, while all metal will usually be silver, but you could opt for getting a dental crown in gold if you’re feeling bold.
Veneers
Veneers act as cosmetic covers which cover the front of your tooth. More of your natural tooth is left intact when using veneers, but your dentist must ground down about half a millimetre of enamel for installation. Veneers come in two types; porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers resemble fake fingernails, and your dentist will bond them to the front of your tooth. Composite resin veneers are applied one layer at a time, slowly forming a natural tooth look. Every veneer is custom-made for your teeth to give a natural look and feel.
When comparing both types of veneers, you’ll find that porcelain veneers from Cosmic Smile are very durable, look like real teeth and are resistant to staining. Although if they chip or crack, your dentist must replace the whole veneer. Porcelain veneers are usually made off-site and can take a few weeks to be ready. Composite resin veneers are placed in one sitting and are cheaper to repair than porcelain.
Pros and cons of both options
Dental crown pros
- The entire tooth is covered, protecting it from decay and enamel damage. Better for long term tooth health.
- Crowns feel the same as your regular teeth.
- Don’t need to be removed for cleaning or maintenance.
- Could be covered by dental insurance.
Dental crown cons
- A crowned tooth may take longer to settle into, and you may be more susceptible to heat and cold.
- Gums may initially hurt and feel a bit sensitive.
- The dentist removed a large piece of your natural tooth to place the crown securely.
- Porcelain crowns are fragile and could break from hard foods.
Veneer pros
- Veneers don’t show a gum line like crowns.
- Veneers keep more of your natural tooth intact, unlike crowns.
- Usually cheaper than crowns.
- Porcelain veneers costs are lower than crowns.
Veneer cons
- Teeth with veneers leave areas of the tooth exposed to decay.
- Only last between 5-7 years before they need replacing.
- Veneers are not reversible.
- You may not be eligible for a veneer if your teeth are in too low condition.
Both dental procedures will cost a fair bit of money, and you should sit down and discuss with your dentist what the best solution for you is. Whether you get a veneer or porcelain dental crown in Sydney, you’ll walk out of the clinic with a healthy smile.
