Dental crowns and dental veneers are both effective methods for tooth restoration, enhancing your natural smile and offering protection for your teeth. There are some differences between these two treatment options, and the best choice depends on your situation. AH Smiles offers personalized dental care in Arlington Heights, IL to help patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.
Veneers Are Good For Addressing Minor Cosmetic Issues
Dental veneers are a thin porcelain covering that are attached to the front of damaged, yellowed teeth with composite bonding. Veneers can be used to restore the color and shape of teeth, adjust their spacing — reducing gaps between your teeth — or lengthen small or misshapen teeth. It can even be used as an alternative way to whiten stained teeth. If your teeth are chipped or are showing signs of wear and tear, porcelain veneers can alter their appearance in a way that looks and feels natural while also protecting them from further damage.
Veneers are a less invasive treatment as they require less of the tooth to be restructured prior to the treatment. In most cases, only a thin layer of tooth enamel must be removed from the front of the tooth, making veneers a good solution for aesthetic problems such as discoloration and crooked teeth.
Dental Crowns Are Better For Advanced Tooth Restoration
Dental crowns are mounted over top of damaged teeth to protect the sensitive tissue inside. The damaged tooth is prepared and then the crown is cemented on top, holding it together to keep the natural tooth from breaking apart.
Dental crowns are comprised of extremely strong materials such as porcelain, resin, or a composite material. These materials are durable enough to handle the tasks of biting and chewing. Once a crown has been mounted atop the tooth, it is now part of it and can be used accordingly although the surrounding area may be sensitive.
Crowns require significant preparation of the tooth or teeth to be treated, making them a better option for a tooth that is severely damaged and needs more structural support. Crowns are often necessary after a root canal procedure, when a tooth has broken or become severely decayed.
Maintaining Crowns vs. Veneers
Dental veneers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. Although they are strong and securely bonded to the teeth, they are brittle and have a limited lifespan. Dental crowns have a similar lifespan, and are stronger but can still break with too much pressure or natural wear and tear.
Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine that includes regular examinations by your dentist will help keep your restorations intact and functioning as long as possible. Crowns and veneers do not require extra care beyond brushing and flossing to keep the remaining natural teeth healthy.
Dental Restoration Consultation in Arlington Heights, IL
AH Smiles in Arlington Heights, IL offers consultations to discuss your dental concerns and evaluate your oral health. We look forward to meeting your needs and goals for your smile and helping you enjoy the lifelong benefits of good oral health. To schedule your appointment, request an appointment online or call our office at (847) 230-9703.