We know the struggle of hiding stained or broken teeth. To cover this, dentists usually suggest veneers and dental crowns. Both work well in restoring your brightening smile and enhance the overall dental aesthetics. A brighter and finer smile is not only beneficial for your appearance but also important for your overall health.
A dentist usually covers the front or visible part of your tooth with a thin veneer. Such treatment is widely popular in cosmetic dentistry and works to enhance the natural appearance of your teeth. A crown is like a cap covering the whole tooth. It encases the entire tooth to fix any damage or breakage.
This blog covers detailed information and key differences between both crowns vs. veneers. We will also cover each option’s benefits for achieving a brighter smile.
Crowns or Veneers – Make the Right Choice
A] What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap-like structure with a 2 mm thickness that covers the entire tooth. Dentists usually suggest crowns only in cases of broken, damaged, or fractured teeth.
For decayed teeth, a dentist first removes the damaged portion and shapes what remains to accommodate the crown. As part of the step-by-step dental crown procedure, the tooth is filed down to ensure the crown fits perfectly.
Dentists use various materials to prepare the crown. They use all-porcelain blended with metal or non-metal. The process typically takes 1–2 weeks, during which a temporary crown protects the tooth. For those considering dental crowns for front teeth, this procedure provides both durability and a natural look.
B] What Are Dental Veneers?
Porcelain dental veneers are a very common dental treatment used for cosmetic purposes. They are a thin layer of only one millimetre placed on the visible part of a tooth. You can also consider it as a fake nail over the tooth.
Dentists usually recommend the treatment for highly stained teeth. It works well in hiding small gapped spaces, chipped or cracked teeth, and reshaping. After examining the shape and colour of your teeth, the expert will fabricate porcelain veneers in 1 to 2 weeks.
Before using it, a dentist will grind your teeth using certain tools. This makes the surface rougher for dentists to adhere to dental cement and can easily cling.
C] Key Differences Between Veneers And Crowns
Although veneers and crowns both enhance your smile, they serve different purposes. Let’s explore the key differences, focusing on crowns vs veneers:
1. Coverage & Purpose
Veneers only cover the visible surface of your teeth to enhance the overall appearance. It is most widely used to hide imperfections or stains on teeth.
Crowns, however, cover the entire tooth, offering protection and support. For patients evaluating whether to choose dental crowns or veneers for damaged teeth, crowns are better suited for restoring function and strength.
2. Thickness And Material Differences
A veneer is just a 1 mm thick layer applied to your teeth. It brightens your teeth and gives them a more natural look. A dentist prepares veneers with resin or dental porcelain.
In contrast, crowns usually are about 2 mm and cover the entire tooth like a cap. Dentists typically make crowns from either porcelain fused with metal or non-metal materials.
3. Strength And Durability
Dental crowns tend to be stronger and more long-lasting than veneers. Hence, they are ideal for high-pressure teeth like those at the back of the mouth.
Veneers, while durable, are better suited for front teeth that experience less pressure. For individuals dealing with tooth sensitivity, deciding between a crown or veneer for tooth sensitivity will depend on the extent of damage and desired protection.
4. Aesthetic Outcomes And Natural Appearance
One reason veneers are popular is their cosmetic results and natural looks. These slim porcelain sheets resemble the transparency and shade of natural dental enamel.
On the other hand, crowns are useful when restoring damaged or weakened teeth. Although they provide more durability for teeth, crowns are less appealing than veneers.
Crowns are designed more for functionality than aesthetics, though advancements have made dental crowns for front teeth a viable option for maintaining a natural look.
5. Cost Difference And Factors Influencing The Price
Crowns usually cost more than veneers because they are typically made from high-quality materials. A veneer typically costs between AUD 750 and AUD 3,800, while a crown typically costs between AUD 1,200 and AUD 4,500.
These prices vary depending on the choice of material, location, or complexity of the process. Other factors such as insurance and dental plans may also affect costs.
| Aspect | Veneers | Crowns |
| Coverage & Purpose | Covers only the front surface of teeth for cosmetic improvements. | Covers the entire tooth, providing protection and support. |
| Thickness & Material | A thin layer (~1 mm), made from porcelain or resin. | Thicker (~2 mm), made from porcelain, metal, or a combination. |
| Strength & Durability | Suitable for front teeth; less durable under pressure. | Stronger and more durable, ideal for back teeth or damaged teeth. |
| Aesthetic Appearance | Offers a natural, translucent look resembling enamel. | Functional and durable, but less aesthetic than veneers. |
| Cost | AUD 750–3,800. | AUD 1,200–4,500. |
| Best For | Enhancing aesthetics of front teeth. | Restoring damaged, weakened, or heavily decayed teeth. |
D] Benefits Of Dental Crowns Vs Crowns
Veneers and crowns are two very common dental procedures that improve the general appearance of your teeth. The benefits of dental veneers vs crowns clarify how these choices contrast. Here’s a complete overview:
1. Pros of Dental Crowns
- The procedure is more suitable for ruined or degenerated teeth.
- This entirely surrounds the state of the entire tooth, which increases both protection and strength.
- They are strong and last for 10 to 15 years or even more depending on the material used.
2. Pros of Dental Veneers
- Porcelain veneers offer several cosmetic benefits.
- Veneers effectively hide dark or stained teeth, and they can improve the appearance of less-than-ideal tooth alignment.
- The procedure usually requires minimal local anaesthesia and often can be completed in just one visit.
- Additionally, veneers are low maintenance. So, it is easier to keep your teeth clean.
Need Help Choosing? We’re Here to Guide You
Conclusion
Besides, the porcelain veneers can help you improve your smile as well. But if you have a damaged tooth, a broken one, or have suffered from tooth trauma then crowns would be better for you.
Understanding the benefits of each option and the crowns vs veneers pros and cons help you make an informed decision. If you need assistance or want to be well-informed to achieve a brighter smile, feel free to reach out to a dentist in Sunshine Coast.
FAQs
1. Which is better for whitening teeth: veneers or crowns?
Ans: Veneers are better for whitening as they are designed to enhance your natural teeth. Crowns are for repairing damaged or weakened teeth.
2. How long do crowns last?
Ans: Crowns can last 10-15 years or more with good care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
3. How long do veneers last?
Ans: Veneers last 10-15 years and have good maintenance, avoid hard foods, and have good oral hygiene.
Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi
Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.
