How to Choose Between Crowns and Veneers

When you want a better smile, you might look to your dentist to discover different types of cosmetic dental procedures. To cover teeth that are misaligned, oddly-shaped or discoloured, both crowns and veneers will help you out. While they have many similarities, there are some reasons to choose one or the other. Here are some ways to determine whether you need crowns or dental veneers.

What is your main focus?

You first need to decide exactly what you are trying to accomplish when choosing crowns or veneers. While they both help with cosmetic issues, crowns are also good for restorative work. Crowns are frequently used to help cover teeth that are cracking and at risk of breaking, following a root canal, or because a tooth has been weakened for another reason. It helps to save the tooth as well as cover imperfections. If you only want to improve your smile and cover a discoloured or oddly-shaped teeth, veneers will work great since they only cover the front of the tooth.

How much do you want to spend?

If money is no object, you might prefer getting veneers, as long as improving the look of the tooth is the only issue. Dental veneers tend to be more expensive than crowns, though you should ask your dentist for cost details. Also consider that if you are getting the crown for restorative purposes, your dental insurance might cover it. Most dental insurance plans don't cover cosmetic procedures, which dental veneers are considered. So, you can save even more by choosing a crown.

How long do you want them to last?

Another thing to consider is how long you expect them to last. If one of the most important aspects of these two choices is to have something lasting the longest, go with dental crowns. Crowns can last up to 15 years, as long as they are well taken care of and you avoid eating a lot of sticky and hard foods. Dental veneers, on the other hand, last an average of 5-10 years before needing to be replaced.

Where is the problem tooth located?

If your problem tooth is a molar, where it is in the back of your mouth, a crown is your only option. Veneers are only for appearance purposes, so there is no reason to get them near the back of your mouth. However, both dental veneers and crowns are good for your front teeth.

Speak to your dentist if you're not sure which option is best. They likely have a recommendation that works best with your specific situation.

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