For some, smiling with chipped, cracked, or decaying front teeth can be a great source of insecurity and embarrassment. If you feel like your front teeth are diminishing your self-confidence, or preventing you from being comfortable in social situations, there are solutions available. Front teeth crowns vs. veneers are two dental restoration options that we offer here at Spring Haven Dental, which can restore your beautiful smile back to proper form and function. While both of these are effective treatments, figuring out which one is best for you depends on the condition of your front teeth. Let’s dive in and take a look at what crowns and veneers are, what kinds of pros and cons they have, and what we recommend for our patients.
Front Teeth Crowns vs. Veneers: What They Are & How They Differ
What Is A Dental Crown Restoration?
A dental crown is about 2 mm in thickness and fits over the entire tooth (like a cap) to replace any missing or damaged portions. The goal of a dental crown is to restore stability, function, and shape to your natural teeth and is classified as a restorative treatment. Crowns are typically made completely from porcelain or an all-metal alloy, or is a combination of porcelain fused with metal alloys. We recommend crowns for situations where the tooth’s structure has been extensively damaged and weakened from breakage or tooth decay.
What Is A Veneer Restoration?
A veneer is a thin shell that is about 1 mm in thickness, which is bonded to the front surface of the tooth. The goal of a dental veneer is to improve the overall appearance of your teeth, by correcting minor chips, and cracks in the front teeth, or by changing the color and shape of the tooth, which is why it’s classified as a cosmetic treatment. Veneers are made from very thin porcelain or composite resin, and are designed to match the color, shape, and texture of your other teeth.
How Do They Differ From One Another?
The first difference between front teeth crowns vs. veneers, is in the scope of coverage that each provides. With a front tooth crown, it’s going to cap or cover the entire tooth, while a veneer will only cover the front, exterior surface.
A second difference here is that crowns require more tooth preparation before they can be applied; as the existing tooth must be filed down so that the crown can fit over top. In addition to this, if the tooth is decayed, all decay must be removed first before the tooth’s structure is built back up to support the crown. With a veneer, only half a millimeter of enamel needs to be removed, so that the veneer can bond correctly.
The Pros & Cons of Front Teeth Crowns vs. Veneers – What to Consider
When making an informed decision on which treatment is right for you, we always recommend that you consider the pros and cons of each option.
Dental Crowns Pros & Cons
- You receive full coverage & protection from further tooth decay.
- Strengthens weak or damaged teeth.
- If you opt for porcelain crowns, they will feel and look like your natural teeth.
- They are a permanent option and require the same hygiene techniques as your other teeth.
- Dental insurance will likely pay for a portion of the cost.
- Can cover up discolored fillings from old cavities.
- Requires considerable prep, and more of your natural tooth is removed.
- You may find your crowned tooth is more sensitive to hot and cold temps.
- Porcelain can be damaged over time.
- Crowns are thicker, may be more uncomfortable, and are costlier than veneers.
- A porcelain crown fused with metal alloys may show a dark line between it and the base of your natural tooth.
Veneers Pros & Cons
- Less of your natural tooth is removed to make room for the veneer.
- Offers a quick improvement for chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth.
- Minimally-invasive, and offers a natural look when done correctly.
- Will not show the gum margin after several years of wear.
- More of your natural tooth remains exposed, and is susceptible to future decay.
- They are thinner than crowns, and so may wear out faster.
- They can also stain more easily if not properly taken care of.
- Not covered by dental insurance since it is a cosmetic treatment.
- Not suitable for heavily damaged teeth.
Spring Haven Dental’s Logic Behind Treatment Recommendations
Here at Spring Haven Dental, we use a comprehensive process to determine our treatment recommendations. In terms of front teeth crowns vs. veneers, we use dental exams, x-rays, and your medical history to design a personalized plan tailored to the condition of your teeth. From here, our dentists use their professional experience to recommend the best option for you based on your comfort level, lifestyle goals, budget, convenience, and desired long-term durability. This approach ensures that our work is always based on effective results you can be happy with, while still correcting the oral concern and promoting long-term oral health.
It’s Time to Receive The Smile You’ve Always Wanted
Don’t let the decision between front teeth crowns vs. veneers overwhelm you – contact us at (813) 448-6885 to learn more about each treatment. Your smile is our passion, and we’d be delighted to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
