Difference Between a Dental Crown and Dental Veneer

When it comes to enhancing your smile, modern dentistry offers a variety of options to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. Among the most popular solutions are dental crowns and dental veneers. Both serve to address aesthetic and structural issues with teeth, but they differ significantly in their application, material, and purpose. This blog aims to elucidate these differences and help you make an informed decision if you’re considering dental restoration.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a type of dental restoration that completely encases a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are used to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance.

Indications for Dental Crowns

Severe Decay: When a tooth has a large cavity that cannot be filled with a standard filling.
Cracked or Broken Teeth: To protect and hold together parts of a cracked tooth.
Post-Root Canal: To protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy.
Worn Down Teeth: For teeth that are severely worn down due to grinding or acid erosion.
Cosmetic Enhancement: To cover misshaped or severely discoloured teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns: Offer the most natural look and are often used for front teeth.
Ceramic Crowns: Similar to porcelain crowns but made entirely of ceramic material.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Provide strength (due to the metal) and a natural look (due to the porcelain).
Metal Crowns: Made of gold or other alloys, these are very durable and ideal for out-of-sight molars.
Resin Crowns: Less expensive but also less durable than other types.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance their appearance. Unlike crowns, veneers only cover the front part of the tooth and are primarily used for aesthetic purposes.

Indications for Dental Veneers

Discoloured Teeth: Teeth that are severely discoloured and cannot be whitened through bleaching.
Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that have minor wear and tear.
Chipped or Broken Teeth: To cover and protect minor chips or breaks.
Misaligned or Uneven Teeth: To create a more uniform appearance.
Gaps Between Teeth: To close small gaps between teeth.

Types of Dental Veneers

Porcelain Veneers: Custom-made shells that are highly durable and provide a natural look.
Composite Resin Veneers: Less expensive and can be applied in a single visit, but not as durable or natural-looking as porcelain.

Key Differences Between Dental Crowns and Veneers

Coverage

Crowns: Cover the entire tooth, providing strength and protection from further damage or decay. This makes crowns ideal for teeth that are significantly damaged or decayed.
Veneers: Only cover the front surface of the tooth, making them suitable for aesthetic improvements rather than structural reinforcement.

Tooth Preparation

Crowns: Require more extensive tooth preparation, as a significant portion of the tooth needs to be filed down to fit the crown.
Veneers: Require minimal tooth preparation. Only a thin layer of the tooth’s surface is removed to accommodate the veneer.

Purpose

Crowns: Used both for restorative and cosmetic purposes. They strengthen damaged teeth and can improve appearance.
Veneers: Primarily used for cosmetic enhancements. They improve the appearance of teeth but do not significantly alter the tooth’s strength.

Durability

Crowns: Generally more durable due to the materials used and the fact that they cover the entire tooth. They can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.
Veneers: While durable, especially porcelain veneers, they may not last as long as crowns and typically need replacement after 7-15 years.

Aesthetic Outcomes

Crowns: These can provide a natural look, especially porcelain and ceramic crowns, but sometimes the metal base of PFM crowns may show as a dark line at the gum.
Veneers: Known for their ability to mimic the natural translucency and lustre of teeth, often providing superior aesthetic results for front teeth.

Procedure for Getting Dental Crowns

Consultation: Initial examination and discussion of your needs.
Tooth Preparation: The tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown.
Impression: A mould of your tooth is made and sent to a dental lab.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is being made.
Fitting and Placement: The permanent crown is cemented onto your tooth after ensuring proper fit and colour match.

Procedure for Getting Dental Veneers

Consultation: Initial examination and discussion of your desired results.
Tooth Preparation: A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the teeth.
Impression: An impression of your teeth is made and sent to a dental lab.
Temporary Veneers: Optional temporary veneers may be placed.
Fitting and Placement: The veneers are bonded to your teeth using a special adhesive.

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns

Pros

Durability: Highly durable and can withstand heavy biting and chewing forces.
Protection: Provide comprehensive protection for damaged or decayed teeth.
Versatility: Suitable for both front and back teeth.

Cons

Invasive Procedure: Requires significant reduction of the natural tooth structure.
Cost: Generally more expensive than veneers.
Potential for Gum Irritation: If not fitted properly, crowns can cause gum irritation.

Pros and Cons of Dental Veneers

Pros

Aesthetic Appeal: Provide a highly natural and attractive appearance.
Minimal Invasion: Require less removal of the natural tooth compared to crowns.
Quick Procedure: Often completed in two visits.

Cons

Fragility: Less durable than crowns and more prone to chipping and breaking.
Cost: Though typically less than crowns, veneers are still a significant investment.
Not Reversible: Once applied, the process is not reversible due to the enamel removal.

Choosing Between Crowns and Veneers

Deciding between crowns and veneers depends on your specific dental needs and goals. Here are some scenarios to consider:

Functional Issues: If you have significant tooth decay, or structural damage, or need a root canal treatment, crowns are likely the better choice due to their strength and protective qualities.
Aesthetic Concerns: For minor imperfections like discolouration, small chips, or gaps, veneers may be more suitable as they require less tooth alteration and provide excellent cosmetic results.
Tooth Location: Crowns might be more appropriate for molars due to their ability to withstand strong biting forces, while veneers are often preferred for front teeth where appearance is a primary concern.
Longevity: If you are looking for a longer-lasting solution and are okay with a more invasive procedure, crowns may be the way to go. Veneers, while durable, generally need replacement sooner.

Care and Maintenance

Both crowns and veneers require good oral hygiene practices to ensure their longevity. Here are some tips:

Brush and Floss Regularly: Maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep the underlying teeth and gums healthy.
Avoid Hard Foods: Limit consumption of hard foods that could crack or damage the restoration.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to monitor the condition of your crowns or veneers.
Protect Against Grinding: If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your restorations.

Cost Considerations

The cost of dental crowns and veneers varies widely based on the material used, the complexity of the procedure, and geographic location. Generally, crowns can range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth, while veneers can cost between $500 and $1,300 per tooth. Insurance coverage also differs; crowns are more likely to be covered by dental insurance, especially if deemed medically necessary, whereas veneers are often considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered.

Conclusion

Dental crowns and veneers are both excellent options for improving the health and appearance of your teeth, but they serve different purposes and involve different procedures. Crowns are ideal for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, offering strength and durability. Veneers are best suited for cosmetic enhancements, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.

When considering dental restoration, it’s important to consult with a dental professional who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best option for you. Whether you opt for crowns or veneers, the goal is to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that enhances your confidence and overall well-being.