Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished your teeth looked better? You might have a chipped tooth or also want to make it brighter. A dentist near you in North Edmonton might offer crowns or veneers. But what’s the difference between a crown and a veneer? Let us discuss both these options so that you can understand which one might suit you better.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is like a cap that covers your entire tooth. When a tooth is damaged, weak or has a very large cavity, dentists use crowns. The crown goes over the whole tooth, from the top down to the gum line.
Crowns are strong and can last many years. The dentist will shape your natural tooth first and then set the crown. It safeguards your underlying real teeth or teeth, which you would like to keep.
What Is a Veneer?
A veneer is much thinner than a crown. It’s like a thin shell that covers only the front part of your tooth—the part people see when you smile. Veneers are popular in cosmetic dentistry near you because they make teeth look white, straight, and beautiful.
Dentists usually recommend veneers for teeth that look okay but just need improvement on the outside. If your tooth is healthy but has stains, small chips, or gaps, a veneer might be the right choice.
Key Difference Between Crown and Veneer
Here’s a simple table to help you see how crowns and veneers are different
|
Feature |
Crown |
Veneer |
|
Coverage |
Covers the entire tooth |
Covers front surface only |
|
Thickness |
Thicker and stronger |
Thin like a fingernail |
|
Purpose |
Repairs damaged teeth |
Improves appearance |
|
Tooth removal |
Removes more tooth structure |
Removes less tooth structure |
|
Best for |
Weak, broken, or decayed teeth |
Healthy teeth with cosmetic issues |
When Do You Need a Crown?
Your dentist might recommend a crown if
- Your tooth has a big cavity that a filling can’t fix
- You had a root canal treatment
- Your tooth is cracked or broken
- You have a dental implant that needs a tooth on top
- Your tooth is very weak and needs protection
Crowns work great when your tooth needs both strength and protection. They restore function, which means you can chew food normally again.
When Do You Need a Veneer?
Veneers are usually the better choice when
- Your teeth have permanent stains that whitening can’t remove
- You have small chips on your front teeth
- Your teeth have small gaps between them
- One or more teeth look shorter than the others
- You want a smile makeover
Veneers focus on making your smile look amazing. They’re common in cosmetic dentistry near you because they create beautiful results quickly.
Which One Lasts Longer?
Both treatments can last a long time with good care. Typically, crowns will last between ten and fifteen years and, sometimes, even longer. Veneers usually last 7 to 15 years. The exact time depends on how well you take care of them.
Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and visit a dentist near you. Avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens.
Making Your Decision
So, is it better to get a crown or a veneer? The answer here is honest: it depends on your particular tooth issue.
Generally, placing a crown is the better option if your tooth is damaged, weak or decayed. Crowns provide full coverage and protection.
If your tooth is healthy but aesthetically displeasing, a veneer is likely the solution. Veneers enhance your look without covering your whole tooth.
Talk to Your Dentist
The best way to decide is by talking with a dentist near you. They will check your teeth, take an X-ray if necessary, and tell you which treatment suits you. Every mouth is unique, and your dentist knows what will work best for your particular case.
Crowns and veneers are ordinary dental procedures. Dentists perform them every day with great success. If you need strength or beauty or both, modern dentistry has the solutions that will help you to smile with confidence again.
Get the Right Treatment Based on Your Oral Condition!
At The Dentists at Northgate, we want to ensure you get the dental care that is right for you. Our team will check your teeth, gums and overall oral health to help you understand which treatment is optimal for you. Our dentist is careful when using dental tools and following steps in order to help keep your smile healthy and strong. We want every visit of our patients to be easy, comfy and stress-free.
Need help with your smile? Contact The Dentists at Northgate.
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