Veneers vs Dental Crowns Jefferson Hills, PA
Veneers and Dental Crowns provided by Dr. Kenneth Poleski
in Jefferson Hills, PA at Poleski Family Dentistry
In today's world, first impressions matter, and a confident and radiant smile makes all the difference. People see it as an invitation to approach you and strike up a conversation.
However, not everyone has perfect teeth. Dental imperfections, whether due to genetics, accidents, or lifestyle factors, can affect one's self-esteem and dental health. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry provides various solutions to restore and enhance smiles.
If you are contemplating a smile transformation because of damaged, missing, or discolored front teeth, you have the option to choose between porcelain dental veneers or dental crowns. Which one will suit you best depends on the extent of the damage and the condition of your natural teeth, as well as whether it affects your front teeth.
Dental Veneers
Purpose
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Dental veneers, also called teeth veneers, are thin shells typically made of composite resin or porcelain.
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They are primarily used to improve tooth shape, color, size, or length.
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Veneers can effectively address issues like tooth discoloration, chipping, gaps between teeth, and minor misalignment. |
Procedure
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The process for getting veneers usually requires two or more visits to the dentist.
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During the first visit, the dentist will take measurements and prepare your teeth by cutting a small amount of enamel to ensure the veneers fit seamlessly. An impression of the teeth is then taken, which is forwarded to a dental lab for custom fabrication of the veneers. This ensures proper tooth alignment.
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Once the veneers are ready, the dentist bonds them to the teeth's front surface using a special adhesive, and adjustments are made for a proper fit and appearance. |
Advantages
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Veneers offer a natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing result.
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They require minimal alteration of the natural teeth compared to crowns.
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Veneers are stain-resistant and durable, lasting for many years with proper care.
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They can offer a quick solution for improving the appearance of teeth with cosmetic imperfections. |
Limitations
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Veneers may not be suitable for teeth with extensive damage or decay, as they primarily focus on improving cosmetic issues.
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They are not reversible, as the process involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel.
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While durable, veneers can still chip or crack under excessive force or pressure, such as biting hard objects or teeth grinding. |
Dental Crowns
Purpose
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Also known as dental caps, crowns cover the tooth's entire visible portion above the gumline.
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Crowns are often used to restore tooth size, shape, strength, and appearance.
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They serve both functional and cosmetic purposes, providing structural support and improving the appearance of damaged or severely decayed teeth.
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Crowns fix teeth that have undergone significant damage or a root canal treatment. |
Procedure
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Similar to veneers, a dental crown procedure usually includes multiple dentist visits.
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During the initial visit, the dentist cleans the tooth to remove any decay or damaged areas and reshapes it to accommodate the crown.
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Next, a tooth impression is taken, which is sent to a dental lab to fabricate the crown.
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In some cases, temporary crowns may be placed until the permanent crown is made.
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Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth using a dental adhesive. |
Advantages
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Dental crowns provide both functional and aesthetic benefits, restoring the appearance and strength of damaged teeth.
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They offer greater tooth protection and durability compared to veneers, as they cover the entire tooth surface.
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Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, allowing for customization to match the natural color and shape of the teeth.
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They are suitable for addressing more severe dental issues, such as extensive decay, fractures, or large fillings. |
Limitations
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The process of getting a dental crown involves more extensive tooth preparation compared to veneers, as more enamel needs to be removed to accommodate the crown.
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Crowns may not be as conservative an option as veneers, as they require more alteration of the natural tooth structure.
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While highly durable, crowns can still experience wear and tear over time, requiring replacement or maintenance. |
Choosing Between Veneers and Dental Crowns
Severity of the Issue
If the primary concern is cosmetic and involves minor imperfections like discoloration, chips, or gaps, veneers may be the preferred option. For more significant structural damage or decay, dental crowns are often necessary to provide adequate support and protection for the tooth.
Amount of Tooth Preparation
Veneers require minimal tooth preparation, making them a more conservative option that preserves more of the natural tooth structure. Dental crowns involve more extensive tooth preparation, as they cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.
Longevity and Durability
Both veneers and dental crowns can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Dental crowns may offer slightly greater durability and protection due to their full coverage of the tooth surface.
Cosmetic Considerations
While both veneers and crowns can enhance the appearance of teeth, the choice may also depend on individual aesthetic preferences and goals. Veneers provide a more conservative option for improving the appearance of teeth with minor imperfections, while crowns offer comprehensive coverage and restoration for more severe issues.
Achieve Your Perfect Smile
For those considering dental veneers, the promise of a flawless smile is within reach. Whether concealing stains, correcting chips, or closing gaps, veneers offer a versatile and minimally invasive option for achieving a picture-perfect grin. With careful planning and expert craftsmanship, veneers can seamlessly blend into your natural dentition, leaving you with a smile that looks and feels authentically yours.
Similarly, dental crowns offer a lifeline for teeth in distress, restoring strength, function, and aesthetics with precision and durability. Whether preserving a weakened tooth or enhancing its appearance, crowns provide comprehensive protection and support, allowing you to enjoy life's pleasures without hesitation.
At Poleski Family Dentistry, we are committed to helping our patients achieve their smile goals. Explore different cosmetic dentistry options, like veneers, crowns, implants, and cosmetic teeth whitening. Schedule your dental check-up today and let Dr. Kenneth Poleski inspect your oral health to determine which option will suit you best. For more information, call 412 813-3131. |