Dental crowns have been around for centuries, but porcelain crowns weren’t introduced until the 1800s. Veneers, on the other hand, have only been around since the mid-1930s. However, both of these dental restorations have become extremely popular, especially since the 1980s when actors like Jim Carrey, and numerous others, began having complete smile makeovers. Because these two types of dental restorations can resolve many of the same issues, you may wonder how to decide which will work best for your particular situation. Although your dentist will help you make the final decision, when it comes to deciding between crowns and veneers here are some things you should know.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
A porcelain veneer is a very thin shell fabricated from strong, dental porcelain material that resembles the color, pearlescence, and translucency of natural dentition. Veneers are bonded to the front of your tooth (or teeth), but in order to accomplish this a small amount of enamel is removed so the dental veneers fit flush with the surrounding dentition. Veneers can last up to 20 years and can treat:
- Stain-resistant discolorations
- Chips, cracks, and fractures
- Damaged enamel
- Misalignments
- Gaps and spaces
- Short or worn teeth
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are also usually made of porcelain, but they are a hollow shell that fits over your tooth. They too blend in with your natural dentition, and the tooth must be prepared by grinding it down to fit the crown. Dental crowns can last as long as veneers and can fix all of the above dental issues, as well as:
- A broken or cracked tooth
- An excessively decayed tooth
- An extremely damaged tooth
- A tooth that has received root canal therapy
- Teeth that need building up to align your bite
Porcelain veneers and crowns both restore the function of your bite and the esthetics of your smile. Have a discussion with your dentist to decide which one is best for you.
