Should I Get a Crown or Veneers?

If you’re looking for ways to enhance your smile, both crowns and veneers can turn a dull smile into a dazzling one. Crowns and veneers are both popular, but which one is right for you?

Dr. Lovely Manlapaz Teodoro of The Dental Center of Hercules is an expert when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. Whether you opt for veneers or crowns, you can get what you need in our Hercules, California, clinic.  

Before you can make a decision, it’s important to note the key differences between these two options. In the meantime, this guide will break down the key differences between veneers and crowns and how to determine which one is right for you.

What’s the difference between crowns and veneers?

Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are types of dental restorations. They are called restorations because they restore the form and function of your mouth. Although they both can improve the function of your mouth or enhance the appearance of your teeth, they do have several differences, including:

• How your teeth are prepped
• How much of your natural tooth is removed
• How much of your natural tooth is covered

Veneers

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover the front surface of your natural teeth. Dr. Teodoro bonds the shells directly onto your tooth. However, before the shell is bonded, he must prep your tooth. He grinds down about 0.5 millimeter of your enamel to allow the shell to have a better bond. This is true for crowns too, but more tooth material must be removed if you opt for a crown.

Once you have veneers, you’ll always have to have them. However, they’ll last for up to 20 years with the right care.

Crowns

Unlike veneers, dental crowns cover your entire tooth, not just the front surface. Crowns are also thicker than veneers, and they act like a “cap” that fits over your natural tooth.  At the Dental Center of Hercules, we provide you with a CEREC® crown, which means you’ll have a new crown in just about an hour. No second appointment needed!

When to consider crowns

Dental crowns are a good option when:

• Your teeth are severely damaged (broken, cracked)
• You’ve had a root canal and your tooth needs to be protected
• The edge of your tooth has been worn down or broken (remember veneers only cover the front surface)
• You have just one stained or misshapen tooth

Crowns can improve the shape, color, and look of your tooth while strengthening and protecting your natural tooth underneath it.

When to consider veneers

Veneers are a good option when:

• Your teeth are stained and unresponsive to whitening treatments
• You have minor chips or imperfections limited only to the front of your teeth
• You want a fresh new look 
• You don’t like the shape of your teeth
• You have several teeth that need a makeover

Veneers can also hide minor gaps in between your teeth. 

You don’t have to make this decision alone

If you’re unhappy with your smile, there are many cosmetic options to help you love your smile once again. In some cases, you might benefit from a combination of services, but you’ll never have to make this decision alone. Dr. Teodoro recommends the right procedure for you, whether that’s veneers, crowns, or other options, like bonding.

Let us help you get your dream smile. Contact our Hercules, California, office today at 510-254-3328 or schedule an appointment on our website.