Dental Crowns or Dental Veneers? What Makes Them Different?

You have probably heard of a dental crown, or “tooth cap,” and dental veneers. But do you know the difference between these two common dental prosthetics and why one may be recommended over the other for certain patients? 

A dental crown is a full cap that is placed over the top of your existing tooth. It covers all sides, including the front and back, sides of the teeth and the biting surface of the tooth. It essentially encompasses the crown of an existing tooth while providing it strength and stability. A dental crown is commonly made of metal and covered in porcelain. However, other materials may be used.

A dental veneer is a thin porcelain covering that gets bonded or cemented to the front part of a tooth to improve the aesthetic. It doesn’t cover the back of the tooth and is typically only used for front teeth since the front teeth are not subject to excessive biting forces compared to the back teeth.

 Benefits of Dental Crowns 

• Used to support a tooth with a large cavity or an existing large filling that is at risk of breaking down or failing
• Used to prevent chips, fractures and wear 
• Used to support teeth that have been root canal treated 
• It can be used for aesthetic purposes but offer more support than veneers 

Benefits of Dental Veneers 

• Mostly used for aesthetic improvements, it can change the colour, size and shape of teeth to suit a patient’s desires
• Less tooth structure is removed to place a dental veneer versus a dental crown 
• Slightly less expensive than a dental crown

Treatment for Dental Crowns and Veneers 

The procedure is quite similar if you will be getting a dental crown or a veneer. Part of your tooth structure will be sanded down to make room for the crown or veneer (more tooth structure will be removed if you are getting a dental crown). An impression will be taken of your teeth and sent to a dental lab to create a permanent dental crown or dental veneer. 

In the meantime, a temporary crown or veneer will be placed until the permanent one is made. It will take the dental lab around a week to make the permanent dental crown or veneer. The permanent dental crown or veneer will be cemented and adjusted at your second appointment.

If you have questions about dental crowns or veneers, we encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an appointment.