Do you have structural problems cavities, cracks, or fractures in your teeth? Do you require dental restoration for an ideal smile design? It is imperative to promptly visit your dentist for any dental issue.
When you visit the dentist for any of the problems mentioned above, your doctor will first identify the issue and its underlying cause to resolve your dental problems. They use the possibilities of today's dental scanning technology as well as intraoral examinations to detect the problem.
If it has been decided that the solution to the problem with your teeth is veneers, you are faced with one of two options: Veneers or Crowns. Veneers and crowns are dental restoration tools that can improve the appearance and function of your teeth. In which cases are veneers, and in which cases are crowns applied? Since they are both types of veneers, what are the differences between them? Let's first explain the usage areas of each and then compare them.
Veneers
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are a durable, natural-looking, stain-resistant, thin veneer applied to the front surface of the tooth and are widely used to address aesthetic concerns.
What material are dental veneers made of?
Veneers are made from several materials, including porcelain, composite resins, and ceramic, to correspond with the natural colour of your teeth.
In which situations are dental veneers used?
Veneers may be preferred to eliminate the dental problems listed below.
- Dental deformities
- Gaps between teeth
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Alignment problems in teeth
- Discolouration of dental enamel.
- Aesthetic concerns.
What are the types of dental veneers?
Porcelain veneers:
Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, resist wear and tear, and have a long service life.
Kompozit veneers:
The main element is resin, which is applied directly to the teeth in layers, subsequently shaped and polished by the dentist.
Zirconium Veneers
Zirconia ceramics are produced by amalgamating zirconium dioxide with oxygen in specialised furnaces. They are resistant to breakage, cracking, and abrasion.
Emax Veneers:
Made of lithium disilicate ceramic, these veneers are very thin, translucent, and durable. They are bonded to the upper surface of the teeth.
Related Post:E-max veneers pros and cons?
Laminate Veneers:
The main material is porcelain. It is adhered to the front surface of the teeth with a minimal amount of shaving from the tooth surface.
Lumineers
The main material of these veneers is porcelain, and they are specially made. Without any abrasion from the tooth, these extremely thin veneers bond to the front surface of the teeth.
Trial Smile Veneers
These veneers are very thin and are bonded to the natural tooth structure with minimal processing.
Platel veneers:
These are less common veneers. They are used for abrasions on the back of the teeth.
Crowns:
What are crowns?
A crown is a cap placed over the tooth, usually to restore a tooth that has been damaged for various reasons and to protect the tooth after restoration.
What material are dental crowns made of?
Crowns are made of metal, resin and porcelain, porcelain, ceramic, porcelain-fused metal, zirconium, gold alloy, or a combination of porcelain and metal.
In which situations are dental crowns used?
Dental crowns can be preferred for any of the following dental problems.
- Fixing fractures or cracks in teeth
- In order to fix decayed teeth
- To cover and protect a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment or a large filling
- Protecting and strengthening a weak tooth
- Keeping a dental bridge or prosthesis in place
- Restoring a stained or discoloured tooth to its former appearance,
- Covering and protecting the dental implant
- Aesthetic concerns.
What are the types of dental crowns?
Dental crowns are classified according to the material used in the crown and the procedure to be performed on the tooth. In general, crowns are divided into two groups: metal-containing crowns and metal-free crowns. Since metal crowns are preferred for durability and functionality rather than aesthetic concerns, they are usually applied on the back teeth.
Metal Crowns:
The types of crowns containing metal are listed below.
- Gold Alloy Crowns
- Stainless Steel Crowns
- Nickel-Chromium Alloy Crowns
- Cobalt-Chromium Alloy Crowns
- Palladium Alloy Crowns
Non-metal Crowns:
Non-metal crowns are best suited for those who are allergic to metal or want to preserve the appearance of their natural teeth. They are usually used for aesthetic purposes. Types include:
- Porcelain Crowns (Full Ceramic Crowns)
- Resin (Composite) Crowns
- Zirconium Crowns
- Porcelain-Fused Zirconium Crowns
- Emax Crowns
What are the differences between Veneers and Crown?
First of all, you should know that both are types of dental veneers. The main differences between them are related to the purpose of fixing the problem with your teeth or meeting your aesthetic needs. Other differences are related to the procedures to be performed on your teeth for the application of veneers and crowns. Above, we have explained in which cases veneers and crowns are used.
When you visit your dentist, they will diagnose the issues with your teeth, consider your preferences, determine the appropriate treatment, and then carry out the necessary procedures on your teeth. Before you make your decision, it is essential that you have information about the differences between veneers and crowns. The differences between veneers and crowns are given below.
Differences depending on which problems in the teeth will be fixed:
If you have structural issues with your teeth, such as fractures or cracks, gaps between your teeth, or are planning a large-scale filling or root canal treatment, crowns may be a preferred option. In these situations, you need to fortify your teeth, reestablish their functionality, and safeguard your teeth. Crowns are thicker and more durable than veneers, so they protect your teeth better. In this case, crowns will be the best choice.
If you have smaller superficial problems with your teeth or if you want a perfect smile design by making minor changes to your teeth due to your aesthetic concerns, the best option for you will be veneers, which are thinner than crowns.
Differences depending on which teeth or which part of your teeth will be treated:
Veneers are an excellent option for addressing minor dental abnormalities, tiny fractures, cracks, or discolouration. You may select from many types of veneers to fulfil your aesthetic preferences. It is quite prevalent to utilise on the anterior teeth. Premolars may also gain advantages from this application. The anterior aspect of the tooth is subjected to the application of veneers. Veneers can be applied to several teeth.
Crowns, the preferred treatment for large tooth problems, completely envelop and protect the tooth by covering its entire surface. The use of crowns in the back teeth is quite common. You can apply crowns to one or more teeth.
Differences according to which procedure will be performed on your teeth:
The veneer-treated teeth are mostly intact. However, you may decide to apply veneers to your teeth to eliminate some deformities, gaps, discolourations, etc., or to meet your aesthetic needs. In this scenario, the scale of procedures such as shaving and cleaning your teeth is smaller. In summary, we generally use veneers on the front teeth that require aesthetic correction.
Teeth designated for crown treatment are predominantly in a weakened state.More extensive operations may be required to prepare the tooth for crowns. For example, tooth shaving requires more procedures than veneers. A single tooth can be prepared for crowns or multiple teeth can be prepared.
Restoration of chewing function may necessitate full-mouth therapy. Crowns are utilised to support intact teeth in regions with missing teeth while dental bridges are constructed. Crowns are affixed to the teeth adjacent to the edentulous space, providing support for the bridge. Artificial teeth are positioned to replace the absent teeth, enhancing both function and aesthetics. Crowns may be affixed to either a singular implant or many implants.
Differences in durability and lifetime:
Because veneers are thin, the risk of breakage or cracking is higher, especially when biting down on tough foods or a tough blow to the tooth. Veneers usually last between 7 and 15 years. You can extend this with the right dental care.
With their thicker, all-encompassing structure, crowns are more durable than veneers and chew-resistant. Crowns usually last 15–20 years or longer. You can extend this period with proper dental care.
Differences in terms of repair and replacement requirements:
Because of their thin structure, veneers can be challenging to repair when they break. Most of the time, we remove the damaged veneer and replace it entirely.
Because of their thicker and more resilient structure, crowns can be more challenging to repair; however, because they last a long time, they are less likely to require replacement or repair.The dentist may need to replace crowns if they sustain damage.
Price differences:
Depending on the material and procedure, the prices of both can vary. In general, veneers are more expensive than crowns. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable option, as prices will vary depending on the procedures to be performed on the teeth, which veneer will be applied, and which material will be used.
FAQ’s About Veneers vs Crowns:
Are veneers or crowns more advantageous?
Which application you use on your teeth, for what purpose, and for what procedures will determine the advantages of both.
The minimal shaving process, which preserves the natural structure of the teeth during veneer application, is a great advantage for those seeking aesthetic dental treatment.
Even though they significantly alter the tooth's natural structure, crowns are a long-lasting solution that protects and strengthens the tooth by satisfying both its aesthetic and functional needs.
Do veneers have disadvantages?
The application of veneers necessitates the removal of some tooth enamel, which may result in temporary heightened sensitivity of the treated tooth to hot and cold foods and beverages. Veneered teeth may be susceptible to caries. When a veneered tooth deteriorates, it may necessitate additional dental interventions and remedies.
Do crowns have disadvantages?
Before applying crowns, the tooth typically undergoes extensive and irreversible treatment. Crowns can sometimes crack. While one can repair small cracks without removing the crown, larger or multiple fractures may necessitate a complete replacement of the crown. Some people have allergic reactions to porcelain or crown metals.
Are veneers or crowns right for you?
You can use the information above to decide whether veneers or crowns are right for you. The condition of your tooth and the planned procedure will determine your decision. You should definitely make your decision according to the dentist's advice.
Do crowns or veneers look more natural?
Veneers provide a more natural-looking smile, while crowns help improve the appearance of your teeth and make them stronger.
For which teeth are veneers not recommended?
Veneers are not recommended for back teeth or teeth that are subjected to intense chewing force.
In which case are veneers not recommended?
Dentists may not recommend veneers for people with poor gum health or who grind their teeth.
Are only veneers used for dental aesthetics? Are crowns also used?
No, veneers are not the only treatment for dental aesthetics. There are many different methods and treatment options used to achieve dental aesthetics. Depending on the condition of the teeth, the patient's expectations, and aesthetic goals, different treatment methods may be preferred. Crowns can also be used for dental aesthetics.