Porcelain Crowns & Veneers: What You Should Know
Updated July 2021
Everyone wants a perfect smile, but not everyone is born with it. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers multiple solutions that can help improve the way your pearly whites look so you can be more confident. Two of those solutions are crowns and veneers.
What are the similarities and differences between porcelain crowns and veneers? Continue reading to learn a bit about these options so you can get a better idea of which one would be best for you.
Dental Crowns and Veneers: What Are They?
Both porcelain dental crowns and veneers can be used to restore a smile after an injury or extensive decay. Or, if you simply aren’t happy with the appearance of your teeth as they are naturally, these options might be just what you need.
Although they can be used to restore or improve the look of teeth, there are some notable differences between veneers and crowns.
- Crowns are caps that are set over teeth. A crown will look like a real tooth, and once it is set into place, it will completely cover your natural tooth, so it will function just like your other teeth too.
- Veneers are ultra-thin and designed to sit on the front of teeth. Like crowns, they can be used to change the way teeth look, and because they are capable of resisting stains, they can help you maintain a beautiful smile for the long run.
Why Do People Get Crowns or Veneers?
There are a lot of reasons why your dentist might recommend a porcelain crown or a veneer. By weighing their pros and cons, while considering your needs and the health of your teeth and gums, your dentist can also help you decide which one of these would be the right choice.
Here are some of the reasons why you might opt to get a dental crown:
- If you need to restore a tooth that’s become too weak because of injury, wear and tear, or decay.
- If you don’t like the way a tooth looks (e.g. its color or shape).
- If you needed a root canal or a large filling.
- If you’re getting a bridge or implant.
Here are some of the reasons why you might opt to get dental veneers:
- If you want to change the way your teeth look (e.g. get rid of a gap between teeth, change the shape of a tooth, cover up damage such as chips, or fix minor alignment issues).
- If your enamel is worn and you want to strengthen one or more teeth.
- If you want to hide discoloration, make your teeth appear whiter, and prevent future stains.
Crowns vs. Veneers Cost Comparison: Which Option Is More Affordable?
We’re not gonna lie: both crowns and veneers are expensive! So, this is something that you definitely want to consider before taking the plunge.
- A dental crown might cost, on average, anywhere from $800 - $3,500. The final cost may depend on several factors, such as the type of material that’s used to make the crown (e.g. porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal), where you’re located, and the dental professional that you use.
- A veneer might cost, on average, anywhere from $250 - $2,500. Like crowns, different factors, such as where you’re getting a veneer and the material that it’s made of (e.g. porcelain or composite), may influence the final price.
Can Dental Insurance Help You Get a Crown or Veneer?
Having the right dental insurance might make a big difference when it comes to affording crowns and veneers, but it’s wise to read the fine print carefully. For example, a plan might only cover a certain percentage of the cost of these procedures. Or, if you’re getting either of these solely for cosmetic reasons, insurance might not help cover the cost at all.
Bottom line: you don’t have to live with an imperfect smile! Veneers and porcelain crowns are two options that are definitely worth exploring.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/veneers-vs-crowns
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/veneers
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/veneers/dental-veneers-pros-and-cons
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10923-dental-crowns
https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/veneer-procedure/