You may need effective restorative therapy to regain oral health whenever you have a chipped tooth. There are two effective options for doing so; veneers and crowns.

Although veneers and crowns look alike, they differ in many ways. So, if you’re concerned about success rates, you may wonder which is right for you. It all depends on your dental condition, treatment history, and budget, among many factors.

Here, we’ll explore both techniques, so you select the best option for your dental condition.

First: The Basics of Veneers and Dental Crowns

A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain, usually 1 mm thick, and shaped to fit a tooth. A dentist can attach the dental device to the front portion of the affected tooth, primarily to enhance your dental appeal. Veneers are also made of composite materials such as resins.

Crowns are similar to veneers except that they are thicker and cover a more significant portion of the tooth. A crown is commonly used after a major dental procedure, such as a root canal, to improve the tooth’s structure and appearance. Unlike veneers, most crowns are made of porcelain or metal alloys.

Generally, crowns and veneers are tailor-made to match the unaffected teeth, so you have a seamless dental function after the procedure.

Crowns and veneers help treat many dental conditions, including;

• Cracked or chipped teeth.
• Cavities.
• Missing teeth.
• Crooked teeth.

Learn more about the benefits of porcelain veneers.

Dental Veneers vs. Dental Crowns: Which Is the Right Option?

The decision to use a crown or veneer is a long-standing debate since they serve different purposes. Generally, crowns are effective in correcting significant damages such as cracks, tears, and wear. On the other hand, veneers are much more effective if your tooth is intact and you need a simple cosmetic procedure.

The following factors will help you make the right choice:

Durability

When choosing an effective therapy, you need a long-lasting solution that stands the test of time. Crowns are made of more robust composite materials and hence more durable. Once put in place, they can last between 10-15 years.

On the other hand, veneers are less durable since they’re thinner and made of porcelain. Veneers last between 7-15 years; hence not ideal if you want a long-term solution.

Cost

The price of veneers and crowns varies significantly, depending on the affected tooth’s size. As a result, crowns cost $1,000-$3,500 while veneers cost $1,000-$2,000.

Investing in robust dental insurance coverage is an excellent way to save costs when seeking treatment. For instance, if you prefer a dental crown, your healthcare insurer may help you offset a portion of its price while you settle the remainder. If you choose veneers, you may not qualify for funding since veneers aren’t eligible for insurance coverage. 

Care and Maintenance

Veneers and crowns require adequate care and maintenance to improve their functionality. Like natural tooth, you should observe routine dental hygiene practices for longevity and effectiveness.

Effective practices include;

• Brushing every day.
• Routine dental check-up.
• Eating a balanced diet.
• Limiting tobacco and alcohol use.

Veneers and crowns are among the practical techniques used for restorative dental therapy. However, the best way to tell if you need a veneer or crown is to visit our dental clinic. Contact us today for advice on the perfect choice.