Veneers vs. crowns

Veneers are great for improving the look of front teeth, while crowns offer more extensive protection and restoration for damaged teeth. Both will enhance the look of your smile.

Both procedures, dental crowns and veneers, may experience sensitivity in the day(s) following.

The cost of veneers and crowns varies based on your office location and the materials used.

Veneers typically last 10-15 years, while crowns last 15-20 years before needing replacement. Durability varies based on oral care and habits—so be good to your teeth!

• The dentist will make an impression of your prepared tooth by digitally scanning it or using a mold. If your dentist doesn’t have a facility on site, the image or mold may be sent to a lab.
• Depending on how much your tooth was trimmed, you may have a temporary veneer placed on the tooth until the new one is ready.
• When ready, the permanent veneer will replace the temporary one. It will be bonded to the tooth with a special cement and hardened with an ultraviolet lamp.
• After the veneer is in place, the tooth typically moves minimally. However, if you grind or clench your teeth at night, you may need to wear a night guard to protect the veneer.

• Your dentist will produce an impression of your tooth by digitally scanning it or making a mold. If the dental office doesn’t have a lab facility, the image or mold will be sent to a lab for fabrication of the crown.
• The dentist may place a temporary crown on your ground-down tooth so that you can use your tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
• When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown.
• They’ll then place the permanent crown on your tooth and adjust it so that it fits correctly and your bite is correct. Then, they’ll cement the new crown into place.
  Teeth with crowns may have some movement, which can change your bite. If this happens, you’ll need to have the crown adjusted.

A crown is likely the best option if your tooth has a large filling, a root canal, or is very worn or cracked.

A veneer may be the best option if your tooth is intact and the restoration is cosmetic. Veneers can also be used for minor shape corrections.

Veneers and crowns can be costly. Individual costs vary, depending on the size of your tooth, where it is in your mouth and the average prices in your area.
Most dental insurance programs won’t cover cosmetic dentistry. Also, most dental plans have a maximum annual limit of coverage. Check with your insurance company to see what they’ll cover.

Veneers

According to the American Cosmetic Dentistry organization, the cost of a veneer can range between $925 and $2,500 per tooth.

According to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers, but they last longer. Composite veneers range from $250 to $1,500 per tooth.

Crowns

The cost of a crown varies depending on the material used, the amount of prep work needed, and the size of the tooth.

According to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, crowns can cost from $1,000 to $3,500 per tooth. This figure doesn’t include other procedures, such as core buildup or root canals, that might be needed before the crown is made.
Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to be slightly more expensive than all-metal crowns.

You’ll want to know at the outset how much your crown or veneer is going to cost and how much, if anything, your insurance will pay toward the cost. You’ll also want to know about your dentist’s experience with both procedures.

Other questions for your dentist depend on your particular needs, but some questions you may want to ask include the following:

• Are there other options to consider, such as dentures or implants?
• How long do you expect my veneer or crown material to last?
• Will the initial cost cover subsequent visits if the crown fit isn’t right?
• Will I need to wear a mouthguard?
• Do you recommend any special care for the veneer or crown?

Veneers vs Crowns: What’s the Difference? – University General Dentists – https://utknoxvilledentists.com/veneers-vs-crowns-whats-the-difference/

Veneers vs. Crowns: What Are the Pros and Cons of Each? – https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/veneers-vs-crowns

Veneers vs. Crowns: What’s the Difference? – https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/difference-between-veneers-and-crowns

Crowns vs. Veneers: Comparison of Costs & Benefits | Byte® – https://www.byte.com/community/resources/article/crowns-vs-veneers/

Veneers vs Crowns | Difference Between Veneers and Crowns – https://www.aspendental.com/dental-services/cosmetic-dentistry/dental-veneers/veneers-vs-crowns/

Dr. Ebad Habeeb

@ 2024