As dental veneers and crowns offer seemingly the same restorative benefits, they’re often assumed to be interchangeable. However, while these solutions share certain similarities, there are notable differences that make each uniquely suited to specific situations and patient needs.
Today we’re looking at veneers and crowns: what they are, their similarities, and their differences.
What Are Dental Veneers in Kauai?
Veneers are thin shells custom-made of stain-resistant porcelain and are designed to fit securely over the fronts of teeth. As they’re simply bonded to the surfaces of existing teeth, they represent a non-invasive solution for discoloration, chipping, and misalignment.
It's important to keep in mind that veneers are purely cosmetic and not a safeguard against tooth decay or gum disease. Any such issues should be treated before veneers are placed.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-designed cap, also typically porcelain, that fits over an existing tooth. Crowns are typically used to restore teeth that are badly damaged by decay, chipping, or fractures.
In cases in which a tooth’s interior (or “pulp”) is badly damaged, it must be removed via root canal, and the remainder of the tooth rebuilt prior to the placement of a crown.
How Are Veneers and Crowns Similar?
Dental veneers and crowns share a number of similarities. The most notable among these include:
- Both improve the appearance and function of teeth that are discolored, misaligned, decayed, chipped, or cracked.
- Both (with the exception of all-metal crowns) are custom-made to match the color of the wearer’s existing teeth.
- Day-to-day care for each is virtually identical to caring for natural teeth.
How Are Veneers and Crowns Different?
The most significant differences between dental veneers and crowns include:
- How they fit in the mouth – Veneers are bonded to the fronts of existing teeth, while each crown covers an entire tooth.
- Aesthetics – Veneers tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than crowns as they blend more seamlessly with the gumline.
- Longevity – Though both are long-term solutions, with proper care, a high-quality crown can last most of a patient’s life, while veneers will still need to be replaced after 10-20 years.
Dental Veneers in Kauaʻi, HI
If you’re in the Kalaheo or Poipu areas of Kauaʻi and are looking for a dentist to help you determine whether dental crowns or veneers are right for you, contact dentist Dr. Michael Lutwin and the team at Kalaheo Dental Group to schedule a consultation.