Veneers vs. Crowns: Which One’s Right for You?

Are you an indecisive person? You’re not alone. Many people have a hard time making a final decision, especially when it comes to their smiles. If you’re looking to improve your pearly whites, you may be struggling to choose between veneers and crowns. After all, they’re both excellent ways to transform the look and function of your teeth. To make the best choice for your needs, you should be aware of the pros and cons to both options. Read on as your dentist in Falls Church explains the benefits of each treatment and how to choose the right one for you.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are ultra-thin sheaths of dental-grade porcelain that are bonded to the front-facing portions of teeth, masking almost any imperfection from view. They can address everything from severe discoloration to chips to gaps to misalignment. While it’s not ideal, veneers can be placed on molars or the back teeth. The only reason it’s not recommended is because molars use immense chewing force.

What Are Crowns?

A dental crown encases an entire existing tooth. It’s often crafted from porcelain or all-ceramic, meaning it can be customized to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth. Not only can crowns improve your oral health, but they can enhance your appearance as well!

Differences Between Veneers and Crowns

While veneers and crowns are both excellent restoration methods, they have some distinct differences you should know about. Some of those include:

• Shape: A veneer is a thin shell that’s attached to the front of the tooth, while a crown is a three-dimensional restoration that’s intended to cover an entire tooth.
• Purpose: Veneers are mainly used for aesthetic purposes. On the other hand, crowns combine both cosmetic and restorative qualities, meaning they can improve your oral health while simultaneously enhancing your appearance.
• Cost: The exact price of each service will depend on its extent and complexity. It’s worth noting that most insurers won’t cover the cost of veneers because they’re considered cosmetic. Meanwhile, it’s more likely that a portion of the cost of having a crown placed will be covered since it’s a type of restoration.
• Timing: Usually, veneer placement takes place over two visits. However, crowns often require more appointments because they must be created in a dental laboratory. Keep in mind that the exact timeline will vary depending on the type of crown.

How to Choose the Right Option for Your Smile

If you’re still on the fence about which option would be better for your smile, don’t worry – your dentist in Falls Church can help! They’ll perform a detailed examination and ask about your goals to determine whether veneers or crowns are right for your needs. Either way, you’ll surely get a new grin that’ll stand out in the best way possible.

About the Practice

At Purple Plum Dentistry, we offer high-quality, personalized, and compassionate dental care that’s guaranteed to exceed all your expectations. Our team works closely with each patient to ensure they get the service they deserve. If you need help choosing between veneers and crowns, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can make an appointment via our website or call (703) 998-4244.