Veneers vs. Crowns: Which Should You Choose?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of any of your teeth. Dr. Thomas and our Southlake team are ready to assist you. We offer a range of cosmetic and restorative treatments that can enhance your smile and support your long-term oral health. For example, we can provide crowns and veneers. Which option might be better for you? This blog post explains what you should know.

Crowns vs. Veneers: What Are They?

Veneers and crowns are two distinct dental restoration methods that can improve the appearance and function of your teeth.

Veneers are thin shells crafted from porcelain or composite materials. They are bonded to the front surface of your teeth and are designed to enhance their color, shape, and overall appearance. Veneers require minimal tooth preparation, so they allow most of your natural dentition to remain intact.

Crowns, on the other hand, are full-coverage restorations. They cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. They are often made out of porcelain, but some dentists also offer metal options. Crowns require a more significant reduction of the tooth in order to fit well. They are often used to restore both aesthetics and function when a tooth has been compromised due to damage or decay.

When Veneers Are the Right Choice

Veneers are a great option for many patients! They might be a good choice for you if your goal involves any of the following:

• Cosmetic enhancements: Veneers are perfect for improving the appearance of otherwise healthy teeth. They can address concerns such as discoloration, uneven spacing, or minor chips.
• You want to improve the look of your front teeth: Technically, veneers can be placed on back teeth, though it is not recommended because they might fail under the pressures of frequent chewing. They are usually used only for teeth toward the front of the mouth.

When Crowns Are the Better Option

Crowns are the preferred choice when a tooth requires structural support or significant restoration. If a tooth is cracked, broken, or severely decayed, a crown can provide the necessary strength and protection. They can reduce the need for extractions and restore normal dental function.

In addition to restorative purposes, crowns can also address aesthetic concerns. For example, they can restore worn-down back teeth, hide discoloration, and more.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Veneers and crowns both hold a valuable place in the worlds of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. However, they are not interchangeable in most situations. Dr. Thomas and our team will be happy to help you figure out which option best fits your circumstances.

Meet the Practice

For many years, Dr. Thomas and our team have been providing top-quality holistic oral healthcare to the Southlake community. We are pleased to offer veneers, metal-free crowns, and a broad range of other treatments. To learn more about us or to set up a personalized consultation, contact Enclave Dental at 817-912-1218.