What’s the Difference Between Veneers and Crowns?

If your teeth have cosmetic damage, you may consider veneers or crowns to help improve the appearance of your smile, depending on the problem. Your dentist in St. Cloud, MN, will help you decide whether a veneer or a crown is the best option for you.

Below, we’ll explore the differences between these two options and give you some of the information you’ll need to decide whether crowns or veneers are right for your needs.

What’s A Dental Veneer?

A dental veneer is a tooth-shaped, tooth-colored cover that’s placed on the front of a tooth with cosmetic damage. Dental veneers are made to mimic the look of real teeth, but because they only appear on one side of the tooth, they don’t add any structural support.

Most of the time, dental veneers are installed for cosmetic purposes only. If you have misshapen teeth or teeth that are stained or discolored, dental veneers can help fix that problem. Dental veneers look very natural and can give your smile a uniform, consistent appearance.

What’s a Crown?

A dental crown is a cover that fits fully over the tooth to protect the tooth enamel. Dental crowns can serve cosmetic functions, but they can also offer structural support.

If you have a tooth that’s recently gone through a root canal, your dentist will install a dental crown to cover the weakened enamel, make the tooth look whole and protect the tooth from further damage. Dental crowns can be made to look completely natural. If you want your crown to look natural, your dentist will match the color of the crown to the color of your other teeth.

Metal crowns do not look natural, but metal is one of the most durable materials available. Some people choose this type of crown for their back teeth.

How Can I Tell Which One Is Right for Me?

If you have teeth that are cosmetically damaged, your dentist may recommend veneers. If your teeth have structural problems as well as cosmetic damage, the dentist is more likely to recommend crowns.

Are you interested in dental crowns in St. Cloud, MN? Call Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today to make an appointment.