
In general, veneers and dental crowns are both made of porcelain – but they do have their differences. A crown encases the whole tooth while a veneer is just bonded to the front part of the tooth. The decision to go for one or the other depends largely on the kind of restoration the patient needs. If it’s a veneer that is needed, then only a thin layer of the tooth enamel would be shaved away and the core and back of the tooth remain.
The Main Difference
Porcelain veneers are practically wafer-thin. They are usually just a millimeter thick and sometimes even thinner than that. It’s because the tooth doesn’t have to be trimmed too much. There are also cases when tooth reduction is not even required, so there’s minimal to no recovery needed.
On the other hand, dental crowns are usually two millimeters thick or even more. This is because they require more tooth enamel to be removed.
What are veneers for?
Veneers are the best choice if there would only be minor changes in the shape of the tooth. They are also often used if the patient wants a tooth color change. With good oral hygiene, veneers can be kept stain-free for a long time. Note, however, that porcelain veneers are more brittle than crowns so really strong forces can dislodge or break them.
What are dental crowns for?
If a tooth is broken or decayed, a dental crown is an excellent choice. To make space for a dental crown, a tooth has to be trimmed down to its core. Crowns are more durable than veneers and can easily withstand forces exerted when biting, clenching, and grinding. Dental crowns look natural and are a common way to restore teeth.
It can be hard sometimes to tell the difference between a crown and a porcelain veneer. There are instances when deep cutting is needed to prepare for a veneer. It is not always done but when it is, it can blur the line between veneers and crowns.
Whether you are a patient in need of dental restorations or a dentist looking for a reliable dental lab to provide you and your patients with the highest quality restorations, you can call Dental Laboratory Associates. We are happy to help you!