Are Dental Crowns Or Porcelain Veneers Right For You?

If you have damaged teeth, you may be considering getting porcelain dental crowns or veneers. Both choices can drastically improve your smile, making you more confident. If you aren't sure if they are a good choice for you, check out these three questions, so you know if one can improve your smile.

How Much Do They Cost?

Both porcelain veneers and dental crowns are a high-quality option, but that quality comes with a price. Veneers tend to cost about $500 to $1,100 per tooth. Thicker veneers may cost extra. Dental crowns cost about $500 to $1,500 for porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, which are commonly placed on back teeth. Front teeth typically need all-porcelain crowns, which cost about $800 to $3,000. There are metal options too, which are cheaper but affect the look of your smile. Insurance usually pays for some of the cost of crowns, but most insurance won't pay for veneers. Also, crowns can be placed on all teeth, but veneers can only be placed on front teeth.

Do They Improve Your Smile?

The reason insurance may cover crowns but not veneers is because veneers are considered purely cosmetic. Both crowns and veneers can correct chipped/cracked teeth, mildly misaligned teeth, teeth that are too short/long, minor gapping, etc. However, dental crowns can also increase the strength of your teeth. In fact, they are often needed after some procedures, such as root canal therapy or any big filling. The crown gives your tooth a new, solid surface, so when pressure is applied, it is applied evenly to prevent further damage. With both choices, your teeth are protected where covered by the crown or veneer. However, even teeth with crowns can develop cavities and infections along the gum line where the tooth is not protected.

Are They Durable and Strong?

Both choices are a durable option, but neither lasts forever. You'll need to continue to care for your teeth like normal. Porcelain and metal alone can irritate the gums, making them recede. This creates pockets where bacteria can build, leading to decay and infection. Therefore, it's important to continue with your regular dental hygiene routine. Even with great care, however, veneers and crowns usually need to be replaced. Without the crowns or implant, however, your tooth is not strong. The process to replace the crown and implant requires the surface (enamel) of your teeth to be removed, leaving them prone to decay if not protected.

If you have a damaged or imperfect smile, dental crowns and veneers can help. They both permanently alter your teeth, but they can correct many cosmetic and in the case of crowns, structural problems. For more information about dental crowns, veneers or other cosmetic procedures, visit http://www.barnstabledental.com today.


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