Veneers vs. crowns in San Antonio: What’s better for you?

Talk about dental restorations, and veneers and crowns would emerge on the top of all lists. Understanding the options is critical because both help fix different concerns. There is no one answer to the question of what is better between both because a lot depends on the purpose and needs of the patient. Your San Antonio dentist can help you choose, but in this guide, let’s learn more about veneers and crowns. 

Know the options

Veneers are usually made of materials like porcelain and cover the front surface of the teeth to reshape the smile. On the other hand, a crown is more like a tooth-shaped cap that encases the entire visible part of a tooth. Except for all-metal crowns, standard veneers and crowns are designed to match the color of your teeth. 

Getting veneers

Veneers are mostly used for cosmetic reasons, such as issues like stained, chipped, and cracked teeth. Compared to crowns, veneers are not as invasive, as most of the teeth remain intact. You will typically need two appointments. During the first one, the dentist buffs your teeth and removes a part of the enamel. They will also take impressions of your teeth to order custom veneers. During the next appointment, they will fix the veneers using dental cement. You can discuss the color and look of the shells before your dentist orders them from the lab. 

Getting crowns

Crowns can be used for restorative and cosmetic purposes. For instance, you will have two crowns to support a dental bridge. Crowns are also used to treat weak and decayed teeth that cannot be fixed with fillings, onlays, or inlays. If you go for root canal therapy for an infected tooth, covering it with a crown becomes necessary. Getting crowns also requires two appointments. First, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown, and this step is usually more invasive than veneers. They will then take bite impressions and order the crown from the lab. The final appointment is about cementing the restoration. 

Are veneers and crowns durable?

Yes, both veneers and crowns are durable options and can last for as long as 20 years. However, like most other dental restorations, replacement is inevitable at some point. 

“What’s right for me?”

As we mentioned, your dentist can tell you whether you will benefit from veneers or crowns. A crown is more useful if a tooth is weak, has gone through root canal therapy, or has a filling. When your teeth are intact, you can consider veneers for cosmetic enhancements. 

Pros and cons of veneers

Firstly, veneers can entirely reshape your teeth and change the way you smile. The procedure doesn’t require a lot of trimming, ensuring there is little damage to your natural teeth. On the flip side, the risk of decay remains with veneers, and the process of removing enamel is non-negotiable, which means you will have to continue with replacement. 

Pros and cons of crowns

Compared to veneers, crowns protect your teeth from decay. Crowns are also durable and can be used for restoration of bite and shape of teeth. However, making room for a crown requires buffing a significant part of the tooth. At some point, you will need a new crown. 

Final word

Both veneers and crowns continue to remain preferred restorations for dentists and patients alike. While there are stark differences, there are a few similarities in terms of durability. Make sure to keep up with oral hygiene habits at home and schedule periodic appointments with your dentist in San Antonio for cleanings and exams. Your dentist will check if the restorations are okay or need replacement, especially after years of use.