Veneers or Crowns? How to Choose.
|February 5, 2018
When you have a chipped tooth, you want it repaired as quickly as possible. You have several options. Veneers and crowns are two of the most common options. So which is the right choice for you? The answer depends upon several factors, such as your dental history, the condition of your natural tooth, and your budget. Veneers and crowns might seem similar, but they are actually different in many ways, from application to price to durability. It’s important to make the right choice to avoid more dental work down the road.
Veneers or Crowns?
The team at Floss can guide you through the process when you visit us for a consultation. However, the following information can help you begin to consider the question of veneer versus crown for a chipped tooth.
The Basics
Let’s begin by starting with what each option entails.
- Veneers are very slender pieces of porcelain that are molded to fit your teeth. We then attach it to the front of the tooth with the goal of improving its appearance and protecting it. Veneers come in resin or other composite materials as well.
Crowns are larger and cover most of the tooth. They are used to improve a tooth’s structure, as well as its appearance. They are commonly used after procedures like root canals.
Both veneers and crowns are custom-made and matched with the rest of your teeth so that they blend in as seamlessly as possible. Veneers are typically used for small chips and other cosmetic issues that do not impact a tooth’s structure. Crowns are most commonly used for more severe chips and breaks that can’t be covered with a smaller veneer.
Veneer versus Crown: Durability
One big question that comes to consider with crowns or veneers is durability. You want to ensure that you are selecting a solution that will stand the test of time so you don’t find yourself back in the dentist’s chair any more than you need to be.
Veneers typically last 7-15 years before they need to be replaced, while crowns usually last 10-15 years. Crowns are made of more durable material so they do tend to last a little longer. However, veneers are a little easier to replace because they do not cover your entire tooth. A crown is more permanent and more involved to replace whenever that time comes.
Veneer vs. Crown: Price
Another important factor to consider when weighing veneer vs. crown is price. The price is similar for crowns and veneers, with crowns generally being a bit more expensive than veneers. Your dental insurance may help guide your choice depending on what is or is not covered. Veneers are typically considered a cosmetic procedure and not eligible for insurance coverage, while crowns are considered a non-cosmetic dental expense. While veneers cost less than crowns, they may be a bit more likely to sustain a chip or crack. A crown is more expensive to place and replace, but depending on your lifestyle and budget, the veneer may still be the better choice.
Making the Decision
The best way to know whether crowns or veneers are the right choices for you is to visit the team at Floss for an evaluation of your chipped or broken tooth. We will assess your situation of offer the options that best meet your specific needs. In making the decision between veneers or crowns, we take all factors into account: price, durability, and your dental health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.