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Porcelain Veneers & Porcelain Crowns
In many cosmetic dentistry makeovers either porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns are the restoration of choice. Typically, dental crowns encase an entire tooth whereas porcelain veneers cover only the front side of the tooth. The amount of tooth reduction needed for a crown differs from that of a veneer. Aside from removal of decayed old fillings there are structural requirements which can sometimes dictate the need for a crown over a veneer. In cosmetic cases keep in mind there is some idealized surface shape that the dentist is trying to achieve for both cosmetic and functional concerns. A classic porcelain veneer is a wafer-thin shell of ceramic that is bonded onto the front of the tooth. Whereas a dental crown covers and encases the entire tooth, a porcelain veneer just covers the side of the tooth a person shows when they are smiling. There is significantly less tooth structure removed for a porcelain veneer as opposed to when a dental crown is made. The veneer is a preferred preparation in that less tooth structure is sacrificed.
Dental Crowns
- Can be used to significantly change the color and shape of a tooth
- Are often used to rebuild teeth that are badly broken/decayed
- Are very strong, they are a good choice in situations where the tooth is subject to heavy biting forces
- Require significant tooth reduction
- Once a crown is made the tooth will always require a crown
Porcelain Veneers
- Can be used to produce significant color and minor shape changes to the tooth
- Are placed on the teeth whose underlining tooth structure is generally healthy. In fact they are strong but brittle and do best in the absence of heavy occlusal forces
- Require much less tooth preparation than crowns
- Once a veneer is place, most likely the tooth will always require a veneer
