Tips to Save a Tooth That is Knocked Out

It is not unheard of for someone to confuse a ceramic or porcelain crown with a veneer. However, it is important to understand that these two cosmetic options are quite different, and as such, one option may be better than the other, depending on your situation. If you have plans to enhance your smile and overall oral health, it is helpful to learn more about why crowns are not veneers.

Tooth Attachment

One of the more noticeable differences between crowns and veneers is the manner in which they are connected to your teeth. Veneers adhere to the front of your existing tooth. You can almost think about it in the same manner as siding on a house, in that it is essentially a cover-up. For this reason, veneers are very thin, and as you might imagine, they are easier to damage. Crowns are more like a cap that covers the surface of your entire tooth and are noticeably thicker than veneers, which provides them with greater strength. A crown encapsulates your existing tooth.

Health Restoration

Another factor to consider is the function of crowns. People largely move toward veneers for cosmetic reasons. Crowns, on the other hand, can be a cosmetic solution, but they can also be an option for restoring oral health. Severe tooth decay, tooth chips, and broken teeth are just some of the problems that crowns can rectify to improve an individual's overall oral health. Given the oral health connection, some individuals must undergo some dental prep work before they have their crown installed, such as a root canal. A dental provider can discuss in further detail all the health benefits that crowns can afford.

Material Options

Primarily, veneers are available in a porcelain material, but crowns offer a more extensive range of material options, including resin, ceramic, and pressed ceramic. Resin is the more affordable of the options. It will provide a natural-like appearance, but because of its material makeup, it may not last as long. Ceramic and pressed ceramic crowns are often more favorable options because they offer the most natural appearance and increased durability. Keep in mind that pressed ceramic is slightly more favorable than regular ceramic because it has a metal core that makes it more durable than ceramic on its own.

To learn more about the different types of crowns, including ceramic crowns, talk to your dentist about which option is right for you.