If you’re searching for a way to restore the appearance of your teeth and possibly the structure too, you might have wondered whether porcelain veneers or dental crowns are the right choice. At Dental Excellence of Blue Bell, we want you to look and feel your best which is why we offer several different cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you achieve your goals.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
It is important to understand the difference between these two similar procedures. Porcelain veneers differ from crowns in that they are mostly for cosmetic purposes. When you get porcelain veneers typically only the front of your teeth need reshaping and bonded to the veneer. They are comfortable to wear if they’re fitted correctly.
Porcelain veneers are also a great option if whitening has not been successful, or if you want to adjust the shape or length of your teeth. It’s important to lengthen your teeth correctly though or you might face some issues talking or chewing.
We can also use porcelain veneers to straighten your teeth instead of orthodontics. Oftentimes patients who have had orthodontics in the past still want veneers because they’re unhappy with their smile. Dental bonding is another option that offers similar results as veneers but doesn’t last as long or require a lifetime commitment.
What are Dental Crowns?
Crowns operate in much the same way as porcelain veneers. However, veneers only bond to the front of your teeth, crowns fit over your tooth. They will cover the entire visible surface of the tooth. This makes them a great option if your tooth structure has damage. If decay has weakened your tooth crowns can restore strength. Crowns are great if the tooth has decay or has damage to the point where it’s exposed to the inner pulp. Once there is an exposure of the pulp, we will generally recommend a root canal in case the pulp chamber has been infected.
Although dental crowns are often considered a reconstructive procedure compared to the cosmetic procedure of porcelain veneers, crowns are often used cosmetically when restorations have to be stronger, such as when we’re building up a small tooth-like a peg lateral or retained baby tooth.
What’s Right for Me? Dental Crowns vs Porcelain Veneers?
If you find that you aren’t sure which is right for you, we recommend that you visit a dentist before you make up your mind. A good dentist will be able to examine your teeth and identify troubled areas that may require crowns instead of porcelain veneers. Plus, both porcelain veneers and crowns are a lifelong commitment, so you should weigh what options are available to you before you make your decision. Don’t hesitate to find out the answers to any questions you might have by reading through our FAQs or asking us in person.
Dr. Siegel can sit down with you and help identify which procedure is right for your individual needs. If you would like to discuss porcelain veneers and crowns with a cosmetic dentist in Philadelphia, please give Dental Excellence of Blue Bell a call at (610) 272-0828 today.
