Dental Veneers vs. Crowns in Edmonton: Which One Is Right for You?
Your teeth might need help looking better or staying strong. Two popular ways to fix teeth are veneers and crowns. They look different. They work differently. A dentist in Red Deer will help you pick the right one for you.
Many people do not know which one to choose. It depends on what your tooth looks like now. It also depends on what you want. Let us explain both so you can decide.
What Are Dental Veneers?
A veneer is like a fake fingernail for your tooth. It is a thin shell that glues to the front of your tooth. Only the front gets covered, not the whole tooth.
Veneers work best when:
- Your tooth is stained or discoloured.
- Your tooth has a small chip.
- Your tooth looks too small.
- You have a gap between teeth.
- Your tooth is a little crooked.
How it works: Your dentist cleans your teeth. They remove a very thin layer. Then they glue the veneer to the front. It takes about two weeks to get done.
How long it lasts: Veneers stay on for 7 to 10 years. They are not super strong. Do not bite on hard candy, ice, or bones. They can break if you do.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A crown is like a cap that covers your whole tooth. Think of it like putting a hat on your tooth. It protects all sides, not just the front.
Crowns work best when:
- Your tooth has a big cavity.
- Your tooth is broken or cracked.
- Your tooth is weak.
- Your tooth had a big root canal treatment.
- Your tooth needs lots of protection.
How it works: Your dentist shapes your tooth down. They take a picture or mould of it. You get a temporary crown while they make the real one. You come back in one or two weeks. Then they put on the real crown.
How long it lasts: Crowns stay on for 10 to 15 years or even longer. They are much stronger than veneers. Your tooth stays safe under the crown.
Quick Comparison: Veneers vs. Crowns
| What We Look At | Veneers | Crowns |
| Covers | Front only | Whole tooth |
| How strong | Good | Very strong |
| Lasts how long | 7 to 10 years | 10 to 15+ years |
| Costs | Less | More |
| Good for | Making teeth look nice | Fixing broken teeth |
How to Pick the Right One
Think about what your tooth needs. Is it just ugly or stained? Veneers help. Is it broken or cracked? Crowns are better.
Ask yourself:
- Is my tooth just discoloured, or is it damaged?
- Was there a big filling or root canal in this tooth?
- Do I clench my teeth at night?
- How much money do I want to spend?
A dentist near you can look at your tooth. They know what will work best for you. They think about your teeth’s health. They help you pick what lasts the longest.
Important Things to Know
- Both need good care at home. Brush twice a day. Floss every day. See the dentist every six months.
- Your real tooth is still under the veneer or crown. Keep it clean so it does not get cavities. Do not chew on ice or hard candy. Do not use your teeth to open things. These habits can break either the veneer or the crown.
- About the money: Veneers cost less at first. But crowns last much longer. Over many years, the cost is about the same. Talk to your dentist about prices.
Veneers or Crowns? Let’s Find Your Best Option at Manchester Dental
Veneers and crowns are both good choices. Which one is right depends on your tooth and what you need. Some people use veneers on some teeth and crowns on others.
The best thing to do is talk to a dentist. Delta Dental is ready to help you choose. We look at your teeth carefully. We listen to what you want. We explain everything in an easy way. We help you feel good about your choice. Call us today to set up a visit. We will show you what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dental veneers just fall off?
No, they stay glued on. But they can crack if you bite on very hard things.
Does getting a dental veneer hurt?
No, your dentist uses numbing medicine so you do not feel pain.
Which one costs more: dental veneers or crowns in the long run?
Although crowns cost more upfront, they last longer. The expenses over a period of time are more or less the same.
Can I get veneers on some teeth and crowns on others?
Definitely, a lot of folks do it. Cosmetic veneer placement on front teeth can enhance their looks. Crowns for back teeth provide stronger support.
