Veneers and crowns improve the appearance of your teeth and restore confidence in sharing a smile. A veneer is the best option when it’s time to fix crooked or chipped teeth, especially your front teeth. Also, if your tooth has a lot of decay, it’s time to consider using a dental crown. In fact, both of these dental procedures are considered cosmetic improvements and regarded as dental health improvements. Dental health is directly associated with confidence, self-esteem, and happiness. So take care of your teeth and protect your smile!
Why would a dentist recommend dental veneers?
A dentist will recommend dental veneers to help individuals with dental flaws such as teeth that are crooked, discolored, or have small gaps between them. Veneers dramatically change a person’s smile and, in the process, help improve self-confidence.
Why should you not get veneers?
It would be best if you did not get veneers to mask serious dental problems, such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. While veneers have cosmetic and restorative functions, they are not alternates for healthy teeth and gums. Therefore, book a dental exam and devise a dental treatment plan if you have underlying tooth decay or periodontal disease issues. The recommended treatment for tooth decay depends on the stage of tooth decay. If tooth decay is in its early stages, you may not experience any symptoms. This is why routine visits to your dentist are essential.
Why would a dentist recommend dental crowns?
A dentist would recommend dental crowns for several reasons, including protecting a decayed and weak tooth from breaking. Also, teeth with substantial fillings are at risk of fracture and may need a crown. In general, teeth that show fracture lines, especially for patients with a history of grinding or clenching, will need to be examined for fracture risk. Finally, crowns are helpful when you need to brace adjoining teeth.
Veneers and Crowns Overview
Veneers and crowns are used to correct teeth imperfections and vastly improve the overall appearance. Porcelain veneers are placed on the front and biting edges of teeth, not only to protect the teeth but correct aesthetic flaws as well. Veneers can correct improper spacing, chipped or broken teeth, stained teeth, and even resize teeth. Veneers are either made out of porcelain or composite resin. Crowns completely encircle a damaged tooth to protect it but also to improve the appearance of a smile. A crown is used when the tooth is beyond the repair of a veneer because it is too badly broken.
Is porcelain or composite resin veneer better?
The debate as to whether porcelain or composite resin veneers are better rages on. Despite accomplishing the same thing, the two materials differ greatly. They each offer their own benefits but also suffer from unique drawbacks. For sake of simplicity here are the benefits and drawbacks of each material:
Porcelain:
- Thin and durable
- Stain-resistant
- Long-lasting
- Extremely lifelike
- Pricier than composite resin
- Cannot be repaired and must be replaced if broken
- Longer treatment process than composite resin
Composite resin:
- Can be placed in one visit to the dentist’s office
- Can be repaired if broken
- Cheaper than porcelain
- Can become stained
- Do not last as long as porcelain
- More tooth structure may be used to facilitate placement
So how do you choose which material to choose?
To choose which veneers to go with comes down to what you are willing to pay, how good you want them to look, and how long you are ready to wait. If you want to go with the most lifelike veneers and don’t mind paying a premium price, porcelain veneers are your best option. In some cases, porcelain veneers may even allow you to keep ALL of your natural tooth structure. However, you must be willing to wait for around two weeks and make two visits to the dentist to have them made and placed. If you prefer to spend less money, have them set immediately, and still end up with a quality product, composite resin veneers are for you!
Schedule A Comprehensive Dental Examination
If you’ve fallen behind on your dental health routine, we’re here to help you get back on track. Schedule a comprehensive dental examination at your trusted Port Coquitlam dentist.. Located at 2663 Shaughnessy St., Port Coquitlam, BC, V3C3G7, we offer top-notch care and convenience for patients from Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and beyond. Our approachable team, personalized care, and advanced technology ensure you receive the best service. Call us at 604-464-4131 or click here to request an appointment.
