Now, there are many options available to help you maintain a strong and vibrant smile. With so many dentistry solutions to consider, you may find yourself wondering which is best to suit your unique needs. If you’re exploring treatments to restore and maintain your oral health, dental crowns and veneers are two options to consider. Here’s what you need to know to decide which option is better for you.

A Helpful Guide to Dental Crowns & Veneers

Crowns

Made from porcelain or metal, crowns are essentially caps that cover teeth. These restorations are typically used to reinforce a tooth which has been compromised by pronounced decay or breakage. Yet, beyond this function, they can also match the appearance of your surrounding natural teeth, and therefore, can be used to improve the shape and color of a damaged tooth. They can also be used to support a dental bridge or strengthen a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy. To affix a crown, dentists shape the original tooth before placing the restoration.

Veneers

While veneers can be used to fix some minor surface cracks, they are most often considered a cosmetic solution rather than a restorative treatment. These thin shells, comprised of porcelain or resin composite, look and function just like natural teeth. People with deep stains, small gaps, and slight misalignments can also benefit from veneers. They can also be used to create longer-looking teeth or a more uniform smile for patients whose teeth aren’t perfectly symmetrical.

To prepare the teeth for veneers, dentists remove a small amount of enamel. The thin shell is then placed to the surface of the treated tooth. While crowns are often applied to a single tooth, veneers may be used for an entire set of front teeth to create a healthy-looking smile.

If you suspect you might be a good candidate for a crown or veneers, allow Christopher F. Heck, DMD - Montgomery General Dentistry to help. Serving East Cincinnati, this caring dentist offers solutions for every stage of life, including preventive and general dental care as well as restorative and cosmetic services. Browse through the office’s list of services online or call (513) 794-1884 to schedule an appointment.