Ready to transform your smile but not sure which path to take? An experienced, trusted dentist can help you solve that mystery. Dental veneers and crowns offer effective ways to revamp your smile, but they’re quite different in how they work, when they’re best used, and what results they deliver. Veneers are more of a cosmetic treatment, while crowns are used for aesthetic and structural purposes, so think of it like choosing between a stylish jacket and a protective coat for your teeth; both look great, but they serve slightly different purposes!
At Floss & Co., we’re all about finding the perfect smile solution that matches your unique needs and vision. Our friendly, skilled team works with you to determine whether veneers or crowns will better serve your smile goals. We believe dental care should feel personal and comfortable, so you can trust our caring professionals to help you confidently navigate these choices.
What’s the Difference Between Veneers and Crowns?
Veneers are custom-made, thin shells often made from porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of your teeth to conceal imperfections. While crowns can also cover cosmetic flaws, they fit over the entire tooth surface, providing structural protection as well. But which option is right for you?
Our knowledgeable team helps you understand the following differences between these treatments so you can make the best decision for your oral health:
Use Cases
Veneers shine when you’re looking for dramatic cosmetic improvements without major dental work. They make an excellent solution for minor cracks and chips, stubborn staining, small gaps, slight misalignment, and uneven edges. In contrast, crowns come to the rescue when teeth need both cosmetic enhancement and structural reinforcement due to large cavities, which nearly 90% of American adults have had, major cracks or chips, root canal therapy, or severe wear.
Keeping Your Natural Tooth Structure
One of the biggest differences is how much of your natural tooth remains afterward. Veneers require minimal enamel removal, usually no thicker than your fingernail. Crowns are more of a commitment, as we need to remove about 1-2mm all around to make room for this protective cap. While this means saying goodbye to more of your natural tooth, it allows the crown to provide that superior strength and support.
Longevity
Both options are built to last, but crowns typically last slightly longer, especially for teeth that do heavy lifting when you chew. With proper care, you can expect veneers to last 10 to 15 years, while crowns often last 15 to 20 years or more before needing replacement. Your daily habits (like using your teeth as tools and oral hygiene regimen) play a huge role in how long either option lasts.
How They Look
Veneers and crowns can give you a gorgeous smile, but veneers often have a slight edge in creating that natural-looking result for front teeth. They’re thinner, which allows light to pass through, similar to natural teeth, and creates that coveted lifelike appearance. However, our crown materials are so high-quality that the difference is becoming less noticeable.
Budget Considerations
Veneers usually have a lower price tag per tooth than crowns, though this can vary depending on materials, the number of teeth you need addressed, and other circumstances. We help you consider the initial cost and how long each option might last—sometimes, the more expensive option actually costs less over time! Plus, with our same-day crown technology and digital scanning (no goopy impressions!), you can get your crown in just one visit.
What to Consider When Choosing Veneers or Crowns
The right choice between veneers and crowns comes down to your unique smile situation, your goals, and what makes sense for your lifestyle. At Floss & Co., we love walking you through this decision process in a warm, comfortable environment. During your initial consultation, we discuss all the factors to consider when making your decision and ask the following questions:
- Are you trying to achieve a better appearance, strength, or both?
- How will each option affect your daily brushing and flossing routine?
- Given your teeth-grinding habits/diet/lifestyle, which option might last longer?
- Will one option feel more comfortable than the other?
- Can I see before-and-after photos of similar cases with both options?
Based on your responses to these questions, we develop a personalized treatment plan that gives you a brand-new smile you feel proud to show off. Our skilled team uses cutting-edge technology and gentle care to ensure you feel at ease during your treatment and receive the best results possible.
Come Chat With Us About Your Smile Dreams!
At Floss & Co., we can create a smile that feels authentically you! We love getting to know you and your unique smile goals. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone light up when they see their transformation for the first time.
Ready for a friendly, no-pressure conversation about your smile options? We’d love to help you explore whether veneers or crowns would be your perfect match. Give us a call at (773) 586-5522 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation today.
