The Difference Between Crowns And Veneers
If your dentist suggests that you need a porcelain veneer, its not the end of the world. The procedure is not too intense and there are actually some benefits to having a porcelain veneer. Many people, associate porcelain veneers with porcelain crowns. In actuality, getting a veneer is much less intense than getting a crown. Since many people confuse veneers with crowns, this article explains the difference between the two procedures.
What is a Porcelain Crown?
A porcelain crown is basically a cosmetic cap that is put on top of you actual tooth. It is necessary when the tooth has a cavity that is too big to be filled with traditional filling. Structurally and cosmetically, it is a better solution than a large filling. However, this does require some extra grinding of the tooth. The tooth needs to be ground down into a post. The crown is then glued onto the post. When you have crown installed, you are basically replacing a large portion of your tooth (above the gums). This is why the procedure involves anesthesia and several return visits to the dentist.
What is a Porcelain Veneer?
A veneer is a much thinner layer of porcelain that is place on top of your existing tooth. Getting a veneer will not fix cavities, or even prevent them in the long term. A veneer is more useful for covering discolored or stained teeth. It is also great for covering metal fillings. In most cases, the thin cap is a wholly cosmetic decision. However, the thin veneer can help protect your teeth. Depending on your teeth and the health of your gums, you may not need any anesthesia when you have a veneer put on a tooth. Furthermore, if your tooth does have a cavity, you will want it to get it filled before your veneer is installed.
Choosing Between
If you have a large cavity, you will need to choose between a veneer and a crown. You can have the cavity filled with traditional filling and then have a veneer applied later. As an alternative, you could have the tooth completely removed (except for the post) and have a crown put on. The crown procedure is probably a better long term solution. Since the crown has thicker sidewalls, it will resist decay.
Whether you have a crown or porcelain veneer installed, you will certainly enjoy the strength a brightness of a porcelain tooth.