If your smile is not as bright as you would like, you may be considering some form of cosmetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers or crowns. Your dentist at Dr. E. Family Dentistry would be happy to have you come in for a consultation to discuss your options. Here is some general information about the difference between veneers and crowns.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers, also referred to as porcelain dental laminates, are incredibly thin porcelain shells that are created and customized to fit right over the surface of an individual’s teeth. Veneers can provide a subtle or drastic change by altering the size, color and the shape of a person’s teeth.

Veneers are virtually undetectable because they mimic the look of natural tooth enamel. Dental veneers can also be made from a material other than porcelain. Composite resin veneers are less expensive alternatives to porcelain veneers. Composite resin veneers or white fillings are set directly onto the tooth and set with a blue light. With light reflecting properties that reflect natural teeth, porcelain veneers are considered to be more realistic than composite resin veneers. They also resist stains and can last as long as twenty years.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a faux tooth cap that is permanently installed over the top of the genuine tooth. It is affixed in place with dental cement. The cap completely covers the existing tooth. Because of this, a crown is effective to hide a wide array of unsightly tooth problems such as broken, chipped teeth, misshapen teeth, or severely discolored teeth. Dental crowns can also be used to reinforce a weakened tooth, or to top of a dental implant or dental bridge. The cap resembles the natural teeth in shape, color and form so that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of the smile. Once installed properly, normal speaking, chewing and drinking can be done with the cap in place.

Crowns are available in several different materials, including gold, silver, stainless steel, porcelain, resin and ceramic. Your dentist will discuss with you all the options pertaining to crowns if that’s what you and the dentist decide upon for treatment.

Porcelain veneers and crowns can transform your smile. They can each be an effective means to correct imperfections such as chipped, misaligned, discolored teeth and other embarrassing features. Be sure to consult with Janet Euzarraga, DDS at Dr. E. Family Dentistry to learn more about achieving your best smile.