Veneers vs. Crowns – What’s the Difference?

Crowns are often the most appropriate choice for restoring teeth that have suffered significant damage. This is because they require less tooth structure than veneers, but if you’re torn between these two restorations, we can help you with more information about these procedures to make the right decision. 

Imagine having decayed, broken or missing teeth. Would you rather not dwell on how badly they look but focus on what you can do about them? The right dentist will help restore the appearance of our smile with dental crowns and veneers, which are Life-changing cosmetic procedures when done correctly! 

What are dental crowns? 

Dental crowns are typically used to replace the entire tooth, and Coverage can be customized for each individual. They work as a “cap” and rebuild or restore strength lost due to broken teeth, decay/decompression, etc. 

Why dental crowns? 

Dental crowns are best for those who want to restore their smile if they have grinded or broken teeth. A dental crown can enhance the appearance of tooth structures that lack enough support from natural dentin, giving it a more aesthetically pleasing finish and creating an overall improved sense of what’s on display! 

If you’ve lost most of your tooth due to wear and tear, decay or breakage, a dental crown can help restore the area so that it functions like new again. If necessary, a veneer would be used on top for people who haven’t had any significant issues with their smiles before now to have an aesthetically pleasing one! 

What type of dental crowns are available? 

A variety of materials are available for dental crowns, each with its own set of benefits: 

Porcelain: Porcelain is a popular choice for dental crowns because it closely resembles the colour and clarity of natural teeth. 

Zirconia: Zirconia is a strong, durable material growing in popularity for dental crowns. It is more expensive than porcelain, but it can last longer. 

Gold: Gold is a very durable material, but it is also the most visible of all the options. It is often used in areas that are not as visible, such as the back teeth. 

How does the dental crown process work?  

The dental crown process requires you to take at least two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared for the crown, and a mould is made of the tooth. This mould is then sent to a lab where the crown is made. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth. 

During the next visit, the temporary crown is replaced with the permanent crown is placed on the tooth. Again, the dentist will ensure that the fit and colour are satisfactory before permanently attaching the crown.   

Pros & Cons of Dental Crown

Pros

• Enhanced Decay Protection: Dental crowns cover the entire tooth, providing a robust shield against decay. This is particularly valuable for teeth with extensive damage or large cavities, as it prevents further deterioration.
• Natural Aesthetic: Porcelain crowns are designed to mimic the appearance and texture of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your existing teeth. This makes them an excellent choice for restoring the aesthetics of your smile.
• Long-Term Solution: Crowns are a relatively permanent dental solution. Unlike dentures, they need not be removed for cleaning or maintenance. Once placed, they can last for many years, offering durability and convenience.
• Insurance Coverage: Your Private Health Cover may pay a portion of the cost of dental crowns, which can make this treatment more affordable for patients. It’s advisable to check with your insurer to understand the extent of coverage.

Cons

• Removal of More Tooth Structure: Dental crowns involve removing a significant portion of the tooth’s natural structure to accommodate the crown. This can weaken the tooth and make it more vulnerable to future damage.
• Risk of Decay: The area where the crown meets the natural tooth can be susceptible to decay if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained.
• Not Reversible: Once a tooth is prepared for a crown, the process is irreversible. The tooth will always require a crown or another restoration to protect it.

What are dental veneers? 

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells covering your teeth’ front surface. They are ideal for improving the appearance of your teeth and can be made from porcelain or composite resin. 

Why Dental Veneers?   

There are various reasons for a person to choose dental veneers, including: 

-To improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured or stained 

-To close gaps between teeth 

-To change the shape or length of teeth 

-To protect damaged teeth from further damage 

What type of dental veneers are available? 

Porcelain: Porcelain veneers are made from a thin piece of porcelain that is custom-made to match the colour, shape and size of your natural teeth. They are bonded to the front surface of your teeth and can last many years with proper care. 

Composite: Composite veneers are made from a composite resin material that matches the colour of your natural teeth. They are fixed to the front surface of your teeth and can last several years with proper care. 

How does the dental veneer process work? 

The dental veneer process usually takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared for the veneer, and a mould is made of the tooth. This mould is then sent to a lab where the veneer is made. In the meantime, a temporary veneer is placed on the tooth. 

During the next visit, the temporary veneer is removed, and the permanent veneer is placed on the tooth. Again, the dentist will ensure that the fit and colour are satisfactory before permanently attaching the veneer. 

Pros & Cons of Dental Veneers

Pros 

1.    Aesthetically Pleasing:Dental veneers can provide a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing solution for enhancing your smile. Unlike crowns, which may show a gum margin over time, veneers maintain their appearance and do not reveal such margins. This makes them an attractive option for achieving a natural and beautiful smile.
2.    Minimal Trimming:Some types of veneers require minimal trimming of your natural teeth. This means more of your healthy tooth structure can be preserved than crowns, where significant tooth reduction is often necessary.
3.    Stability:Veneers offer stability to teeth by minimizing movement. This can help in cases where teeth may be slightly misaligned or have minor gaps, providing a relatively non-invasive solution to improve alignment and overall dental aesthetics.

Cons 

1.    Increased Decay Risk:Veneers leave more areas of your natural tooth exposed to potential decay. While the veneer itself is resistant to decay, the interface between the veneer and the natural tooth can be vulnerable. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial to mitigate this risk.
2.    Limited Lifespan for Some Types:Some veneers, like the cheaper composite ones, might only stick around for 5 to 7 years. But fancier ones made of porcelain or ceramic can last much longer, although they cost more. Still, remember that all veneers will need a switch-up at some point.
3.    Irreversible Procedure:It’s essential to understand that the veneer placement process is irreversible. To ensure the veneer adheres correctly, a thin layer of enamel is removed, and this process cannot be undone. Therefore, the decision to get veneers should be carefully considered.
4.    Limited Insurance Coverage:Your Private Health Cover may not include the cost of veneers, mainly if they are considered a cosmetic procedure. Patients should be prepared for the possibility of bearing the total cost of veneer placement.

What’s the significant difference between dental crowns and dental veneers? 

Dental crowns are used to replace the entire tooth, while dental veneers are used to improve the appearance of the tooth’s front surface. Both crowns and veneers are made from porcelain or composite resin and can last for many years with proper care. In most cases, the dental veneer process usually takes two visits to the dentist, while the dental crown process usually takes three visits. As far as the cost of these procedures is concerned, dental veneers are generally more expensive than dental crowns. 

If you’re considering dental crowns or dental veneers for yourself, be sure to talk to our dentist about which option is right for you. Call us at (03) 9999 3338 or drop an email at  to book an appointment.  

Is a Veneer or Crown Right for Me?

Veneers and crowns both make your smile look better, but they’re not the same. Your dentist will suggest one depending on what your teeth need. Understanding their differencbetweenethe two s can help you pick the right one for you.

Dental crowns are often the preferred choice when a tooth is significantly damaged, has a large filling, or has undergone a root canal procedure. This is because, in such cases, the natural tooth enamel is compromised, and it requires more comprehensive protection. On the other hand, porcelain veneers are primarily recommended for cosmetic purposes. If your natural tooth is mainly intact and only requires minor shape correction or an improved appearance, veneers can be an excellent choice.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS  

Is it better to get veneers or crowns? 

There is no definitive answer, as each procedure has its benefits and drawbacks. Generally speaking, veneers are a better option for people with only minor cosmetic dental problems, while crowns are better for people with more serious dental problems. One of the main benefits of veneers is that they are less invasive than crowns. Veneers can be applied to your teeth in a single visit to the dentist’s office, whereas crowns require multiple visits and a significant amount of drilling into the tooth. Crowns are also more expensive than veneers. On the other hand, crowns are stronger and more durable than veneers and can be used to repair damaged or cracked teeth.    

Are crowns cheaper than veneers? 

The cost of a dental crown and a veneer can vary depending on the materials used and the number of teeth being treated. The average price of a dental crown in Australia is $1,500. This is significantly cheaper than the cost of getting veneers, ranging from $4,000 to $7,000. Crowns are also a more versatile treatment option, as they can be used to correct a wide variety of dental issues. Therefore, crowns are a more affordable option if you’re considering getting dental work done. If you aren’t sure which one to choose between two, be sure to discuss your options with your dental care expert to ensure that you get the best treatment as per your needs.  

Are Crowns And Veneers The Same Thing

No, crowns and veneers are not the same thing. Crowns are used to restore damaged or weakened teeth by covering the entire tooth structure, while veneers are used for cosmetic improvement by bonding a thin shell to the front surface of teeth.

Which option is better for covering your front teeth – dental crowns or veneers? 

When deciding whether dental crowns or veneers are suitable options for you, there are a few things to consider. First, what is the condition of your teeth? Veneers may be a good option if your teeth are in good overall health. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells casing the front surface of your teeth. They can correct crookedness, holes, and other minor imperfections. 

However, dental crowns may be a better choice if your teeth are damaged or decayed. Crowns literally “cap” an existing tooth by covering it completely. Because they encase the entire tooth, they can provide structural support and stability for compromised teeth.

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