Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain dental veneers and dental crowns are effective tooth restorations. These treatments can enhance your natural smile and protect your teeth. Deciding which treatment is right for you depends on a few factors, such as the extent of a dental injury or tooth placement. Each patient is unique and has different needs. Our dental office offers personalized restorative and cosmetic dental care to help patients achieve their best smile in Baltimore, MD. We work with patients to find the best treatment for their cosmetic goals and restorative needs.

Cosmetic Dental Care in Baltimore, MD

Cosmetic Dental Care with Veneers in Baltimore, MD

Dental veneers are thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of the affected teeth, instantly transforming your smile without major orthodontic work. They can correct the color, shape, and spacing of your teeth. Dental veneers can close small spaces between your teeth, lengthen small teeth, and whiten stained teeth. Are your teeth chipped or showing signs of wear? Porcelain veneers can protect them from further damage while restoring their appearance in a way that looks and feels natural.

Dental veneers are a more conservative option because they require less of the tooth to be prepared before treatment. In most cases, only a thin layer of tooth enamel is removed from the front of the tooth. This makes veneers great for aesthetic problems such as discoloration and crooked teeth.

Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers

Both veneers and tooth crowns have similar lifespans, around 10 to 15 years with the proper care. Porcelain veneers are strong and securely bonded to the teeth, but they can still break and may need replacement over time. Dental crowns are also subject to breaking due to normal wear and tear.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen, including regular checkups with your dentist, can ensure that your cosmetic or restorative treatment lasts for many years. Dental crowns and veneers do not require extra care beyond brushing and flossing to keep the remaining natural teeth healthy. Patients must use non-abrasive toothpaste and brush their crowns or veneers with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Dental Crowns for Tooth Damage

While porcelain veneers can offer protection to the teeth, a dental crown is often a better choice if you have a tooth damaged by tooth decay or injury. Dental crowns are designed to fit on top of a damaged tooth to protect the tissue inside. We cement the crown on the tooth to hold it together and preserve the natural tooth structure as much as possible.

Dental crowns are made of durable materials such as porcelain, resin, or a composite that is strong enough to endure biting and chewing. After we place the crown, it becomes part of the tooth, allowing you to return to full functionality.

Are you interested in dental crowns or porcelain veneers? Call Dr. Byron Desbordes today at (410) 216-4023. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Desbordes online. Please let our office know if you have questions about veneers or crown treatment. Dr. Desbordes will be glad to help answer your questions at your next visit. 

Author: Dr. Desbordes