The veneers vs crowns discourse can be confusing since the two treatments look similar. But beyond the surface, crowns and veneers have different applications and benefits. In the field of cosmetic dentistry, no two treatments are the same. There are always new advances in the field, and emerging treatments will always offer unique uses.
Nevertheless, in the following article, we’ll try to clear all the misunderstandings between veneers vs crowns. Likewise, we’ll discuss costs and the best materials for each treatment.
Veneers vs. Crowns: similarities & differences
When it comes to applications, both veneers vs crowns serve similar purposes. Since both veneers and crowns fall under cosmetic purposes, they both improve the appearance of a tooth. Likewise, both do so by covering up the mishaps.
The veneers vs crowns similarities end here. Although fairly similar in their general functions, their structures are very different and they work in different cases.
Veneers
So you have the veneers, these are shell-like structures that can come from, porcelain or composite resin. The thing with veneers is that they exclusively work with front teeth and their function is purely aesthetics.
For instance, if you have some pigmentation on your teeth, chipping, or minor misalignment; veneers can transform your tooth or your entire smile. They do so by eclipsing the mishaps once your dentist places the shell on your tooth.
You can get veneers for one of your front teeth, or all 12 of your front teeth. When you get veneers for all of your front teeth, the procedure then goes by the name Hollywood Smile.
The thing with veneers is that they do not replace missing teeth or fix decaying teeth. This is because for veneers to work, they need your teeth for support. Your dentist will have to cement the veneers on your teeth. For the veneers vs crowns argument, you can say that veneers are purely aesthetic and only work on front teeth.
You can get more information about dental veneers, the different types and their pros and cons in the Veneers guide that we prepared for you.
Crowns
Unlike veneers, crowns can be made from a very large array of materials, including zirconia, porcelain, composite resin, and even metals.
Another major difference when to note when it comes to veneers vs crowns is that crowns are suitable for all kinds of teeth. although patients tend to associate crowns with posterior teeth, the treatment can work just as effectively for anterior teeth. This makes crowns a more versatile treatment by comparison.
So crowns can restore missing teeth, cover up mishaps, and generally offer more benefits. However, both treatments are just as effective for their purposes.
Veneers vs Crowns: what to choose?
Typically, your dentist will help you choose the most fitting treatment between the two. But we’ll give you a general guide on what to choose for your concerns.
If your concern is purely aesthetics, then depending on the position of the tooth you’re concerned about you can choose your treatment type.
Posterior teeth
For instance, if you have had a root canal treatment or treated a cavity on your posterior teeth; you will likely need to restore the appearance of your tooth. In this case, you can only opt for crowns.
While the choice of material depends on you, zirconia is the most durable material for back teeth and can withstand all the pressure and force from chewing.
If you have an entirely missing tooth, including the root, then you will need to consider dental implants or dental bridges. Think of crowns as a case, they will need some remaining piece of your tooth to encase and use for an anchor.
Read also : Dental crowns dangers and risks that you need to know!
Anterior Teeth
If you have some chipping, discoloration, or gapping between your anterior teeth; you should consider veneers. Veneers will transform the aesthetic appearance of your anterior teeth and fix a wide array of cosmetic dental problems all at once. Porcelain veneers such as E-max veneers will offer the most natural results, while composite veneers are the most wallet-friendly option.
If you have cavities on your anterior teeth or have had a root canal and the tooth has dissolved, it is best to consider dental crowns. When it comes to the material, porcelain crowns are the best for anterior teeth because they provide strength and a near-natural appeal.
Front teeth crowns vs veneers
Veneers are a popular choice for improving the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, or slightly misaligned. Veneers require minimal tooth reduction and can provide a natural-looking and durable solution.
Dental crowns, on the other hand, are tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire tooth structure. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are severely damaged or decayed, or have undergone root canal therapy. Crowns offer better protection and stability for the tooth, but they require more tooth reduction than veneers.
In general, veneers are more suitable for front teeth that have minor cosmetic issues, such as discoloration or small chips. Crowns are more suitable for front teeth that have significant damage or decay, or have undergone root canal therapy. Your dentist can evaluate your specific needs and help you decide which option is best for you.
Veneer vs Crown cost
When it comes to costs in the veneers vs crowns comparison, crowns win as the more affordable option. But then again, each treatment serves a different purpose. The cost variation between the two treatments is not at all significant.
You can always consider dental tourism if the costs of crowns or veneers in your home country are expensive. Turkey is rapidly growing as an international hub for dental treatments, hosting thousands of patients every month. Partly owing to the affordable costs, and partly owing to the pristine quality of dental practices and luxurious services that clinics like Dentakay offer international patients.
| Procedure | Turkey | UK | USA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Veneers(1 unit) | $270 – $370 | $1,300 – $1,700 | $2,000 – $2,500 |
| Lumineers (1 unit) | $420 – $520 | $900 – $1,200 | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Composite Veneers (1 unit) | $120 – $200 | $450 – $600 | $800 – $950 |
| Porcelain Crown (1 unit) | $130 – $190 | $700 – $800 | $900 – $1,500 |
| Zirconia Crown (1 unit) | $200 – $300 | $670 – $900 | $1000 – $2,500 |
Which one is best option for you?
There is no one right option. each is different and works better for particular cases. In terms of costs, veneers cost slightly more than crowns, but then again they tend to address more than one dental issue. As for longevity, the durability of both veneers and crowns depends on the material you opt for. For instance, porcelain and zirconia will extend the longevity of your results. Other options like composite resin will not last as long and are more prone to chipping, discoloration, and wear.
For any questions regarding veneers or crowns, you can book a consultation with our dental specialists. Our doctors will get in touch with you ASAP and address all your concerns in a FREE 15-minute meeting. If you wish to receive treatment with us at Dentakay, you can also contact us and we’ll manage all your travel arrangements. As the leading dental clinic in Turkey, we know exactly how to take care of our international patients. From airport reception to deluxe private cars, professional interpretation, and luxurious accommodation.
