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Porcelain Veneers vs. All-Ceramic Crowns: Which Is Right for Me?

August 23, 2019

Filed under: Uncategorized — drpettigrew @ 7:51 pm
woman smiling

According to a lot of Americans, confidence is one of the most attractive traits a person can have. Unfortunately, many of us don’t have the confidence we need because we’re ashamed of the way our smiles look. Your cosmetic dentist can help you fix that problem with many options, including all-ceramic crowns and porcelain veneers. But how can you know which choice is the right one for you? Let’s take a closer look at both.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front-facing surfaces of your teeth. They can be used to transform a variety of flaws into perfection, such as:

  • Chips or cracks
  • Slightly misaligned teeth
  • Stains or discoloration
  • Small gaps between teeth

After you and your cosmetic dentist decide that veneers are a good fit for you, he or she will remove a small layer of enamel so the veneers have room to lay flush against your teeth. Then, you will get impressions taken of your prepared teeth, which are sent off to the lab to craft your perfect smile. In the meantime, you will be fitted with temporary veneers so you can take you new grin out for a test drive. Simply return to the office in a couple weeks and your veneers will be permanently bonded to your teeth.

Am I a Good Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers can be used to treat several different kinds of flaws, so many people would be excellent patients for them. However, since some enamel needs to be removed, it’s important that you have enough left to maintain a healthy tooth afterwards. In addition, the ideal candidate for veneers:

  • Doesn’t have gum disease
  • Is in good health, both orally and in general
  • Does not grind or clench the teeth (or must first seek treatment for this issue)

What Are Crowns?

Dental crowns are artificial caps that slip over the teeth. They differ from veneers in that they cover the entire tooth and not just the front. Because of this, they can also restore function to a tooth in addition to the aesthetic appeal. Crowns can be made of ceramic that is similar to a veneer, or a more durable material like zirconia. They are able to perfectly mimic tooth enamel, right down to the way they reflect light.

Are Crowns Right for Me?

Crowns are typically used in order to:

  • Restore a tooth that has been treated with root canal therapy
  • Protect a broken or severely damaged tooth
  • Correct a discolored, rotated, or crooked tooth
  • Heal a cavity that is too large to use a filling

Although crowns are usually used for restorative rather than cosmetic purposes, they can certainly play a role in helping you fall in love with your smile.

Ultimately, which option you decide is between you and your dentist. Talk to them today about which one would best fit your grin.

About the Author

Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew is a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor which only 4 percent of general dentist in the U.S. and Canada have achieved. He is also a member of several other organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To learn more about how he can restore your confidence in your smile in Southlake, TX, visit his website or call (817)-481-4888.

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