Both porcelain veneers and dental crowns are types of restorative dentistry as well as cosmetic dentistry treatments. These treatments will add a covering to the affected teeth and enhance their looks and functionality. However, the main difference between these two is how much enamel will be extracted from your teeth. 

Another difference between these two is that porcelain veneers will cover only the front part of your tooth while a crown will cover the entire tooth. These restorative procedures are costly, and it is essential to know which one is best for you.

What follows are some of the main differences between crowns and porcelain veneers.

What is the size of veneers and crowns? 

A very thin layer of porcelain is used to make these veneers. They are very thin as only about 1mm of porcelain veneers will be bonded to the front of your existing tooth.

A dental crown has 2mm of thickness, and it will cover your whole tooth. They are made from various materials such as porcelain, metals, resins, and ceramics. 

Whether you want to go with veneers or crowns, that will depend on the complication of your teeth.

What follows are some of the common conditions that can be solved with these treatments:  

• Discoloured teeth
• Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
• Decayed or weakened teeth
• Crooked teeth

How to take care of Veneers and Crowns? 

If you follow a good homecare routine, then the health of your restoration and natural teeth will remain intact. Brushing the gumline is essential as it is where the veneers will meet the natural teeth.  This meeting area is called the margin, and this is where plaque will make its home and decay your teeth eventually. With the help of flossing, you will be able to remove the hidden food particles that are not possible to get rid of with brushing.

In addition to taking care of your teeth at home, you will need to visit your dentist’s office regularly for professional cleaning. When you visit the dental office, you will be thoroughly examined with the help of an x-ray to check out any hidden and underlying conditions. 

How do they appear on your teeth? 

To begin with, porcelain veneers are strictly a cosmetic treatment. These veneers are ultra-thin and look like an artificial fingernail.  With the help of these veneers, you will be able to enhance the aesthetics of your front teeth.

On the other hand, crowns will give you the exact final look as veneers, but they are used for restoration purposes only. These crowns are hollow from the inside and will slide over your weak or compromised teeth to protect them against further damage in future. 

Crowns are thicker than veneers; thus, your dentist will need to remove more tooth enamel at the first appointment. This can include the entire back and sides of your tooth.

Final Words 

When you want to make cosmetic changes in your teeth, porcelain veneers are used. While, if you’re going to repair decay or broken teeth or need a root canal, then dental crowns are used. So, consult your dentist first before deciding on the best treatment for you.