Veneers are thin shells placed on the front surface of teeth. They are often used to improve how you look. Most veneers are made from porcelain or a mix of durable materials. They are stain-resistant and matched to the colour of your natural teeth.
When Veneers Are Used
Veneers may be used for teeth that are:
- Chipped or broken
- Uneven or gapped
- Stained or dark
- Misshaped
The process starts with a consultation. Our dentists may take X-rays or scans. The tooth is gently shaped. A temporary veneer may be applied. At the final visit, the permanent veneer is bonded to the tooth.
Crowns are caps that cover the whole tooth. They restore both function and shape. Crowns are used when the damage is more serious.
You may need a crown if the tooth is:
- Weak or decayed
- Cracked or worn down
- Treated with a root canal
- Discoloured or misshaped
- Part of a dental bridge or implant
Dental crowns are made from several types of materials:
- Metal – Strong and long-lasting. Requires less tooth reduction.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal – Looks natural but may show metal at the edges.
- Resin – Less expensive but wears faster.
- Ceramic or porcelain – Matches teeth well. Works best for front teeth. May wear nearby teeth.
- Pressed ceramic – Has a solid ceramic core. Stronger than regular porcelain.
What’s the Process?
Veneers start with a dental exam. The dentist prepares the tooth by shaping the surface. A scan or mould is taken. A temporary layer may be added. The final veneer is bonded at a second visit.
Crowns involve more steps. If the tooth is damaged, a root canal may come first. The dentist removes part of the tooth. The amount depends on the crown type. Metal crowns need less reduction than porcelain ones.
A temporary crown is usually fitted first. The final crown is placed after two or three weeks.
Pros and Cons
- Improved appearance – Both options enhance your smile. They cover flaws and create a more even look.
- Function and protection – Veneers improve minor cosmetic issues. Crowns add strength. They protect teeth that are at risk of breaking.
- Tooth preservation – Veneers remove less of the tooth. They keep more of the original structure. Crowns require more shaping but offer greater support.
Risks
- Not suitable for everyone – Veneers may not work well for people with gum problems or those who grind their teeth.
- No reversal – Once a tooth is shaped for a veneer or crown, it can’t go back to its original state.
- Wear and damage – Veneers can chip. If they crack, they must be replaced. Crowns can also chip. Large chips may require full replacement. The cement holding the crown can wear out. This may cause it to loosen or fall off.
