Most of the major decisions you can make for the betterment or restoration of your smile via dental practice have several choices. Among those, dental veneers and crowns continue to be some of the most in-demand restorations; they boast several advantages that best fit various dental needs. Be it aesthetics you are looking for in your teeth or you want them to regain functionality, let Dr. Navid Milani and the team at Milani Dentistry of Woodbridge guide you. Know the difference between veneers and crowns through this article, their respective advantages, and how to make a better option according to the needs of each person.
Understanding Veneers: A Cosmetic Enhancement
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed onto the front side of your teeth. Being made from such materials as porcelain or composite resin, veneers are far stronger and will last longer, making them very good for discoloration, small gaps, or slight misalignments. These shells improve color and shape, hence giving a brilliant smile with whiter and more uniform teeth. According to Dr. Navid Milani at Milani Dentistry, one of the big advantages of veneers is that applying them is minimally invasive. Unlike crowns, with veneers only a minimal reshaping of the tooth has to take place, allowing you to keep most of your tooth structure intact. It is because of this that so many people lean toward porcelain veneers since they look so much like natural enamel and add brilliance that truly blends in with your teeth.
Essentially, veneers can be the ideal solution for patients whose goals are mostly esthetic.
However, veneers are not for everyone. Since they are for cosmetic purposes only, they are no good for teeth that have structural damage or huge decays. Though veneers are quite durable, they chip under very high pressures, like teeth grinding. At Milani Dentistry, Dr. Milani insists that one has to assess a patient’s style of life and the condition of their teeth to see whether the veneers will be quite effective for their desired smile.
Crowns: The Ultimate Solution
By contrast, dental crowns completely cover the tooth serving restorative and protective purposes, especially when the teeth are badly damaged. Crowns are purposed to restore a tooth to its normal shape, structure, and appearance; thus, they are considered best for teeth which have undergone decay, fracture, or big fillings. They are made of different types of materials such as porcelains, ceramics, and sometimes metals that make them strong and versatile.
More often, Dr. Navid Milani uses crowns when a molar or highly broken-down tooth needs the additional strength and support.
Probably the most salient advantage of crowns is protecting and fortifying the underlying tooth structure. A crown entirely covers the whole tooth and prevents further damage; thus, it can be perfect for back teeth, as it resists great pressure from the human bite.
In addition, crowns tend to last longer than veneers and can last up to 20 years and more if properly taken care of, whereas most of the tooth has to be shaved off so that the crown fits well; therefore, the process is less conservative compared to veneers. This is something they should ponder upon when considering which of the two treatments to choose.
Differences between Crowns and Veneers
Choosing between veneers and crowns depends on factors such as the condition of your teeth, the extent of damage, and your desired outcome. Here are some primary differences to consider:
- Purpose and Function: Veneers are essentially cosmetic, while crowns serve restorative and protective functions-especially on those teeth that are badly damaged.
- Preservation of Tooth Structure: Veneers barely require reshaping of teeth, while crowns need to be heavily shaved off to accommodate them.
- Coverage: Veneers are placed on the front surface only, while crowns completely cover the tooth for additional strength and protection.
- Long-term Durability: The materials will be durable in both cases, but the crowns would normally last longer because of the thickness of the design and are thus suited for teeth which are used more frequently.
That is why Dr. Navid Milani seriously considers such variable factors at Milani Dentistry to recommend to the patient the alternative that best suits the particular dental health needs. While some find it a better natural look or less invasion during its placement, some find more benefits in its protective strength, which is closer to a crown.
How to Choose: Veneers or Crowns?
Cosmetic or functional factors can be considered in choosing between veneer and crown. Veneers come in handy as a quick fix and are mostly applied in cases where there is cosmetic concern, especially for front teeth. As for crowns, they are the strong solution for weakened and damaged teeth, enhancing their look and strength.
Staff at Milani Dentistry pride themselves on thorough evaluations and individualized treatment planning to make a mutual decision that is best for the patient.
How long do veneers and crowns last?
Several factors will play a role in how long veneers and crowns will last: materials used, hygiene, and lifestyle behaviors regarding diet and habits, such as teeth grinding. Veneers, on average, can be expected to last between 10-15 years if well looked after, while crowns can last 20 years and upwards. Here at Milani Dentistry, patients are advised to visit Dr. Milani frequently for check-ups, which will help extend the life of both veneers and crowns and prevent any issues that may arise.
Trust your smile restoration to Milani Dentistry in Woodbridge
At Milani Dentistry, Dr. Navid Milani and his professional team offer nothing but the best dentistry to his patients in Woodbridge and other surroundings. Cosmetic and restorative treatments are his specialty. He works with his patient to make a proper decision if veneers or crowns would serve them better to yield that smile they so fancy. Taking advantage of state-of-the-art advances in dentistry and enacting his professional expertise, Dr. Milani performs every treatment with precision, comfort, and concern for the particular patient’s needs.
Whether you need veneers to brighten up your smile or a crown to fix your broken teeth, Milani Dentistry will walk you through the process. The team is waiting to guide you to that self-assured, healthy smile you should have. Look online for “find a dentist near me” or “dental office in Woodbridge“, and schedule an appointment with Dr. Navid Milani today to discuss your options and begin your journey toward a stronger, healthier smile.