Crowns vs. Veneers: How They’re the Same and How They Differ

At our Encino, California dentist’s office, you’ll often hear the terms “crown” and “veneer” used together, or even interchangeably in the same conversation. This is because they are very similar to each other in the way they’re designed and placed. But the two are actually quite different.

Crowns vs. Veneers: How They Are Similar

• Veneers and crowns are covers that fit over a tooth and change its appearance
• Your natural tooth needs to be trimmed down during either procedure
• Both are fabricated in a dental laboratory and custom designed to a specific shade, size, and shape
• From the front side of your tooth, you can’t tell the difference between the two
• They are cemented onto your tooth with a permanent bonding agent

Crowns vs. Veneers: How They’re Different

• A crown is used to protect a weak tooth, while the only purpose of a veneer is to improve the appearance of the front of your tooth structure
• Since they’re used as protection, crowns cover the entire tooth while a veneer sits on the front and slightly overlaps the back of the tooth
• To make room for the crown, the dentist has to remove more of the natural tooth than when doing a veneer
• Dental insurance usually covers a percentage of a crown, but a veneer is cosmetic dentistry, therefore, you shouldn’t expect your policy to cover any of the cost.

Crowns vs. Veneers: Which Is Right for You?

If you think you need one of these custom procedures but are not sure which one is right for you, then come to see Dr. Amir Jamsheed for a consultation. We’ll take some x-rays and perform an oral exam to determine the best route to take. Give Encino Dental Studio a call today.