Veneers Vs. Crowns: How Each Cosmetic Method Works
Posted on: 16 March 2018
If you have several problems that have ruined your smile, you may be looking for the best way to fix your teeth. There are several different cosmetic procedures out there, and two you may be deciding between are dental crowns and veneers. Each procedure has its own purpose, and can benefit your smile in their own ways.
In general, dental veneers work best when the teeth have small gaps or chips in them, and crowns are best when teeth no longer have the proper strength. Some people use a combination of both procedures, with veneers placed on the front teeth that are visible to others, and crowns placed on the rear teeth that are used for chewing. Here is what you need to know about getting either procedure done.
The Process of Getting Veneers
The process of getting dental veneers will take about three appointments. It starts with your initial consultation, where your dentist will perform an exam to determine if you have healthy teeth, and also take X-rays to see what is happening inside them. During the second dentist appointment, a thin layer of enamel is removed from the teeth to prepare them for the veneers. On your third and final visit, the veneers are attached to the rough surface of the teeth.
The process of removing enamel is necessary because the dental veneer shell does take up room, even if the shell is incredibly thin. The rough texture also helps the veneers bond to the teeth. Once the shell has been attached to the teeth, it will hide all of those small cracks or chips you have.
The Process of Getting Crowns
Much like with veneers, dental crowns are installed over three appointments. It starts with the initial appointment to do the examination. Your dentist will decide whether the tooth is capable of supporting a crown. If the tooth has already deteriorated to the point where it needs to be pulled, a crown may not be possible. By the end of the appointment, your dentist will come up with a recommendation about what teeth need dental crowns.
The next appointment will be to prep the teeth that are getting crowns and take molds of them. Preparation involves filing down the teeth so that the crowns can fit onto them, and once the teeth are in their final shape, molds are taken. You'll return to the dentist for a final appointment once the crowns are created. The dentist will then bond the crowns to the reshaped teeth, which will hold them in place.
For more information about dental procedures, contact a practice like Royal Oak Dental.
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