عربيVeneers and crowns can both change the colour and shape of a tooth, so they are often confused. The difference is how much of the tooth they cover, and that decides which one suits your case.
What is a veneer?
A thin shell of porcelain or composite bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Preparation is usually limited to a thin layer of enamel, and it is mainly used to improve how front teeth look: colour, small chips, small gaps or uneven shapes.
What is a crown?
A cap that covers the whole visible part of the tooth. It needs more preparation, but it also protects the tooth, so it is used when a tooth is weakened by a large filling, a fracture or root canal treatment.
Which one do I need?
If the tooth is healthy and the concern is mainly appearance, a veneer is usually the more conservative option. If the tooth is broken, heavily filled or has had root canal treatment, a crown is usually the safer choice. Many smile makeovers combine both.
How long do they last?
With good care, porcelain veneers and crowns often last ten years or more. Grinding your teeth, biting hard objects and skipping check-ups shorten their life.
The right choice depends on the condition of each tooth, which is why an examination comes first.
This article is general information and does not replace an examination.