VENEERS VS CROWNS: WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Let's talk about dental veneers and crowns, including their similarities and differences. Many confuse the two and assume veneers for teeth require the removal of healthy enamel that makes people look like they have “lizard teeth.” This is not the case for composite or porcelain veneers at Viva Smile. Let’s go over the difference between dental crowns and veneers so you can determine which option is right for you.



What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are porcelain shells placed on the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They're like thin but permanent press-on nails for your teeth addressing cosmetic concerns like stains or chips.

dental veneers

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are like protective caps that encase the entire tooth. They're often used for teeth with significant damage. Crowns for teeth provide strength and protection, restoring both function and aesthetic.

dental crowns

Why should I get porcelain veneers?

If you’re unhappy with the color, shape, or size of your teeth and want to improve your smile, you can benefit from dental veneers. There are many reasons why patients get teeth veneers, including:

  • Discolored or stained teeth
  • Broken or chipped teeth
  • Crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Gapped or small teeth

Why should I get dental crowns?

If you’re dealing with decay, breaks, cavities, or you had a root canal done, dental crowns are the best way to restore your teeth. There are many reasons why patients get teeth crowns, including:

  • Broken or fractured teeth
  • Decayed teeth
  • Chipped or bad fillings
  • Root-filled teeth

How much do porcelain veneers cost?

Dental veneers at Viva Smile are made of top grade porcelain. The cost for a single tooth veneer is $2,000 and includes the procedure as well as a Digital Smile Design mockup. Some insurances may pay for a portion of the cost if they deem it necessary.

How much do dental crowns cost?

Dental crowns at Viva Smile are made of top grade zirconia. The cost for a single crown is $1,600 and includes the procedure as well as a Digital Smile Design mockup. Most insurances will pay for a portion of the cost as crowns are considered functional.

Do they file your teeth for dental veneers?

Dental veneers cover only the front surface of your teeth. They require a .5mm thin layer of enamel to be removed in order to make the attachment possible. This also ensures the veneer won’t feel bulky and will fit in with the contour of your gums.

Do they file your teeth for dental crowns?

Dental crowns are replacement caps for a tooth that’s already lost a lot of enamel. The tooth is often filed down to remove damage like cavities from spreading further into other teeth and nerves. Additional filing may be required to achieve a proper fit.

What are the advantages of dental veneers?

  • Aesthetics: Veneers improve color, shape, and size of teeth for an improved smile.
  • Minimally Invasive: The application of veneers involves minimal tooth enamel.
  • Stain Resistance: Porcelain teeth veneers don’t get stained from food and beverages.
  • Fast Results: The process is quick, offering smile makeovers in as little as two visits.

What are the advantages of dental crowns?

  • Restoration of Function: Dental crowns restore the function of a damaged tooth.
  • Durability: Porcelain crowns for teeth are durable, able to withstand significant biting forces.
  • Protection: Dental crowns protect damaged teeth, preventing further decay or fracture.
  • Aesthetics: Crowns can improve the shape, size, and alignment of teeth.

How long do dental veneers last?

With proper care, dental veneers can last 10-15 years or longer. At Viva Smile, we use the highest quality porcelain materials to create veneers that are not only durable but also realistic. We take every detail, from texture to translucence, into consideration when designing your face-driven smile.

How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last 15-20 years or longer. At Viva Smile, we use top quality zirconia to create crowns for teeth that are not only durable but also aesthetic. We take every detail including texture and fine lines into consideration to craft crowns that suit your unique smile.