Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers - Which is Right for Me?

    DALLAS, TX, April 08, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The many rapid advances in cosmetic dentistry afford you a wide variety of options when choosing to improve your smile. However, not every procedure will work for every problem. At your initial consultation, your cosmetic dentist will explain the many smile makeover options available to you and help you determine which procedure will work best for your specific dental issues.

Two of the most common options available to help improve your smile are dental crowns and porcelain veneers. Both are commonly used to correct cosmetic flaws in your teeth caused by:

• Damage from tooth decay
• Discoloration
• Tooth fracture
• Brittle teeth after a root canal

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are placed over damaged teeth to restore the function and strength of your teeth. There are three different types of dental crowns:

• Porcelain
• Metal
• Porcelain fused to metal

Porcelain crowns have become the first choice of many cosmetic dentists, since they most closely resemble the appearance of your natural tooth. Porcelain crowns also function similarly to your natural teeth, making them even more popular among cosmetic dentists.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made out of thin ceramic shells. They are attached to the front and side surfaces of your teeth. Unlike a dental crown, which covers your entire tooth, porcelain veneers leave the back side of your natural tooth exposed. Your cosmetic dentist will custom design your porcelain veneers so that they match the shape and color of neighboring teeth.

While dental crowns are typically used for only one or two teeth, porcelain veneers can be created for many teeth at once. Once bonded to your teeth, they will cover any chips, stains, breaks, or gaps in your natural teeth so that your new smile is vibrant and beautiful.

Dental Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers

Ultimately, your cosmetic goals for your procedure will determine whether dental crowns or porcelain veneers is right for you. While both provide excellent aesthetic results, each treatment is most effective under different circumstances. It is important to consult with your cosmetic dentist before choosing between dental crowns and porcelain veneers.

Porcelain veneers are most effective for improving:

• Tooth shape
• Tooth color
• Crowding and excess space issues

Dental crowns are a more effective treatment when you have less natural tooth structure remaining. This lack of tooth structure is frequently caused by tooth decay or root canal. Also, once your tooth has been treated with a dental crown, all future restorations on that tooth will require crowns.

To learn more about the benefits of dental crowns and porcelain veneers in the Dallas, Texas area, please contact Dallas cosmetic dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef today to schedule a consultation.

Source: Dr. Gary Alhadef
Website: http://www.dallascosmeticdental.com

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