If you damage a tooth or your tooth is severely decayed, your dentist will consider repair options to provide your compromised tooth with the support it needs. Two common restoration options that a dentist may choose between include dental crowns and dental veneers.
Below is more information on what dental crowns are, what veneers are, why you may need them, and which option is right for you.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns (sometimes referred to as “dental caps”) are repair prosthetics that are used to replace a patient’s natural crown. In order for them to be placed, the natural tooth they sit on is reshaped. From there, the dental crown is semi-permanently installed.
Dental crowns lower the risk of further decay, damage, and other oral health concerns. They also can make it easier to chew, bite, and eat.
Crowns are made with durable material, and certain materials can be made to look very similar in appearance to a natural tooth.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are similar to dental crowns, but they do not replace the same percentage of the crown. A veneer is used for a repair that is a little beyond minor cosmetics (like dental bonding) and less than a more severe repair option like crowns. A dental veneer is intended to replace a portion of the crown of a patient.
Dental Veneers Versus Crowns
If you have a damaged or severely decayed tooth, your dentist will take a look during your visit and determine whether you will need a veneer or a crown. The main consideration will be the amount of tooth that needs to be repaired. Your dentist will do their best to ensure you keep as much of your natural tooth as possible. So, if the damage is lesser, they will likely opt for a veneer. If the damage is severe enough that they can’t save the crown of the tooth, your dentist will instead place a dental crown.
What Are the Reasons for Crown or Veneer Placement?
There are a variety of different reasons why a crown or veneer may be required. Some of these include:
- Large cavities
- Root canal treatment
- Severe wear or enamel erosion
- Broken or cracked teeth
There are certain procedures that may require the placement of a full crown on some teeth but not others. One such treatment is root canal therapy. For certain teeth, a dental crown will be the best option after the procedure. For other root canal procedures, though, a dental crown won’t need to be placed.
Do I Need to Have a Dental Crown Placed?
If you have a severely damaged or decayed tooth, yes. You need to have a dental crown placed. The main reason for this is to avoid further damage. A damaged tooth can become more severely damaged over time. A crack can get worse over time, for instance. If the crack is severe enough, it may expose the root and lead to infection. This will require root canal therapy to treat. If a root canal procedure isn’t performed, the tooth will eventually become infected to the point where it needs to be removed. Instead of risking further damage to the tooth, it’s better to undergo a restorative procedure.
Do I Need a Dental Veneer?
There are occasions in which a dental veneer can be restorative, but generally, veneers are considered cosmetic. They are excellent for helping to boost self-esteem and confidence, though. They can also help to fill gaps and repair cracks and chips.
Taking Care of Your New Crown or Veneer
After you’ve had a new crown or veneer placed, it’s very important to take proper care of it. This means maintaining your oral health. Many people believe dental veneers and crowns are immune from plaque. This isn’t the case. They can still accumulate plaque, which can lead to the decay of the healthy tooth they are resting on.
Continue to brush, floss, rinse, and take care of your oral health. Also, schedule an appointment every six months for a checkup and cleaning. This is also a great opportunity for the staff at Forest Hills Dental to take a look at your crown or veneer and ensure it’s in good shape.
If you suffer from bruxism, it’s extremely important for you to wear a mouthguard. You don’t want to damage your crown or veneer while you sleep.
How Do I Avoid a Crown or Veneer?
In order to avoid a veneer or crown, you need to take good care of your oral health. You’ll also want to visit Forest Hills Dental twice a year for your checkup and cleaning. With that said, accidents happen. If you have an accident that damages your teeth, gums, and/or jawbone, give us a call.
Why Forest Hills Dental?
For premium dental services provided by the best team in the business, Forest Hills Dental is the office for you. We provide top-tier dental services for clients of all income levels and backgrounds. Our friendly staff is here to help you every step of the way.
Dr. Mark is well-known for the fantastic work he does in the field, as well as his positive demeanor. With over 30 years of experience in the field of dentistry, he is an expert at performing dental veneer and dental crown procedures. You can rest assured that you will be happy with the results!
Reach Out to Forest Hills Dental Today!
If your tooth is damaged, decayed, or discolored, reach out to Forest Hills Dental today. Dr. Mark will examine your tooth and determine the best repair method. From there, we’ll schedule an appointment to start the placement process.
If you have any questions about the procedure, our office, or the cost, let us know. We’re happy to help in any way we can.
Contact Forest Hills Dental today to learn more about the placement process for veneers and crowns, and to schedule your appointment.
