Are Veneer and Porcelain Crown the Same Thing?

Crowns and veneers are both popular ways to improve your smile, but they work differently. If you’re unsure about which one is right for you, keep reading our article to learn the differences between porcelain crowns vs. veneers. We will also talk about their pros and cons, so stick around.

What Is the Difference Between Porcelain Veneers and Crowns?

Similar to porcelain veneers in Minnesota, porcelain crowns also enhance your smile, but they serve different purposes:

Porcelain Veneers

• Thin, custom-made shells.
• Bond to the front surface of teeth.
• Used for cosmetic purposes (covering chips, stains, or gaps).
• Requires minimal removal of the tooth’s surface.
• Less invasive option, mainly improves appearance.

Porcelain Crowns

• Cover the entire tooth.
• Thicker than veneers, used for damaged or weakened teeth.
• Restores both function and appearance.
• Requires more tooth structure to be removed.
• Offers full protection and strengthens the tooth.

Are Porcelain Crowns Better than Veneers?

In terms of differences between porcelain crowns vs. veneers, you can’t choose one as the better one in all situations. Crowns are the best choice for damaged or weak teeth. They protect the tooth and keep it from further damage. If your tooth is healthy but you want to fix its appearance, veneers may be the better option. They are less invasive and offer a natural look for minor imperfections.

Porcelain Crowns vs. Veneers: Pros and Cons

Both crowns and veneers have benefits, but they also come with some drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of each option.

Porcelain Veneers

Pros

• Improving the look of your teeth quickly.
• Requiring minimal tooth structure removal.
• Providing a natural, lifelike appearance.

Cons

• Not suitable for severely damaged teeth.
• Can chip or crack with strong pressure.
• Typically not covered by insurance.

Porcelain Crowns

Pros

• Strengthening and protecting damaged teeth.
• Lasting a long time with proper care.
• Covered by insurance in many cases.

Cons

• Requiring more tooth structure removal.
• Slightly more expensive than veneers.

Porcelain Crowns vs. Veneers: Cost

The cost of porcelain crowns and veneers depends on several factors:

• More complex cases can increase the cost.
• Higher-quality materials may come at a higher cost.
• Severity of damage or cosmetic needs can influence the price.
• More experienced specialists may charge more.
• Costs can vary based on the region and local market.
• Crowns may have partial coverage if medically necessary, while veneers are typically considered cosmetic.

Crowns and Veneers Before and After

Both crowns and veneers can transform your smile.

Porcelain Veneers

• Before: Teeth may have minor imperfections such as chips, stains, or slight gaps.
• After: The appearance of your teeth looks smooth, bright, and more aligned. Veneers provide a natural-looking cosmetic transformation without altering the entire tooth structure.

Porcelain Crowns

• Before: Teeth may be significantly damaged, decayed, or weakened, possibly affecting both function and appearance.
• After: The entire tooth is fully restored, stronger, and looks natural. Crowns not only improve aesthetics but also rebuild the tooth’s structure for better functionality and protection.

What Lasts Longer, Veneers or Crowns?

Both veneers and crowns can last a long time, but crowns generally outlast veneers. Porcelain crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer if you take good care of them. Veneers usually last around 10 years. Keep in mind that lifestyle factors like grinding your teeth or poor oral hygiene can reduce the lifespan of both.

Can Porcelain Veneers Be Placed Over Crowns?

No, you cannot place porcelain veneers over crowns. A crown already covers the entire tooth, so adding a veneer on top wouldn’t work. However, you can replace an old crown with a new porcelain crown to update its appearance or improve its durability.

New Smile with Porcelain Crown and Veneer​ in Minnesota

Whether you’re considering porcelain veneers or crowns, our team at Long Lake Family Dentistry is here to help. We’ll assess your needs and recommend the best option to improve your smile. Schedule your consultation to start your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Conclusion

As mentioned above, Porcelain crowns vs. veneer is an important decision. While both offer excellent ways to enhance your smile, crowns provide strength and protection for damaged teeth. Veneers, however, offer a quick cosmetic fix. Learning the differences helps you make a better decision.

FAQs

Are porcelain veneers the same as crowns?

No, veneers only cover the front of the tooth, while crowns cover the entire tooth.

Why would a veneer be placed instead of a crown?

Veneers are used for cosmetic reasons when the tooth doesn’t need full coverage or additional strength.

Do celebrities get veneers or crowns?

Celebrities often choose veneers for a quick cosmetic fix, but crowns are used when the teeth are damaged or weak.