The options can seem endless when it comes to replacing damaged or missing teeth. Ideally, the best way to select which option is best for you is by talking to a dental team in an individual one-on-one session. After examining your teeth and listening to other needs and concerns, Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry will be able to recommend either crowns or veneers.
Here are a few of the advantages and disadvantage of each:
Dental Crowns
Crowns, or dental caps, can be used to correct a variety of tooth issues. Typically, the crown is molded to match the original structure of your tooth and is then adhered to the remaining root of your original tooth. Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of oddly shaped or broken teeth, repair teeth after root canals, protected weakened teeth, correct gaps, repair decaying teeth, and as a base for dental bridges.
Pros and Cons of Crowns
While traditional crowns can usually take several visits to complete the process, new technology has now allowed for same-day crown placement. Using digital mapping technology, custom-sized CERC crowns are molded in minutes to match the space, color, and look of your other teeth. The advantages of this procedure are that it is relatively quick, painless, can last up to 15 years, and is often covered by insurance. One of the major downsides of crowns is that it requires a tooth root. If this is severely damaged, dental implants may be a better option.
Dental Veneers
Patients concerned with a myriad of factors in their smile may opt for veneers. Veneers consist of a very thin (yet durable) material that is bonded to the visible portion of your teeth. This procedure can help correct the appearance of gaps, uneven and misaligned teeth, irregularly shaped or broken teeth, and discoloration that cannot be corrected with teeth whitening.
Pros and Cons of Veneers
Veneers are a great, easy way to correct a variety of problems and give you a full, bright smile you love. They also leave more of your original tooth intact, making it a less invasive procedure over crowns. Some of the disadvantages are that you may need to be a bit more cautious about how you treat them. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, you should avoid chewing on ice, pens, nails, and other hard objects that may damage the thin veneers. It may also be difficult or impossible to correctly adhere veneers to teeth that are too damaged or missing too much enamel.
Finding the best fit for you
There are many pros and cons to crowns and veneers and choosing the right one is unique to each patient. If you are ready to correct your smile and increase your confidence, schedule an appointment Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry today. We can discuss crowns, veneers, implants and other dental options with you to create a customized treatment plan that works for your specific needs.
