Dental Crowns vs Dental Veneers: What’s the difference?

Have you ever been curious about the differences between dental crowns and veneers? Let's break it down for you 🙂

Crowns and veneers are both dental restoration methods that can enhance the appearance and function of your teeth and it may be confusing to understand the difference between them. Your dentist will recommend the best option for your specific needs, but it’s essential to understand the distinctions between them, with regards to purpose, results, and suitability for you. 

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering designed to fit over an existing tooth. It aims to restore and strengthen a decayed, broken, or weakened tooth while enhancing its appearance. The crown fits securely over the tooth, much like a snug hat. Typically, some enamel is removed from the tooth to ensure a proper bond between the crown and the tooth.

The ideal candidate for this treatment is someone whose dental issues cannot be resolved with a filling or other standard treatments. For instance, you may be suitable if you:    

• Need to reinforce a weak tooth 

• Have undergone root canal treatment 

• Require support for a bridge or denture 

• Have a tooth that is severely decayed  

Dental veneers are a type of restorative treatment that covers the front surface of the teeth and are mainly used for cosmetic purposes. There are two main types of dental veneers: porcelain and bonded (composite) veneers. There is also a third in-between option, called a hybrid veneer. To determine the right choice for you, speak to a highly trained and experienced dentist, like the cosmetic dentistry team in Sydney, Melbourne, and Gold Coast at Vogue Dental Studios.

Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells made of ceramic or porcelain that are permanently bonded to your natural tooth enamel. They are custom-made to fit precisely over the prepared tooth, providing a beautiful and natural appearance.

Bonded veneers, or composite veneers, are created by building up material on your tooth enamel, which is then shaped and polished. This minimally invasive procedure offers immediate results and typically costs less, with a shorter wait time than porcelain veneers. However, it's important to note that bonded veneers do not last as long as their porcelain counterparts and are not as stain resistant.

Hybrid veneers combine both materials and offer durability in between that of porcelain and composite veneers.

Veneers may be a suitable option for you if your natural teeth have any of the following issues:

• Staining or discoloration
• Minor chips or breakage
• Unusual shapes
• Gaps you'd like to close
• Slightly crooked alignment

The main takeaway is that crowns are primarily a restorative treatment and serve you best if your tooth is significantly damaged, has a large filling or has undergone a root canal. On the other hand, veneers are best when the treatment is mainly for cosmetic purposes. 

Let’s have a look at the other difference between crowns and veneers: 

The exact cost can vary based on several factors, including the materials used for the crowns or veneers, the condition of your teeth and overall oral health. Generally, veneers tend to be more expensive than crowns, which may come as a surprise since the procedure for veneers is less invasive. This higher cost is primarily attributed to the quality of materials used and the extensive time and craftsmanship involved in the process.

Bonded veneers, made from resin, are significantly more affordable, typically costing around $850 per tooth. However, they do have a shorter lifespan compared to porcelain veneers. Each individual porcelain veneer is custom-made based on a 3D scan of your teeth and designed in a shade you select. This personalised approach cannot be automated, contributing to the overall cost.

Placing veneers is also a time-intensive and intricate process involving multiple professionals to ensure the best results. At Vogue Dental Studios, we prioritise your satisfaction, allowing for ample time to make revisions and adjustments as needed to achieve your desired outcome.

All smile makeovers at Vogue Dental begin with a comprehensive consultation, during which we can personalise treatment options and provide exact cost estimates. As a rough estimate, individual porcelain veneers typically range from $2,500 to $3,500 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the treatment, however Vogue Dental Studios offers great Smile Makeover Packages that include 6 to 12 porcelain veneers, please contact us to enquire about them! 

Dental crowns cost on average, between $1,000 and $3,500, however this varies based on individual circumstances and will depend on how much your teeth need restoring, your oral health condition, and which materials are used. 

Your health insurance company may cover some of your treatment as well, depending on your individual plan. 

Both veneers and crowns enhance your smile, but they cater to different needs. Veneers are primarily a cosmetic solution designed to improve minor issues with your teeth. In contrast, crowns are the better option for addressing broken or decayed teeth, providing more support and protection. Consider your specific dental needs when deciding between the two.

If you wish to learn more about the differences between veneers and crowns, book a consultation at one of our Sydney, Melbourne, or the Gold Coast clinics to start your smile journey.