When it comes to repairing or enhancing your teeth, crowns and veneers are two of the most common treatment options. Both can restore the appearance and function of your smile, but they serve slightly different purposes. At Heritage Dental Centre in Edmonton, we often help patients decide which treatment is the best fit for their needs.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells—usually made from porcelain—that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of your smile by covering up imperfections like:
- Chips or cracks
- Stains or discoloration that whitening can’t fix
- Gaps between teeth
- Minor misalignment
Since veneers only cover the front of the tooth, they are best suited for cosmetic improvements rather than repairing major damage.
What Are Crowns?
Dental crowns, sometimes called “caps,” are designed to cover the entire tooth. They are made from strong materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they restore both appearance and function. Crowns are typically recommended when:
- A tooth has significant decay
- A tooth is cracked or broken
- A root canal has been performed
- A large filling needs support
- You want to improve the shape, size, or strength of a tooth
Because crowns encase the whole tooth, they provide more protection than veneers.
Key Differences Between Crowns and Veneers
- Coverage: Veneers cover only the front of the tooth; crowns cover the entire tooth.
- Purpose: Veneers are primarily cosmetic, while crowns are restorative and protective.
- Durability: Both are long-lasting, but crowns are generally stronger since they cover the whole tooth.
- Preparation: Veneers require minimal enamel removal; crowns require more reshaping of the tooth.
Which One Is Right for You?
The best option depends on the health of your tooth and your goals. If your teeth are healthy but you’d like to improve their appearance, veneers may be the ideal choice. If your tooth is weakened, damaged, or in need of extra support, a crown is often the better solution.
At Heritage Dental Centre, we carefully assess your smile and discuss your options so you can make an informed decision that suits your dental health and lifestyle.
Book a Consultation in Edmonton
If you’re considering crowns or veneers, our team is here to help. We’ll walk you through your options and create a personalized treatment plan.
📞 Call us at 780-434-8749 or book an appointment online.
