16
Jun
Dental Crowns vs Veneers: Comparing Your Options
Reviewed by Dr. Ava Khodakhast
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Reading time: three minutes
If you are considering improving the appearance of your teeth, crowns and veneers are two common options that come up. While they can both improve the look of teeth, they are designed for different situations.
Table of Contents
What Is the Difference Between a Crown and a Veneer?
A dental crown is recommended when a tooth needs to be restored due to decay, fractures, severe wear, or large failing restorations. A veneer is used for cosmetic improvement when the tooth is healthy but the appearance needs to be improved.
Dental Crown
- Covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline
- Requires reduction of tooth enamel on all sides for full coverage
- Restores shape, size, and function
- Made from materials such as zirconia or lithium disilicate ceramic
- Designed to withstand higher biting forces
Veneer
- Covers only the front tooth surface
- Requires removal of tooth enamel, limited to the front surface
- Bonded directly to the tooth
- Typically placed on front teeth; sometimes premolars, but not molars
- Improves color, shape, and overall appearance
Both options are designed to provide natural-looking results, but they serve different roles.
When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?
Crowns are used when a tooth needs full coverage to restore function and strength, often due to damage such as fractures or tooth decay.
Common situations include:
- Large cavities that weaken the tooth
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Teeth that have had root canal treatment
- Severe wear from grinding or erosion
- For cosmetic reasons to improve the size or shape of a tooth (less common)
Because the crown encases the entire tooth, it helps distribute biting forces and protect what remains of the natural structure. Dental crowns can be used for cosmetic reasons, but we will usually recommend a more conservative treatment like dental bonding before recommending a dental crown.
When Are Veneers Recommended?
Veneers are commonly used in cosmetic dentistry when the goal is to improve the appearance of teeth that are otherwise healthy. They are most often placed on teeth in the smile line, where aesthetics are the primary concern and biting forces are lower.
They are commonly used for:
- Discoloration that does not respond to whitening
- Minor chips or uneven edges
- Small gaps between teeth
- Slight misalignment or irregular shape
Both dental crowns and veneers are considered permanent restorations.
Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry at Argyle Dental and Prosthodontics
At Argyle Dental and Prosthodontics, Dr. Ava Khodakhast provides both dental crowns and veneers as part of a comprehensive approach to restoring and improving smiles. As a board-certified prosthodontist with advanced specialty training beyond general dentistry, she focuses on treatments that support long-term function, comfort, and natural-looking results.
Her focus is always on choosing the treatment that best supports the health of the tooth while creating a result that looks natural and functions properly for each patient.
Prosthodontist in Centennial, CO
To book an appointment with Dr. Khodakhast at our dental office in Centennial, CO, call (303) 770-2254 or visit us at 8120 S Holly St #208, Centennial, CO 80122.
FAQs
Is it a good idea to crown all of your teeth?
No. Placing crowns on healthy teeth is usually not recommended because a crown requires permanent removal of natural tooth structure. Once a tooth is prepared for a crown, the process cannot be reversed, and that tooth will always need a restoration moving forward. Crowns are also not permanent and will eventually need to be replaced over time. They are best used when a tooth truly needs strength and protection, not simply for cosmetic changes alone.
Do crowns or veneers look more natural?
Both can look very natural when properly designed. Veneers are often preferred for front teeth because they are made for cosmetic improvement and preserve more natural tooth structure. Crowns can also look natural, but they are usually used when the tooth needs full coverage and strength.
Are crowns or veneers reversible?
Neither is considered reversible. Both require removal of enamel, which means the tooth will always need a restoration moving forward.
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Dr. Ava Khodakhast
Immerse yourself in the world of exquisite dental artistry crafted by Dr. Ava Khodakhast, a
distinguished prosthodontist whose journey is a testament to the fusion of science and art in
dentistry. With an unwavering commitment to elevating lives through her specialized expertise, Dr.
Khodakhast has redefined the landscape of prosthodontics, captivating hearts with her transformative
work.
Embarking on her odyssey in 2000 as a Doctor of Dental Surgery, Dr. Khodakhast's passion for her
craft led her to traverse continents for knowledge. She pursued her American DDS at the esteemed
University of Missouri, Kansas
City, setting the foundation for a remarkable career. Yet, her thirst
for mastery pushed her to delve deeper. Venturing into the realm of complexity, she dedicated three
intensive years at the Medical College of Georgia, earning a master's in Oral
Biology and seamlessly
entwining it with a Residency in Prosthodontics.
Prosthodontics is the symphony of precision and creativity, where every note is a smile transformed.
Dr. Khodakhast is a virtuoso in this art, specializing in intricate cosmetic makeovers, implant
procedures, and comprehensive mouth rehabilitation. Recognized as a "Diplomate" by
the American Board of
Prosthodontics and as a "Fellow" by the American College of Prosthodontists, she soars
among the select few who define excellence in this arena. Her certification as a prosthodontist is a
testament to her rigorous education and training, making her a beacon of expertise for dental and
maxillofacial reconstruction and rehabilitation. Dentists themselves entrust their patients to her
care, a testament to her unparalleled mastery.
A luminary in academia, Dr. Khodakhast served as the assistant director of Advanced Education in
General Dentistry at the University
of Missouri in Kansas City. She also worked in private practice
at UMKC, applying the techniques and skills she taught in complicated, aesthetic case settings.
During her junior year of college, she graced India with her charitable work, a touch of humanity
that infuses her artistry with compassion.
Emanating from the core of her being is a dedication to her patient's well-being. You can rely on
her to provide unparalleled care rooted in scientific precision and artistic commitment.