What's the Difference: Crowns vs. Veneers

Dental restorations are essential if your teeth have significant damage and deterioration. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the most common long-term dental restorations are crowns and veneers. Both are durable and match the color of your natural teeth. If you want to find out the difference between crowns and veneers, here’s what you need to know.

 

Tooth Trimming

When you need to get dental crowns, your dentist needs to trim off a significant enamel layer from your teeth. This must happen so that the crown can fit snugly over your teeth. Your dentist will trim down your teeth to a tapered stump. Once the creation of the crowns is over, your dentist will cement them on top of the trimmed teeth. The dental crowns will serve as the new outer surface of your teeth.

 

The dental crowns will restore the function and structure of your teeth. They need to occupy the top of part of your teeth. Because of this, your dentist must shave off at least two millimeters of enamel. This thickness is significant because dental crowns are at least two millimeters thick.

 

For veneers, the dentist must trim off a much thinner layer of enamel. If your enamel is already thin, your dentist will not need to trim off your enamel anymore. As you may know, porcelain veneers are about one millimeter or even less. Trimming will only be on the front side of your teeth and not on their backside.

 

Coverage and Effects

A dental crown covers the entire tooth. If your tooth has lost most of its healthy structure, a dental crown will restore its structure and function. The thickness of the dental crown will provide strength to your tooth. It will also protect your tooth from future injury or decay. The front, back, and sides of the tooth receive ample reinforcement. Since it is made of porcelain, it can blend well with the rest of your natural teeth.

 

If you have an issue with the alignment and color of your teeth, dental crowns can help. Each crown is custom-fit to each natural tooth. When the crowns are in, you will have a straighter smile. For discoloration or staining, porcelain crowns also whiten your teeth and prevent them from staining. Having dental crowns is like having a new set of teeth. This time, you will not need to worry about tooth decay anymore.

 

With porcelain veneers, only the front part of your teeth gains protection. Each thin shell can restore the appearance of each damaged tooth. Veneers can also whiten and align your teeth. Even if they are strong, they can still break because they are brittle. That is why dentists often place them on teeth that do not chew or grind.


Dental crowns and veneers are both excellent dental restorations. You can discuss your dental needs with your dentist to determine whether you need crowns or veneers. At Attuned Dental Care, we work with our patients to achieve their dental goals. Please visit our clinic in Milpitas, California, to have an in-person consultation. Feel free to call us at 408-263-3090 for appointment scheduling or inquiries about our dental crown or dental veneer packages.