Could a brighter smile change your life? Our smiles are powerful—they shape people’s first impressions of us and boost our self-esteem. Sadly, not everyone is blessed with perfect teeth. Genetics, accidents, and poor dental hygiene are a few factors that can result in an imperfect smile. Thanks to modern dentistry, there are various cosmetic dental procedures to address these concerns. When considering a smile makeover, porcelain veneers and dental crowns are the most popular choices to transform your teeth.
Deciding on whether to get front teeth crowns vs. veneers depends on factors like your desired outcome, budget, and condition of your teeth. Before making the final decision, you should seek guidance from an experienced dentist to help you make the best choice for your dental needs.
Consult the best cosmetic dentists in Beverly Hills at Bedford Dental Group. Having been in the industry for over 30 years, we know how crucial it is to choose the right option. Whether you’re considering getting front teeth crowns or porcelain veneers, our expert team will guide you in making the best decision. Take the first step towards transforming your smile by scheduling a free consultation in under 2 minutes!
In this post, we will thoroughly explore the specifics of front teeth crowns and veneers by comparing their benefits, processes, and the dental issues they treat.
How Can You Improve the Appearance of Your Front Teeth with Cosmetic Dentistry?
Your front teeth are your most visible set of teeth, especially when you smile. If any of these teeth are discolored, chipped, or cracked, people are sure to notice. Regardless of what you’re dealing with, you can improve the look of your front teeth with crowns and veneers. These treatments are practical solutions to address any flaws in your teeth, allowing you to restore their beauty and functionality.
Whether you should get crowns or veneers depends on the condition of your teeth and your aesthetic goals. By consulting an experienced cosmetic dentist, like those at Bedford Dental Group, you can determine the best treatment option to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. We’ve been helping patients achieve their ideal smile over the last three decades. Contact us today to join the countless satisfied patients who have transformed their smiles.
What if I’m Missing My Front Teeth?
If you are missing any front teeth, your dentist may advise you to get a dental bridge or dental implant before going ahead with your crowns or veneers. As the name implies, dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by missing teeth. A bridge is made of two or more fake teeth called pontics, and these fake teeth are held in place by your real teeth. It is a less invasive and budget-friendly option when compared with implants.
Implants, on the other hand, are titanium posts surgically inserted into your jawbone to act as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant is fully healed, a crown is placed over it to complete the installation process. While the procedure is more invasive, it provides a more permanent and natural-looking solution.
The major difference between the two is that bridges rely on your adjacent teeth for support, whereas implants can stand on their own. Dental bridges are less expensive compared to implants, with their cost typically ranging from $500 – $2,000 per tooth, whereas implants can cost as high as $3,000-$6,000 per tooth. Ultimately, the final decision on whether to get bridges or implants should be guided by the evaluation of a dentist.
What Are Front Teeth Crowns?
A front tooth crown is a cap placed over your front teeth to restore their shape, size, and strength. Dental crowns also improve the appearance of your teeth. They are used to cover weakened or damaged teeth.
Common materials used in making tooth crowns are porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Porcelain crowns and ceramic crowns are the most natural-looking because they mimic the appearance of your natural tooth. Porcelain crowns are best for front teeth where looks matter most because they imitate the translucency of natural teeth enamel. In comparison, ceramic crowns may incorporate materials like zirconia, making them more durable. Ceramic crowns are the ideal choice for front and back teeth when strength is needed alongside aesthetics. Metal crowns can be made from several metals like gold, nickel, and chromium. They last the longest and rarely chip or break. But, because of their color, they are hardly used for front tooth crowns. Instead, they are a good option for out-of-sight teeth.
The entire process of installing a dental crown is usually completed in two visits. During the first visit, your tooth will be prepared for the crown. This involves trimming the tooth to the perfect size to receive the crown. During this stage, your dentist will also handle any decay present. Then, impressions of your teeth are made to ensure your crown matches your natural teeth. In the meantime, you will be given a temporary crown to keep your prepared teeth ready until your replacement is finalized.
During the second visit, you will be given your permanent crowns to try on. You and your dentist can assess the fit and look of your crowns before permanently attaching them. If you don’t like the look, this is the best time to speak up. Remember, you are the boss here. After getting a fit that you like, the crown is cemented in place.
Dental crowns can last 10 – 15 years, and factors like the material your crown is made from or your oral hygiene practices can affect their lifespan. For example, neglecting your oral care routine can cause a crown to fall out prematurely.
Advantages of Getting Crowns in Beverly Hills
Some of the greatest dental clinics recognized for their cutting-edge techniques in crown operations are located in Beverly Hills. Dental crowns are a popular choice for restoring and protecting teeth. Below are some essential benefits of getting dental crowns:
– Strength and Durability: Dental crowns are made to withstand strong bites and daily wear, making them a great solution for damaged or weakened teeth.
– Coverage: Crowns cover your entire tooth and offer enhanced protection since they are made from durable materials like porcelain and ceramic. The full coverage they give your teeth helps prevent further decay or damage, ensuring a longer lifespan for the treated tooth.
– Versatility: Dental crowns are used in treating various dental issues such as broken, decayed, and worn down teeth. They don’t just restore the function of your teeth, but their beauty as well.
Disadvantages of Crowns
These disadvantages should be carefully considered when deciding if dental crowns are the right option for your needs.
– Cost: Dental crowns can be expensive, especially when made from high-quality materials like porcelain. The cost of getting crowns can discourage people from getting them since they may not always be covered by insurance.
– Invasiveness: The process of getting a dental crown is invasive because a significant amount of your natural tooth has to be removed to prepare it for the crown.
– Sensitivity: Some patients experience sensitivity to hot and cold sensations after getting their crowns installed. The sensitivity could be caused by the tooth structure reduced during tooth prep or the closeness of the crown to the nerve, and it may persist for some time.
What Are Front Teeth Veneers?
A front tooth veneer is a thin shell placed over the surface of your most visible set of teeth when you smile to enhance its appearance. Veneers are used to address cosmetic dental issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignment.
When considering veneers, it is highly recommended to treat all visible teeth instead of one or two. With this approach, your teeth are uniform in color, shape, and texture whenever you smile. By treating all teeth simultaneously, dental professionals can achieve a harmonious look in your teeth that may not be possible when the teeth are treated individually.
The most common materials used to make veneers are porcelain and composite resin. Porcelain veneers are more natural looking than their composite counterparts. Plus, they have better stain-resisting properties. Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain, and can be installed in a single visit. However, they are less durable than porcelain veneers and do not look as natural.
Usually, it takes about three visits to install veneers. During your initial consultation, your dentist will discuss your goals and examine your teeth to determine whether veneers are the right solution for you. At this stage, your dentist will take an x-ray of your teeth to determine their health. They’ll also watch out for tooth decay, gum diseases, and any other condition that needs to be treated before installing your veneers.
Your teeth are prepared for veneers by shaving off a thin layer of enamel from the surface of your teeth to help the veneers fit properly and look natural. Then, impressions of your teeth are made to create custom veneers that fit your mouth perfectly. While you await your permanent veneers, your dentist will give you temporary veneers made of acrylic or composite resin to protect your teeth. The average time it takes to mold your veneers is two weeks.
Once your permanent veneers are ready, your temporary ones will be removed – a process that has little to no pain involved. And your new custom-fit veneers will be placed over your teeth to transform your look.
Veneers can last as long as 15 years, depending on the type of veneers you get and how well you take care of them. Composite veneers last 5 – 7 years, while porcelain veneers last 10 – 15 years. If you neglect your oral routine, your veneers and even your natural teeth can suffer from damage.
Advantages of Veneers
Veneers offer several benefits that can enhance both the appearance and function of your teeth:
– Aesthetics: Dental veneers are an excellent choice for enhancing your smile. They mimic the translucency and color of your natural teeth, making them look natural.
– Minimal Tooth Reduction: Compared to crowns, veneers are less invasive. The reduced tooth reduction helps preserve more of your original tooth.
– Quick Results: Dental veneers are completed in a relatively shorter time frame than crowns, allowing you to see noticeable improvements quickly.
Disadvantages of Veneers
There are some potential drawbacks to consider before opting for veneers:
– Cost: Though less expensive than crowns, veneers are no cheap investment. And, because they are a cosmetic treatment, they are typically not covered by dental insurance.
– Fragility: While durable in their own right, veneers aren’t as strong as crowns. They can easily chip or break if exposed to excessive force.
– Irreversibility: The process of getting veneers is permanent because it involves removing a layer of your tooth enamel. Once your enamel has been removed, it cannot be restored.
Improving Front Teeth – Crowns vs Veneers
Crowns and veneers offer distinct benefits and drawbacks, making the final decision dependent on individual needs and circumstances.
Aesthetic Outcomes – Crowns vs Veneers
– Natural Appearance: Dental veneers are often praised for their ability to mimic the translucency and color of our natural teeth. While crowns also offer a natural appearance, they tend to look less life-like because of the thickness of the material they are made from.
– Customization: Both veneers and crowns are highly customizable. Dental technicians are able to match the color, shape, and size of your natural tooth, and ensure they seamlessly blend with your existing tooth.
Functional Differences – Crowns vs Veneers
– Strength and Durability: Crowns are generally stronger than veneers, making them better suited for teeth that require a lot of reinforcement due to decay or damage. While veneers are equally strong, they are more prone to chipping and breaking when exposed to repetitive force.
– Tooth Preservation: Compared to crowns, veneers require minimal removal of the natural tooth structure. Crowns involve removing a more substantial amount of your tooth to help it fit over the entire tooth, which can weaken the remaining tooth structure.
Cost Considerations – Crowns vs Veneers
– Initial Costs: Veneers tend to be less expensive upfront when compared with crowns. Crowns cost as high as $3,000 per tooth whereas veneers cost slightly less at $2500 per tooth.
– Long-Term Costs: Over time, veneers and crowns may require maintenance or replacement. Crowns typically have a longer lifespan than veneers and need less maintenance resulting in lower long-term costs. While initially less expensive, veneers need to be replaced more frequently, potentially increasing their long-term expense. Payment plans and financing options can help you manage these costs effectively. At Bedford Dental Group, we offer payment plans designed to accommodate different budgets. By spreading out the cost of your treatment over smaller installments, you can prioritize your health without bearing the financial burden upfront.
How to Choose Between Crowns vs Veneers for Front Teeth
Deciding between crowns and veneers for your front teeth depends on several factors, including specific dental issues, lifestyle habits, and professional guidance.
Veneers are ideal for minor cosmetic issues like discoloration, small chips, and misalignment. However, crowns are better for serious problems such as severely damaged or decayed teeth because they provide greater strength and protection. Your lifestyle preferences also play a role in determining what option is better. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth or biting hard objects, crowns might be a more suitable option.
Furthermore, it is important to consult a dentist when deciding between crowns and veneers. Cosmetic dentistry experts are best suited to evaluate your teeth and recommend the ideal option based on your unique needs. They can tailor treatments to your specific needs ensuring the best outcome for your front teeth. This personalized approach helps achieve optimal results while balancing aesthetics, functionality, and durability.
Want to Know if Crowns or Veneers are for You?
The primary difference between crowns and veneers is that crowns are designed to cover the entire tooth, while veneers are only intended to cover the surface of your teeth. Depending on how bad your tooth condition is, both options are viable for improving the look of your teeth.
Speaking with a dentist is an important factor in determining the best option for your unique situation. A professional can offer expert advice and tailor a treatment plan to meet your individual needs and goals.
If you are considering getting any of these treatments, feel free to schedule a consultation at Bedford Dental Group. We pride ourselves in being the number one location for getting dental crowns and porcelain veneers in Beverly Hills. Our board-certified team is ready to help you achieve the radiant smile you deserve. Moreover, we offer flexible payment plans to make these treatment options more accessible, helping you achieve the smile you want without any financial stress.
