Veneers or crowns: what is the difference, and which are you being sold?
Many "veneer" packages advertised abroad are actually crowns. Both can give you a bright, even smile, but they do very different things to your natural teeth, and neither can be undone.
What a veneer is
A veneer is a thin shell, usually porcelain, bonded to the front of a tooth. The dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the front surface so the veneer sits flush. Most of the tooth stays as it is.
What a crown is
A crown is a cap that covers the whole tooth. To fit it, the dentist files the tooth down on all sides into a smaller peg. Much more of the natural tooth is removed than for a veneer.
Why the difference matters
- It is permanent. Enamel does not grow back. After either treatment the tooth will always need a covering.
- Crowns remove more tooth. Heavier filing brings a higher chance of sensitivity, and sometimes of needing a root canal later.
- They will need replacing. Veneers and crowns often last around 10 to 15 years with good care. Plan for the cost of replacing them in the future.
When each one is usually chosen
Veneers are usually chosen for healthy teeth when the goal is to change colour, shape or small gaps. Crowns are usually chosen when a tooth is already heavily filled, broken or root-treated and needs protection. A dentist who has examined you should be able to explain why they recommend one over the other for each tooth.
Questions to ask the clinic
- For each tooth, are you planning a veneer or a crown, and why?
- How much of my tooth will be removed? Can you show me on a model or a scan?
- Is there a more conservative option, such as whitening, bonding or orthodontics?
- What material will be used, and what guarantee comes with it?
- Can I see the planned result before any tooth is filed?
Typical prices for both treatments are on our treatments page.
Tell us what you're considering and we'll come back with matched clinics and an initial estimate.
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