Listen to Your Dentist When They Recommend Wisdom Teeth Extraction

If you do not like the appearance of your teeth, you have some options. Veneers and crowns are among some of the more popular teeth replacement and restoration options. Whether a tooth is broken, worn down, or you just don't like how a tooth or several teeth look, you can make a change. If you have narrowed your options to veneers and crowns, there are some important considerations to think about before you decide:

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin porcelain composite material that is sealed onto the top of your teeth. They are commonly used to cover up teeth you are unhappy with. You can use veneers to cover broken teeth, damaged teeth, or teeth that are discolored. The veneers help to make your smile more symmetrical.

What Are Crowns?

Crowns are used to restore teeth. Unlike veneers, crowns are placed over the entire tooth rather than the surface. There is no natural tooth exposed when a crown is placed. There are many benefits to getting crowns. There will be no opportunity for bacteria to enter the tooth that could cause an infection. Crowns are also quite strong and difficult to break. A crown is used typically in concert with a root canal. The crown is used to cover the exposed tooth left behind after a root canal removes the dead tooth and root material.

How Do You Choose the Best Option?

There are several things you should consider before you decide which option is best for you. First, you need to discuss the options with your dentist to get their advice on which type of tooth restoration option is better for you. Both veneers and crowns require some work done on your existing teeth upfront before the final restoration can be completed.

For veneers, the existing teeth need to be sanded down almost completely before they can be replaced. Crowns also require the removal of a lot of existing tooth material so the crown can fit over the old tooth. The preparation for a crown can be more complex because the crown has to fit just perfectly to prevent the shifting of your other teeth.

One thing to keep in mind is both of these tooth restoration options can last a long time, but they will need to be replaced over time. You have to care for them properly for them to last as long as possible. Be sure to discuss the pros and cons of each of these options to help you decide.

For more information on dental crowns and veneers, contact a dentist near you.