If you have a damaged tooth, you may be given the option of a porcelain veneer or a crown. The decision about which treatment is right for you will be a discussion to have with your dentist, however, it is worth remembering that a crown involves capping your natural tooth with an artificial one, whereas veneers in London only involves removing the surface of the enamel and applying a thin layer of porcelain over it, like an artificial fingernail. Deciding which to go for will mean understanding what is involved, and asking your dentist lots of questions before you make a decision is strongly advised, if you are unsure of anything.
Porcelain veneers
Veneers are used to address the size, shape and colour of your teeth. If your teeth have been broken or chipped, porcelain veneers can also rectify this as well. If you are having this treatment, you will need an appointment, where measurements are taken to have your veneers made for you. This could involve having X-rays or impressions taken to obtain this information. You will then have the surface of the tooth prepared with a thin layer of enamel being removed. To this surface, you will then have temporary veneers applied, while you wait for your permanent ones to be fitted during your next appointment. This will be done using dental glue and they should then last for around 15 years as long as you keep them clean and don’t chomp on extremely hard foods. Porcelain is resistant to staining, but keeping up with dental hygiene and check-up appointments is also advised.
Crowns
Crowns, on the other hand, are placed over the natural tooth like a cap. They are good for ensuring weak teeth are protected from further decay, they can improve the appearance of a discoloured tooth, and they can stabilise bridges as well. They can be made from porcelain, ceramic or metal, such as gold or nickel, for example, so they are very hard wearing if they are made from metal. The crown is cemented over the tooth, or it can be used with dental implants if you have a missing tooth. It is possible for crowns to be chipped and if this happens, you would need to have another crown fitted. As with veneers, it would be recommended to take care with the foods you choose to eat and avoid habits such as fingernail biting that could harm your teeth.
Initial consultation – the world’s your oyster!
With so many options available in the dental world to improve the appearance of your smile, you will need to have a consultation with a dentist who offers cosmetic and restorative work to identify which treatments are suitable for you. They will examine your mouth and may need to take X-rays to be able to advise and discuss these options with you. You should ask about anything you are uncertain of and ensure that you are making a decision about the treatment you want only once you are satisfied that you understand everything.
So, whether you opt for crowns, veneers, or something else, you can look forward to the day someone next says, “Smile for the camera!”