Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentistry

Why a Veneer or Crown?

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

What is the difference between Crowns and Veneers?

We make beautiful smiles a reality with both crowns and veneers. What is the difference? Which is better? Both are used to correct many different dental issues, but both are not always right for your individual problem.

A veneer is a thin shell of ceramic porcelain that is bonded to the front of your tooth. It is primarily used to correct the color, the shape, the size, or to correct the position of a tooth. There are many good reasons to choose veneers. They include:
· Misaligned teeth
· Gaps between your teeth
· Chipped and cracked teeth
· Stained teeth
· Misshaped teeth
· Worn down teeth
If you have more of a cosmetic issue with your teeth, then veneers are the better choice for you. They can be color matched to your existing teeth, are stain resistant, and less tooth is removed when they are prepared. The veneer is bonded to the surface of the tooth and is permanent.

The other alternative is a crown. Crowns differ from veneers as they fit completely over the tooth. A crown is usually used when a stronger restoration is needed. A crown is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. There are also crowns made completely of porcelain. Which one is used depends on the placement and other factors particular to your bite. Crowns are very strong and help strengthen the underplaying tooth that is weak or damaged. They are also stain resistant.
If you are interested in either veneers to change your smile or crowns to repair your smile, please call the office for a consultation at

561-394-9000. We can discuss with you what the best is for you so we can “Make your smile a beautiful reality!”

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.