Skip to content 
Crowns and veneers are two common types of dental restorations. They are both made of a material called porcelain, which is white and looks natural in your mouth. There are, however, some major differences between each, and the choice of one over the other depends on your dental health. The aspects of each are explained below, so you can understand the differences.
Procedure
A porcelain veneer is bonded to the front face of the tooth. The dentist will shave away a layer of enamel before cementing it on. This thin shell, usually a millimeter thick, does not change the overall tooth structure or your bite. It can, however, correct minor alignment problems.
Crowns, on the other hand, fit over most of a tooth and are two millimeters or more in thickness. A substantial part of the enamel and underlying material is removed to expose the tooth core, and the crown is cemented over that. Crowns are cosmetic, functional, and restorative; they’re also designed to fit naturally with your real teeth.
Purposes
Functional teeth can fit with porcelain veneers. These stain-resistant, cosmetic restorations may be used to cover up damaged enamel, fix minor chips/cracks, and correct short or widely spaced teeth. Veneers do little to change the functionality of the teeth in your mouth. They are offered only as a cosmetic option.
The same problems fixed with veneers can be fixed with crowns. However, a crown can build up a tooth that’s been compromised by decay or trauma. It’s sometimes used for protection after root canal therapy. The crown repairs the tooth and is able to function as one, allowing you to eat normally and have a confident smile.
Longevity
Both porcelain crowns and veneers can last a long time if done right and properly cared for. Such restorations don’t normally last a lifetime, but they can last a decade or two with good care and some luck. Regular visits to the dentist are necessary to check up on the restoration. Any issues can be corrected with additional restorative procedures, which will keep your smile looking bright and shiny.
Similar in concept, crowns and veneers are effective for improving the appearance of a person’s smile. The decision to get one or the other is a judgment call based on the state of your oral health. That is where the main difference between the two is.
