A veneer is a thin shell bonded to the front of a healthy tooth to change its colour or shape; a crown covers the whole tooth to protect one that is broken, heavily filled or weakened. The right choice depends mainly on how much healthy tooth is left.
What is a veneer?
A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite bonded to the front surface of a tooth. It changes how the tooth looks: its shade, its shape, or small gaps and chips. Very little of the tooth is reshaped to make room for it.
What is a crown?
A crown is a cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth. It restores strength as well as appearance, which is why it is used on teeth that have large fillings, cracks or root canal treatment.
How does a dentist decide?
| If the tooth is... | Usually suits |
|---|---|
| Healthy, and you want to change colour or shape | Veneer |
| Chipped at the edge but otherwise strong | Veneer or bonding |
| Broken, cracked or heavily filled | Crown |
| Root-canal treated, especially at the back | Crown |
| Replacing a missing tooth on an implant | Crown on the implant |
How long do they last?
Both can last many years with good care: brushing, flossing, regular checkups and not using your teeth as tools. Grinding at night shortens their life, so your dentist may suggest a night guard.
Will it look natural?
Shade and shape are chosen with you, often comparing against your other teeth in daylight, so the result blends in.
The next step
At a consultation your dentist looks at each tooth and explains which option fits and why. Request a consultation.
General information only, not medical advice. Request a consultation for advice about your own situation.