Veneer or Zirconia Crown: How to Make the Right Decision

Both veneers and zirconia crowns are well-known methods of dental restoration. Both improve the appearance and function of a tooth. The main difference between them is that veneers are only bonded to the front surface of the tooth, while zirconia crowns cover the entire tooth.

Neither veneers nor zirconium crowns are easy and budget-friendly procedures. That is why before you spend time and money, it is important to know what is best for you. Of course, consulting a professional dentist at the best dental clinic based on your preferences and goals will be a good choice, however, even before the consultation, it is necessary to raise awareness and know the differences and similarities!

What is the difference between a veneer and a zirconia artificial crown?

Let’s start by understanding the most important fact: What is the difference between the two? We will try to explain it as simply as possible: a veneer is a thin layer of porcelain material that adheres to the surface of the tooth and changes its aesthetics. It reaches a thickness of 1 mm, while an artificial crown is up to 2 mm thick and adheres completely to the tooth.

Which is best for you? To make it easy to decide, the more damaged the tooth is and the more dental manipulations have been performed, even removing caries, dead nerves, etc., the better to choose zirconia artificial crowns. Zirconia serves as a restoration, while veneers are considered more of a cosmetic procedure.

Ceramic veneers

It’s easy to choose between veneers and zirconia crowns if you have healthy teeth. Veneers are usually used for visual enhancement, so they are considered a cosmetic procedure. If you have a gap between your two front teeth or have minor defects on your teeth, then there is no doubt that ceramic veneers will be best for you.

Zirconia crowns

If you have a damaged tooth that is difficult or impossible to fill due to its size or other reasons, it is best to have it covered with a zirconia crown. Crowns provide a thin layer of porcelain or porcelain-coated metal, which improves both the health and aesthetic beauty of the tooth.

Unlike veneers, zirconia crowns protect the tooth from further damage. So, if you think you don’t have healthy teeth, zirconia crowns are the best solution.

Can I use a combination of veneers and zirconia crowns?

Yes! This is a good idea for those who have a few damaged teeth but the majority of their teeth are healthy. Thin veneers can be applied to healthy teeth, and zirconia crowns can be placed on damaged teeth.

Price of veneers and zirconia crowns

Although these two procedures are not budgetary, objectively, saving money on a healthy smile is definitely not worth it. Especially since their duration is calculated at 10-15 years with proper care. In our clinic, the price of veneers starts from 850 GEL, and the price of zirconia artificial crowns is from 750 GEL. Please note that our clinic offers installment plans from TBC and the Bank of Georgia. This will simplify your treatment and allow you to distribute the money over the desired period.

What steps does the procedure consist of?

Both procedures require the following steps:

Consultation with a dentist – A dentist will determine which procedures you need, tailor them to your goals and budget, and help you prepare your teeth for future procedures.

Teeth whitening – In some cases, teeth whitening may be performed before the dental procedure in order to bond porcelain or some other material to the most healthy and sound teeth.

3D tomography – In order to clarify the condition of your oral cavity, a 3D tomography scan is necessary.

summary

Ultimately, both veneers and zirconia crowns have a common purpose – to improve a person’s smile and make the tooth functionally and aesthetically better. Veneers are more often used when the patient’s goal is cosmetic improvement, while crowns are used when a person has cavities , a broken tooth, or a dead nerve; that is, the full chewing function is impaired.

Maintain dental hygiene, visit your dentist every 6 months, and make sure that any dental procedure you plan to have fits and meets your goals and needs!

Disclaimer: This blog is not dental advice on which the user should make a decision. Richter Clinic blogs are for educational and informational purposes only and are not intended to provide any dental advice to individuals. Please consult your doctor and make a decision that is tailored to you!