You have probably heard the terms “veneer” and “crown” used in the dental office. While these two dental restorations have many common uses, they are different! What is the difference between a crown and a veneer? The simplest answer is a crown covers the entire tooth while a veneer covers only the front side of the tooth.

What is the difference between a crown and a veneer? According to Healthline, a veneer is about 1mm in thickness, while a crown is roughly 2mm in thickness. Both crowns and veneers can be made of porcelain, but crowns may also be made of metal or gold. A veneer is bonded to the front of the tooth, unlike a crown that is cemented on top of the whole tooth. Keep in mind, the differences in these restorative options are designed to make that specific restoration type successful. For instance, a crown is slightly thicker to withstand an immense amount of pressure as you bite and grind while restoring strength and functionality to the tooth.

Why would I need a crown or a veneer? Common reasons for considering a crown or veneer are tooth discoloration, tooth abnormalities or deformities, chipped teeth, or restoring a tooth with decay. As always, it is best to visit your dentist to evaluate whether a crown or a veneer is best for your dental needs.