Dental veneers and crowns are two common restorative dental treatments used to improve the appearance of your smile. Both offer many benefits, but for many, veneers have the edge.

Veneers require less of your natural tooth structure than a crown and are generally less invasive. Veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells designed to cover the front of your teeth. Once secured, they cover discoloration, chips, gaps, and other minor imperfections so that your smile looks its best.

Crowns, on the other hand, require more of the natural tooth structure be removed. Crowns are caps made of porcelain, gold, other metals, or a combination of materials that are cemented to the top of your tooth to cover a wide range of damage and support a weak or damaged tooth.

Other advantages of dental veneers are that they are often more affordable than crowns and can be completed in as little as two visits to your dentist. They also require minimal post-treatment care and have a longer lifespan than a crown.

Veneers, unlike crowns, are not resistant to further damage. While a crown is durable and can last up to 25 years, a veneer's lifespan is dependent on how well a patient takes care of their teeth by maintaining regular dental cleanings and avoiding chewing on hard objects.

If you’re considering a cosmetic dental procedure like veneers or crowns, consider their advantages and disadvantages carefully and discuss your options with a dentist. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your particular needs.