Porcelain crowns and veneers can transform damaged, discolored, or misshapen teeth into a beautiful, natural-looking smile. At Andover Family Dentistry in Andover, KS, Dr. Howell uses high-quality porcelain restorations to restore both the strength and appearance of your teeth.
Whether you need to repair significant damage or enhance your smile’s aesthetics, porcelain crowns and veneers offer durable, lifelike results.
Crowns Vs. Veneers: Understanding The Difference
While both crowns and veneers are made from porcelain, they serve different purposes.
- Porcelain crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. They’re used when a tooth is severely damaged, heavily filled, or weakened by root canal treatment. Crowns restore both the strength and appearance of the tooth, providing maximum protection and support.
- Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells that cover only the front surface of your teeth. They’re used primarily for cosmetic improvements like correcting chips, cracks, gaps, discoloration, or minor alignment issues. Veneers require minimal tooth preparation and are ideal when the tooth structure is otherwise healthy.
Dr. Howell will evaluate your teeth and recommend the option that best fits your needs.
Restoring Strength & Beauty
Porcelain crowns not only improve the appearance of damaged teeth but also restore their strength and function. A crown protects the remaining tooth structure from further damage and allows you to chew comfortably.
Veneers focus primarily on aesthetics but also provide some protection to the front surface of your teeth. They can correct multiple cosmetic concerns at once, creating a uniform, attractive smile.
Both restorations are made from high-quality dental porcelain that mimics the translucency and light-reflecting properties of natural enamel.
Custom Design For Natural Results
Every crown and veneer we create is custom-designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Dr. Howell considers your facial features, smile line, and personal preferences to ensure your restorations look natural and complement your appearance.
We work with trusted dental labs that use advanced materials and techniques to create lifelike restorations.
What To Expect During Treatment
- For crowns: Dr. Howell prepares the tooth, takes impressions or digital scans, and places a temporary crown. At your second visit, the permanent crown is cemented in place.
- For veneers: Dr. Howell removes a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of your teeth, takes impressions, and may place temporary veneers. At your second visit, the veneers are bonded to your teeth using a strong dental adhesive.
Both procedures typically require two visits spaced a few weeks apart.
When Porcelain Restorations Are Recommended
Crowns Are Ideal For:
- Teeth with large cavities or extensive decay
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment
- Severely worn or damaged teeth
Veneers Are Ideal For:
- Chipped or cracked front teeth
- Permanently stained or discolored teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Minor misalignment or irregular tooth shapes
Caring For Your Restorations
With proper care, porcelain crowns and veneers can last 10 to 20 years or longer.
To protect your investment:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid biting hard objects like ice or fingernails
- Don’t use your teeth as tools
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit us regularly for checkups and cleanings
Porcelain restorations don’t require special maintenance. Just treat them like your natural teeth.
Durability & Aesthetic Benefits
Porcelain is one of the most durable and aesthetically pleasing materials available for dental restorations. It’s stain-resistant, strong, and looks incredibly natural.
Crowns and veneers made from porcelain provide long-term solutions that improve both the function and appearance of your smile. You’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile confidently knowing your restorations are built to last.
Transform Your Smile
At Andover Family Dentistry, porcelain crowns and veneers offer beautiful, durable solutions for damaged or imperfect teeth. Dr. Howell combines technical skill with an artistic eye to create restorations that look natural and function perfectly.
Call our Andover, KS office or book online to schedule your consultation. We’ll evaluate your teeth, discuss your options, and create a plan that gives you the strong, beautiful smile you deserve.