comparing dental crowns or veneers

Crowns vs. Veneers: Which is Right for You?

April 28, 2025 9:00 am

If you’re thinking about improving your smile, you’ve probably heard of crowns and veneers. Both can make teeth look and feel better—but they serve different purposes. Choosing the right option depends on your needs, goals, and the condition of your teeth.

At Lefler Dental in Hot Springs Village, AR, prosthodontist Dr. Thomas Lefler helps patients choose the best solution for lasting strength, function, and beauty.

What Are Crowns?

A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are often used when a tooth is weakened by decay, cracks, or after a root canal. They restore strength, function, and appearance all at once.

Crowns can be made from materials like porcelain, zirconia, or metal, depending on where the tooth is located and what’s best for you.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They’re designed to improve the appearance of your smile by fixing issues like discoloration, small gaps, minor chips, and uneven shapes.

Veneers are mainly cosmetic. They work best when your underlying tooth is healthy but you want a brighter, more uniform look. Because they only cover the front surface, veneers require less removal of natural tooth structure compared to crowns.

How to Choose Between Crowns and Veneers

Crowns are typically the better choice if your tooth is heavily damaged or weakened. They provide full protection and strength, along with a natural appearance.

Veneers are perfect if your teeth are mostly healthy but you want to correct cosmetic flaws like discoloration, chips, or small gaps. They offer a beautiful, subtle upgrade without covering the whole tooth.

Because every smile is different, Dr. Lefler will carefully evaluate your needs before recommending the best path forward.

Smile Restorations With a Prosthodontist at Lefler Dental in Hot Springs Village, AR

At Lefler Dental, prosthodontist Dr. Thomas Lefler specializes in restoring smiles with precision and care. Whether you’re repairing a single tooth or planning a full cosmetic upgrade, you’ll be in expert hands. Ready to explore your options for crowns, veneers, or other restorative treatments? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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