Sarasota Cosmetic Dentists

What is the Difference Between a Porcelain Veneer and a 3/4 All Porcelain Crown?

Due to an accident, I broke the bottom part of my front two teeth, so I have veneers on 8 & 9. These veneers are in the process of being redone. My dentist said there is plenty of tooth structure to do veneers again in the future too ( not for 15+ yrs) and at worst case I would have to transition to 3/4 porc crowns and then if they needed to be done again after that (15 yrs later) might have to go to all porc crowns. He said that a 3/4 is not too different from a veneer because they both wrap.

 Your dentist is on the right track in explaining to you the different treatment options based on your specific needs.  Most of the time, he or she will recommend what is best for the tooth in terms of strength and longevity.

There is not much difference between a porcelain veneer and a 3/4 crown,  The first one covers the front part of the tooth and often does not wrap around to the back or through the contacts between your teeth,  The 3/4 porcelain veneer will wrap around to the back of the tooth.  All porcelain crowns will cover the entire tooth.

I like the dentist approach to explain to you all the options for a great smile!

Michael Dorociak, DDS

Sarasota Cosmetic Dentist

Do I Need a Crown After a Root Canal on a Veneered Tooth

I've have veneers on my front 6 teeth, In the past few years I've needed root canals on the canine tooth and tooth next to my front tooth. Now my dentist is pushing me toward taking the veneer off these teeth and adding a crown. Does this seem right? I don't want to go through this procedure if I don't have to. Can't I just leave them alone? There's barely any discoloration, the doctor just says it'll be more sturdy. I'm worried about my gums as well, they're already sensitive in the area.

The answer may vary depending on several factors.  Most front teeth with successful veneers do not need a crown after a root canal.  This may depend on several factors including your bite and the amount of remaining tooth structure.  A second opinion may be an option to offer another recommendation.  Cases like this are often hard to evaluate based on wording alone.  A second opinion can offer you reassurance as to the best treatment.

Michael Dorociak, DDS

Sarasota Cosmetic Dentist

I Need Crowns on my Molars. Do the Crowns Have an Odor to Them?

Will they cause halitosis? What type of crowns offer the best fit? Thank you.

Crowns are needed when the tooth can no longer support a filling.  When fitted properly, they will function like any other tooth in the mouth. As a result, they must also be kept clean like any other tooth in the mouth.  But they will not cause halitosis by themselves.

All crowns should fit properly.  In terms of longevity, gold crowns serve the longest but are the least cosmetic. Porcelain fused to metal crowns are well proven and provide strength and longevity.  Esthetically they do not serve as long as they function. The newer all ceramic crowns are providing a challenge to the porcelain fused to metal crowns. The strongest of the these is the all zirconia crowns.  More research is needed.

Have your dentist discuss which crown is best for you in your particular situation.

Good luck!

Michael Dorociak, DDS

Sarasota Cosmetic Dentist