Crown or veneers ?

Question

My right front tooth had root canal done 20 years ago. The color has darken over the years. I can see some lines inside the tooth when I use the light to shine on it. Should I do crown or veneers ?

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

If you were my patient, I would recommend a crown.  The crown removes more tooth structure, but provides a more permanent and more cosmetic appearance.  A strong emax crown or a zirconia may be the best choice, cosmetically.  The costs should be relatively the same ranging from $1,000-$2,000 per tooth, depending on where you live.  I hope everything works out for you and good luck.

Nick M. Mobilia, DDS · Answer

If a front tooth that had root canal more than 20 years ago is beginning to break down and micro-cracks or fracture lines are evident, I would recommend a crown instead of a porcelain veneer.  Though a veneer might be a more conservative approach, 20 years of wear, tear and breakdown on a non-vital tooth is best served by having a full coverage crown restoration.  Please keep us informed of your decision and the treatment performed.

Norman Huefner, DDS · Answer

If your discolored front tooth has much good tooth structure remaining it is almost always better to do a porcelain veneer than a crown.  The tooth underneath the veneer will be much stronger than a tooth that has had a crown, as full crowns require much more drilling down (preparing) of the tooth than teeth that have had veneers.  If your dentist uses a strong porcelain like EMax for your veneers, it will also strengthen your teeth considerably.

Charles Sutera, DMD · Answer

Generally we strive to save as much tooth structure as possible. However, after a tooth has been root canaled for several years it begins to darken and become increasingly brittle. This makes it succeptable to fracture. For a tooth that you have described i would most likely recommend a crown due to the increased protection gained by covering the entire tooth which will help to prevent tooth fracture. Good luck and best wishes.

Crown or veneers ?

Answers (4)

Answer: Crown vs veneer for a tooth that has been root canaled several years ago

Answer: Crown vs veneer for a tooth that has been root canaled several years ago

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Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Crown or veneers ?

Answers (4)

Answer: Crown vs veneer for a tooth that has been root canaled several years ago

Answer: Crown vs veneer for a tooth that has been root canaled several years ago

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.