Dr. DeForno's Q&A in "Connections Magazine"

Tooth Trends Article
March 2006

Dear Dr. DeForno,

I would like to change my smile but I’m not sure if I should do veneers or crowns. What is the difference between the two options? I am also concerned about cost and financing. Does your office work with payment plans for cosmetic dentistry?

Veneers and crowns are exceptional ways to change your smile.

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to teeth to improve their color and shape. This type of restoration can be used to close spaces between teeth, lengthen short teeth, straighten poorly aligned or misshapen teeth, and whiten dark or stained teeth. Once in place, veneers virtually become part of the teeth.

Crowns are very similar to veneers, but involve additional tooth preparation. Recent breakthroughs in adhesives, combined with stronger porcelain materials, allow us to make crowns entirely out of porcelain. All porcelain crowns maintain a translucency that makes them indistinguishable from natural teeth. Without metal work in a crown, the problem of a dark line at the edge of the gums is eliminated. This allows us to place the edge of the crown above the gum line, creating a healthier tooth and gum.

It takes two appointments to restore teeth with conventional crowns or veneers. At your first visit we would prepare the tooth and a temporary crown would be placed. Approximately three weeks later you would return to have your permanent crown placed. Our on-site lab would fabricate your crown and our technician would sit chairside to ensure that you are pleased with the results. CEREC (a computerized system of designing and milling) offers same day crowns and veneers, but that is another story.

You will be happy to know that we do accept all major credit cards and also work with Care Credit®. This company offers interest free financing on your dental treatment. A cosmetic consultation would be the first step as you start your journey to a new smile.

Past Dental Care Articles:

Chester County Life - Sept/Oct 2006

Dental Care Questions Article December 2005