What Are Porcelain Veneers?

In this video, Dr. Robert Ellis discusses veneers, comparing them to crowns and explaining why he often recommends crowns for longer-lasting protection.

A porcelain veneer is different from a crown in the way it covers the tooth. A veneer only covers the front, visible surface of the tooth. It extends between the side contacts, over the biting edge, and down to the gum line.

A crown, on the other hand, covers the entire tooth all the way around, with the edge (or margin) usually hidden under the gumline. Both veneers and crowns can fail if decay develops around their margins—the point where the restoration meets the natural tooth. Because veneers have more exposed margins than crowns, they are generally more prone to decay and may need to be replaced sooner.

That’s why I often recommend crowns over veneers, since they tend to last longer and provide better overall protection for the tooth.

If you or someone you love is interested in learning more about our cosmetic dentistry options, contact Dr. Robert Ellis in Rigby, ID, for a free consultation to learn how our life-changing treatments can enhance your smile, improve your function, and restore your self-confidence.

OUR DENTAL SERVICES

Hear What Our Patients Are Saying...

Take Our Free 30-Second Implant Quiz

Read The West Wind Dental Blog

Learn about the services we provide, and the latest advancements in general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry in Eastern Idaho.

All-on-4 Implant Dentures in Rigby, ID Book a FREE Consultation
All-on-4 Dental Implants: Are Four Implants Enough for Long-Term Stability? [Video Guide]

Modern denture design, such as the All-on-4 system, isn’t just convenience technology—it’s a piece of history. Let’s jump back to ancient Rome, where Atilius, a freed slave, was tasked with constructing the Fidenae Amphitheatre. This grand 120-foot-tall structure was designed to hold 50,000 spectators and host a variety of entertainment. Unfortunately, Atilius rushed construction, using poor-quality materials and minimizing [...]

Denture Alternatives [Video Walkthrough FREE Consultation
Top 3 Denture Alternatives for a Secure, Natural Smile [Video Walkthrough]

Trust: it’s not just something we want. It’s something we need. Whether we rely on our cars to get us where we’re going or a loved one to support us through a difficult time, trust is vital to our everyday lives. When a person loses trust in their dentures, it dampens their ability to fully enjoy each new day. [...]

Same-Day Teeth in Idaho Falls, ID [Video Success Story]
Same-Day Teeth Saved His Smile After a Job Site Injury [Video Success Story]

When the hot metal shard dislodged from Joe’s grinder and struck his front tooth, the construction worker knew he was in trouble. He could feel a jagged stump where his tooth used to be. As if that wasn’t enough, he also had a first date that same night. He couldn’t bear the thought of making a bad impression. The [...]

Veneers vs. Crowns Affordable Cosmetic Dentistry in Rigby, ID
Veneers vs. Crowns: Which One Is Better?

Everyone wants to improve something they don’t like about their teeth, whether it’s staining, cracks, misalignment, or difficulty eating. When it comes to improving the appearance of your smile, the choices often come down to veneers vs. crowns. Both can create beautiful results, but they serve very different purposes. At West Wind Dental, Dr. Robert Ellis’s philosophy focuses on results [...]