Dental care · 2 min read
Veneers, crowns and implants explained
Understand what each restoration changes and prepare questions about healthy tooth structure and alternatives.
Three different procedures can appear under the same smile makeover label. Ask the dentist to show which tooth is involved, what the procedure changes and what other options apply to that tooth.
Veneers cover the front of a tooth
A veneer is a thin covering attached to the front surface. Discuss the amount of tooth preparation involved and what maintenance or replacement could mean over time. If your concern is mainly colour or alignment, ask a dentist what other approaches might be appropriate before deciding.
Crowns cover more of the tooth
A crown covers a prepared tooth and can be used to restore it. Ask why a crown is being proposed, how much natural tooth remains and whether a less extensive restoration can do the job. Have the answer recorded for each tooth when several crowns are proposed.
Implants replace a missing tooth root
An implant sits in the jaw and can support replacement teeth. It involves a surgical stage and planning for the final restoration. A gap can have other options depending on the mouth and the patient. Ask the dentist to explain the alternatives, including the consequences of waiting, and take time to decide.
Sources and further reading
- NHS: dental treatments
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust: having a dental implant
- General Dental Council: going abroad for dental treatment
Some linked sources are published in other languages.
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