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If you’re unhappy with the look or function of your teeth, you may be wondering: “Should I get veneers or crowns?” It’s one of the most common questions we hear at Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics in Leawood, Kansas. Both treatments improve your smile but they serve different purposes.
With over 15 years of cosmetic experience and 1,000+ veneers delivered, Dr. Philip Gordon has helped patients across Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, and Olathe decide which option fits their needs.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They’re primarily a cosmetic solution designed to:
Cover chips, cracks, or worn enamel
Brighten discolored or stained teeth
Close small gaps
Improve tooth shape and symmetry
Veneers require minimal enamel removal and are often chosen for patients who want a smile makeover with maximum esthetics.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth above the gumline. Crowns are both restorative and cosmetic because they:
Protect teeth that are cracked, weakened, or heavily filled
Restore strength after a root canal
Improve appearance and alignment
Replace a single tooth when placed on top of a dental implant
Crowns require more tooth reduction than veneers but provide full coverage and durability.
Key Differences: Veneers vs. Crowns
| Feature | Porcelain Veneers | Dental Crowns |
| Coverage | Front of the tooth only | Entire tooth |
| Purpose | Mainly cosmetic | Restorative + cosmetic |
| Tooth Prep | Minimal enamel removal | More tooth reduction |
| Durability | 10–15+ years with care | 15+ years, highly durable |
| Best For | Stains, chips, gaps, shape correction | Weakened teeth, large fillings, root canal cases |
Cost Comparison in Kansas City
Porcelain Veneers (per tooth): $1,200–$2,500
Dental Crowns (per tooth): $1,200–$2,000
💡 While costs can overlap, the choice usually depends more on the health of the tooth than on price.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose Veneers if: Your teeth are healthy but you want a brighter, straighter, more even smile. Perfect for esthetic makeovers.
Choose Crowns if: Your tooth is damaged, cracked, or structurally weakened. Crowns restore strength while also improving appearance.
At Gordon Dental, we often combine both – using veneers for the front “smile zone” and crowns for teeth that need extra support.
Patient Story: Laura’s Smile Makeover
Laura, a 57-year-old patient from Overland Park, was unhappy with her worn, discolored crowns and uneven smile. After replacing her old restorations with a mix of porcelain veneers and crowns, she finally achieved the bright, youthful smile she had always wanted.
FAQs
Q: Are veneers better than crowns?
Not necessarily – veneers are best for cosmetic improvements, while crowns are best for restoring strength and protecting weakened teeth.
Q: How long do veneers and crowns last?
Veneers typically last 10–15 years; crowns often last 15 years or more with proper care.
Q: Do veneers and crowns look natural?
Yes. Both are made from high-quality porcelain that mimics natural tooth enamel. At Gordon Dental, each restoration is custom-designed for color, shape, and translucency.
Why Choose Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics?
1,000+ veneers delivered with natural, beautiful results
15+ years of cosmetic dentistry experience
Advanced technology for precise digital smile design
Trusted by patients across Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, and Olathe
Take the Next Step Toward Your Best Smile
If you’re considering veneers or crowns in Kansas City, schedule a free consultation at Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics. Dr. Philip Gordon will evaluate your teeth, discuss your goals, and design a personalized plan for the smile you’ve always wanted.
📍 Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics
3628 W. 95th Street, Leawood, KS 66206
📞 Call us today at 913-649-5017
