Quick answer
A crown covers the whole tooth, while a veneer covers only the front. Crowns are used when a tooth is badly damaged, heavily filled, cracked, worn or treated with a root canal, and on top of implants. Zirconia is the strongest option for back teeth; E-max porcelain is preferred where appearance matters most. Dr. Mendoza's crowns are made in the clinic's own lab.
When you need a crown instead of a veneer
- The tooth is broken or has a large filling
- The tooth had a root canal and is weakened
- Severe wear from grinding
- To restore an implant
- Back teeth that take heavy chewing forces
Types of crowns
| Material | Strengths | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Zirconia | Very strong, resistant to chipping | Molars, bridges, patients who grind |
| E-max (lithium disilicate) | Highly aesthetic and translucent | Front teeth and the smile zone |
| Porcelain fused to metal | Durable, older technique | Now largely replaced by all-ceramic options |
Crowns as part of a full smile
In a full-mouth plan it is common to combine veneers on healthy front teeth with crowns on damaged ones. Designing everything together — and making it in the same lab — keeps the color and shape consistent. See full mouth rehabilitation.
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How much do zirconia crowns cost in Colombia?+
Crowns are quoted within your treatment plan after the free assessment, depending on how many you need and the material.
Veneers or crowns — which is better?+
Veneers preserve more of the natural tooth; crowns protect teeth that are already weak. Full comparison.