Dental Crowns vs Veneers at Aspen Dental: What South Orlando, FL Residents Should Know

Noticing a chipped tooth, discoloration or a smile that no longer feels like you can be hard to ignore. You may find yourself holding back a smile or feeling less confident in photos. For many professionals living and working in south downtown Orlando, those concerns can start to affect how you feel day to day.

You do have options. At Aspen Dental in Downtown Orlando, Dr. Monica Nicola and the care team help patients understand the differences between dental crowns and veneers and how each option may support different goals. By clearly explaining what each treatment is designed to do, they help you make informed decisions based on your teeth, your priorities and your lifestyle.

What is the difference between dental crowns and veneers?

A dental crown is a restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth’s shape, strength and appearance by surrounding it fully and helping protect it during everyday use.

A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite material that is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are typically used to improve the appearance of teeth that are otherwise healthy and structurally sound.

In simple terms, crowns focus on both strength and appearance, while veneers focus primarily on appearance. Dr. Monica Nicola can evaluate your teeth and talk through which option may be the best fit based on your needs and goals.

How do crowns and veneers compare?

Dental crowns and veneers are both used to improve the look of teeth, but they are designed for different purposes and levels of tooth support.

• Coverage: Crowns cover the entire tooth, while veneers cover only the front surface

• Tooth preparation: Crowns typically require more preparation; veneers usually involve less

• Best suited for: Crowns are often used for teeth that are damaged or weakened; veneers are typically used for cosmetic changes on healthy teeth

• Durability: Both are designed for long-term use with proper care

• Strength: Crowns help restore strength to a tooth; veneers focus on appearance

• Treatment timeline: Both usually involve two visits

Understanding these differences helps you and your care team talk through which type of restoration aligns with your dental needs.

When might a dental crown be recommended?

Dental crowns are commonly recommended when teeth need added support, not just a cosmetic update. This may include teeth with extensive decay, fractures, significant wear or large existing fillings, as well as teeth that have had root canal treatment.

When a tooth structure is compromised, a crown can help protect it and support everyday function. Dr. Monica Nicola can evaluate whether a crown may be an appropriate option based on your oral health and goals.

When are veneers typically considered?

Veneers are generally considered when the goal is cosmetic improvement and the underlying teeth are healthy. They are often discussed for concerns such as discoloration, small chips, gaps or uneven tooth shape.

While Aspen Dental does not provide veneers, understanding how they differ from crowns can still be helpful when exploring cosmetic dental options. Dr. Monica Nicola can explain how crown-based solutions or other treatments may help address similar concerns.

What should south downtown residents consider when deciding?

Choosing a dental treatment involves more than appearance alone. Factors such as the condition of your teeth, long-term care needs and budget all play an important role.

For patients living and working in south downtown Orlando, confidence can matter in both professional and personal settings. Dr. Monica Nicola takes time to understand your priorities and recommend options designed to support your dental health and everyday life.

Other cosmetic dentistry options at Aspen Dental

Crowns are not the only way to enhance your smile. Aspen Dental in Downtown Orlando offers additional cosmetic services that may be a good fit depending on your goals.

• Professional teeth whitening: For healthy teeth with surface staining, whitening can help brighten your smile in a single visit

• Motto^® clear aligners: For mild to moderate alignment concerns, clear aligners offer a discreet way to straighten teeth without metal braces

Dr. Monica Nicola can help you understand which options may best support the changes you are looking for.

What is the process for getting crowns or veneers at Aspen Dental?

Dental crowns and veneers are often completed over two visits, though the exact process can vary based on your individual needs.

Visit one: Your care team prepares the tooth and takes impressions to guide the final restoration. For crowns, this typically involves more tooth preparation, while veneers generally require less. A temporary restoration may be placed to protect the tooth between visits.

Visit two: The final crown is placed and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit and proper bite. If veneers are being discussed, this visit is when they would typically be bonded in place. At Aspen Dental in Downtown Orlando, the care team uses modern tools and techniques to help support accurate fit and natural-looking results. Dr. Monica Nicola will walk you through each step so you know what to expect along the way.

Insurance and financing at Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental works with most major dental insurance plans and helps patients understand how their benefits may apply before treatment begins. Crowns are often covered when they are recommended to support the structure of a tooth. Veneers, which are typically considered cosmetic, are less commonly covered by insurance.

If you are paying out of pocket or need additional flexibility, Aspen Dental offers financing options through third-party lenders. Many patients who apply for third-party financing are approved, making it easier to plan care on a timeline that works for you.

Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices.

Frequently asked questions about crowns and veneers

Can I consider veneers if I grind my teeth?

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can place added stress on dental restorations. In these cases, your care team may discuss protective options, such as a nightguard, or explain why a crown may be a more appropriate solution for certain teeth.

Do veneers look natural?

Veneers are designed to mimic the color and appearance of natural teeth. While Aspen Dental does not provide veneers, understanding how they are designed can help you compare options and discuss alternatives that may offer a similar look.

How do I care for crowns?

Crowns are cared for much like natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily and keeping up with regular dental visits all help support long-term results. Avoid using your teeth to bite hard objects, such as ice or packaging.

Does Aspen Dental accept Medicaid for crowns?

No. Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices. The team works with most PPO insurance plans and offers financing options through third-party lenders to help make care easier to plan.

How much do crowns cost?

The cost of a crown can vary based on materials used and the condition of the tooth being treated. After an exam, your care team will provide a clear estimate and review insurance and financing options so you can make an informed decision.

Can I combine treatments for a complete smile makeover at Aspen Dental?

Yes. Many patients choose to combine treatments such as dental crowns, professional teeth whitening or Motto® clear aligners to address multiple concerns at once. Dr. Monica Nicola can help create a personalized treatment plan that focuses on your goals and supports a natural-looking, confident smile.

Schedule an appointment at Aspen Dental in south downtown Orlando

Your smile plays a role in how you feel every day. If you have been holding back, exploring your options can be a helpful next step.

At Aspen Dental in Downtown Orlando, Dr. Monica Nicola and the care team take time to listen to your goals, evaluate your teeth and talk through treatment options that make sense for your needs. Whether you are considering crowns or other cosmetic solutions, the focus is on helping you feel informed and supported.

You can schedule an appointment when you are ready to start the conversation. Moving forward begins with understanding your options and choosing what feels right for you.