October 21, 2026
A veneer covers the front of a tooth. A crown covers the whole tooth. That one difference drives most of the others: a veneer is mainly used to change how a healthy tooth looks, while a crown is mainly used to protect and rebuild a tooth that is weak, broken or heavily filled.
Some teeth could take either, and some need neither. A dentist has to look at the tooth, the bite and the gums before saying which is sensible, so this guide is a way to prepare for that appointment.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, a veneer is a thin covering that is fixed to the front surface of a tooth, and a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth first to make room for it. Veneers are usually made from porcelain or from tooth coloured composite, which is a filling material. For more detail, read what you need to know about dental veneers.
Veneers are used to change the colour, shape or position of teeth that are otherwise healthy, for example teeth that are stained, chipped, worn or slightly uneven. You can read about porcelain veneers and composite veneers before booking a consultation.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, a crown is a custom made cover that fits over a tooth and restores its shape, strength and appearance. The tooth is reshaped to make room, a temporary crown is worn while the final crown is made in a laboratory, and the final crown is then cemented in place.
Crowns are recommended for teeth that are badly broken, heavily filled and weakened, root canal treated, worn or cracked. They can also anchor a bridge. Our page on dental crowns lists the materials we offer, including porcelain, e.max and zirconia.
This table is a general guide. Your dentist will tell you what applies to a particular tooth.
| Factor | Veneer | Crown |
|---|---|---|
| How much tooth is changed | A small amount of enamel is removed from the front. Our porcelain veneers page says a maximum of 0.5 mm | The tooth is reshaped all the way round to make room for the crown, so more tooth is removed than for a veneer |
| When each is used | Mostly to improve how a healthy tooth looks | To protect and rebuild a tooth that is broken, weakened, heavily filled, worn or root canal treated |
| Appearance | Can look very natural on the front of a tooth. Composite is made and shaped in the mouth. Porcelain is made in a laboratory | Porcelain and other ceramic crowns can match neighbouring teeth. The material chosen depends on the tooth |
| Strength | Thin, so it relies on the tooth underneath. Can chip, crack or come loose | Covers the whole tooth, so it holds a weakened tooth together |
| Cost approach | Priced per tooth. Ours start from £750 for composite, £975 for e.max and £1,250 for porcelain | Priced per tooth. Ours start from £950 for porcelain and from £1,250 for e.max or zirconia |
| Reversibility | Composite may need little or no enamel removal. Porcelain involves removing some enamel, which does not grow back | The shaping of the tooth cannot be undone, and the crown cannot be taken off once cemented |
| Who it suits | Healthy teeth and gums, a wish to change appearance, a tooth that is not heavily filled | A tooth that is damaged or weakened, or has had a root canal |
This is often the deciding question. A veneer asks for a thin layer of enamel from the front of the tooth. A crown asks for the tooth to be reshaped on every side so the cover can fit.
The amount of enamel removed depends on the type of veneer and the tooth. Our porcelain veneers page states a maximum of 0.5 mm. Some composite veneers need little or no shaping, because the material is built up on the tooth. Your dentist will explain how much shaping is planned before you agree to go ahead. Our post on no prep veneers looks at the option that needs the least shaping.
A crown takes off more of the tooth because the whole outer layer has to make room. If the tooth is badly broken but its root is sound, a small post may be placed in the root to hold the crown, according to the Oral Health Foundation. That extra support is not needed for a veneer.
A veneer can suit you if the tooth is healthy and strong but you are unhappy with how it looks. Common reasons include staining that does not respond to whitening, small chips, small gaps and teeth that are a little short or uneven.
It is less suitable if the tooth is heavily filled, badly worn, cracked or has had root canal treatment, because the thin covering has little to hold on to. Habits such as grinding your teeth can also put veneers at risk. If you want a lighter option for a small chip, ask your dentist whether composite bonding could do the job without a veneer.
A crown is usually the better choice when the problem is structural rather than cosmetic. A large filling that has broken down, a cracked tooth, or a tooth weakened by decay often needs the whole tooth covered. Teeth that have had root canal treatment are often crowned for the same reason. According to the NHS, a crown may be needed if the tooth was badly infected. If you are unsure whether a tooth can be saved, read about root canal treatment.
A crown is also what holds a bridge or sits on top of a dental implant. If a crown breaks or comes off, it is worth being seen soon, and our page on a broken crown explains what to do in the meantime.
Both can look natural when well made, but they do different jobs. A veneer is a thin shell that depends on the tooth underneath, and the Oral Health Foundation notes that veneers can chip, crack or come loose. A crown covers the whole tooth, which is why it is the choice for a tooth that needs support.
Material also matters. The Oral Health Foundation describes all porcelain crowns as looking very natural and often used on front teeth, though less strong, while gold and some ceramic crowns are stronger. Ceramic crowns can be metal free and strong enough for any part of the mouth. We use porcelain crowns for visible front teeth, and zirconia, which is stronger, is more often used for back teeth. Your dentist will match the material to the tooth and your bite.
The Oral Health Foundation says veneers can last many years if they are looked after properly, and that crowns can last many years if they are well cared for. Neither comes with a fixed figure. How long yours lasts depends on the material, your cleaning, your gums, your bite and any habits such as grinding or chewing hard objects.
Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth and regular check ups help both. Ask your dentist what is realistic for the tooth in question, because a veneer or crown may need replacing in time.
Our fees below are starting points, priced per tooth. Your dentist sets out the full cost after assessment, because the number of teeth, the material and any extra work change the total.
You can see our current veneer fees online. Treatment above £250 can be spread over 12 months at 0% finance, subject to status, and longer terms may carry interest. We are a credit broker, not a lender. A crown is sometimes available on the NHS when it is clinically necessary, and the NHS publishes the current charge on nhs.uk, so check there rather than relying on a figure in an article.
Not in the way people often hope. Removing enamel or reshaping a tooth is not reversible, because the tooth does not grow back. A crown, once cemented, cannot be taken off, according to the Oral Health Foundation. A porcelain veneer involves removing some enamel, so the tooth would normally need a veneer or crown from then on.
Composite veneers are the gentler end of the range. Some need little or no shaping, so there is less to lose. That does not mean they are free of trade offs, since composite is usually less strong and may need repair or replacement sooner than porcelain. If keeping as much natural tooth as possible matters to you, say so at your appointment.
A chipped front tooth that is otherwise healthy. Bonding or a veneer may be suitable. A crown is usually kept for bigger breaks.
Stained teeth that whitening cannot change. Veneers are a common choice, as long as the teeth and gums are healthy.
A tooth with a large old filling that is breaking down. A crown often protects the tooth better than a veneer, because the tooth needs support.
A tooth after root canal treatment. A crown is often advised to protect it.
A small gap or an uneven edge. Bonding or veneers may fit. Your dentist will look at your bite first.
See a dentist if a veneer or crown has come loose, if a tooth is cracked or painful, or if you are not happy with the shape or colour of a tooth. If you have severe pain with swelling, the NHS advises asking for an urgent dentist appointment, and calling 111 if you have no dentist or cannot get to an emergency appointment. The NHS also says to go to A&E or call 999 if you find it hard to breathe, speak or swallow, or have a lot of swelling in your mouth.
The easiest way to decide is to have the tooth examined. At our Maida Vale clinic, a dentist can look at the tooth and gums, explain what each option would involve, and give you a written plan with costs. You are not obliged to go ahead.
It depends on the size of the chip and the health of the tooth. A small chip on a strong front tooth may be treated with bonding or a veneer. A larger break or a weakened tooth is more likely to need a crown. Your dentist will examine it before advising.
A porcelain veneer involves removing a small amount of enamel, which does not grow back, so the tooth is changed. Some composite veneers need little or no shaping. Ask your dentist how much is planned for your teeth before you decide.
Yes, usually. A crown means shaping the tooth all the way round to make room for the cover, while a veneer needs a thin layer of enamel from the front. The amount depends on the tooth and the material.
Not in the usual sense. A crown cannot be taken off once cemented, and removing enamel for a veneer cannot be reversed. Either can be replaced when it wears or breaks, and your dentist will explain what that would involve.
A crown, because it covers the whole tooth and holds a weakened tooth together. A veneer is a thin shell that relies on the tooth beneath it, and it can chip, crack or come loose.
Sometimes, but a crown is more often advised for a root canal treated tooth because it protects the tooth better. Your dentist will look at how much healthy tooth remains.
Our veneers start from £750 for composite, £975 for e.max and £1,250 for porcelain, per tooth. Our porcelain crowns start from £950 and e.max or zirconia crowns from £1,250. The dentist sets out the full cost after assessment.
Treatment above £250 can be spread over 12 months at 0% finance, subject to status, and longer terms may carry interest. We are a credit broker, not a lender. Your plan will show the options.
4,8
I could not be more satisfied with my experience at Maida Smiles - A special mention to Dr Gurteurez who is one of the most friendly and professional dentists I have ever met
Adam
I had my first visit and the team was very warm, caring and professional. The online booking platform makes it very easy to arrange your appointment. Doctor Pedro made me feel comfortable despite this being my first appointment since Covid. He is incredibly knowledgeable and offers you the best treatment for your specific condition. I would highly recommend them
Gian Paolo Ziletti
Professional. Friendly. Informative. Maida Smiles offers great dental services including cleanings, oral surgery and realignment. I feel very lucky to have them so close by. I had an appointment just this week that was quick, thorough and safe.
Emily Chmura
Being very nervous about using dentists after a terrible experience when I was younger, I came to Maida Smiles and loved the calm patient demeanour of Pedro. You can clearly see Pedro and the team take pride in what they do and are perfectionists. The whole experience was great and I will never go to another dentist again.
Reena Nathwani
Delighted with the outcome of my treatment by Pedro. Meticulous attention to detail explaining exactly how the procedure would be carried out from first consultation to completion backed up with supporting guidance notes. Clearly an expert in his field and someone who cares passionately about the outcomes for his patients. Highly recommended.
George Jones
I loved my first visit to Maida Smile Dental Clinic. The staff member at reception was very warm, welcoming and professional. My dentist, Priscilla, and her assistant were fantastic. I have quite sensitive teeth near my gums and I can find the probing and investigation quite uncomfortable during a consultation, but this wasn’t the case at all. I didn’t experience discomfort and felt in very safe hands. This also applied to the hygienist work. I didn’t even have to ask Priscilla to avoid using the ultra sound cleaner on the sensitive areas of my teeth. I’m looking forward to going back, and that’s not often you can say that about going to the dentist!
Simone Gibson
Since I first had the luck to be recommended and book an appointment with Dr. Pedro Gutierres over 8 years ago, I have never trusted my dental health nor my family’s to anyone else. It’s very hard to find a dentist who ticks all the boxes and even goes beyond any expectations you may have, from service, sympathy, professionalism, and expertise, etc., 5 stars are not enough to rate him. I was so happy when he opened his own clinic and surrounded himself with the best professionals you can find, I cannot recommend Maida Smiles Dental Clinic enough.
Sofia Gouveia
Maida Smiles Dental Clinic is excellent!! The staff is very friendly, professional and always aiming for the customers best experience! A special thank you to Dr. Pedro Gutierres who is truly amazing. I am absolutely satisfied with the results and highly recommend this great dental clinic!
Ana Cruz
Dr. Pedro Gutierres is the best Implantologist I have come across. His work is amazing and of very high quality! I would highly recommend him and Maida Smiles to all my friends and family. If you want the perfect smile this is the place to go.
Blossom
“Pedro was so patient and professional throughout my treatment for my implants.. I chose to have my treatment with a local anaesthetic rather than any sedation and have a very bad gag reflex when anything touches the back of my throat. His patience throughout the experience was wonderful, completely putting me at ease and he also gave me a technique to help me in the future. I have seen him for my follow up and fully intend to book an annual visit in 2020. which is no small thing as I live 60 miles away.I can thoroughly recommend him for any treatment.”
Denise Gilbert
I was very nervous to pull my ingrown wisdom tooth. Dr Pedro Guiterres made me feel really comfortable and the job was completed very professionally. It didn’t take long at all and I didn’t feel any pain. I would definitely recommend his service at this practice.
Jihan Daoud
From the day I made my first appointment. The team at Maida smile were amazing. They didn’t treat me like a customer but more like family. They have been great in every step in FINALLY GETTING MY DREAM SMILE from the receptionist to my dentist Pedro Laranjeira I can’t thank you enough and of course Pedro Laranjeira beautiful wife…… they are very professional and understand that I had to change my appointment now and then for work commitments and they were very understand. I will defo recommend them 100% not forgetting how chic the office is
Tracy Mensah
I was very nervous about having a dental implant but was immediately put at ease by Dr Pedro Gutierres. The procedure was explained in full and the care both during and after treatment has been of the highest standard. I received advice on how to look after my implant and have had no problems. I highly recommend.
Dawn Briggs
I had 7 implants installed by Dr Pedro Gutierres, including one which required a bone graft. In my 70 years I’ve had some bad experiences with dental treatment so it takes a lot for me to relax but, from my initial consultation, through to the end of the treatment, I had complete trust in Pedro’s expertise: preparations for the treatment and after-care were extremely thorough and fully explained, the treatment itself was surprisingly endurable (considering what was involved) and the implants have made a major difference to my life. If you are considering implants then I would whole-heartedly and sincerely recommend Pedro for this work.
Russ Hickman
I couldn’t recommend Maida Smiles enough: the care, attention to detail and the way Dentists and Nurses made sure I felt comfortable and safe throughout the treatments was incredible. Dr Pedro explained the treatments in detail to me and I have never felt under pressure to proceed… but I am very glad I did as I am happy and confident to smile again!
Mariana Pinheiro
Highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a friendly and trustworthy practice with an incredibly friendly and patient staff. Dr Pedro has been one of the best dentists I’ve ever had, he made me feel comfortable and were very knowledgeable in explaining every step of what he was doing and answering all of my questions. Amazing thorough the procedure, excellent communication, superb and professional treatment. I hope they keep it this way for a long time.
Joas Souza
Dr Pedro is a very good, confident and experienced professional. I’ve known him for some years now and always felt well cared for, either for small or bigger treatments.The facilities of the clinic are amazing and all the staff are very friendly. Highly recommended.”
Nelson Cafruni
I went to different clinics before, and nobody could really convince me until Maida Smiles did. The team here makes you comfortable , shows you different options and different budgets , and doesn't try to make you go only for one plan. I felt that the team was knowledgeable and wanted to help me , so that's why I decided to start
Diogo
I was referred to Dr. Pedro who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional, they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. I've never looked back since
Theresa
"I told him, 'I want beautiful teeth, beautiful but natural, I don't want fake looking teeth.' Now I smile, I talk... it just makes you more confident. If you wear a beautiful nice suit... you have beautiful teeth, then it's like a perfect."
Louca
"I went to my hygienist a little while ago, and she said to me they were the best implants that she'd ever seen and she would never have known that they weren't my real teeth."
Sharon
Dr. Pedro explained the process of Invisalign to me. It sounded easy, it was quite a quick process, and the end result is my teeth moved back, so I'm quite happy.
Soula
I feel like I've not just developed a professional relationship with my dentist and the staff... they become more like friends as well, because of the kind of compassion and sympathy that they give you during treatment.
Alvin
"After a friend recommended the clinic, I was referred to Dr. Pedro, who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional; they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. They have more than met my expectations. I have to have a few more implants, and I'm not afraid anymore. Now, finally, I can live again."
Lesley
"After not having a great experience with previous dental treatments, I was desperate for someone that I trusted. I broke a tooth, and even before I saw Dr. Pedro, he reassured me that I was going to be fine. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was an amazing experience, from not only Dr. Pedro but also all the staff in the clinic, and I would definitely recommend [them] ".
Mariana
I chose Maida Smiles because of the reviews and a friend who was really happy with the results. The results definitely met my expectations. My expressions are much more smooth than before and it really makes the difference
Carolina
I’m very grateful for the quick and efficient service I received when I needed an emergency appointment. The staff were kind and accommodating, and the dentist provided clear, helpful advice that made a real difference. The whole experience was reassuring. Highly recommend their professionalism and expertise!
Safiya Guled
I am always anxious when having to see the dentist and this was one of my first experiences with Maida Smiles. The dentist, Benedict Harrison was very reassuring and immediately put me at ease. He was quite lucid in his explanations of what had to be done, etcetera, and is making good progress with the ongoing treatment. Also, the rest of the staff were friendly and just plain nice.
John Jacobs
Wow wow Dr Claudia is the best dentist in London, my kid adores her and it is always a pleasant visit. Can’t recommend her enough
Bel Cohn
I am delighted with the results of my replacement veneers.
Dr Benedict Harrison was very good at talking me through the whole process and keeping me informed during the treatment if there were any issues - which there weren’t.
He has a charming demeanour which is an added advantage in a dentist, who I think we all agree are not our favourite people, overall a 5 star experience.
Karen Shepherd
I went to the Maida Smiles Clinic for the first time and had the most wonderful experience! I am dentist phobic but strangely left the place with a big smile on my face (literally!). The receptionist was super kind, Susan was impeccable and very helpful, and I had my appointment with the most amazing dentist Dr Mafalda Vilhena. Couldn’t recommend her enough. She explains the whole procedure and is very rigorous in her work. Congratulations to Dr Pedro Gutierres for creating such an excellent working environment and to all the team. I will be back and bringing my family along and we don’t even live in Maida Vale. Thank you for such an impeccable job on my teeth and for taking my fear of dentists away. Note: they don’t cover NHS, only private bookings or with insurance.
Maria Monteiro
Address: 207-209 Sutherland Ave, London W9 1RU. Get directions.
Paid parking is available using ParkBee on Lanark Road (the road right next to the practice). For public transport users, we are a two-minute walk from Maida Vale tube station.
