If you have a cracked, worn, or weakened tooth, you may need a dental restoration, such as a crown. Dental restorations are used to protect your natural teeth, restoring their shape and your confidence. Visit a dentist in Richardson, TX for an exam if you think you may have a damaged tooth. They will identify the best treatment option to improve your oral health. Wondering about the types of crowns available? We’re going to highlight your options and explain their benefits, longevity, and drawbacks.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to effectively restore cracked or broken teeth. 1 Dental crowns are like snug hats for your teeth that cover and protect worn-down teeth. Crowns are made from a variety of materials, and are used for several purposes, including:
- Covering a root canal-treated tooth
- Supporting a cracked tooth
- Restoring a weakened tooth
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering a dental implant
- Hiding a discolored or stained tooth
Patients who need dental crowns may be able to choose what type of crown they want placed in their mouth. That’s why it is critical to understand the types of crowns and their benefits.
Types of dental crowns
Let’s delve into the benefits and drawbacks of each type of dental crown, so you can make an informed decision.
Metal crowns
Full-metal crowns are a popular option for those needing crowns in the back of their mouth. Metal crowns are made from a mix of metals that may include gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. They offer high durability, making them suitable for back teeth that experience moderate pressure.
This type of crown generally lasts the longest and is an excellent choice for out-of-sight molars. One drawback of metal crowns is their color. The metallic finish makes them less appealing for teeth within the visible part of your smile.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are another common option for dental patients. This type of crown uses the durability of metal and the natural appearance of porcelain to create a strong and aesthetically pleasing crown. They are another long-lasting option for patients.
PFM crowns are used to restore both front and back teeth. Some drawbacks of PFM crowns are that they can chip and reveal the metal finish underneath the porcelain, and they can wear down the enamel on surrounding teeth.
All-ceramic or porcelain crowns
All-ceramic or porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth or pre-molars due to their natural appearance. They mimic the look of your natural enamel with a tooth-colored finish. Ceramic crowns are gentler on surrounding teeth than other types of crowns, resulting in less enamel wear.
Porcelain crowns are excellent for people who want to be discreet about having a dental crown. It’s very hard to spot a porcelain crown. Porcelain is also considered bio-compatible, meaning people with allergies won’t have to worry about an allergic reaction.
Zirconia crowns
Dental crowns made of zirconia are very strong and durable but often aren’t as natural-looking as all-porcelain crowns.2 Zirconia is a ceramic material commonly used for dental crowns for their strength and longevity. It also is bio-compatible to ease the mind of those with allergies.
One drawback of zirconia crowns is their opaque appearance, making them stand out from other teeth. It can be difficult for dentists to match the color of your natural teeth with zirconia crowns.
Pressed ceramic crowns
Pressed ceramic crowns have a translucent look similar to natural teeth. This type of crown is similar to a PFM, but the hard inner core is ceramic instead of metal. A dental lab technician presses ceramic at a high temperature to create the core. The downside of pressed ceramic crowns is that the layers of ceramic can chip away over time and create an uneven appearance.
Resin crowns
Resin crowns are less expensive but more prone to breakage than other crown types. Resin is commonly used for temporary crowns. They can last up to five years with a good oral care routine. 1
Same-day dental crowns
Sometimes, dentists use CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology for same-day dental crowns. The dentist will take digital dental impressions, and the custom crown will be created by an on-site milling machine.
The machine uses a solid block of ceramic to carve out your custom crown. Same-day crowns are very convenient, only requiring one visit. However, not everyone is eligible for this type of crown. Speak to your dentist to see if this option is available to you.
The bottom line
The type of dental crown you choose will depend on your specific oral health, goals, and budget. Each type offers its own benefits and drawbacks. Work with a “dentist near me” to determine the best fit for your needs.
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