Identifying the Right Dental Crown: A Summary of Your Options

by | Apr 6, 2023 | Blog, Dental crowns, Dental Health

Welcome to our latest blog post! If you need a dental crown, you may wonder what your options are regarding materials and types. With so many choices available, selecting the right crown can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the different types of dental crowns on the market today so that you can decide which is best for your needs. Whether you’re looking for durability or aesthetics (or both!), there’s sure to be a crown out there that will meet your needs perfectly. So let’s dive in and explore all the options together!

Introduction to Dental Crown 

A dental crown is a restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. It is used to restore a tooth to its normal shape, size, and function. Crowns also support a bridge or dental implant or protect a weak tooth from breaking.

Several types of crowns are available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The type of crown you choose will depend on the tooth’s location, the amount of tooth structure remaining, your preference, and your dentist’s recommendation.

The most common type of crown is the all-ceramic crown. All-ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic material and are strong and durable. They are also resistant to staining and can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. However, all-ceramic crowns are less strong than other types of crowns and may not be suitable for large fillings or molars.

Another popular type of crown is the porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown. PFM crowns are made of metal covered with porcelain. They are strong and durable and can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. However, over time, PFM crowns may show a dark line near the gum line.

Metal crowns are made entirely of metal (usually gold or platinum). Metal crowns are very strong and durable but may not be as aesthetically pleasing as

Types of Dental Crowns:

There are three main types of dental crowns: ceramic, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). Ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic material and are typically used for the front teeth. Metal crowns are gold or metal and used for the back teeth. PFM crowns have a metal core with a porcelain exterior and can be used for front or back teeth.

The type of dental crown that is best for you will depend on factors, including the tooth’s location, the damage’s severity, and your preference. Your dentist can help you choose the right type of dental crown for your needs.

Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM)

Porcelain fused with metal (PFM) dental crowns is made from a metal alloy base covered with porcelain. The porcelain is colour-matched to the shade of your natural teeth and bonded to the metal base.

PFM crowns are strong and durable and can be used on front and back teeth. They are also less likely to chip or break than all-porcelain crowns. However, because of the metal base, PFM crowns may show a dark line along the gumline over time.

Discuss your options with your dentist if you are considering a PFM crown. They can help you decide if a PFM crown is right for you based on your needs.

All Ceramic

Consider an all-ceramic crown if you are looking for a natural-looking option for your dental crown. These types of crowns are made entirely out of ceramic material, meaning they can be color matched to your existing teeth. All-ceramic crowns are also less likely to cause allergic reactions since they do not contain any metals.

Zirconia

Zirconia is a strong, durable material that can be used for dental crowns. It is often used in cases where the tooth needs to be heavily restored. Zirconia is also a good choice for people who are allergic to metals.

Pros and Cons of Each Type of Crown

When it comes to choosing the right dental crown, there are a few things you need to take into account. The most important thing is to ensure that the crown fits well and is comfortable for you. There are three main types of dental crowns: porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Each type has its pros and cons that you should consider before making your final decision.

Porcelain dental crowns are the most popular type of crown. They are made from a strong, durable material that looks natural when applied to the tooth. Porcelain crowns are also resistant to stains and discoloration. However, they can chip or break if they receive a hard blow, so you must be careful when eating hard foods or participating in activities that could stress your teeth.

Ceramic dental crowns are another popular option. They are made from a strong material that looks like porcelain but is slightly less brittle. Ceramic crowns resist staining and discoloration just like porcelain crowns, but they may not last as long before needing to be replaced.

Metal dental crowns are usually made from gold or another precious metal alloy. Metal crowns do not corrode or tarnish over time so they can last much longer than either porcelain or ceramic crowns. Metal crowns also provide good support for the teeth underneath them, which can be helpful.

How Long Does a Crown Last?

A dental crown is a treatment option to restore a tooth damaged by decay, fracture, or wear and tear. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line.

Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or resin. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are the most popular type because they look natural and can be matched to the color of your existing teeth. Metal crowns are also an option but are less popular because they are more noticeable. Resin crowns are the least expensive option, but they are less durable than other types of crowns.

The lifespan of a dental crown depends on the material it is made from and how well you take care of it. Proper care of porcelain and ceramic crowns can last 10 to 15 years. Metal crowns can last for 20 years or more. Resin crowns typically only last for 5 to 10 years.

To prolong the life of your dental crown:

  1. Practice good oral hygiene habits by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.
  2. Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or candy that can damage your tooth.
  3. See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings so they can catch any problems early on.

What to Consider When Choosing the Right Dental Crown

When it comes to choosing the right dental crown, there are a few things that you will need to take into consideration. You must first consider the material the dental crown is made of. There are a few different material options, each with its benefits and drawbacks. You must weigh these factors carefully to choose the right material.

The next thing you will need to consider is the shape of the dental crown. There are a few options here, and you must decide which will work best for your smile. Again, each option has pros and cons, so you must consider what is most important to you before deciding.

Finally, you will need to consider the dental crown’s colour. It can be matched to your natural tooth colour or chosen based on aesthetic considerations. Once again, each option has pros and cons, so you must weigh your options carefully before deciding.

Conclusion

Finding the right dental crown for your needs is an important decision. Deciding which is best for you can be challenging with so many options. We hope this overview has provided insight into the types of dental crowns and their uses and tips on choosing the right one for your smile. Ultimately, consulting a professional dentist will provide the most accurate guidance in selecting a dental crown that meets your needs and goals.

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