A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance. When cemented into place, the crown fully encases the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. You may need a crown to protect a weak tooth from breaking, restore a broken tooth, or cover and support a tooth with a large filling. Here is more information on the different types of dental crowns:
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are a popular choice because they offer a very natural look. Dentists make these from a type of dental ceramic that matches the shade of your surrounding teeth, helping them blend in seamlessly. This material offers good strength for daily functions, such as chewing.
The process for getting a porcelain crown typically involves more than one visit. During the first visit, dentists normally prepare the tooth and take an impression. A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is being made in a dental lab.
At the second appointment, the permanent crown is fitted and cemented into place. These crowns are a suitable option for front teeth due to their aesthetic qualities. Porcelain crowns are durable and, with proper care, can last for many years while maintaining their natural appearance.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are made from a porcelain-based material. They provide a natural look and are especially suitable for people with metal sensitivities. The material translucent, mimicking the appearance of natural tooth enamel well.
Because they are entirely ceramic, these dental crowns do not have a metal lining at the gum line, unlike other types of crowns, which can sometimes be visible. This feature makes them an aesthetically pleasing option for restoring front teeth. They offer sufficient strength for most chewing needs, balancing appearance and function.
Metal Alloys
Crowns made from metal alloys are known for their durability and strength. These crowns are constructed from metals like gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. Because of their metallic color, dentists may use them for molars in the back of the mouth, where they are less visible. One of the main advantages of metal crowns is their longevity; they withstand biting and chewing forces very well and rarely chip or break.
Combination With Bridge
Crowns support a dental bridge. A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth to adjacent teeth or dental implants. Prepare the teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth, and fit them with crowns.
These crowns act as anchors for the bridge. Attach the artificial tooth, known as a pontic, to the crowns to bridge the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. This combination restores your smile’s function and appearance. Choose materials for the crowns and the bridge that provide strength and a consistent look.
Schedule an Appointment for Dental Crowns
Learning about the different types of dental crowns is a helpful step toward understanding your options for tooth restoration. Each type has specific applications and materials designed to meet various needs. A discussion with a dental professional will help clarify which option is right for your particular situation. Schedule an appointment to discuss your dental health and explore the best treatment plan for you.
