Dental crowns are often used as teeth restorations as a way to address dental issues and achieve a perfect smile. These are tooth-shaped caps that are fitted over teeth to protect them from damage or to improve their appearance. Having a basic understanding of the types of dental crowns and their pros and cons can be helpful before your consultation. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of crowns and explain when each one is recommended.
What Types Of Dental Crowns Are There?
You have a variety of options when it comes to dental crowns. The type of dental crown you choose will depend on your specific needs. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of dental crowns:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: PFM crowns are made from a strong metal base with a porcelain coating. They are strong and durable, and they can match the colour of the adjacent teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile. However, the metal core underneath can show through the porcelain, and over time, the porcelain can chip or wear down.
- Gold crowns: Gold crowns are another popular option for dental crowns. These are made of gold alloy and are usually used on back teeth. One advantage of gold crowns is that they are very durable. However, they are also the more expensive than the other types of dental crowns due to the cost of gold that gets added to the making charges.
- All-porcelain crowns: Also known as all-ceramic crowns, these are one of the most popular types of dental crowns. The term “all-porcelain” means that the entire crown is made from a strong ceramic material that looks very natural when applied to the teeth. These offer the closest match to your natural teeth. However they may not be the most appropriate choice in some people who grind their teeth a lot as they can chip in certain situations.
- Zirconia crowns: Zirconia crowns are made of a strong, durable material that looks like porcelain. One of the advantages of zirconia crowns is that they are less likely to chip or break than other types of dental crowns.
What Are Dental Crowns made Of ?
There are a variety of different materials that can be used to make dental crowns, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. We discuss some common dental crown materials below:
- Porcelain: Porcelain is a popular choice for dental crowns as they have a natural appearance and can achieve the most accurate colour match to your real teeth. Porcelain is also one of the more affordable crowns. However, porcelain is not as strong as gold and may chip or break over time.
- Gold: Gold is a strong and durable material that does not wear down over time. However, it is also the most expensive material used for dental crowns.
- Zirconium: Zirconium is a newer material that is becoming increasingly popular for dental crowns. It offers the strength of metal crowns with a natural look.
- Metal: Metal crowns are made of gold, palladium, or a combination of other metals. These are the most durable type of dental crowns, but they are quite expensive. Metal is not as popular as other materials because it is not as aesthetically pleasing.
- Composite resin: Composite resin is a less expensive alternative to porcelain that still offers a natural look. All-resin crowns are fairly strong and durable, although not as much as porcelain or gold.
Some dental crowns can match the colour and shape of your original tooth, while others can offer lasting durability. Understanding your goals and needs will help you in deciding the type of crown for you.
Dental crowns are one of the most common dental procedures used for both aesthetic and dental concerns. If you’re wondering if you need a dental crown, we share some of the top reasons patients undergo dental crown surgery:
- You have damaged teeth: The most common reason for getting a dental crown is to protect a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. When a tooth is damaged, it can become weak and break easily. A crown helps to strengthen the tooth and prevent further damage.
- You grind your teeth: Crowns are also used to restore teeth that have been worn down by grinding or clenching. We also recommend asking your dentist for advice on managing tooth grinding to prevent it from damaging your new tooth.
- You have discoloured or misshapen teeth: Crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen or discoloured teeth. Teeth that are not evenly shaped can be made to look more uniform with crowns. Discoloured teeth can also be whitened with dental bleaching before a crown is placed.
- You are getting a dental bridge: Dental crowns may also be necessary when a dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth. The bridge is anchored in place by dental crowns on either side of the gap.
- You have an implant: Crowns are also used to cover dental implants. Implants are metal posts that serve as artificial roots. These are surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Once the implant has healed, a crown can be placed on top of it to provide a natural-looking replacement for the missing tooth.
- You have had root canal therapy: If you have had root canal treatment, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it from breaking. A tooth that has been restored with a root canal is more likely to break because it is no longer as strong as it once was.
- You have a cracked tooth: Dental crowns are also used to hold together parts of a broken tooth. In some cases, a large filling can also be used to support a dental crown.
How Does The Dental Crown Treatment Work?
Crowns are a type of dental restoration that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring its shape, size, and strength. While there are same-day dental crowns that can be placed within a single appointment, most crowns require at least two dental visits. Steps involved in a dental crown procedure are as follows:
- Consultation: The first step in getting a crown is to visit your dentist for a consultation. During your appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth to determine if a crown is the right option for you. If so, they will take X-rays and explain the procedure and costs to you.
- Preparation: The next step is to have your tooth prepared for the crown. This involves removing any damaged or decayed tooth material, as well as shaping the tooth to make room for the crown. Most crowns only need minimal tooth preparation, which means that the majority of your natural tooth will be preserved under the cap. Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist will place a temporary crown over it to protect it while your actual crown is being made. It usually takes 1-2 weeks for a lab technician to create a permanent crown. In the meantime, you should avoid chewing on sticky or hard food, as this could cause your temporary crown to come off.
- Inserting the crown: Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it placed. They will first remove your temporary crown and then check your bite and the fit of the permanent crown before cementing it on the prepared tooth.
- Aftercare: After getting a dental crown, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and provide special care to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
When properly cared for, dental crowns can last for many years. Additionally, the underlying tooth can still be susceptible to dental problems like tooth decay, so it is important to observe good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental cleanings.
If you have a dental crown, be sure to avoid habits that could damage it, such as biting your nails or chewing on hard objects. If you experience any pain or sensitivity, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your dentist right away.
Which Dental Crown Is Right For Me?
The type of dental crown that’s right for you will depend on your individual needs. Your dentist can help you choose the right crown based on the location and function of the tooth, as well as your aesthetic goals.
- Porcelain dental crowns – are an ideal choice for front or more visible teeth because they can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. They are also less likely to discolour over time.
- Gold dental crowns – are an excellent choice for back teeth because they are very strong and durable. They are also less likely to wear down the opposing tooth.
- Stainless steel crowns – are typically used on baby teeth in children.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns – are made of metal with a porcelain coating. They are strong and durable and can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. These are a great choice for patients with damaged or fractured teeth. PFM crowns can help strengthen the affected tooth while maintaining your beautiful smile.
- Zirconia dental crowns – are made entirely of zirconia, a strong and durable material. They can be made to match your natural tooth colour, making them a perfect choice for teeth that show when you smile.
If you’re ready to start your dental treatment, get in touch with Subi Smilemakers today! Our team can address all of your concerns and help you make the right decision for your smile. Schedule an appointment online or contact our dental surgery on 93814788
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental crowns offer many benefits, including improving the appearance of your smile and restoring a tooth to its original shape and size. Crowns also help in strengthening a tooth that is cracked or broken and protecting a tooth from further damage.
There are some risks associated with dental crowns, including:
- Sensitivity .
- Fracture of the tooth after a few years after crown placement.
- Tooth needing a Root canal treatment after crown placement if the nerve of the tooth is dying before the procedure is undertaken.
The dental crown cost can vary depending on the type of crown you choose. Generally, dental crowns can range in cost from $1,600 to $3,000.
No, dental crowns are not harmful to your teeth. In fact, dental crowns can help protect your teeth from further damage and decay.
