Dental crowns play a significant role in restorative dentistry. They offer solutions for teeth that are damaged, worn, or require support after specific dental procedures. Choosing the right crown material depends on several factors, including desired appearance, function, and individual needs. Here is more information on these dental restorations and their advantages:
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth. Its primary purpose is to restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength. Crowns completely cover the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. These restorations are custom-made in a dental laboratory using impressions of the patient’s teeth, enabling a precise fit and helping strengthen the underlying tooth structure.
What Are They Used For?
Crowns serve multiple uses in dentistry. A dentist may recommend them when a tooth is significantly decayed, fractured, or weakened after a root canal. These restorations can also support a dental bridge, cover dental implants, or improve tooth appearance.
Dentists may use crowns to restore function, maintain alignment in the mouth, and help preserve the integrity of the patient’s natural smile. Crowns are suitable for both adults and children, depending on the situation. Consulting a dentist helps determine if these dental restorations are right for you.
What Materials Are They Made Of?
These dental restorations are made from several types of materials. The most common types include:
- Porcelain or ceramic
- Metal alloys (such as gold, platinum, or base-metal alloys)
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
- Composite resin
- Zirconia
Each material offers different properties in appearance, durability, and suitability for specific locations in the mouth.
What Are the Advantages of Different Materials?
Each material has different advantages, emphasizing the helpfulness of consulting a dental professional to determine which will suit your situation.
Porcelain and Ceramic:
Porcelain and ceramic crowns closely resemble natural tooth color. They are often used for front teeth or those visible when smiling. These materials are biocompatible and do not cause allergic reactions in most patients. Porcelain and ceramic mimic the translucency of natural teeth, providing a visually appealing result.
Metal:
Crowns made from gold, platinum, or base-metal alloys are known for their strength and resistance to wear. They are suitable for molars and teeth in the back of the mouth due to their durability. Metal crowns require minimal removal of the natural tooth and rarely chip or break.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM):
PFM crowns combine durability with a natural-looking appearance. Their metal core is covered with porcelain, offering strength and improved aesthetics. They may be used on both front and back teeth. The metal substructure provides support, while the porcelain exterior blends with the surrounding teeth.
Composite Resin:
Composite resin crowns are made from a tooth-colored filling material. These crowns are less costly than other types and can be placed in a single dental visit. Resin crowns are less durable than porcelain or metal options and may wear down over time. They are suitable for temporary use or when minimal strength is required.
Zirconia:
Zirconia crowns offer high durability and resistance to fracture. They have a tooth-like color and are suitable for patients seeking a balance between strength and aesthetic appearance. Zirconia crowns are commonly used for front and back teeth, providing long-lasting performance.
Learn More Today
Understanding the variety of materials used in dental crowns helps patients discuss options with their dental provider. Each material has unique properties suited to different clinical needs and preferences. For further guidance on dental crowns and which type may match your situation, schedule a consultation with a dental professional to review your requirements.