Are you embarrassed to smile at social occasions because of your imperfect teeth?
Are you searching for the best solution for your decayed or chipped tooth?
Then, you need to consider getting a dental crown to restore your lost confidence and the look and function of your damaged tooth. If you are unfamiliar with dental crowns and need to learn about the different types of crown options, then this informative guide is just what you need. This article explains everything you need to know about dental crowns, why you need them, and which one will suit you the best.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its look, shape, size, and appearance. Once cemented into place, a crown fully covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line.
Let us first understand if you really need a crown. You may need a dental crown under these conditions:
- To restore a severely worn-down tooth
- To align your bite
- To support a tooth with a large filling
- To keep a dental bridge intact
- To cover discoloured or misshapen tooth
- To get a more aesthetic smile
The Type Of Dental Crown To Choose
Now that you have a basic idea of what a dental crown is, let us discuss the different types of crowns available and their differences in quality and benefits.
Porcelain Crowns
These are amongst one of the most popular types of crowns in recent years. Made of porcelain, they mimic the appearance of tooth enamel more than other crowns.
Pros of porcelain crowns:
- They match the surrounding teeth in colour, shape, and size
- As they are bio-compatible and no metal is used, they are non-toxic
- They are the ideal choice for people with metal allergies
Cons of porcelain crowns:
- You need to take extra care of them if they are to last long, as they are not as strong as metal
- They are costlier than metal crowns
- They may cause an increase in hot or cold sensitivity
- The material, being fragile, may crack if chewed forcefully
Who should go for Porcelain crowns?
Porcelain crowns are suitable for individuals concerned about their overall appearance and looking for a replacement that looks like their natural teeth.
Metal crowns
Compared to ceramic crowns, they are superior in strength but do not provide the same aesthetic benefits. They are often made of gold or other alloys and are known for being durable.
Pros of metal crowns:
- They are the top choice for molars as they can bear heavy chewing
- They are known to last for 15 to 20 years in patients who take good care of their oral health
Cons of metal crowns:
- They do not match the shade of your natural teeth and are, therefore, more noticeable than porcelain crowns
- The high cost of good-quality alloys can be a disadvantage
Who should go for metal crowns?
People looking for a stronger, durable, and affordable option to replace their missing or damaged teeth prefer metal crowns. They are apt for individuals who are not bothered much by aesthetics but are only concerned about the longevity and effectiveness of their crowns.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) Crowns
One of the most widely used dental crowns, PFM, combines the advantages of metal crowns and the aesthetics of porcelain crowns since it comprises of a metal structure and has a porcelain coat that covers the cap.
Pros of PFM crowns:
- They are durable
- They are less costlier compared to porcelain crowns
Cons of PFM crowns:
- The metals in these crowns cause a grey line at the gum line, due to which they cannot offer the same aesthetics as porcelain crowns
- In people who clench their teeth, PFM crowns may wear out quickly
Who should go for PFM crowns?
PFM crowns are the suitable choice for posterior teeth, where strength and durability are necessary. They are also suitable for people who want an affordable solution and are willing to settle for a crown that may not offer aesthetics similar to porcelain crowns.
Zirconia Crowns
It’s another popular choice when it comes to dental crowns as it combines the strength of metal with the looks of porcelain crowns. They blend easily with your existing teeth.
Pros of zirconia crowns:
- They are durable and long-lasting, with fewer chances of breaking or chipping
- In terms of aesthetics, they are a good option as they do not leave visible grey lines or reflections compared to metal crowns
- As they are strong, the chances of wearing down are minimal
- As they are bio-compatible, there is no risk of metal allergies
- The crowns can be made thinner without compromising on strength
- They are more comfortable as they do not transmit heat or cold like other crowns
Cons of Zirconia crowns
- Because of their strength, the teeth they bite against can get easily worn down
- They may cause some friction against the tooth roots
Who should go for Zirconia crowns?
Zirconia crowns are the best option for longevity and durability since zirconia lasts for years without chipping or fracturing. They are also an ideal choice when considering aesthetics because of their translucent properties that allow them to blend with adjacent teeth.
Ceramic crowns
These crowns are entirely made of ceramic material with no metal used. Compared to porcelain crowns, they are less expensive, making them a preferred option for dental crowns.
Pros of ceramic crowns:
- They look more like natural teeth and do not have a dark line at the gum line as they are entirely ceramic without any metal component
- They last longer compared to porcelain crowns
- They are suitable for those who have metal allergies
Cons of ceramic crowns:
- They are not as durable as PFM or metal crowns
- They could weaken the permanent tooth adjacent to them
- It takes longer to fabricate them compared to other dental crowns
Who should go for ceramic crowns?
They are a good option for individuals seeking to restore the strength and natural look of their teeth.
Factors You Must Consider When Choosing a Dental Crown
When selecting one for your damaged teeth, It is not advisable to go for the most expensive crowns. The choice of a dental crown should be based on the factors listed below. Let us examine them in detail:
- Aesthetics
If you are concerned about your appearance, you must select a less discreet crown that resembles your existing teeth. Porcelain crowns and ceramic caps for teeth are the usually preferred options.
- Durability
If you are looking for longevity and strength more than aesthetics, choose a material that does not wear away or get chipped quickly. You can choose metal crowns or PFM crowns with a little bit of metal in them.
- Cost
Don’t just consider the cost, but weigh all factors before choosing a crown. It is better to invest a bit more to ensure the results will be better and long-lasting. Choosing a cheaper option may lead to poor-quality treatment, causing you to spend more money in the future.
- Allergies or Sensitivities
If you are allergic to metal, it is better to choose a material like Zirconia or porcelain that is bio-compatible.
- Dentist’s Recommendation
It is better to let your dentist examine the severity of your damaged tooth and assess which crown is better suited for you. An experienced dentist will take your current medical condition and preferences to recommend the best option.
Conclusion
Now that you understand the different dental crown options, the next step is to visit a qualified and experienced dentist to get a complete assessment of your teeth.
At Gnathos, our qualified prosthodontists efficiently perform dental crown treatments using the most advanced techniques from start to end. You are assured of quick and efficient treatment with minimum discomfort. After an initial consultation to know your dental issues and concerns, our dentists take accurate measurements of your teeth and create custom-made crowns that align perfectly with your bite.
We follow the highest dental care and safety standards when it comes to dental crowns and other treatments. Come to us for a consultation and personalized treatment plan, and be assured you are in safe hands,