Types of Dental Crowns
Each type of crown offers unique advantages, and the best choice often depends on factors such as durability, appearance, location of the tooth, and budget.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged tooth. It is designed to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Dentists may recommend crowns for a variety of reasons, including:
- Protecting a weakened tooth
- Restoring a broken or worn-down tooth
- Covering a dental implant
- Supporting a large filling
- Improving the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth
- Protecting a tooth after root canal treatment
Crowns are made from several different materials, each with its own benefits and considerations.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and are often used for front teeth where aesthetics are especially important.
Benefits of Porcelain Crowns
- Closely resemble natural teeth
- Excellent color matching
- Metal-free option
- Suitable for patients with metal allergies
Considerations
While porcelain crowns provide beautiful cosmetic results, they may be more prone to chipping than some other materials, particularly in areas exposed to heavy chewing forces.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are another popular metal-free option that provides a highly natural appearance.
Benefits of Ceramic Crowns
- Excellent aesthetics
- Natural translucency
- Biocompatible material
- Suitable for front and some back teeth
Considerations
Ceramic crowns are durable but may not always be the best option for patients who grind their teeth heavily.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the cosmetic appeal of porcelain.
Benefits of PFM Crowns
- Strong and durable
- Better appearance than full metal crowns
- Suitable for many areas of the mouth
- Long history of successful use
Considerations
Over time, the porcelain layer may chip, and a dark metal line can sometimes become visible near the gumline.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from alloys containing metals such as gold, nickel, chromium, or other durable materials.
Benefits of Metal Crowns
- Exceptional strength
- Highly resistant to wear
- Long lifespan
- Require less removal of natural tooth structure
Considerations
Because of their metallic appearance, they are generally used on molars and other less visible teeth.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns are a specific type of metal crown that has been used successfully in dentistry for decades.
Benefits of Gold Crowns
- Outstanding durability
- Resistant to corrosion
- Gentle on opposing teeth
- Long-lasting restoration
Considerations
Their noticeable color makes them less desirable for highly visible areas of the mouth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns have become increasingly popular due to their combination of strength and aesthetics.
Zirconia is a highly durable ceramic material that can withstand significant biting pressure.
Benefits of Zirconia Crowns
- Extremely strong
- Resistant to fractures
- Natural-looking appearance
- Suitable for front and back teeth
- Biocompatible
Considerations
Some zirconia crowns may appear slightly less translucent than traditional porcelain crowns, depending on the specific material used.
E-Max Crowns
E-Max crowns are made from lithium disilicate ceramic and are known for their excellent aesthetics.
Benefits of E-Max Crowns
- Highly natural appearance
- Excellent strength
- Durable material
- Popular for cosmetic dentistry
Considerations
E-Max crowns are often preferred for visible teeth because of their superior esthetic qualities.
Temporary Crowns
Temporary crowns are typically used while a permanent crown is being fabricated.
Purpose of Temporary Crowns
- Protect the prepared tooth
- Maintain function
- Preserve appearance
- Prevent tooth sensitivity
These crowns are not intended for long-term use.
Choosing the Right Dental Crown
Several factors can influence the type of crown recommended by your dentist.
These may include:
- Location of the tooth
- Amount of remaining tooth structure
- Cosmetic goals
- Bite forces
- Oral health condition
- Budget considerations
Your dentist can evaluate your specific situation and discuss the most appropriate options.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown depends on several factors, including:
- Crown material
- Oral hygiene habits
- Diet
- Teeth grinding habits
- Regular dental care
With proper maintenance, many crowns can last for many years before requiring replacement.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Proper care can help maximize the lifespan of your restoration.
Helpful habits include:
- Brushing twice daily
- Flossing regularly
- Attending routine dental checkups
- Avoiding chewing hard objects
- Wearing a nightguard if recommended
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential even when a tooth is covered by a crown.
Common Myths About Dental Crowns
"Crowns Last Forever"
While crowns are durable, they may eventually need repair or replacement.
"Crowns Don't Require Oral Hygiene"
The tooth underneath and surrounding gums still need proper care.
"All Crowns Look the Same"
Different materials offer varying levels of aesthetics, strength, and longevity.
"A Crown Means the Tooth Can Never Have Problems Again"
Although a crown protects the tooth, issues such as decay around the margins or gum disease can still occur.
When Should You See a Dentist?
You should contact your dentist if you experience:
- Pain around a crowned tooth
- A loose crown
- Cracks or chips in the restoration
- Difficulty chewing
- Increased sensitivity
Prompt evaluation can help prevent further complications.