October 21, 2024
Different Types of Dental Crowns and Which May Be Right for You
Dental crowns are a popular restorative solution for a variety of dental issues. They provide strength, protection, and an aesthetic enhancement for damaged or compromised teeth. At Dental Arts & Cosmetic Dentistry , Dr. Khan offers several types of dental crowns , each with unique characteristics and advantages. This article explores the different types of dental crowns, helping you understand which one may be the best choice for your dental needs.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are used in several situations, such as to protect a weak tooth from fracture, to restore a broken tooth, to cover a dental implant, or to enhance the aesthetic of a discolored tooth. The choice of material for a crown can greatly affect its durability, appearance, and cost.Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crown
When selecting a dental crown, several factors should be considered:- Location of the Tooth: Front teeth require crowns that blend with natural tooth color, while back teeth need durable options.
- Strength: Some materials are more robust and can withstand the pressure of chewing.
- Aesthetic Needs: If appearance is a priority, materials that mimic natural tooth color are essential.
- Cost: Different crown materials come with varying price points.
- Allergies: Ensure that the material chosen is compatible with your body.
1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are one of the most commonly used types of crowns. They consist of a metal base topped with a porcelain layer, allowing for a balance between strength and aesthetics.Advantages:
- Strength: The metal substructure provides excellent durability, making it suitable for areas that endure significant biting forces.
- Aesthetics: The porcelain overlay can be color-matched to your natural teeth, offering a more pleasing appearance than all-metal crowns.
Disadvantages:
- Gum Line Visibility: Over time, the metal can become visible at the gum line, especially if the gums recede.
- Potential for Chipping: The porcelain can chip under excessive pressure.
Ideal Candidates:
PFM crowns are excellent for individuals needing strength in their back teeth while also desiring a natural look.2. BruxZir® Esthetic Crowns
BruxZir® Esthetic crowns are made from solid zirconia, a highly durable material. These crowns are designed specifically for patients who need strength without sacrificing aesthetics.Advantages:
- Durability: BruxZir crowns are highly resistant to wear and fracture, making them ideal for heavy grinders or clenchers.
- Natural Appearance: These crowns are available in a variety of shades, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Disadvantages:
- Less Translucent: While they mimic natural teeth well, they may not have the same translucency as porcelain.
Ideal Candidates:
Patients who require strong, durable crowns that can withstand heavy use while still looking good would benefit from BruxZir crowns.3. Pressed Ceramic Crowns
Pressed ceramic crowns are crafted from a solid block of ceramic that is pressed into shape. This material offers both strength and a natural look.Advantages:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Pressed ceramic crowns can be closely matched to the color of natural teeth, providing excellent aesthetics.
- Strength: They are less likely to chip compared to traditional porcelain crowns.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Pressed ceramic crowns may be more expensive than other options.
- Limited Use: They are generally not as durable as metal-based options for back teeth.
Ideal Candidates:
Pressed ceramic crowns are ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are crucial but can also be used in the back teeth for patients who have less biting force.4. Full Gold Crowns
Full gold crowns are made entirely of gold alloy, providing exceptional durability and strength.Advantages:
- Strength and Longevity: Gold crowns are highly resistant to wear and are less likely to fracture or chip.
- Biocompatibility: Gold is well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Disadvantages:
- Aesthetic Concerns: Their metallic color makes them less suitable for visible teeth.
- Cost: Full gold crowns can be more expensive due to the materials used.
Ideal Candidates:
Patients with heavy chewing habits or those who have teeth in the back of their mouth that require significant reinforcement would benefit from full gold crowns.5. Emax Esthetic Crowns
Emax esthetic crowns are made from lithium disilicate, a material known for its beauty and strength. These crowns are ideal for those looking for a natural appearance without compromising durability.Advantages:
- Superior Aesthetics: Emax crowns can be made to closely resemble natural teeth, offering excellent color and translucency.
- Strength: They provide strong resistance to fractures and can withstand significant pressure.
Disadvantages:
- Cost: Emax crowns can be pricier than some other options.
- Technique Sensitive: The placement of Emax crowns requires skill to ensure optimal aesthetics.
Ideal Candidates:
Emax crowns are perfect for patients needing front teeth restorations, combining strength with a natural look.6. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a very strong and durable material that has become increasingly popular in modern dentistry.Advantages:
- Exceptional Strength: Zirconia crowns can withstand substantial force, making them ideal for patients with grinding habits.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Available in various shades, they can be used in both front and back teeth.
Disadvantages:
- Wear on Opposing Teeth: Zirconia can be harder on adjacent teeth compared to other materials.
- Limited Aesthetic Qualities: While they can be shaded, they may not match the translucency of porcelain.