Dental crowns are a type of restoration used to strengthen, protect, and improve the appearance of a tooth.
At present, there are several types of dental crowns available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the different types of dental crowns, including Porcelain, Gold, Zirconia, all ceramic, and PFM crowns.
We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type and the importance of proper aftercare.
Our goal is to provide the knowledge and understanding necessary for individuals to make an informed decision when it comes to their dental care.
Porcelain Crowns
Crafting porcelain crowns involves careful attention to detail and requires experienced technicians to create a product that looks natural and functions properly. Porcelain crowns are one type of dental crowns that are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth to their natural state. These crowns are made of ceramic material, such as lithium disilicate, which is designed to match the colour of the natural tooth. Porcelain crowns offer a strong metal structure with a natural tooth colour, making them a desirable option for those seeking a custom crown.
Zirconia crowns and ceramic crowns are similar in structure and material to porcelain crowns, however they are made from a harder material and are slightly more durable. Stainless steel crowns are another type of dental crowns, which are made from metal and are primarily used for children due to their durability and affordability.
When it comes to selecting the right type of crown, it is important to consider the patient’s needs and preferences. Porcelain crowns offer the benefit of a natural tooth colour, however they may not be as durable as the other options. Zirconia crowns provide a greater level of durability and are more resistant to chipping and discolouration. Ceramic crowns provide a great combination of strength and aesthetics, making them a popular choice for many patients.
No matter which type of crown is chosen, porcelain, zirconia, ceramic, or stainless steel, it is important to select a qualified technician to ensure the best possible outcome. With the right professional and the perfect crown, patients can achieve a beautiful and lasting smile.
Gold Crowns
Another type of dental crowns are gold crowns, which are popular for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Gold crowns are considered a more traditional type of dental crown material, as they are made of a precious metal that is known for its strength. Gold crowns are often used to replace a missing natural tooth or to cover a dental implant. Gold crowns are also an option for those who may have an allergic reaction to other types of crowns, such as metal or porcelain crowns.
Gold crowns are a popular choice for many types of dental treatments, as they are strong and can last for many years. Gold crowns are also known for their ability to blend in with natural teeth, making them an ideal choice for those who are looking to restore the natural beauty of their smile. Gold crowns can also be combined with other types of crowns, such as porcelain or metal crowns, to create a more unique and aesthetically pleasing look.
Gold crowns can be a great option for those who are looking to restore their smile and protect their teeth. Gold crowns are also known for their longevity and strength, making them a great option for those who need a more durable type of crown. With the proper care and maintenance, gold crowns can last for many years and help to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Zirconia Crowns
The third type of dental crowns to consider is zirconia crowns. Also known as zirconium crowns, these are all-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns that require special care and attention. The dental crown procedure for zirconia crowns is the same as for other types of crowns, and they provide a great option for patients who want to maintain their oral health and natural tooth structure.
Zirconia crowns offer excellent aesthetic appeal for patients, and they can be matched to the patient’s natural tooth colour. They are durable and can withstand the forces of biting and chewing, plus they don’t require any metal or other substances to strengthen them. They also help improve the patient’s oral hygiene practices, as they are easy to keep clean and free of plaque.
Zirconia crowns are a great option for patients who want to maintain a natural look and feel for their smile. They are also ideal for patients who have allergies or sensitivities to metal, as zirconia crowns are completely metal-free. Additionally, zirconia crowns are very durable and can last for years if properly cared for.
All-Ceramic Crowns
Following closely behind zirconia crowns in popularity are all-ceramic crowns. All-ceramic crowns are a type of permanent crown, unlike temporary crowns, and are used to replace a missing or damaged tooth-shaped cap. These crowns are made from strong ceramic material and are often preferred over metal crowns or composite resin crowns due to their natural appearance.
E-Max crowns are a popular variety of all-ceramic crowns made from a combination of lithium disilicate glass and ceramic. These crowns are highly durable and stain-resistant and offer the most natural look of all the types of crowns available. Resin crowns are also made from a ceramic material but are not as strong as E-Max crowns. Gold alloy crowns are also made with ceramic material and are often used as a cheaper alternative to E-Max crowns.
No matter the type of crown, all-ceramic crowns are a great option for restoring the health and appearance of a damaged or missing tooth. These crowns are aesthetically pleasing and offer the most natural look, making them a great choice for those looking to improve their smile.
For a permanent crown, ceramic and all-porcelain crowns offer durability and strength while still providing a natural-looking appearance. If you’re considering getting a crown, talk to your dentist about the different types available and find the best option for your needs. With the right care and maintenance, you can enjoy the crowning glory of your smile for years to come.
PFM Crowns
Another type of permanent dental crown available is the porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown. It is one of the most common types of crowns used for restorative dentistry purposes. A PFM crown is made of two different types of material, porcelain and a metal alloy, that are fused together. The metal alloy is usually a gold alloy, silver alloy, or a base-metal alloy that is strong and durable.
PFM crowns are a great choice for a decayed tooth that has had a root canal treatment or for a tooth that has had large dental fillings. The dentist will take a dental impression of the patient’s mouth and send it off to a laboratory where the crown will be custom-made for the patient. Once the crown is completed, the dentist will bond the entire crown onto the tooth, providing a secure and natural-looking way to repair the tooth.
PFM crowns are a great choice for those who want a strong and durable crown that blends in with their natural teeth. This type of crown is one of the most popular crown types used in dentistry because it is strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. The metal alloy provides strength and support, while the porcelain adds beauty and durability.
PFM crowns provide a great solution for those who need to repair their teeth. They are strong and durable and can be customized to match the colour of the patient’s natural teeth. They are one of the most popular crown types used in dentistry and provide a great solution for those needing to repair their teeth.
Advantages
Numerous advantages make PFM crowns popular for those looking to restore their damaged teeth or protect against tooth decay.
PFM crowns are a great option because they provide a variety of options for their aesthetic appearance, ranging from gold to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. This makes them a popular option for experienced dentists and patients alike.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, PFM crowns are also known for their strong and durable nature. They are designed to last longer than other types of crowns, such as gold or composite resin crowns.
Furthermore, PFM crowns are custom-made for each patient, ensuring an exact fit and a comfortable mouth feel.
For those who want a strong, aesthetically pleasing crown, PFM crowns are a great choice. They are popular because of their durability, variety of options, and custom-made nature. They offer a great solution for those who are looking to restore their damaged teeth or protect against tooth decay.
With the help of experienced dentists, patients can enjoy a beautiful, strong, and lasting dental crown.
Disadvantages
Although PFM crowns offer numerous advantages, they also have some potential disadvantages.
For example, they may not provide a natural appearance as compared to all-ceramic crowns. Additionally, there is a risk of infection due to the fact that a gap may be created between the crown and the gumline. In some cases, the crown may even become loose, leading to further damage to the tooth.
Another disadvantage of PFM crowns is that they are not suitable for broken teeth or weak teeth. They may also fail to cover discoloured teeth or fractured teeth adequately. Furthermore, the base metal alloy used in PFM crowns may cause metal allergies in some individuals.
Therefore, deciding on an excellent choice of crown is important to avoid these issues.
In conclusion, PFM crowns offer numerous advantages, but they also have certain disadvantages that should be considered when deciding on a dental crown.
Individuals with broken teeth, weak teeth, discoloured teeth, or fractured teeth should opt for all-ceramic crowns instead. Moreover, individuals who are prone to metal allergies should also avoid PFM crowns.
Aftercare
Caring for a dental crown properly is an important part of maintaining a healthy smile. People who have undergone root canal therapy or have extensive decay may choose to have a crown placed to protect the tooth. For those with metal allergies, there are other options available, such as those made from resin or zirconia, that can provide superior strength with a more natural appearance. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference.
The strength of metal crowns is often superior to other materials, and they are the best choice for molars that experience a lot of chewing. A porcelain layer is fused to the metal to provide a more natural appearance. Digital impressions are taken of the mouth and sent to a laboratory where the crown is custom-made.
After the crown is placed, it is important to practice good dental hygiene, including brushing and flossing. It is also important to visit the dentist for regular checkups as recommended. Depending on the individual, the dentist may want to check the crown at each visit to make sure it is still in good condition.
Caring for a dental crown should be done in the same way as for natural teeth. People should avoid chewing hard or crunchy foods that could damage the crown, as well as brushing too vigorously. Additionally, it can help to reduce the risk of staining or discolouration if the person avoids dark-coloured foods and drinks.
Caring for a dental crown properly is essential for preserving the tooth and the patient’s overall oral health. It is important to maintain regular dental visits and practice good oral hygiene. With proper care and attention, a dental crown can last for many years to come.
Key Takeaways
Dental crowns are a popular choice for restorative dentistry due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Each type of crown has advantages and disadvantages, with porcelain, gold, zirconia, all-ceramic, and PFM crowns being the most common.
Careful consideration should be taken when selecting the right type of crown for a patient, as the right choice can make a significant difference in the longevity and aesthetics of the restoration.
Aftercare is also essential to ensure the crown remains in good condition for a long period of time.
At Aspendale Gardens Dental Care in Aspendale Gardens, VIC, we understand the importance of selecting the right type of crown for our patients. Our experienced team of dental professionals can provide you with the best advice to ensure your crown lasts for years. Schedule an appointment today, and let us help you achieve a beautiful, lasting smile.
