A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap which is placed over a decayed or damaged tooth, which needs to be repaired and restored to its normal state. It helps restore the strength, shape, and appearance of the tooth. A dental crown is required in cases like:

  • Protection to a weak tooth or a cracked tooth
  • Restoration of a broken or severely worn out tooth
  • Holding a dental bridge in place
  • Making cosmetic modifications
  • Supporting a tooth with a large filling
    If you have any of these issues, then a dental crown may be recommended. Here are the different types of dental crowns available that you can choose from:

All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain

Restoration with this dental crown leaves you with a natural and attractive appearance. Ceramic or porcelain crown mimics not only the natural color of your teeth but are also stain resistant and withstands biting and chewing forces just like a healthy natural tooth. For instance, Zirconia is the hardest and strongest ceramic. It is sturdy, durable, well tolerated by the body, and does not corrode. All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are highly preferred by patients because of all the benefits they offer.

All-Metal

All-metal crowns are made up of precious metals like gold and alloys like palladium, nickel, or chromium. It can very well withstand biting and chewing forces and last long. Metal crowns are less prone to wear and tear. Despite having the advantage of durability, the color is the biggest drawback, as it does not match natural teeth color. As a result, these crowns are usually preferred for teeth at the back of your mouth, which are not readily visible in the smile line.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

These type of crowns are a fusion of metal and porcelain, where the crown has a metal substructure with a porcelain veneer. The combination of metal and porcelain gives the crown the strength of metal, as well as the appearance of a natural tooth. This makes them a suitable choice for restoration of teeth in the front line, as well as at the back of the mouth.

Stainless Steel

These are prefabricated crowns or pre-formed shells used on your teeth temporarily, while a permanent crown is being made. Stainless steel crowns are preferred for children, as they can also be used over primary teeth. Stainless steel crowns cover the entire tooth and prevent further decay. Furthermore, it also holds space for the permanent tooth to come in. As the permanent tooth erupts, the crown falls out with it.

If you are getting a dental crown done, make sure you consult a dentist and learn about the type of dental crown that is suitable for you. If you have any dental problems or need more information on crowns, book an appointment at Edmonton Smiles now!

Posted in Procedures and Treatments