What Does a Dental Crown Look Like?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns are custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of the natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.
Types of Dental Crown Materials
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These crowns are the most popular choice for their ability to closely resemble the natural appearance of teeth. Porcelain crowns are highly aesthetic and can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
- Metal Crowns: Metal crowns, such as those made from gold or base metal alloys, are known for their durability and strength. While they are less aesthetic than porcelain crowns, they are often used for molars and teeth that undergo heavy biting and chewing forces.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. They have a metal substructure covered with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain, providing both strength and aesthetics.
- All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain material, without any metal substructure. They offer excellent aesthetics and are an ideal choice for front teeth or patients with metal allergies.
- Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are made from a strong and durable ceramic material called zirconium oxide. They are known for their strength, biocompatibility, and natural appearance, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
What Each Type Looks Like
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These crowns closely resemble natural teeth, with a translucent appearance and color-matched to blend seamlessly with the surrounding dentition.
- Metal Crowns: Metal crowns have a metallic appearance and may appear shiny or reflective in the mouth. They are often used for back teeth where aesthetics are less of a concern.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns have a natural appearance similar to porcelain crowns but may have a thin metal margin visible near the gum line.
- All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: These crowns have a lifelike appearance with no metal substructure, providing optimal aesthetics for front teeth.
- Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns have a natural appearance similar to porcelain crowns but with added strength and durability, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
Getting a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are versatile restorations that can effectively restore the appearance and function of damaged or weakened teeth. With various materials available, each with its own unique characteristics, patients can choose the type of crown that best suits their needs and preferences. Whether opting for porcelain, metal, or zirconia crowns, patients can expect a natural-looking result that blends seamlessly with their smile. And remember, don’t wait until you have a dental emergency. Schedule your appointment as soon as your dentist recommends.
Edmonton Smiles is a trusted dentist in Edmonton, Alberta Canada. Give us a call today to schedule a dental crown consultation!