Restorative dental treatments, such as crowns, can protect and preserve teeth and enhance your smile. But did you know not all dental crowns are the same? Different types of dental crowns can include porcelain, ceramic, composite, metal, and Cerec same-day crowns.
If your dentist finds decayed or damaged teeth during a dental exam, they may recommend a dental crown. The type of crown they use can depend on your oral health needs and preferences.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also called a “cap,” is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength and improve its appearance. When cemented into place, a crown fully encases the visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.
Types of Dental Crowns
Based on the tooth’s location that requires restoration, your dentist will recommend a specific type of crown material or combination, as each type offers unique benefits.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain or ceramic crowns are the most aesthetically pleasing, as they can be colour-matched to your natural teeth. They’re a top choice for front teeth or those visible during a smile, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth.
However, they can be more prone to wear against opposing teeth and are more brittle than metal-infused crowns. For these reasons, they’re not suitable for the back teeth.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns traditionally consist of gold or other alloys. Because of this, they are the sturdiest and longest-lasting option.
Metal crowns are less likely to chip, break, and wear down opposing natural teeth and require less tooth structure to be removed. However, their metallic colour makes them more suitable for molars than front teeth.
Composite Crowns
These crowns provide a natural tooth look and don’t chip as easily as porcelain crowns. However, they are less durable, can wear more quickly, and are more prone to staining over time, as brushing can remove the polished surface. Composite crowns are better suited for temporary or short-term solutions.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Pocelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. They can be colour-matched to natural teeth and are more durable than all-porcelain crowns. However, the metal layer’s edge can be visible, especially if gums recede, potentially compromising the aesthetic appeal.
What Are Same-Day Crowns?
Traditional crowns require multiple appointments. One appointment is to file down the tooth, take impressions for the crown, and place a temporary crown, and another is to remove the temporary crown and replace it with the final crown to restore tooth function.
If you’re looking for something quicker, same-day crowns are an option. Cerec same-day crowns are designed, prepared, and placed in a single office visit, saving you the hassle of temporary crowns and multiple appointments. A Cerec milling machine creates custom-fitted crowns that your dentist can bond to your tooth for a comfortable and secure fit.
Cerec same-day crowns are suitable for:
- Cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth to help restore their shape, size, and strength
- Severely worn teeth to prevent further damage and decay
- Discoloured teeth that you can’t correct with whitening treatments
- Decayed teeth from cavities to prevent further decay and damage
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Each type of dental crown has its unique benefits to consider.
Appearance
If the look of your crown is a significant concern, all-porcelain offers the most natural appearance, closely mimicking the colour and translucency of your natural teeth.
Durability
If you’re looking for longevity, metal crowns can generally last long.
Cost
The cost of dental crowns varies based on the material. Metal and composite crowns are usually the more cost-effective options, while all-porcelain crowns are more pricey.
Time
Cerec same-day crowns can save you time and hassle as your dentist can design, create, and place them in a single dental visit. This means you won’t have to disrupt your schedule for longer than you have to.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Crown
Your dentist can recommend the type of dental crown suited to your needs. However, being informed and considering the following factors can help your decision-making process.
Treatment Goals
Your treatment plan and the crown’s intended function will heavily influence the type of crown recommended. Whether it’s for aesthetics or functionality, share your goals with your dentist to find the most appropriate fit.
Budget
The type of crown you choose can significantly affect your financial commitment. Discussing your budget with your dentist can lead to recommendations that align with your financial capabilities.
Personal Preferences
Some patients prioritize natural appearance, while others value durability or cost. Your personal preferences play a significant role in deciding which dental crown type will satisfy your needs.
Restoring Oral Health in Calgary SE
Dental crowns can help maintain dental health and improve teeth function, strength, and appearance. Deciding on a dental crown type is a collaborative process between you and your dental care team.
If you have questions about restorative dental treatments or concerns about oral health, book an appointment with Outdoor Dental today.
