Do you need dental crowns to restore your teeth? If so, you want to know the different crown materials available before you move forward. Knowing the different types of crowns can help you prepare for your next appointment. While your dentist can recommend a material for you, it is still wise to understand your options for dental crowns prior to your appointment.
People can choose from a variety of materials for dental crowns. Materials vary regarding durability and appearance. Learn the difference between ceramic, porcelain-fused to metal, gold, and base metal alloy crowns. Doing so can help the patient and dentist to choose the right kind of crown for the patient’s needs.
Ceramic crowns are appealing because of the natural look the material provides. These crowns are made to look just like natural teeth, so no one knows that the wearer has undergone a dental restoration. Ceramic crowns are not durable enough to withstand the heavy biting forces of the back teeth. These crowns can chip and break on the back teeth but are a good option for the front teeth.
Dentists often recommend porcelain-fused to metal crowns for the back teeth. The metal part has a dark color that shows along the gumline. But the metal structure makes the crown durable, while the porcelain exterior matches the existing teeth. The combination of metal and porcelain makes these crowns strong and aesthetically pleasing.
Gold is a good option for dental crowns. This metal is very durable and likely to last for a long time, even when people grind their teeth. This material is not likely to wear down the opposing teeth. Dentists do not have to remove as much of the natural tooth structure to place gold crowns. Also, instead of bonding the crown in place, gold crowns can be cemented. This is more tolerable for patients who are sensitive to the bonding process.
There are some drawbacks, though. First, gold crowns do not blend in with the natural teeth. Also, gold conducts hot and cold temperatures. This can make the site of the crown sensitive. This usually goes away after a few weeks.
Micro-gaps are also a concern with gold crowns. These gaps can occur along the margins of the crown. Bacteria can enter the gaps and cause the remaining tooth to decay. Visits to the dentist must be more frequent. This can prevent the micro-gaps from forming or replace the crowns before the teeth underneath suffer from severe damage.
Crowns made of base metal alloys are also durable and strong. The crowns do not wear down the opposing teeth. Like gold crowns, the dentist only has to remove the minimum amount of tooth structure to place it. Dental crowns made of base metal alloys do not blend in with the natural teeth. Many people choose these crowns for the back teeth since the restoration is not as visible. Then they can benefit from the strength the crowns provide.
These dental restorations are effective in repairing damaged teeth. A crown can bring back a person’s smile and dental function. The dentist will decide if this is the ideal solution to the patient’s dental problem. Here are the benefits of getting a dental crown:
It is critical to choose the right dental crown material. You want something that meets your aesthetic needs while providing the durability necessary for the restoration to last. Ask your dentist if you should get ceramic, porcelain-fused to metal, gold, or base metal alloy dental crowns. Your dentist will consider various factors, including the location of the damaged tooth, and help you make a wise decision.
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