If you’ve ever had a root canal, a large filling, a dental implant, tooth decay, or cracked teeth, you’re probably familiar with dental crowns. It’s a popular dental treatment that helps address various types of dental issues and is also a form of cosmetic dentistry used to achieve a perfect smile.
At Dental Innovations, we’ve provided countless patients with dental crowns. Are you considering getting crowns and would you like to know more about what crowns are and what they’re made of? In that case, this article will go over the different materials dental crowns are made of, their different types, and other factors to keep in mind when considering getting a dental crown.
Related Article: Dental Innovations: How Long Do Crowns Take?
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom, tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth, serving to restore its structure and appearance. A dental crown can protect and support teeth, restore their shape, correct bite or alignment, and enhance their overall appearance.
Different Dental Crown Materials
There are many different crown materials. The choice ultimately depends on your specific dental needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common materials used for dental crowns:
Metal Crowns
Metal dental crowns made from gold, platinum, nickel, and chromium are incredibly strong and durable. The main advantage of this type of crown is that it’s unlikely to break or chip, making it suitable for back teeth since this area experiences the most pressure when chewing. Additionally, metal crowns may stand out against natural teeth due to their color, so putting them on the back molars is a good way to hide their color. Metal crowns also don’t require too much enamel shaving.
Gold Crowns
Made from gold or gold alloy, gold crowns are another strong and durable crown type. Similar to metal crowns, they’re a good choice for back molars, though it’s not ideal to use this type for front teeth due to their color and appearance.
All-Porcelain Crowns or Ceramic Crowns
All-porcelain crowns, also called ceramic crowns, are one of the dental crown material types that closely resemble natural tooth enamel. They also don’t cause damage to the opposing teeth. Their natural look makes them a top choice for many dentists and patients as they blend in well with the rest of the natural teeth. They’re often used on front and back teeth.
These crowns also don’t have metal in them, which is especially suitable for people with metal allergies. Though not as durable as metal crowns, they’re popular due to their great aesthetics.
Zirconia Crowns
A zirconia crown is a type of ceramic. Specifically, these crowns are made from zirconium dioxide which not only gives this material the ability to withstand pressure, but also mimics the appearance of natural enamel. This makes zirconia crowns one of the dental crown materials that look natural and unnoticeable. Though zirconia crowns are a relatively new material, they’re a popular choice because they’re strong and look like natural teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM Crowns)
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns or PFM crowns are made from both porcelain and metal. With a metal structure and a porcelain coating, they’re durable and natural-looking. However, the porcelain coating may eventually wear off and cause damage to the enamel of the opposing teeth when you bite down.
Pressed Ceramic Crowns
Pressed ceramic crowns have a hard ceramic inner core made from heated and pressed ceramic blocks. This core is then coated with porcelain, which gives it the appearance of natural teeth. Your dentist may recommend these crowns for front and back teeth.
When Should You Get Dental Crowns?
You may need to get dental crowns in order to:
- Support a dental bridge.
- Protect a broken tooth or damaged tooth.
- Support a weak tooth.
- Restore a tooth with severe decay.
Choosing the Right Crown Material for You
The choice of the ideal material can vary depending on personal preferences, allergic reactions, tooth location, appearance, and strength. Additionally, you’ll also want to find out how much dental crowns cost to ensure that they align with your budget.
Dental crowns made from metal are the top choice for durability, while all-ceramic crowns are one of the ideal types of dental crowns for a natural appearance. Feel free to consult your dentist on what the best option is for your specific situation.
What to Expect During Your Dental Crown Appointment
During your first office visit, your dentist will assess your teeth and mouth. Getting a crown usually takes two appointments; the first session is dedicated to preparing your tooth or teeth, and the second for cementing the crown.
Preparing Teeth for a Dental Crown
To ensure that the crown fits the underlying natural tooth perfectly, your dentist may remove a portion of the tooth enamel first. Your dentist may also use a filling material to improve the shape of the tooth and provide a solid foundation for the crown. After shaping the tooth, they may also take digital impressions for a better fit.
Temporary Crown
A temporary crown is typically placed over the prepared tooth as a layer of protection while the final crown is created in the dental lab. When you have the temporary crown, avoid chewy or hard food that can dislodge or damage it, and opt for chewing on the opposite side of your mouth if possible.
Permanent Crown
During the second appointment, the final crown is finally ready. Your dentist removes the temporary crown and places the permanent crown over the prepared tooth. This is also the time to check for an allergic reaction and make the needed adjustments.
Dental Innovations: Your Dental Care Partner in Oklahoma City
A dental crown can be very beneficial depending on your oral needs, especially if you get the right material. If you’re looking for a dental practice in Oklahoma City that offers services like same-day crowns, our qualified and experienced dental staff will be happy to assist you and answer any questions.
Feel free to contact us at (405) 691-0877 and info@dentalinnovationsokc.com to start your innovative dental journey today!
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace a dental exam or diagnosis. If you have pain, swelling, or other concerns, please contact a dentist or doctor.
