The Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a common restorative dental treatment. Dentists use them to restore damaged teeth's strength, function, and appearance. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, right above your gum line. The design of dental crowns mimics the natural appearance of your teeth while providing protection and support to the affected tooth. The following blog will explore the different types of dental crowns that are available today.

Types of dental crowns

Porcelain crowns

Porcelain crowns are the most popular choice for many patients. This is due to their ability to resemble natural teeth closely. These crowns consist of a high-quality ceramic material that mimics the color, texture, and gloss of one's natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are an effective option for front teeth as they offer an exceptional aesthetic appeal. Porcelain crowns are also resistant to staining, and dentists can customize them to match the shade and shape of the patient's existing teeth.

Ceramic crowns

Like porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns also consist of dental ceramic materials. However, ceramic crowns are known for their strength and durability. These crowns are ideal for front and back teeth, providing natural-looking aesthetics and long-lasting results. Ceramic crowns are highly biocompatible, making them suitable for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.

Metal crowns

Metal is another common type of dental crown, and dentists have used them for decades. They can consist of gold or other alloys. While they do not look natural, like porcelain or ceramic crowns, they offer more strength and durability. Dentists often use this crown on a patient's molars, which require extra durability for chewing and grinding food. In addition, metal crowns are highly resistant to wear and tear and can withstand forces during biting and chewing.

Zirconia crowns

Zirconia crowns have gained popularity in recent years due to their exceptional strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These crowns consist of zirconium oxide, a white ceramic material known for its biocompatibility and strength. Zirconia crowns are more resistant to fracture and chipping, making them a choice for front and back teeth. The dentist can customize the color and shape to match the patient's surrounding teeth, giving them a natural appearance.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns

PFM crowns are a combination of metal and porcelain. These crowns consist of a metal base covered by a layer of porcelain, providing a natural-looking appearance with added strength. The metal base provides durability and stability, while the porcelain overlay offers an enhanced appearance. The PFM crowns are commonly used for molars and premolars, as they are prone to more biting forces. However, the metal margin at the gum line may become visible over time, affecting the overall aesthetics.