Dental crowns, or caps, are a common treatment for damaged teeth. They are designed to restore a tooth’s size, strength, and appearance.
The tooth receiving the crown is numb first, then reshaped along its chewing surface and sides. This is done to make room for the crown material. The crown can be made from one or a mixture of materials.
Porcelain
Dental crowns can strengthen a tooth, repair damage caused by decay or improve biting function in patients with missing teeth. They are also commonly used to anchor dental bridges during treatment for tooth loss. These restorations often look and feel like a natural part of the mouth, enhancing appearance as well as restoring functionality.
There are four main types of dental crowns Fayetteville AR ceramic or porcelain, porcelain fused to metal (a metal structure with porcelain over the top), gold alloys and base metal alloys (often silver-coloured). Porcelain crowns look most natural and may not even be noticeable if matched to nearby teeth. However they are more fragile than other types of crowns.
Metal crowns offer strength and durability, making them good options for molars or back teeth that are less visible. They also require minimal tooth preparation, preserving more of the natural tooth. However they are not as aesthetically pleasing as other crowns, and patients with metal allergies are generally not suitable for this type of dental crown.
Ceramic
Ceramic crowns (sometimes called porcelain crowns) are the most realistic looking “caps” for damaged teeth. They offer excellent translucency and can transmit the shade of adjacent teeth, allowing them to blend in exceptionally well with natural teeth. They are also metal-free, which makes them a great option for patients with allergies to any sort of metallic materials. Additionally, they have a high resistance to temperature changes, which can help mitigate any tooth sensitivity issues you may experience.
These types of crowns can be color-matched to your existing teeth, and they are very durable, allowing them to hold up to heavy chewing forces. However, they can wear down the opposing teeth and are more prone to cracking than other crowns. Because of this, patients who grind their teeth should consider a nightguard to protect their natural teeth and the ceramic crowns. This type of crown can be very costly.
Base Metal Alloy
Metal crowns have been a traditional and effective treatment option for decades. Often used to replace missing teeth, they help prevent gaps that can lead to shifting, bone deterioration, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Dental alloys used for metal crowns can vary, but they fall into two categories: noble and non-noble alloys. Noble alloys contain high percentages of precious metals and have a higher biocompatibility rating. They are softer than other crown materials and thus require less natural tooth structure to be removed before placement.
The non-noble category typically contains the more common metals such as copper, nickel, zinc, and cobalt. This material is softer than the noble class and may be more susceptible to sensitivity. These crowns may be more likely to show signs of wear than the noble variety and require more maintenance.
Metal-Free
Metal-free crowns do not contain any type of metal. They are typically made of porcelain-based ceramics, making them a popular choice for front tooth restorations. Their non-conductive nature reduces sensitivity to hot and cold liquids and foods. They also stain less than traditional metal crowns, maintaining a natural-looking finish.
Unlike metal fillings, which shrink after treatment, leaving bacteria exposed, metal-free crowns do not allow this to occur. They are also biocompatible, allowing them to be easily accepted by the body.
Using digital scans of your mouth, our dentists will design your dental crown to perfectly fit your mouth. This ensures optimal aesthetics and function. Once your restoration is completed, we will cement it to the affected tooth. With proper oral hygiene, your crown will last for many years. However, it’s important to visit our office for regular checkups and cleanings. This will prevent issues like decay and chipping of the affected tooth, which can cause discomfort and other health problems.
