Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns protect and restore teeth that are extensively decayed, cracked, fractured, or weakened due to root canal treatment. They provide structural support, prevent further damage, and improve the tooth's appearance. At StoneWater Dentistry, a dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a prosthetic device designed to cover and encase a damaged or weakened tooth. It is custom-made to fit over the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, effectively restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance.

The Dental Crowns Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damage, and the tooth is reshaped to create space for the crown. An impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the custom crown. A temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready. In the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully placed and bonded onto the tooth using dental cement.

Types of Dental Crowns

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are typically made of gold, silver, or other base metal alloys. They are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to wear. Metal crowns require less tooth structure removal compared to different types of crowns. However, their metallic color makes them more visible and less aesthetically pleasing, so they are commonly used on less visible back teeth.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns are a combination of metal and porcelain. They have a metal substructure for strength and a layer of porcelain that mimics the appearance of natural teeth. PFM crowns offer a balance between strength and aesthetics. However, over time, the metal substructure can become visible as a dark line near the gum line, affecting appearance.

All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns

These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain material, providing excellent aesthetics and a natural tooth-like appearance. They are famous for front teeth or areas where aesthetics are a top priority. All-ceramic crowns can be a good option for individuals with metal allergies. They may not be as strong as metal or PFM crowns, so they may not be recommended for individuals with heavy biting forces or grinding their teeth.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made of a durable and biocompatible material called zirconia. They are highly resistant to fractures and can withstand biting and chewing forces. Zirconia crowns offer excellent strength and natural appearance, making them suitable for front and back teeth.

Dental crowns provide several benefits, including restoring the functionality of damaged teeth, improving the appearance of the teeth, providing strength and support to weakened teeth, and enhancing overall oral health. To learn more about dental crowns, visit StoneWater Dentistry at 4450 N Tenaya Way, Suite 225, Las Vegas, NV 89129, or call (702) 734-5000.