Which Types of Dental Crown Is The Best For You ?
Dental crowns are commonly used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance when it has been damaged or decayed. They are also used to strengthen a tooth, cover a dental implant, or attach a bridge. People who need to wear a dental crown may include those with a large cavity, a broken or cracked tooth, a tooth that has had a root canal treatment, or a tooth that has been severely worn down. Dental crowns can also be used to cover a misshapen or discolored tooth, providing an aesthetically pleasing look. All of these conditions can be addressed with the use of a dental crown, restoring the tooth to its original shape and size.
When it comes to dental crowns, there are many different types available. Each type has its own pros and cons, so it is important to understand the differences between them in order to make an informed decision. This essay will discuss the various types of dental crowns and their advantages and disadvantages. It will cover Full Metal, Porcelain Fused To Metal, and All Ceramic (Including Emax, Zirconia).
Type 1 : Porcelain Fused to Metal
Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns are the most common type of dental crown. They are made of a metal base that is covered with a layer of porcelain. The metal provides strength and durability, while the porcelain gives the crown a natural look. PFM crowns are strong and can last for many years with proper care. PFM crown is more affordable compared to ceramic crowns while providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Type 2 : Full Metal
A full metal crown is another option for dental crowns. The types of metal alloy commonly used include stainless steel, nickel, chrome, gold, etc. Full metal crown is a good choice when we are crowning the back teeth, especially if the patient is having teeth grinding problem or a severely damaged tooth.
The pros of the full metal crown are that it has good tensile strength so it will be thin in thickness, hence preserving a more natural tooth structure while preparing the tooth. Yet, metal alloys are so strong that it is extremely unlikely to fracture or break a full metal crown even though it is thin.
However, the main concern of a full metal crown is its appearance. Due to the metallic shine, it can be obvious when patients open their mouths. So full metal crown must be chosen carefully especially if aesthetic is a concern. At the same time, patients who had a history of metal allergy are not advised to get the full metal crown to avoid any allergic reaction.
Type 3 : All Ceramic
Emax and Zirconia are two of the most popular types of all-ceramic dental crowns. Emax is a type of lithium-disilicate glass ceramic, has a huge range of translucencies and shades. It is a good choice when crowning the front tooth as it is natural looking and it can blend in well with other teeth.
Zirconia is zirconium oxide which is stronger and more durable than Emax. It suits both front and back teeth well the strength of zirconia ensures it can sustain the strong masticatory force.
Both zirconia and E max are biocompatible so they are not going to cause any gingiva discoloration (black line around the crown) or metal allergies. The demand for ceramic crowns is definitely on the rise.
What Is The Alternative Treatment Plan?
If the reason for crowning the teeth is to improve the appearance, there are alternative treatments such as braces, porcelain veneers, and composite veneers that provide an aesthetic purpose to replace dental crowns. Braces are used to straighten crooked teeth, while porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are placed over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Composite veneers are made of composite material and are used to improve the color, shape, and size of teeth. These treatments can provide a more natural, aesthetically pleasing look as similar to dental crowns.
If the reason of crowning is to protect and restore the tooth, treatment alternatives include Inlay, Onlay, and overlay treatments. An inlay is a custom-made filling that is placed within the cusps of the tooth and is used to replace a large filling or to protect a weakened tooth from further damage. An onlay is similar to an inlay, except it covers one or more of the cusps of the tooth, and may extend to the biting surface. An overlay is a restoration that covers the entire biting surface of the tooth and is used to replace a large filling or to protect a weakened tooth from further damage. Inlay, Onlay, and overlay treatments can help to protect a tooth from further decay, while also restoring its natural shape, color, and function.
Conclusion:
When it comes to choosing the right type of dental crown, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each type. Porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic and full metal crowns all have their own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best type of dental crown for any individual will depend on their specific needs and budget. If you need more information, please schedule an appointment with us at White Density Dental Clinic. With the right information and guidance from our qualified dentists, you are able to make an informed decision about which type of dental crown is best for you.
