Following a root canal infection or any treatment that requires removing significant amounts of enamel, dental crowns restore strength to your tooth. The prosthetic caps can be fabricated from a wide range of durable materials.
Dental crowns are part of a large industry. Combined with bridges, the market for the prosthetics is estimated to be valued at more than $2 billion.
If you are in the market for one or more dental crowns, you may be wondering which type of dental crown is right for you. Read on to learn which options are available and which one might be right for you.
Porcelain Crowns
One of the most popular options for this type of dental work uses porcelain. The advanced ceramic material looks completely natural. Porcelain mimics the color and luster of enamel.
Technicians make porcelain crowns from a single block of ceramic. A special machine drills away the outer surface until the ideal shape is left. The resulting prosthetic looks just like your natural tooth.
This option is ideal for anyone looking to replace a tooth that is visible.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Also known as PFM, this advanced option blends the durability of metal with the aesthetic qualities of porcelain.
PFM could be recommended for molars since the back teeth have to withstand extreme pressures from grinding food. Porcelain-fused-to-metal is generally less expensive than pure porcelain crowns.
One downside to this option is the appearance of metal at the base of the tooth. When used for molars, most people will not notice that you have a PFM crown.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a relatively new material. Zirconia has the strength of metal. It also looks like porcelain.
Zirconia actually contains no metal. This means that the material is completely non-toxic. Zirconia crowns are very strong and durable.
Due to the strength of the material, zirconia can actually rub away the enamel of neighboring teeth if someone bites too hard.
Gold and Metal Crowns
Gold crowns are not necessarily made from pure gold. The mixture of copper, nickel, chromium, and palladium has a gold color, hence the name.
The mixture of metal is incredibly durable. Gold crowns can withstand a lot of chewing and wear. When properly cared for, the prosthetic can last for decades.
One possible setback is the material composition. Some people may experience allergic reactions to the alloy metals. Swelling is one possible side effect.
There is a wide range of metals available for use when making a dental crown. To learn about other metal crown options, you can view more here.
All-Resin Crowns
Technicians make all-resin crowns from composite resin. They make the composite resin from a mixture of plastics and finely ground glass. Resin can mimic the look of enamel.
While affordable, all-resin crowns are not the most durable option. They can break down and crack. Most dentists use the material for temporary crowns.
Learn More About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer a wide range of benefits. Working with a trusted dentist can help you decide which base material works best for you.
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