Dental Crowns

Types of Dental Crowns: A Complete Guide

If you are worried about your tooth that feels weak, looks chipped, or has a large filling, there is a treatment named “dental crown” in advanced dentistry that can help you to permanently fix it. Dental crowns offer a wonderful solution as they provide a protective cap to restore your tooth’s strength, shape, and appearance. You should understand the different kinds of available crowns to take this permanent treatment with confidence. This guide at Jamaica 26 Dentistry will help you know everything about dental crowns clearly and simply.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is commonly known as a  “tooth cap.” It is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. You can say that a strong helmet is placed on top of a natural tooth. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, up from the gum line. It is carefully shaped and colored to look and feel just like a natural tooth. The main goal of a crown is to restore a tooth that has been broken or harmed back to its original size, strength, and function. By providing a protective layer, the crown allows a compromised tooth to work properly, without the risk of further damage. Jamaica 26 Dentistry provides you top quality dental crowns that give you long lasting solutions. 

The Main Reasons for Getting a Crown

There are several common reasons why a dentist might suggest a dental crown. The most frequent reason is to save a tooth that is too damaged for a simple filling. Other reasons include the following:

• When a cavity becomes very large, there might not be enough natural tooth left to support a filling. In this case, a crown can hold the tooth together and provide the necessary strength. 
• Crowns are also used to protect a tooth after a root canal procedure, as these teeth can become brittle and are more likely to break. 
• The tooth that is severely worn down from grinding, a cracked or broken tooth, can be covered by a dental implant.
• For many individuals, crowns are also a great way to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen, discolored, or stained

Exploring the Main Types of Crowns

Choosing a dental crown involves considering different materials, each has its own benefits. The right choice for you depends on where the tooth is located, and how natural you want it to look.

All-Ceramic and Porcelain Crowns

All-ceramic and porcelain crowns are the most popular choice for people who want a crown that looks completely natural. They are made entirely from a ceramic material that can be matched exactly to the color of your other teeth. This makes it almost impossible to tell whether it is a natural tooth or not. They are perfect for front teeth that are very visible when you smile. 

A major advantage is that they are also a great option for people with metal allergies, as they contain no metal. However, all-ceramic and porcelain crowns are not as strong as metal-based crowns and are more likely to chip or crack, especially in the back of the mouth where teeth are used for chewing.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia is a relatively new and very popular material for crowns. It is a type of ceramic that offers an excellent combination of both strength and a natural look. Zirconia crowns are incredibly durable and resistant to breaking, making them a good choice for both front and back teeth.

They are much stronger than traditional porcelain crowns, so they are a great option for people who grind their teeth or have a strong bite. Like all-ceramic crowns, they are metal-free and they are safe for everyone. Their only disadvantage is that they can be more expensive than other types of crowns due to the advanced technology and materials used to create them.

Metal Crowns (Gold and Other Alloys)

Metal crowns, which are usually made from gold or other metal alloys, are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They can be worn without chipping very easily. For these reasons, metal crowns are often considered the most reliable option to be used in the longer term. They are especially good for molars, the teeth in the back of your mouth that are used for heavy chewing and are not visible when you smile.

Metal crowns require the least amount of the tooth’s natural structure to be removed during preparation. The main disadvantage is their metallic color, due to which they are not used for teeth in the front of the mouth. They can also be a more affordable choice.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are a combination of both strength and aesthetics. They have a metal base for durability, but the outside is covered with a layer of porcelain to give them a natural, tooth-like appearance. This makes them a very versatile option, suitable for both front and back teeth.

 PFM crowns are a good option for people who want a crown that is both strong and looks good, but they may not be as beautiful and pleasing as other all-ceramic crowns. Its main drawback is that the metal base can sometimes show as a thin, dark line at the gum line, especially if the gums recede. 

All-Resin Crowns

All-resin crowns are a very affordable option, but they are not as durable as other types of crowns. They are made from a composite resin material that can easily get worn, broken, and stained over time. This is why all-resin crowns are mostly used as a temporary solution. When a dentist prepares a tooth for a permanent crown, they will often place a temporary resin crown on it. This temporary resin protects the tooth during the time the permanent one is being made in a dental lab. As they are not as strong as other crowns, they are not a good choice for a long-term, permanent restoration, especially in areas with high chewing pressure.

How to Choose the Right Crown for You

You can decide on the best dental crown as per your personal choice which you should discuss with your dentist. Here are a few key factors that can help you make a good decision.

Considering Tooth Location and Appearance

The position of the tooth in your mouth is one of the most important things to consider. For a front tooth that is visible every time you smile, appearance is likely your top priority. In this case, an all-ceramic or zirconia crown is an excellent choice because it can be made to look just like your other teeth.

 For a back molar that is not visible, strength and durability are often more important than appearance. A metal or zirconia crown would be a great option because it can handle the chewing pressure.

Factors of Strength and Durability

Your daily habits can affect how long your crown will last. If you grind your teeth at night, a very strong material like zirconia or metal is a better choice to prevent the crown from cracking or wearing down.

Your dentist will also consider your bite and how much pressure the tooth will experience when you chew. Choosing a crown that is strong enough to handle these forces will help it last longer and keep your mouth healthy. A more durable crown can be a better long-term investment, even if it costs more upfront.

Understanding Cost and Insurance

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the material, the procedure, and where you live. For most people, cost is a major factor. Generally, metal and PFM crowns are more affordable, while zirconia and all-ceramic crowns are more expensive because of the materials and technology used in them. It is a good idea to check with your dental insurance provider to see what portion of the cost they will cover. Your dentist’s office can often help you with this. Sometimes, a more expensive crown may be covered in part by your insurance, making it a more manageable option.

The Process of Getting a Crown

The procedure for getting a dental crown is very common. It usually takes two appointments, ensuring that the crown is custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly.

The First Appointment: Preparation and Temporary Crown

During your first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth. First, he will make sure you are comfortable by numbing the area. Then, he will carefully remove any decay and reshape the tooth so that the crown can fit over it. This step is important to ensure a strong and secure fit. 

After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will make an impression. This impression is sent to a dental lab where your permanent crown will be customized. Before you leave, the dentist will place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent one is prepared.

The Second Appointment: Placing the Permanent Crown

The second appointment is all about placing your new crown. Your dentist will first remove the temporary crown and clean the tooth. They will then place the permanent crown on your tooth to check its fit, color, and how it feels in your bite. The crown must fit comfortably.

 If any minor adjustments are needed, he will be made. Once you and your dentist both are satisfied, the crown will be permanently cemented onto your tooth. With that, the process is complete, and your tooth is restored and protected.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

A dental crown can last for many years, but its long-lasting depends on how well you take care of it. Thankfully, caring for a crown is very similar to caring for your natural teeth.

Daily Hygiene and Maintenance

You should continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. It is especially important to pay attention to the area where the crown meets your gum line, as plaque can build up here and cause gum disease. 

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste will help keep your crown and the surrounding teeth healthy. Good daily hygiene is the best way to ensure your crown lasts as long as possible.

What Foods and Habits to Avoid

While crowns are very strong, they are not unbreakable. To prevent damage, you should avoid chewing on very hard foods or objects, such as ice, hard candies, or pen caps. It is also a good idea to be careful with very sticky foods, like caramel, which could potentially loosen the crown. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect the crown and your other teeth from damage while you sleep.

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

Regular visits to your dentist are vital for the health of your crown. Your dentist will check for any signs of wear or damage and make sure that the surrounding tooth and gums are healthy. Identifying any issues earlier can prevent more serious problems and help extend the life of your crown. These routine check-ups and cleanings are a simple but important part of maintaining your beautiful, restored smile.

FAQs:

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown, or “tooth cap,” is a customized cover placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, and strength, and protects it from further deterioration.

How long do dental crowns typically last?

A dental crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer, if it is kept with care. Its lifespan depends on the crown material, your oral hygiene habits, and whether you grind your teeth or chew on hard objects.

Does getting a dental crown hurt?

The process of getting a crown is generally not painful. Your dentist will numb the area so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. It is normal to have some minor soreness or sensitivity after the numbness ends, but this usually goes away within a few days.

What are the main types of dental crowns?

The most common types are:

• All-ceramic/Porcelain: Best for a natural look, especially on front teeth.
• Zirconia: Very strong and durable, offering a good balance of strength and appearance.
• Metal (Gold alloys): Extremely strong and long-lasting, often used for back teeth.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Combines the strength of a metal base with a natural-looking porcelain top.

How do I choose the right type of crown for me?

You can choose the right type of crown based on different factors like the tooth’s location (front or back), your budget, and how natural you want it to look. You should discuss these factors with your dentist, who will recommend the best option for your specific needs.

 Do I need to take special care of my dental crown?

You have to take care of the crown just like your natural teeth. You should brush and floss daily, paying close attention to the area where the crown meets the gum. You should also avoid chewing on hard foods or ice to prevent chipping or cracking of the crown.