As strong as teeth are, they can become damaged in a variety of different ways. Whether you’ve experienced some extensive tooth decay or had a dental injury, having a damaged tooth doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to have it pulled. Dental crowns are available to protect structurally compromised teeth so that they don’t need to be extracted. They can be made from many different material. Here are some of the most common so you can determine which is best for you.
Gold
Gold has been used for a while in dentistry because it’s extremely durable and long-lasting. Crowns made from gold rarely chip or break, and they don’t wear down much over time. They are also gentle on the opposing teeth. However, there are several different drawbacks with this option. Gold conducts hot and cold temperatures quickly, meaning it can result in some sensitivity after being placed. It is also visibly different from your natural teeth, so it isn’t ideal if you’re concerned about the aesthetics of your smile.
Porcelain Fused-to-Metal
This crown can be color-matched to the color of the surrounding teeth to give you a more natural appearance. However, sometimes the metal under the porcelain caps shows as a dark line. There is also the possibility of the porcelain chipping over time and wearing down on the adjacent teeth.
Full Porcelain
This type of crown has been considered to be the most lifelike and natural-looking restoration available. Porcelain doesn’t conduct heat and cold efficiently, so your tooth is much less likely to feel sensitive. They are also a great option for patients who are sensitive to certain metals. Porcelain isn’t quite as strong as other materials, but it is the most cosmetically appealing, and it won’t expand or contract when exposed to different temperatures.
Dental Composite
Dental composite is the least ideal when it comes to strength and durability, but it is often preferred for patients who are highly sensitive to metals and porcelain. The bonding techniques are less sensitive than full porcelain, and the material is less reactive than gold. While this can be a good solution for many people, it would likely need to be replaced more often than other crowns.
Zirconia
Zirconia is a white crystalline oxide made from the metal zirconium. This material is as strong and durable as gold, but it has a better cosmetic result. It is also stronger than porcelain. However, this option isn’t always the best for patients who are particularly sensitive to metals.
Dental crowns aren’t all made the same, but they all have their own benefits. Talk to your dentist to find out which solution is best for your unique needs!
About the Author
Dr. Lauri Barge earned her dental doctorate from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. This includes the Core Curriculum for complex restorative and aesthetic cases at the Las Vegas Institute. Currently, she’s also a proud member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and several other professional organizations. To learn more about the different kinds of dental crowns and find out which one is best for you or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (972) 539-3800.