Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are commonly used in various dental procedures to protect and improve the function and aesthetics of the treated tooth. Dental crowns serve multiple purposes, including sealing root canals and enhancing the appearance of teeth. If you’re considering getting a dental crown, understanding the various materials available is crucial. Continue reading we explore different materials used to make crowns to help you determine what option best fits your needs.
Type #1: Full Porcelain
Porcelain crowns are highly acclaimed for their natural appearance, closely resembling natural teeth. They offer the benefit of being non-conductive, reducing dental sensitivity to temperature changes.
These crowns are an excellent choice for individuals sensitive to metal. Although not as strong as other materials, porcelain provides exceptional aesthetics and remains stable without expanding or contracting with temperature fluctuations.
Type #2: Dental Composite
Dental composite, while not as strong and durable as some other materials, is preferred by individuals with sensitivities to metals and porcelain. Composite crowns offer less sensitive bonding techniques compared to full porcelain crowns, and the material is less reactive than gold. However, it’s essential to consider that composite crowns may need to be replaced more frequently compared to other materials.
Type #3: Gold
Gold is widely recognized for its exceptional longevity and durability, making it an extremely reliable material for dental crowns. Gold crowns have minimal risk of breaking or chipping and exhibit less wear over time compared to other materials. Additionally, they are gentle on the adjacent teeth.
Nevertheless, it’s important to consider that gold has a remarkable ability to conduct both hot and cold temperatures rapidly, potentially leading to temporary tooth sensitivity following its placement. Furthermore, the unique color of gold crowns might make them visibly conspicuous compared to the neighboring teeth.
Type #4: Porcelain Fused-to-Metal
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns have the benefit of blending seamlessly with the color of neighboring teeth, providing a natural and aesthetic appearance. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to be aware that the metal beneath the porcelain coating can occasionally lead to a dark line forming at the gumline. Moreover, over time, porcelain may chip, and the crowns might cause slight wear on the adjacent teeth.
In conclusion, dental crowns offer valuable solutions to various oral health issues, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. Remember to consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable crown for you to achieve a bright, beautiful smile for years to come!
About the Practice
At Smiles by Martin, Dr. Gregory D. Martin and his proficient team of dental experts take the lead in providing top-quality dental care. They specialize in offering long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing dental crowns that not only restore your smile but also promote the health of your jawbone. Whether it’s preventive measures or restorative treatments like dental crowns, Dr. Martin ensures that your teeth remain both beautiful and functional. To explore more about crowns or to schedule an appointment, you can reach out to Smiles by Martin’s office at (817) 481-1041 or visit their website.