What are the types of Dental Crowns?
Some of the most common procedures that a dentist routinely performs include examining the teeth, teeth cleanings, filling cavities and bonding. Some of the more involved and complex procedures can include root canals, teeth extractions, dental implants and dental crowns.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown or cap is a fixed prosthetic device which is cemented to the tooth. Once a crown is cemented in place, a dentist is required to remove it. Crowns are often used to cover or protect a damaged tooth, but can also be used to strengthen a tooth and improve the appearance or alignment.
Crowns are created by first taking an impression of the tooth it will be used to cover. Prior to creating the impression, the dentist will first file down and reduce size of the tooth to ensure a proper fit of the crown. The dentist will often place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being created at a dental lab.
There are four different types of dental crowns which are commonly used. The types of crowns include the following:
- Ceramic: This type of crown is often used to restore the front teeth. Ceramic crowns work well for the front teeth because of the ability to customize the color of the crown so it blends in with the natural teeth. A ceramic crown is created from a porcelain-based material.
- Porcelain-fused to metal: This type of crown offers patients a stronger bond compared to regular porcelain because it is attached to a metal base. This type of crown is also quite durable.
- Gold alloy: This crown is a combination of gold, copper and other types of metals. It is able to provide the tooth with a strong bond, does not fracture, and does wear away the tooth.
- Base metal alloys: This type of crown is created from non-noble metals which are resistant to corrosion. As a result, they make an extremely strong crown. In addition, the base metal alloy crown requires a minimal amount of healthy tooth removal.
The ability to seal the all-porcelain crown is dependent on the filling material which is used and the health of the tooth under the crown. The other three types of crowns, however, provide an extremely good seal against leakage.
The gold and metal alloys crown are the most durable. In comparison, the all-porcelain crown is less strong and more susceptible to pressure from grinding or clenching the jaw. The porcelain-fused to metal crown is quite durable. Both of the porcelain-based crowns are incredibly resistant to wear. However, they can cause issues to the opposing teeth in the event the surface becomes rough. The gold and metal alloy crowns are resistant and gentle on the opposing teeth.
Although they can become loose, require adjustments and fall out, it is possible for a crown to last a lifetime when it is properly maintained. In order to preserve a crown and ensure the longest lifespan possible, practice good oral hygiene. Brushing the teeth twice each day and regular flossing help to remove plaque and debris while maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It is also important to schedule regular checkups with the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. The dentist will also evaluate the crown to ensure there are not any issues.