Dental Crowns: What Material Is Best?

September 7, 2023

Filed under: Uncategorized — Shahram Modarres @ 5:08 pm
dentist talking to patient about kinds of dental crowns

Dental crowns, which resemble tooth-shaped caps, are utilized to rejuvenate damaged or decayed teeth, reinstating their form, size, resilience, and visual appeal. These versatile tools are frequently applied in diverse dental treatments to fortify and enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the treated tooth. Dental crowns have a range of applications, such as sealing root canals and enhancing the visual appeal of teeth. If you’re contemplating the prospect of obtaining a dental crown, it’s essential to grasp the diverse materials at your disposal. In the following sections, we’ll delve into the array of materials employed in crafting crowns to help you ascertain the ideal choice for your specific requirements.

Type #1: Full Porcelain

Porcelain crowns are widely renowned for their remarkably lifelike appearance, closely mimicking the natural look of teeth. One of their standout advantages is their non-conductive nature, which diminishes dental sensitivity to shifts in temperature.

These crowns prove to be an excellent option for those who are sensitive to metal. While they may not be as robust as certain other materials, porcelain excels in providing exceptional aesthetics and maintains stability without expanding or contracting in response to temperature changes.

Type #2: Dental Composite

Dental composite, although not as robust as certain alternative materials, is favored by individuals who have sensitivities to both metals and porcelain. Composite crowns present a milder bonding experience in contrast to fully porcelain crowns and exhibit lower reactivity compared to gold. It’s important to note that composite crowns might require more frequent replacement when compared to other materials.

Type #3: Gold

Gold is renowned for its remarkable longevity and durability, rendering it an exceedingly dependable choice for dental crowns. Gold crowns possess a minimal risk of fracturing or chipping and demonstrate less wear and tear over time in comparison to other materials. Furthermore, they exert minimal impact on the neighboring teeth.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to keep in mind that gold has a remarkable capacity to swiftly conduct both hot and cold temperatures, which could result in transient tooth sensitivity after its placement. Additionally, the distinct color of gold crowns may make them visibly prominent when compared to the surrounding teeth.

Type #4: Porcelain Fused-to-Metal

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns offer the advantage of seamlessly harmonizing with the color of nearby teeth, yielding a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. However, it’s important to note that the metal concealed beneath the porcelain layer can occasionally result in the development of a dark line near the gumline.

Additionally, as time passes, the porcelain may be prone to chipping. These kinds of crowns might also induce slight wear on the neighboring teeth.

Dental crowns provide effective solutions for a range of oral health concerns, delivering both functional and aesthetic advantages. Be sure to consult your dentist to identify the crown that best suits your needs, ensuring a lasting, radiant smile for years ahead!

About the Practice

The skilled dental professionals at Rockville Family Dentistry lead the way in delivering exceptional dental care. They specialize in crafting durable and aesthetically pleasing dental crowns that not only rejuvenate your smile but also enhance the well-being of your jawbone. Whether you require preventive care or restorative procedures like dental crowns, they guarantee that your teeth maintain both their beauty and functionality. To learn more about their crown options or to arrange an appointment, you can contact Rockville Family Dentistry at (301) 816-9401 or visit their website.