Dental crowns correct everything from discolouration to structural damage. Technicians design dental crowns to look and function like natural teeth. However, with so many types of dental crowns, you may have difficulty choosing. For this reason, we’ve put together a handy guide to walk you through the different types of dental crowns and their advantages and disadvantages.
Porcelain or All-Ceramic Dental Crowns
Porcelain dental crowns are the most popular since they are 100% porcelain, unlike other types of dental crowns, which are mixed. Here are a few reasons why porcelain crowns are so popular.
Advantages of Ceramic Dental Crowns
They look natural. By far, porcelain gives the most natural look of any crown. Porcelain crowns are the most aesthetically pleasing, and they’re impossible to distinguish from surrounding teeth. A dental technician can match every aspect of your porcelain crown to your neighbouring teeth.
They’re non-toxic. Porcelain dental crowns are the best option for repairing front teeth. And since they’re 100% porcelain, they have no risk of toxicity.
Disadvantages of Ceramic Dental Crowns
They may crack under repeated pressure. Porcelain isn’t as strong as metal, so a porcelain crown is more suitable for front teeth than molars. Porcelain crowns are also a poor choice for anyone with bruxism. Since porcelain crowns are prone to breaking, let a dentist know if this occurs. A cracked dental crown is an emergency.
They are costly. Due to the natural look of porcelain, and the material itself, porcelain crowns cost more than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and pure metal crowns.
Porcelain-Fused to Metal Dental Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are porcelain on the outside and metal on the inside. PCM crowns are strong and aesthetically pleasing. There are several advantages to having PCM crowns and a few disadvantages. Let’s look over a few.
Advantages of Porcelain-Fused to Metal Dental Crowns
They look real. The main advantage of having a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is that it is aesthetically pleasing. PCM crowns can look like your natural tooth in structure and colour.
People trust PCM crowns. They’ve been around for decades, so most dentists work with them. They’re also less expensive than plain porcelain or gold crowns.
Disadvantages of Porcelain-Fused to Metal Dental Crowns
They may cause discolouration. The most significant disadvantage to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns is that they may cause grey discolouration at the gumline. So, if you’re using this type of crown for your front teeth, it may not provide the most natural look.
PCM crowns also wear down quicker than metal crowns – especially if you grit your teeth or clench your jaw.
Gold Dental Crowns
Gold crowns contain gold with materials like copper, nickel, or chromium. Gold crowns can cover any tooth, though most people use them to cover back teeth. There are advantages and disadvantages to having gold crowns like any crown material.
Advantages of Gold Dental Crowns
They are strong. Among the different types of crowns, gold is the most durable. Since gold crowns are a mix of solid metals, they are the strongest dental crowns. In addition, gold is a rigid metal that withstands decades of pressure without chipping. Finally, since back teeth are used more in chewing than front teeth, gold can be an excellent option for crowning molars.
Less of your tooth needs removing. When you have a crown installed, the dentist must remove a bit of your natural tooth’s surface. Then, a technician designs your crown to match the exact thickness of the portion removed. With gold, less of your natural tooth needs removal.
Disadvantages of Gold Dental Crowns
Unnatural aesthetic. The main drawback to having a gold crown is giving your mouth an artificial aesthetic. In addition, gold may be flashy to some people, so the look isn’t for everyone.
Another disadvantage to having a gold crown is an allergy to gold alloy.
How to Choose the Best One?
Narrow down the types of dental crowns by first considering the location of your crown. If it’s a molar tooth, you may want a strong option like gold alloy or porcelain-fused-to-metal. If it’s in the front, porcelain may be a better option.
Next, consider the look. Do you prefer a more natural aesthetic or a little added character? Ceramic offers the most natural look, while gold can add a little edge.
Lastly, consider the cost. Ceramic and gold alloy is the most costly, so they may not be suitable options if you need a few dental crowns or a bridge.
Summary
Before looking through the types of dental crowns and making a final decision, speak to a dentist. The dentist can examine your tooth and suggest the best results.
Contact Great Alpine Dental today to book an appointment with one of our expert dentists. We’d be happy to assist if you need a new dental crown or a dental crown replacement.
