Dentists use crowns to protect weak or damaged teeth or to reinforce other dental work, such as dental implants or root canals. When you visit your dentist in MA for this treatment, they can use multiple different types of crowns. Which type your dentist selects depends on a few factors, including the position of the tooth and why they are applying a crown.
Here’s an overview of the five types of dental crowns and why your MA dentist would use each one.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are ideal for teeth that are visible when you smile, such as front teeth. People like them for their natural appearance, as your dentist can color-match the crown to the surrounding teeth. Porcelain crowns are highly aesthetic, with a translucent quality that mimics the natural look of tooth enamel. They’re also free of metal, which can be a plus for patients with metal allergies. However, they can be less durable than some other types of crowns, especially if you grind your teeth or have a strong bite. They might not be the best choice for back teeth where heavy chewing occurs.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth but are more often used for back teeth where strength is essential. They provide a good balance of durability and aesthetics. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer a strong bond with the underlying tooth structure and are more durable than all-porcelain crowns. The porcelain layer can still be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making them relatively natural-looking. However, these crowns can sometimes show a dark metal line at the gumline, particularly if the gum recedes. This metal line can be visible when the gums are not flush with the crown.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are often used for back teeth that require a lot of strength and durability, such as molars. Dentists also choose them for patients who need a long-lasting crown and do not have cosmetic concerns for these teeth. Metal crowns are extremely durable and resistant to wear, which makes them ideal for high-stress areas like the back of the mouth. They are also less likely to break or chip compared to other crown types. The primary drawback is that they are not very aesthetic and can be noticeable, which is why they are usually not used for front teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth. They are chosen for their strength and durability, as well as their natural appearance. Zirconia is also highly durable and resistant to fractures. These crowns offer a good balance of aesthetics and strength, making them suitable for various locations in the mouth. They also don’t require a metal substructure, so there’s no risk of a visible metal line. They can be more abrasive to opposing teeth compared to porcelain crowns. Also, some people find them to be a bit more opaque than natural teeth.
Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are often used as a temporary solution while waiting for a more permanent crown. They are also much less expensive, so they are more common when cost is a concern. However, they are less durable than other crown types, with a higher likelihood of wearing down or fracturing over time. They can also stain or discolor more easily compared to porcelain or zirconia crowns.
