What are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are covers that are placed over teeth that are damaged. Your natural teeth can be damaged due to things like decay, cracks, and oral injuries. To resolve these issues, dental crowns are used to restore the shape of the impacted tooth. They serve as protection from further complications and restore the look of your teeth. But not all dental crowns are created equal, there are various types of dental crowns. Learn more about dental crowns.

Different Types of Dental Crowns

1. Resin Dental Crowns

As the name suggests, all-resin crowns are made from a composite resin material. This synthetic material is a combination of different plastic-like materials that make it easy to color match your natural teeth. In most cases, resin crowns are only used as a temporary measure, while permanent crowns are being created.

Pros: All-resin crowns tend to be the most affordable option when comparing dental crowns. The material used also allows for precise color matching; this allows your smile to keep looking natural. The synthetic material used is less harsh on opposing teeth, making it less likely that your natural teeth wear down rapidly.

Cons: Resin dental crowns are one of the weaker options. They tend to wear down at a much quicker rate and don’t hold up to chewing very well. Additionally, a large amount of the natural tooth structure needs to be removed to accommodate all-resin crowns. In the large majority of cases, all-resin dental crowns are not suitable as a permanent option.

2. Ceramic/Porcelain Dental Crowns

Ceramic and porcelain dental crowns tend to be the most natural-tooth-looking option. There are a few different options within the ceramic dental crown category, porcelain being one of them. We should also mention that they are completely metal-free.

Pros: Ceramic or porcelain dental crowns offer an appealing option for many patients. The materials used in these types of crowns are great at mimicking a natural tooth and the color matching capabilities make them a preferred choice. This option is also great for patients who may suffer from metal allergies.

Cons: Ceramic crowns can be pretty abrasive. This usually leads to opposing teeth wearing down with the constant contact of the dental crown. While they are more durable than resin crowns they aren’t the strongest option. Ceramic dental crowns are also more prone to fractures, which can lead to infections if not treated.

3. Porcelain-Metal Fused Dental Crowns

Porcelain fused to metal crowns feature a metal core and porcelain outer structure. This option provides a strong dental crown without compromising aesthetic appeal.

Pros: The metal core or inner structure offers great structural stability. Aside from all metal options, porcelain fused to metal crowns are the most long-lasting option. While not as good as all-porcelain options, the outer structure of fused crowns has a good color matching ability.

Cons: As time passes, the dark metal color may start to show through the porcelain material. This isn’t the most appealing look. Again just like all-ceramic crowns, the outer porcelain structure can be abrasive against opposing teeth, causing them to wear down. The porcelain is still prone to fractures.

4. Metal Dental Crowns

Metal crowns are the longest-lasting and strongest option. Metal alloys are used to construct metal dental crowns; two or more pure metals are combined to create the new metal alloy material. Gold, platinum, aluminum, tin, copper, and nickel can all be used in the creation of metal dental crowns.

Pros: Their durability makes them a top-notch option. They are less prone to cracking or chipping. Metal crowns also require the least amount of natural tooth to be removed.

Cons: The appearance of metal dental crowns is their biggest con. The obvious metal color makes them less appealing and much more noticeable. Additionally, if you suffer from metal allergies this may not be an option at all.

Green Meadow Dental offers dental crowns in Newington, CT, and the surrounding areas. Let our experienced dentists examine and advise you. We will provide our professional recommendation and tell you what your best option is. Contact us to schedule an office visit.