Dental crowns, also known as “caps,” preserve the functionality of damaged teeth. This common dental restoration may be used to protect a cracked tooth, badly broken tooth, extensive decay or large previous fillings. The crown will restore the structure and integrity of the affected tooth and restore it to its normal functionality. It is also the recommended option after the tooth has had a root canal treatment done. It encases the damaged tooth with a custom-designed material. Dentists today have a variety of conservative treatment options through which to restore teeth. These options should be explored and discussed before selecting the full coverage crown.
Crowns can last between 10 and 15 years or longer, though results vary depending upon your unique circumstances. Additionally, the artistic skill of the laboratory technologist creating the restoration will determine its aesthetic appeal
The predominant choices of restorative materials for the full coverage crowns are:
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns:
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns provide a strong, durable and aesthetic treatment option. One of the key factors for the aesthetic and functional success of this type of crown is ensuring the preparation of the underlying tooth structure provides adequate space for the appropriate thickness of the material selected.
One consideration with the porcelain-fused-to-metal option is that they may tend to show the underlying metal or gold margin at the gum line as gums recede over time. This will not be a major concern if the restored teeth are posterior ones (back teeth). Some patients opt for this type, but replace it at a later date in order to obtain a better aesthetic effect. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns with an all porcelain collar can eliminate this issue.
All-Ceramic Crowns:
The most common materials of choice for all-ceramic crowns are zirconia or aluminous. They provide a metal-free aesthetic option with a number of benefits.
By eliminating the need for the supportive metal core, an aesthetic all-ceramic crown can be created with a reduced thickness of material. This makes it a more favorable treatment choice in areas with limited space. Additionally, the elimination of the metal core allows for light transmission through the porcelain for a more life-like and attractive look.
All-ceramic materials continue to evolve in strength and durability, but caution should still be exercised for areas of the mouth requiring heavy function such as chewing.
Gold and Precious metal Crowns:
Although not as popular a treatment choice for aesthetic reasons, gold or precious metal is still indicated in some cases. For example, patients with strong bites and those with parafunctional habits and bruxism (such as grinding or clenching) might be better served with a gold crown. This traditional restorative material can provide stronger support to the remaining healthy tooth structure. Gold offers a high level of durability that is appropriate for teeth located in the back of the mouth (such as the molars), where they will not be highly visible. Gold crowns offer greater longevity and require less tooth reductions than porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal alternatives. Furthermore, when chewing, gold tends to be less abrasive to the opposing tooth than porcelain. This helps to prevent wearing of the teeth in long run.
