Understanding the Difference Between Various Dental Crown Materials
For individuals with chipped, broken, severely discolored or decayed teeth, dental crowns may be a good option for restoring smiles. Dental crowns are essentially caps that are sized and shaped to resemble a natural tooth. They are placed over an existing tooth, which is filed down to hold the dental crown in place, or a crown can also be secured in place with a dental implant.
If you are considering having one or more dental crowns fitted as part of a dental treatment program, then understanding the difference between various materials used to manufacture dental crowns can make it easier for you to determine which type of crown material is right for you. Here are a few dental crown options to consider:
Metal – Metal dental crowns are among the strongest options, although their major disadvantage is their aesthetic look. The material used to create these types of dental crowns is a metal alloy and is very long-lasting and durable. Since the metal is clearly visible, however, they are not always a pleasing option for restoring the look of a smile and are best used only in less visible areas, such as back molars.
Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic
Porcelain Fused To Metal – To reap the benefits of the strength provided by metal dental crowns without the aesthetic drawbacks, another good option is a dental crown that has porcelain fused to the metal. This provides a metal base for strength, but the exterior surface is porcelain, allowing it to more naturally blend in with your other teeth. Because of the porcelain on the crown, this option is not quite as durable as a metal only dental crown, but it is still long-lasting and durable. One other drawback is that sometimes the metal beneath the porcelain shows through as a dark shadow or line, making the teeth not quite as “natural” looking as all porcelain or all ceramic crowns.
All Porcelain or All Ceramic –These dental crown materials offer the most natural look in your mouth, since they can be made to look just like real teeth. For those people who are allergic to metal, or who prefer not to have a metal crown tooth, all porcelain or all ceramic crowns can be a good option. The primary drawback, however, is that the material can wear down or chip over time, requiring repair or replacement. They are not quite as durable as porcelain-fused metal crowns. They also cause more wearing down of opposing teeth than metal crowns do.
Resin Crown – These are typically the least expensive option when it comes to selecting a dental crown material, but they come with the disadvantage that resin can wear down more quickly than other material types. Resin dental crowns look good in your mouth, but may need to be replaced more quickly than other types.
If you are considering dental crowns for restorative or cosmetic dental purposes, it is best to discuss your options with the dental professionals at Park Dental Care. We will help you choose the dental crown material that best fits your needs.
For more information about dental crowns in Queens, contact Park Dental Care today at 718-Dentist. At Park Dental Care of Astoria, we offer a wide selection of restorative and cosmetic dental options, including various types of dental crowns. Queens residents, as well as those located throughout metropolitan NYC, will find us conveniently located near the N & Q subway lines at the Astoria-Ditmars Blvd. station. Let us show you how dental crowns can help restore your teeth to their natural beauty and function!
