Types of Dental Crowns
Russellville, AL
 Dental crowns, also known as dental caps or tooth crowns, are prosthetic devices used to cover damage or tooth decay. The crown restores its shape, size, strength, and renews its appearance. Crowns are also used in combination with dental implants to restore a missing tooth.
There are several types of dental crowns with their own unique characteristics. Porcelain crowns are popular for their appearance that mimics the natural tooth, so they are often used to repair the visible front teeth. Metal crowns are known for their durability and strength. This makes them suitable for molars that endure a lot of chewing force. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the aesthetics of porcelain with the strength of metal.
This offers a balance between appearance and durability. All-ceramic crowns are preferred for their natural look and are an excellent choice for patients with metal allergies. Zirconia crowns are renowned for their appearance and longevity, this makes them suitable for both front and back teeth. Temporary crowns are used while permanent crowns are crafted.
A patient's choice for their tooth crown depends on the location of the tooth, aesthetic preferences, and budget. At Singing River Dentistry, we consult with each patient about the strengths of each type of crown so that you can make the best choice for your individual needs.
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What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are designed to encase a damaged or weakened tooth and restore its functionality, strength, and appearance. These tooth crowns are custom made to fit over the entire visible portion of the prepared tooth, starting at the gum line. A dental crown procedure protects and strengthens a tooth weakened by tooth decay, fractures, large fillings, or after a root canal. A dental crown procedure starts with the removal of a portion of the tooth's outer layer for the crown to fit over. Then the placement and bonding of the custom designed crown onto the prepared tooth. Crowns are also used with a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns come in various types, and each one offers unique strengths that address specific dental needs. The selection of a specific type of dental crown depends on factors such as the tooth's location, cosmetic considerations, and individual preferences. We guide patients to informed choices based on their unique situation.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are renowned for their natural appearance, this makes them a popular choice for front teeth where cosmetics are crucial.
Ceramic Crowns
All-ceramic crowns are preferred for their lifelike look and are an excellent option for individuals with metal sensitivities.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are composed of alloys like gold or silver. They are valued for their durability, this makes them suitable for molars that have to endure bite forces.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the cosmetic benefits of porcelain with the robustness of metal. This strikes a balance between appearance and durability.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns stand out for their exceptional strength and longevity. This makes them suitable for front teeth as well as molars.
E-max Crowns
E-max crowns, also referred to as Max Crowns, are crafted from a single block of lithium disilicate. This material is more durable than most other ceramic materials.
Gold Crowns
Gold has been used in dental restorations for thousands of years. But today, gold is mostly used to restore molars because it lasts for decades, and is not visible in the back of the mouth.
Normal Dental Crown
Ceramic crowns are considered to be a normal dental crown because they are the most common tooth crown choice. They are popular because ceramic mimics natural teeth.
CEREC Dental Crown
CEREC is short for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. A CEREC crown restoration is also called same day service because this type of dental crown procedure is done in a single day. Traditional crown treatments require two separate visits. One to take an impression of the natural tooth, shape it, and fit a temporary crown. Another visit is required to fit and bond the permanent crown to the prepared tooth after it has been crafted.
Choosing the Right Dental Crown for You
Selecting the perfect dental crown requires many considerations. To choose the right dental crown for an individual patient, we help them weigh factors like the location of the affected tooth, functional requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Appearance is the most important consideration for front teeth, so porcelain or all-ceramic crowns are preferred for their natural look. Durability is the most important factor for back teeth. Metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the right choice for durability. Individuals with metal sensitivities usually choose zirconia crowns for their molars. It is crucial to discuss these factors with our team so that we can provide all of the necessary information to patients, and help them make the best choice for their needs.
Dental Crown FAQ's
How long do dental crowns last?
Every dental crown material lasts for many years, but they may need to be replaced at some point due to wear and tear. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups ensure their longevity. On average, crowns last five to 15 years, depending on various factors such as the material it is made of, dental hygiene habits, teeth grinding, damage, and the quality of the crown placement.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
The gums are numbed with anesthetic before the tooth is shaped for a crown fitting, and they may be numbed again when the crown is bonded. Patients may experience some tenderness in the gums around the crown, but discomfort is minimal.
Can dental crowns be whitened?
Crowns are made of materials that cannot be whitened. If you are considering a whitening treatment, but also need a tooth crown, please call us at 256-460-4191 to explore your options.
Call Your Dentist in Russellville, AL Today to Schedule a Dental Crown
With so many different materials to choose from for dental crowns, patients have many questions that we are happy to answer. Please call the Singing River Dentistry team at 256-460-4191 to schedule a consultation.
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