Types of Materials Available for my Dental Crown

A dental crown can be fabricated from different types of materials. The dentist might recommend a particular material based on the location of the affected tooth or and amount of damage. This article explains the different materials used for making dental crowns so that you can make a guided decision when you finally meet with the dentist for a consultation.

Types of dental crown materials

Some of the materials available for making dental crowns include:

Zirconia crowns

Zirconia is still relatively new, but the impact has been significant. It is a type of ceramic material but considerably stronger. It can be thinner, therefore conserving natural tooth structure. The only drawback of zirconia is that it may appear opaque, which is fine for the back teeth, but for front teeth where a higher level of aesthetics is desirable, it may not be the first choice. This dental crown can handle the stress from chewing better than regular crowns.

Porcelain or ceramic crowns

Porcelain dental crowns are created with a finishing technique that gives them the translucent outlook and similarities to natural teeth. They can be fabricated and colored to blend in with surrounding teeth. They are typically the first choice for front row teeth where the cosmetic appeal is important. A variety of this crown is the Emax ceramic crown, which combines strength and excellent aesthetics. Patients with allergies to metals or do not want metal-based options can get the ceramic crown to restore their teeth.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns

This option takes its inner core from metal material and the covering from porcelain, thus combining the best of both materials – aesthetics and strength. To achieve the desired strength, each material requires a minimum thickness, which may increase the thickness of the crown. The crown is highly durable but the compromise is that excessive tooth structure will be removed to place it.

Although the crown is tooth-colored, the appearance is not all that alluring. The metal beneath may make the dental crown somewhat dull and not as realistically-looking as options like ceramic or zirconia crowns.

Metal crowns

A dental crown can be produced from different types of metal allows. Gold is the commonest and usually the preferred option. Metal crowns are far more durable than their counterparts. The major drawback is the color. Having a prominent silver or gold tooth is not exactly fanciful anymore.

Points to consider when choosing a dental crown material

For the dental crown to last, patients must consider the strength of the material. Usually, a crown should last about ten years. Another factor is the crown’s aesthetics. The goal, especially for front row teeth, is to make the crown look good and appealing. Dental crown materials have different visual properties. For back teeth where strength is required, an option like metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal might work.

In conclusion

There are different types of materials available to choose if you need to get a dental crown. The main point is to consult a dentist that understands the benefits and drawbacks of each one and can recommend the best option for you.

Request an appointment here: https://www.lastingimpressionsdentalgroup.com or call Lasting Impressions Dental Group at (832) 784-8212 for an appointment in our Houston office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Houston, TX.