Types of Dental Crowns
Most of us do our best to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles. Unfortunately, dental problems cannot be prevented entirely. Whether an injury, illness, or general wear and tear have led to cracked, weakened, or decayed teeth, it is vital to treat the problem. One of the most efficient ways to restore a tooth that has been cracked, broken, decayed, or is seriously misshapen or discolored is through the use of a dental crown. A dental crown is like a small cap that is placed over an existing tooth. A crown fully encases the visible portions of the tooth. A crown covers the tooth to restore its strength, size, shape, and overall appearance.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several options when it comes to dental crowns. When a dental crown is needed, Dr. Silvers, a leading Harrisburg cosmetic dentist, can help you decide what type of dental crown will work best for you. Dr. Silvers is happy to inform our Harrisburg patients about their choices when it comes to dental crowns. Here is an overview of the types of dental crowns available.
- Metal Crowns: A metal crown requires less tooth structure to be removed than with other dental crowns. A metal crown also causes less wear to opposing teeth. In addition, metal crowns can withstand the most wear from biting and chewing and rarely break. However, the obvious downside to a metal crown is the aesthetic factor. A metal crown is not tooth-colored, making it the least discreet of the crown options. A metal crown would be best suited for a tooth that is out of sight.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal: This type of crown has a metal center with a porcelain surface. The porcelain is tooth colored and looks more like a natural tooth than metal crowns. However, this type of crown causes more wear to opposing teeth than a metal or resin crown. Another downside of porcelain fused to metal crowns is that the porcelain may chip or crack or the metal center may sometimes show slightly through the porcelain layer.
- Resin: This crown is made entirely of resin. It is typically the least expensive option when it comes to dental crowns. However, a resin crown does not hold up as well to wear and is more prone to fractures.
- Ceramic or Porcelain: These crowns are made either entirely of porcelain or ceramic. This crown is made to match the color of your natural tooth better than any other option. This type of crown does cause slightly more wear to opposing teeth than a metal or porcelain fused to metal type of crown. Aesthetically, a ceramic or porcelain crown is one of the best options and is well-suited to front teeth that require restoration.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Silvers invites patients to visit our Harrisburg restorative dentistry practice. Dr. Silvers and our amazing staff can teach you more about your options when it comes to dental. Schedule an appointment today. We look forward to meeting you!
