A broken tooth is not only unsightly, but it can also be downright painful. When it comes to dental crowns, there are many different options to choose from in today’s world of dentistry.
A crown is a cap that your dentist puts over a tooth to restore the tooth to its normal size, shape, color, and most importantly, function. A crown will not only improve the appearance of your tooth, but it will make it stronger.
There are several reasons that people of any age may need a crown, including filling a cavity that is too large for a regular filling. Also, a crown may be used to strengthen a tooth that is cracked or worn down, causing it to weaken. If you have to undergo a root canal treatment, the crown will protect your restored tooth. A crown can also be used to improve your beautiful smile by covering discolored or misshapen teeth.
Crowns can be used in the mouths of people of all ages but which one should you choose for your situation? Below is a comprehensive list of the types of dental crowns available and the advantages of each one to help you and your dentist make the best decision for you.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Dental Crowns
Porcelain fused to metal crowns offer you the best of two worlds. The porcelain part of the crown can provide you with a more natural-looking tooth while the metal portion of the crown is very durable and strong. This type of crown requires your dentist to remove a moderate amount of your original tooth.
Ceramic Dental Crowns
The ceramic, porcelain-based dental crowns are commonly used for restoration of a front tooth due to their natural color and texture. They blend well with your other teeth and can even be altered to match your remaining teeth. This type of crown does not work as well on molars and pre-molars since those are used for heavy biting which can cause the ceramic to become brittle.
Gold Alloys Dental Crowns
Very compatible with your gums, dental crowns created with gold alloys feature various metals, including gold and copper. This type of crown is very durable and will not wear down your underlying tooth.
Base Metal Alloys Dental Crowns
Base metal alloys dental crowns are extremely strong and resistant to corrosion over time. This type of crown is constructed from softer metals that are gentle and will not harm adjoining teeth. Also, a minimum amount of your original tooth has to be removed during the process by your dentist for this type of crown.
No matter what crown you choose, it can break just like your natural teeth. It is imperative that you take excellent care of your teeth to ensure your crown lasts for years to come.
Whether you need a crown to correct a misshapen or discolored tooth or to reinforce the strength and endurance of a tooth, to decide which dental crown is the best for you and your smile, contact your dentist.
