Types of Dental Crowns: Exploring Your Options 

Dental crowns are a common dental treatment used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They not only improve the appearance of your smile. They also provide strength and protection to weakened teeth. However, not all dental crowns are the same.  

Here we will explore different types of dental crowns that you need to know about. Understanding these dental crown choices will help you make an informed decision when discussing your treatment options with your dentist. 

Different Types of Dental Crowns You Need to Know. 

Here are different types of dental crowns you need to know: 

Traditional Dental Crowns 

Traditional dental crowns have been used for decades and are still widely used today. These crowns are typically made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic materials. They are known for their durability and natural appearance.  

Traditional crowns are custom-made in a dental laboratory, and the process usually requires two separate dental appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown.  

An impression is then taken to create a mold for the crown, which is sent to the dental laboratory. In the second appointment, the permanent crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth. 

Temporary Dental Crowns 

These crowns are usually made of acrylic or stainless steel and are designed to be temporary solutions. 

Temporary crowns are not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as permanent crowns. They also serve an important purpose in protecting the tooth until the final restoration is ready. They are usually attached with temporary cement and are easily removable during the second appointment. 

Same-Day Crowns 

With advancements in dental technology, same-day crowns have become a popular option for many patients.  

These crowns are created and placed in a single dental appointment. The dentist uses computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to create a digital impression of the tooth. This digital impression is then used to fabricate the crown on-site. It helps in eliminating the need for a dental laboratory.  

Same-day crowns are typically made from ceramic materials and offer the advantage of convenience and immediate results. 

3/4 or On-lay Crowns 

3/4 or on-lay crowns are a conservative option for dental restorations. Unlike traditional crowns, which cover the entire tooth, 3/4 or on-lay crowns only cover a portion of the tooth.  

These crowns are often used when the tooth has only minor damage or decay. They are designed to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible while still providing strength and protection.  

On-lay crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin, depending on the specific needs of the patient. 

Crown Material Options You Can Have as Your Crown Choices  

Here are different dental crown types by material to know: 

Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns have been in use for decades. These crowns are incredibly durable and long-lasting, making them an excellent choice for restoring molars and premolars, where the forces of chewing are greater. Metal crowns are made from alloys. They offer strength and resistance to wear. However, their metallic appearance may not be aesthetically pleasing to some patients. 

Porcelain Crowns 

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice due to their natural appearance. These crowns are made entirely from porcelain, which mimics the transparency and color of natural teeth.  

Porcelain crowns are an excellent option for restoring front teeth or any visible teeth. This is because they provide a seamless blend with the surrounding teeth.  

They are highly resistant to staining and offer excellent aesthetics. 

PFM Crowns (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal) 

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. The underlying structure of PFM crowns is made of metal, typically an alloy of base metals. While a porcelain layer is fused onto it. 

This type of crown offers a balance between durability and aesthetics. PFM crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth. However, over time, the metal layer may become visible near the gum line, compromising the aesthetics of the crown. 

Pressed Ceramic Crowns 

Pressed ceramic crowns are created using advanced technology that allows for precise customization and natural-looking results.  

These crowns are made from a single block of ceramic material, which is pressed and shaped to match the tooth's structure. Pressed ceramic crowns offer excellent aesthetics, durability, and resistance to staining. They are an ideal choice for front and back teeth, especially for patients who prefer metal-free restorations. 

Resin Crowns 

Resin crowns are made from a mixture of plastic and ceramic materials. These crowns are a popular choice due to their ability to match the natural color of your teeth. This is making them virtually indistinguishable. 

Additionally, resin crowns are a more affordable option compared to other types of crowns. However, they are less durable and may not be suitable for patients with heavy biting forces or those who grind their teeth. 

Stainless Steel Crowns 

Stainless steel crowns are commonly used for temporary restorations, especially in pediatric dentistry. These crowns are pre-fabricated and can be easily fitted over the damaged tooth.  

Stainless steel crowns are ideal for protecting the underlying tooth structure until a permanent crown can be placed.  

They are cost-effective, durable, and require minimal tooth preparation. However, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as other types of crowns and are typically used for posterior teeth. 

All-Ceramic Crowns 

All-ceramic crowns are highly popular due to their excellent aesthetic appeal. Made entirely from ceramic materials, these crowns offer a translucent appearance that closely resembles natural teeth.  

They are an ideal choice for patients with metal allergies or those who prefer a more natural-looking smile.  

All-ceramic crowns are durable, biocompatible, and provide excellent aesthetics. However, they may not be as strong as other types of crowns. This makes them more suitable for front teeth rather than molars. 

Zirconia Crowns 

Zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability. These crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a naturally occurring mineral that is highly resistant to chipping and cracking.  

Zirconia crowns are incredibly versatile and can be used for both anterior and posterior teeth. They provide excellent aesthetics, strength, and a precise fit.  

However, due to their strength, more tooth preparation is required compared to other types of crowns. 

Gold Crowns 

Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for centuries and are known for their exceptional longevity. They are made of a gold alloy, which provides excellent strength and durability. Gold crowns are highly biocompatible. It means they rarely cause allergic reactions or irritation in the mouth.  

Additionally, gold crowns require minimal removal of tooth structure, making them a conservative option. However, their distinct gold color may not be appealing to everyone.  

E-Max Crowns 

E-max crowns are a type of all-ceramic crown known for their exceptional aesthetic qualities. They are made from a single block of lithium disilicate ceramic, which is renowned for its strength and natural-looking appearance.  

E-max crowns are highly translucent, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. They are an excellent choice for restoring front teeth. This is because they provide optimal aesthetics without compromising strength.  

However, e-max crowns may not be as durable as other types and are more prone to chipping and cracking. 

Final Thoughts  

That is all for different types of dental crowns. Choosing the right type of dental crown is a decision that should be made in consultation with your dentist. Each type of crown offers unique features and benefits. Understanding and discussing these with your dentist can help you make the right crown choices.  

Contact your dentist in Union City, Dr. Zafar Sayeedi, at Noble Dental Care to learn more about types of Dental Crowns. 

Resource:

Top 6 Tips to make your crowns and bridges last longer.

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly recommend that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.*