Dental crowns are among the best options for rebuilding a damaged tooth. Whether your tooth is cracked, there is a large cavity, or you just had a root canal, a crown can restore strength to your smile. But did you know that there are different types of dental crowns?
There are various types of dental crowns that offer different advantages and disadvantages. Some crowns may be a better fit depending on your needs, your budget, and personal preference.
In this article, we will highlight the most common types of dental crowns and help you decide what option is the best fit for you.
What is a Dental Crown?
Before we discuss the options, let’s first understand what a dental crown is. A crown is a cap that covers the damaged tooth. A crown protects the tooth while also restoring its shape and size and improving its appearance. A dentist in St. Albert will often recommend crowns for teeth that are cracked, worn down, or weakened from large fillings or decay.
Types of Crown
1. Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
Best for: Front teeth or patients allergic to metal.
Specialty: Porcelain and ceramic crowns are the most natural way to go. They combine to mimic the colour of the adjacent teeth, so they are very difficult to see. This is one of the reasons they are used for anterior teeth, which are the most significant from an aesthetic standpoint.
Pros:
- Blend seamlessly with natural teeth
- Great option for patients with metal allergies/sensitivities
- Biocompatible and less aggressive on gums
Cons:
- Not as strong as the metal crown type option
- Chips or wears down over time, especially if you use your teeth as a grinding mechanism
If you are searching for dental crowns near you, porcelain or ceramic crown options are a good all-around option when considering comfort and appearance, especially when the aesthetics of your smile are in the most distress.
2. Metal Crowns (Gold or Base Metal Alloys)
Best for: Back molars and patients who are in need of strength and durability.
Specialty: If there’s one thing that metal crowns have going for them, it’s strength and durability. Metal crowns are usually made of at least predominantly gold alloy, or a mix of other metals, such as nickel, chromium. Metal crowns can withstand strenuous chewing and biting more than most other options.
Pros:
- Extremely strong and long-lasting
- Rarely chip or break
- Less tooth structure needs to be cut away
Cons:
- Do not blend into natural teeth (obvious colour)
- They are not appropriate for visible teeth – anterior
So, what is the downside of a dental crown? With metal crowns, most of the issues are cosmetic. Tough, but they!
3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Best for: A balance between strength and appearance
Specialty: PFM crowns combine the best of both worlds. They have a metal base for strength, with a porcelain outer layer that mimics natural tooth colour. These are commonly used on both front and back teeth.
Pros:
- Durable and strong
- Better appearance than metal crowns
- Widely used and trusted by dentists
Cons:
- Over time, the metal underneath can show as a dark line near the gums
- Not as natural-looking as all-porcelain crowns
- Can cause wear on opposing teeth
So, how long does a dental crown last? Typically, with good oral hygiene, a PFM crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer!
4. Zirconia Crowns
Best for: People who want both durability and a tooth-colored finish
Specialty: Zirconia is a newer material in the dental world and is gaining popularity quickly. These crowns are incredibly strong- even stronger than porcelain- and still look fairly natural.
Pros:
- Very strong and resistant to cracking
- Tooth-colored, blends well with other teeth
- Less likely to wear down surrounding teeth
Cons:
- Slightly more opaque than porcelain
- It can be difficult to adjust if needed
Many people worry, Is it painful to get a crown? The answer is no, thanks to modern dental techniques and anesthesia, getting a zirconia or any other crown is generally a comfortable experience.
5. Resin Crowns
Best for: Temporary use or tight budgets
Specialty: Resin crowns are usually used as temporary crowns while you wait for a permanent one. They’re made from a plastic-like material and are much cheaper than other types.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to shape and adjust
- Quick to produce
Cons:
- Not very durable
- Can wear down or break more easily
Resin crowns offer a cost-effective, short-term solution if you need something quick and easy, while waiting for your permanent crown to be ready.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right dental crown depends on a few key things:
- Location of the tooth: Front teeth usually need crowns that look natural; back teeth need strength.
- Your budget: Some materials cost more than others.
- Durability: If you grind your teeth or have strong bite forces, you’ll need something tough.
- Aesthetics: Do you care if the crown is visible? If yes, you’ll want a tooth-colored material.
Your dentist will help you weigh these factors and recommend the best crown for your specific situation.
Your Smile Deserves the Best
Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth or just trying to protect your dental health for the long haul, dental crowns are a smart investment. From the natural look of porcelain to the strength of zirconia or metal, there’s a crown out there that fits your needs.
Welcome to Jensen Lakes Dental. We’re committed to helping you make the right choice. Our team will walk you through every option and ensure your crown is as comfortable, functional, and beautiful as it should be.
Ready to restore your smile with confidence? book your appointment with Jensen Lakes Dental today — and take the first step toward a healthier, stronger smile!