In dentistry, the use of crowns is a common method of improving the health and appearance of a tooth. When a tooth suffers extensive damage, fitting a crown after the tooth has been repaired provides essential protection that helps it remain functional. While most crowns are made from porcelain, there are other materials that can be used to make crowns.
Uses of Crowns
A crown, also known as a cap, is a kind of tooth restoration that covers the visible surface of a tooth. The crown is like a capsule for the whole tooth and is used to restore the natural shape of a tooth, providing both support and protection. Crowns are fitted as the final step of a repair procedure for a damaged tooth. Some possible reasons to fit a crown include:
- Repairing a tooth that is badly fractured or broken.
- Restore and protect a tooth that has suffered from the extensive loss of enamel.
- Support and protection for a tooth that has been repaired with a large filling.
- Protection for a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure.
The main function of a crown is to make it possible to repair a tooth that has suffered extensive damage. When a tooth is badly damaged it remains vulnerable even after it has been repaired. Covering the tooth with a crown strengthens it so that it’s more resistant to damage and better able to fulfill its normal function.
In addition, covering a damaged tooth with a crown restores its original appearance, so that the smile isn’t negatively affected by the damage.
Different types of materials use for creating crowns
Most crowns are made from porcelain. Other common crown materials include gold and PFM, which is a fusion of porcelain and metal.
Porcelain (AKA all-ceramic)
Porcelain crowns are made from specially-engineered dental-grade ceramic. Several different formulations are available. This means that it’s possible to choose ceramics that are formulated for strength as a primary consideration or ceramics that are developed specifically for their aesthetic appearance.
Generally, this means choosing between aesthetic crowns and bruxer crowns. A bruxer crown is made of high-strength porcelain. It’s suitable for teeth such as molars and incisors, which do the bulk of the biting or chewing of food. In contrast, aesthetic crowns are made of porcelain that isn’t quite as strong but has a superior appearance that’s more natural and has a better color.
Gold
The main advantage of gold as a material for making crowns is its longevity and durability. Gold lasts longer than any other crown material, including porcelain and PFM, and can withstand more pressure too.
The main issue that most people have with gold is that it’s very noticeable. While some opt for gold for its unusual appearance, most people prefer to stick with the natural tooth colors that porcelain and PFM offer.
PFM
PFM is porcelain fused to metal. These crowns are a kind of hybrid, with a metal frame that is covered with porcelain. PFM crowns are typically sturdier than all-ceramic crowns and can withstand more force.
Talk to Your Dentist for Advice on Your Restoration Options
For teeth that are badly damaged and in need of repair, a crown can often mean the difference between saving the tooth and removing it. Crowns provide restored teeth with essential support and protection, helping to ensure that they function effectively and are safeguarded against further damage.
If you need dental work that may require crowns, talk to your dentist about your options. Your dentist can help you decide what kind of crowns will provide the best combination of protection and aesthetics.