Do you have a tooth that is cracked, broken, or weakened by decay? If so, then you can benefit from treatment with dental crowns. If you want to do some research before you receive dental crown treatment, you have come to the right place.
Here is some useful information to help you make a decision regarding getting dental crowns.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is exactly what its name says it is — a type of dental restoration that is fitted over an existing tooth to restore its function and appearance. It is, essentially, a cover or "cap" that a dentist can put over a patient's tooth.
Dental crowns can be used to remedy a variety of dental problems in a single treatment.
What Types Of Dental Crowns Are Available?
Dental crowns are not created equal. They come in a variety of materials to match the needs of different patients. The main types of dental crowns that are available today include:
- Metal crowns including gold, nickel, chromium, and palladium crowns
- All-porcelain crowns
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
- All-resin crowns
- Ceramics including porcelain and zirconia crowns
Each of these crowns has specific features, pros, and cons that lend themselves to different applications. For this reason, a choice should be made based on patient-specific needs.
How Can You Choose the Right Crowns for You?
As mentioned above, you'll have to look at the pros and cons of the various types of dental crowns available out there in order to make a well-informed decision about which one best suits you. When weighing your options, consider the following factors:
- Strength: the different dental crown materials vary in terms of strength, with metals offering the most strength and endurance. When choosing crowns, consider the function of the damaged tooth. Teeth that are subjected to great biting and cutting forces will require high-strength crowns that can withstand those forces, for example.
- Aesthetics: crowns can impact the appearance of your smile greatly, especially if they are placed over your front teeth. If you want your damaged tooth to look like your healthy, undamaged teeth, consider choosing crowns that mimic the look of your natural teeth. Ceramics can be an excellent choice in this regard. If both strength and aesthetics matter to you, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can fit the bill.
- Price: the various types of dental crowns vary in terms of price. You'll certainly want to choose something that can meet your functional and aesthetic requirements without breaking the bank.
Dental crowns are one of the many different types of treatments offered as part of restorative dentistry solutions. To find out more about this treatment option, consult your local dentist.
