DIFFERENT TYPES OF DENTAL CROWNS

No matter how severe the decay or damage, your dentist will do everything they can to save as much of your natural tooth as possible. If the issue is bad enough they’ll need to extract the tooth—but before it comes to that, they’ll consider the placement of a dental veneer or a dental crown. Either of these appliances may be able to help save your tooth, and avoid extraction.

When the damage is more severe, though, the option the dentist will go with will often be a dental crown.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a dental prosthetic that is used to replace the natural crown of a tooth that has suffered decay or damage. This is done by reshaping and possibly filling a natural tooth to allow for the placement of a prosthetic crown.

Why a Crown?

When a tooth has sustained enough decay or damage, it can no longer be repaired with a filling or even a dental veneer. For a tooth with this level of damage, your dentist will likely recommend the placement of a dental crown.

A prosthetic crown is an excellent replacement choice as it provides a similar look and even a similar level of durability to your natural crown. A replacement crown also allows you to keep more of your natural tooth, instead of requiring the entire tooth to be pulled.

If you have a tooth that has suffered severe decay, or your tooth is severely cracked or chipped, set an appointment with your dentist and speak with them about what options are available. If they decide a dental crown is the best choice, you can discuss the different options for materials with them.

What Are the Different Options for Materials?

There are a variety of different materials that can be used to fabricate a replacement crown (although some are more popular than others). Below are a few of the different types of replacement crowns that may be available to you:

Porcelain

Porcelain is one of the more popular materials for the fabrication of a crown, as it closely resembles a natural tooth, while still providing protection and strength.

Ceramic

Ceramic material is another popular option, and is often more affordable than porcelain. It may not last as long as other options, though.

Gold

Gold crowns are made with gold, copper and other materials. While they are a strong option, they are also very noticeable.

Metal Alloy

Metal crowns are very durable, but also very visible. Because of this, they are a less popular option.

What Is the Difference Between the Options?

The choice of which type of crown is best for you is a choice that needs to be made between your dentist and you. A variety of factors may be involved in the decision, including the cost, appearance, longevity of the materials and more. Each option has their advantages and disadvantages. Your dentist will walk you through which options are best for your needs, and your budget.

West Mobile Dental Care, located in Mobile, AL, provides a full range of preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental options including dental crowns. Contact us today and schedule you're consultation.

Interesting in learning more about dental crowns? Here's additional information on the dental crown procedure.