A dental crown is a custom-made covering that fits over an existing tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used to protect a weak tooth from breaking, to hold a dental bridge in place, to cover a dental implant, or to cover a discolored or misshapen tooth.
Crowns can be made from metal, porcelain, or a combination of the two materials. However, combining the materials restore the strength and appearance of a tooth damaged due to decay, fracture, or wear. But how should patients choose the perfect dental crowns?
1. Consider the Material
The type of material used for a dental crown will depend on the patient’s needs and preferences. When it comes to dental crowns, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different materials are used for other reasons and in different situations, and it’s essential to understand the materials used.
a. Metal (Gold)
Gold is the most popular choice for dental crowns. It is the most durable material and can last for many years. However, it is also the most expensive option and synthetic material used as dental crowns. Therefore, consider using metals only if the appearance does not matter.
b. Porcelain
Porcelain is a popular choice for dental crowns because it is strong and can be made to match the color of your other teeth. It is also the most natural-looking material and is the most aesthetically pleasing option. However, it is also the most brittle material and can easily chip or fracture.
c. Composite
Composite is a good choice for dental crowns because it is strong and can be made to match the color of your other teeth. It is also less expensive than other materials and can be used to repair minor chips and fractures. However, it is less durable and may need to be replaced more often.
2. Look at the Appearance
Appearance refers to how natural the dental crown looks when worn. The first factor to consider is the color of the crown. Dentists can match the crown to the color of your natural teeth. Therefore, it blends in seamlessly with people not noticing any difference.
Porcelain crowns are often the most realistic looking, as they are the closest match to natural teeth in color and texture. However, metal crowns can also be used, providing a more durable option. But then again, it depends on the preference the patient considers.
3. Test the Durability
The durability of the dental crown is a significant factor to consider when deciding which type to choose. Metal crowns are the most durable, made of solid materials such as gold, silver, or platinum. However, the durability of the dental crown also depends on the patient’s lifestyle.
Porcelain crowns are durable but can chip or break if improperly handled. For instance, if a person grinds their teeth at night, a metal crown may be the best option since it is more resistant to wear and tear. Over time, patients may need to change them more frequently.
Conclusion
The best type of dental crown will depend on the patient’s needs and preferences. Metal crowns are the most durable but also the most expensive option. Porcelain crowns are less expensive and can be made to match the patient’s natural teeth.
However, they can chip or break if not taken care of properly. Ultimately, the patient should discuss their options with their dentist to determine the best type of dental crown for them. Consulting with an expert is still the best way to accommodate a patient’s concerns.
Manassas Smiles is an emergency dental clinic based in Manassas. We offer standard dental cleaning, implants, and gum disease treatment. Book an appointment on our website or visit the best dental clinic near you today.