When fillings aren’t enough to fix a damaged tooth, dentists typically recommend dental crowns in Candler, NC. They place these “caps” on top of the tooth to protect, cover, and restore the look and shape of the teeth. It’s worth noting that this restorative solution comes in different types. If you want a long-lasting solution to a chipped, cracked, broken, or decayed tooth, it’s best to learn more about the different types of crowns to determine the one that suits you best.
A Closer Look at the Different Types of Dental Crowns
Resin Crowns
These crowns are made from a dental composite resin and the dentist color-matches them to blend with the rest of your teeth. While resin crowns are one of the most affordable options, they’re weaker and more susceptible to damage than other types of crowns.
Porcelain Crowns
Since all-porcelain crowns are entirely made of porcelain material, they perfectly match your surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color. Consequently, they provide the best and most natural look for front teeth restorations. They’re also highly recommended for patients with allergies to metal.
However, they may be more expensive than other types of crowns. Additionally, they lack the strength of metal crowns and have been known to wear down the opposing teeth. Although all-porcelain crowns aren’t as strong as metal crowns, they can last a long time with proper care and maintenance.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Dentists often use stainless steel crowns to restore primary teeth in children who have undergone baby root canals or pulp therapy. These crowns are also used to protect treated teeth while permanent crowns are being made. While serving as temporary crowns, stainless steel crowns effectively reduce the risk of bacteria and decay contaminating the treatment site.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are entirely made out of metal. Some metals that can be used to fabricate them are platinum, gold, copper, and base metals such as nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium. Moreover, metal crowns are typically a combination of precious metal and base metal alloys.
These crowns are known for their resistance to decay and ability to withstand chewing and biting. In addition, they don’t wear out the opposing teeth. For these reasons, they’re ideal for restoring molars. Although they’re arguably the strongest option, metal crowns have a metallic appearance and may corrode over time.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal-Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are made using a metal base with porcelain material fused over the top. These crowns combine the strength and durability of metal with the tooth-like appearance of porcelain. Furthermore, they’re more affordable than all-porcelain crowns.
However, the metal in these crowns may produce a visible gray line at the gum line if your gums recede. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns may wear down more easily against the opposing teeth if you struggle with bruxism.
Zirconia Crowns
A relatively new material called zirconium oxide makes up zirconia crowns. Zirconium oxide is a type of ceramic that’s stronger, stiffer, and more split-resistant than porcelain and some metal alloys. For this reason, zirconia crowns can take higher loads without compromising the integrity of treated teeth.
Although these crowns are durable and gentle with other teeth, their opaque appearance can make them look less natural.
Considering Dental Crowns in Candler, NC?
At Cataloochee Dental Group, we’re committed to bringing high-quality dentistry using the latest in dental technology to offer you our full slate of services from one convenient location. If you’re ready to achieve the smile of your dreams, contact our office today!
