Dental crowns are available in a range of materials, including metal, porcelain, and ceramic.
A dental crown is often a popular and effective option for those who have damaged a tooth and would like to restore both oral function and the aesthetic of the smile. If, for example, you have a chipped or broken tooth, you might consider this restorative treatment. Other possible reasons for opting for a dental crown include severe wear and tear caused by grinding and/or clenching; severe decay that has weakened a tooth; and a large filling that has weakened the structure of the tooth. When it comes to having a dental crown fitted, there are a few options available — read on to find out what types of crowns there are, and which one is best suited to your needs…
What types of crowns are there?
Crowns are available in four different materials: ceramic; porcelain fused to metal; gold alloy; and base metal alloys.
Ceramic crowns are a popular choice in cases where it is necessary to restore the front teeth, which are the most visible when smiling. Ceramic crowns can be matched to the natural colour of the teeth, which means that they blend in seamlessly. Similarly, porcelain fused to metal crowns can achieve a natural-looking aesthetic thanks to the porcelain outer layer, while the metal structure is extremely strong and durable.
Gold alloy crowns usually contain a number of strong, biocompatible metals, including gold and copper, while base metal alloy crowns are also highly durable. When dental crowns that are made of metal are placed, not as much tooth needs to be shaved down when compared with other materials.
How do you choose?
When it comes to choosing a dental crown, the best option for you will depend on your particular needs. Your dentist will advise you, based on the location of the crown, the severity of the damage that needs to be repaired, and your aesthetic goals. If you have more than one missing tooth, your dentist may recommend that you have a dental bridge placed — this is typically used between two crowns to fill the gap left by the missing teeth.
If durability is your main priority, metal alloys may be the best option for you. These crowns are highly resistant to corrosion. Porcelain and ceramic crowns, on the other hand, are ideal for those who are concerned about the cosmetic results of their treatment because they achieve such a natural-looking appearance.
No matter what type of dental crown you choose, you can expect the restoration to last for many years provided you practice proper oral hygiene. It is advisable that you brush and floss your teeth every day, and that you see your dentist for regular dental check-ups and cleans every six months.
How can we help?
At My Dental Care @ West End, we offer a range of restorative treatments, including crowns and bridges. We offer a choice of metal, porcelain and all ceramic dental crowns, each of which has its own set of benefits. If you need a restorative treatment and would like to know more about your treatment options, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will examine your teeth and guide you through the procedure from beginning to end.
If you would like to find out more about dental crowns and what the process involves at My Dental Care @ West End, please have a look here.
We also offer a comprehensive range of other dental services, including general, cosmetic and sedation dentistry. To see the full list of treatments that we provide at our practice in Brisbane, please have a look here.
To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call on (07) 3846 2548. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice and helping to restore your smile to its full potential.
