The Types of Dental Crowns

Dental CrownAs a leading provider of dental crowns, we know that a lot of people rely on them to fix any number of problems. As such they have become one of the most widely used prosthetic devices in dentistry. Since it is so widely used, the technology and materials continue to be improved upon as dental scientists are working endlessly to make the best fit for each and every person. We know that not every person's mouth is the same. What works in one situation, material wise, may not be an ideal fit for someone else.

As such, while full porcelain crowns are the most requested dental crowns in San Francisco, there are other types of crowns that need to be explored with our customers so that they can pick the one that best suits them. Unfortunately, most people do not know the types of materials available to build a dental crown with, nor the pros and cons of each. Here are a few of them.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

For dental crowns, porcelain has long been the standard product since it has a similar color to tooth enamel. In fact, porcelain dental crowns are so lifelike that people will not be able to tell the difference between the dental crowns and natural teeth. The additional benefit with porcelain is that they do not conduct heat and cold very well to help with the initial sensitivity in the tooth after placing the crown. Porcelain also takes on many of the qualities of enamel, meaning it is extremely hard but also brittle.

There are advantages and disadvantages to this. The hardness means that porcelain crowns can be extremely hard, which can cause them to wear on the opposing teeth when chewing. In addition, there are a few other minor disadvantages to porcelain. These include the fact that they are more brittle than some of the other types of dental crowns, and that they use a more comprehensive bonding process which can extend the duration of the recovery time after the procedure.

Gold Crowns

Gold was once the most commonly used form of metal for dental crowns until porcelain crowns were found to be more efficient and effective. Regardless, gold has multiple qualities that make it the perfect material to use when creating crowns. For example, gold is extremely strong when it is in an alloy. Pure gold is very soft, so we make an alloy of gold with titanium, silver, or palladium to make it stronger. Crowns consisting of this gold alloy are extremely durable.

At the same time, gold is soft enough to where it does not wear out the opposing teeth as quickly as porcelain. On the disadvantages side, gold is a very good conductor of heat, which means that intensity and duration of a person's sensitivity to hot and cold substances will increase significantly. We can discuss both options when you come into Fort Lee Family Dental for dental crowns.

Recent Posts

General Dentistry: How Dental Crowns Can Safeguard Your Teeth

When a patient has a tooth that is giving them problems, general dentistry may recommend a dental crown as a potential solution. While crowns can have a reputation for being highly noticeable in the mouth, modern crowns are made from many different materials that allow them to blend in. Here is how crowns can be…

Dental Crown Solutions: Strengthening And Protecting Damaged Teeth

A dental crown restores the strength, shape, and comfort of a tooth that is cracked, worn, or heavily filled. This custom cap covers the entire visible surface to protect what remains. With modern materials and careful planning, a crown blends with nearby teeth and supports confident chewing. Understanding options and steps makes the decision clearer…

3 Alternatives To Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are often costly and require that a dentist remove a significant amount of the tooth's structure to place them. Read on to learn about dental crown alternatives. Other treatment alternatives are sometimes available that are either less expensive or significantly less invasive. Dental crowns are frequently used to restore severely damaged teeth.The following…

What Can Dental Crowns Do For Your Oral Health Issues?

Dental crowns are a great way to restore the health and appearance of your smile after oral health issues develop. Dental crowns work by surrounding a vulnerable or damaged tooth and offering protection from further damage. Crowns may also be used for teeth replacement purposes as well.Several of the more common oral health issues that…


Recent Posts

Getting Personalized Treatment At Your Routine Dental Care Visits

Getting Personalized Treatment At Your Routine Dental Care Visits

Every patient’s smile is different, so it makes sense for dentists to treat patients as individuals with specific needs. Personalized treatment at a routine dental care appointment should be an expected part of visiting a dental professional. Patients can expect dentists to tailor treatment in the areas of general maintenance, cancer screenings, and management of…

General Dentistry: How Dental Crowns Can Safeguard Your Teeth

General Dentistry: How Dental Crowns Can Safeguard Your Teeth

When a patient has a tooth that is giving them problems, general dentistry may recommend a dental crown as a potential solution. While crowns can have a reputation for being highly noticeable in the mouth, modern crowns are made from many different materials that allow them to blend in. Here is how crowns can be…