A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is used to cover a tooth that needs to be repaired or restored to its original form. Dental crowns are used when a large cavity makes the tooth unhealthy and dysfunctional.

Different Types of Dental Crowns

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A dental crown is used to repair a decayed tooth or support a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth. It replaces defective fillings and restores broken or fractured teeth. A dental crown replaces teeth in conjunction with dental implants.

The following are types of dental crowns:

All-porcelain/all-ceramic dental crowns

These dental crowns have the most attractive appearance when created and placed by the right dentist and ceramist. They blend seamlessly with the natural teeth and have the translucency of natural tooth enamel. They are also stain-resistant and retain their natural color over a lifetime. They are durable and can withstand pressure from biting and chewing. Engineered ceramic crowns have better aesthetics and are more robust than standard ceramic crowns.

All-Metal Crowns

This type of crown is made using metal alloys, including gold, nickel, palladium or chromium. All-metal crowns used to be popular because of their resilience and ability to absorb biting forces, especially when used to replace molars. Lately, ceramic technology has provided a stronger ceramic crown that is a more popular option than metal.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

This type of crown is a cross between an all-metal and all-porcelain crown. PFM crowns are strong, making them ideal for either the front or back teeth. They provide a close match to natural teeth except that the metal substructure prevents the transmission of light through the tooth and the crown, making them dull-looking and opaque. At times, the metal substructure shows as a dark edge in the gum’s line, especially when there is gum tissue recession.

All-Resin Crowns

Resin or plastic crowns are the least expensive of all dental crowns. They do not have the aesthetic qualities of the porcelain crown, but they are still quite strong and natural-looking Unfortunately, they stain over time.

You and your dentist can decide on the best material for your crown. At Felt Family Dentistry we offer a broad range of options and extensive experiencing in placing crowns. We can restore your fractured, damaged, or decayed tooth and help you achieve a beautiful smile.