Types of Dental Crowns

If you have extensive decay or a fractured or broken tooth, your Dentist may advise that you get a des moines dental crown to restore the tooth. There are a few options that you and your Dentist can discuss to decide what will be best for you.

A dental crown is a restoration that is fabricated to cover the surface of the tooth, either ¾ or the full tooth to beyond the gumline. Crowns work to ensure the integrity of the tooth after your Dentist has removed any decay and prepped the tooth a little to allow room for the crown to fit snuggly. Your dentist may offer same-day crowns in which case you would be able to have your tooth restoration completed in one visit. If they do not, your Dentist will provide you with a temporary crown for a couple of weeks while a dental lab fabricates your permanent crown. Once the crown is completed, your Dentist will have you come back to the office to have it set.

Types of Crowns

Crowns can be made from a few different materials. They include:

• Porcelain or Ceramic: These are the most common materials used since they are able to be tinted to match your other teeth. Even though metals are stronger, porcelain and ceramic are more aesthetically pleasing for the anterior teeth that show when you smile so even though there is more risk of fracture than with metals, your dentist can fabricate a night guard to help protect your teeth and restorations from clenching and grinding while you sleep which could cause damage.
• Gold and Base Metals: Metal may be a bit more costly than porcelain or ceramic, depending on the market price of the metals. They are stronger and will not crack or fracture but they can be ground into, which is why a nightguard is a good idea no matter the type!
• Porcelain fused to metal: This option allows you to have the strength of metal and the aesthetics of porcelain!

Differences to Expect Between Types of Crowns

Porcelain and ceramic crowns are more susceptible to fracture so if you suffer from bruxism in your sleep, you may want to consider one of the other options. While metal is more durable, they are best for your posterior teeth since they don’t show when you smile. Front teeth will be best served with either porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. No matter which option you and your Dentist choose, a night guard will help you keep your new restoration and your natural teeth protected from fracture and wear.

Speak with your Dentist to determine which option will best suit your individual needs. To make your crown last as long as possible, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene regimen and visit your Dentist regularly, especially since decay can develop under a crown. If your Dentist thinks you would benefit from a nightguard, they will have one fabricated for you.

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