Dental Crowns and Their Types

There are various procedures which are done on the teeth such as cleaning, filling of cavities and bonding. These are the normal procedures which are not only easier but are less hurting. Then there are some complicated procedures which include root canals and wisdom tooth extractions. These complicated procedures may lead to the need of dental crowns. There are different forms of dental crowns, and each one is different from the perspective of appearance and functionality.

Dental crowns

Before we jump to the type of dental crowns, it would be worth mentioning what a dental crown mainly is. This crown is essentially a fixed prosthetic object which is used to cover the damaged tooth/teeth. Once a crown is placed, only a dentist can get it removed. The purpose of a crown is not only covering the damaged tooth but it also makes the tooth stronger and improves the appearance.

The development of a crown first requires the impression of other teeth to be taken. It is done to ensure that the crown doesn’t act like a misfit after being installed. This procedure then involves reduction of the size of the actual tooth so that a crown could be placed upon it. While your permanent crown is in the process of development, you may be given a temporary crown by your dentist.

The types of dental crowns

There are four different types of dental crowns which differ from each other from the viewpoint of appearance and functionality.

1. Ceramic: Ceramic or porcelain crowns are commonly used on the front teeth. These crowns have a well-known capability of blending in with the natural color of teeth, making the entire structure look natural. Furthermore, the porcelain crowns are highly reliable because they prove to be even stronger than the natural crowns.
2. Porcelain fused to Metal: If you are concerned more about functionality rather than aesthetics, this type of crown is the ideal solution you can go for. The porcelain and metal in this crown strengthen each other after the crown is placed. These crowns are highly suitable on the teeth which are located away from the front teeth.
3.  Golden Crowns: Golden crowns aren’t entirely made of gold. There are copper and other materials are added in the content of these crowns. Since these are the metal fillings, golden crowns are stronger than many other options. Furthermore, the golden crowns do not fracture.
4. Base metal alloys: Base metal alloys form the very strong crowns which are resistant to corrosion. However, the installation of these crowns mainly requires the best and stronger part of the tooth to be removed first before the procedure is even started.

Since the crowns are of different types, you can get the best answer regarding what option to go for only from your dentist.