When a tooth is badly damaged, a dental crown can be an excellent way to repair it. And with CEREC 1-visit crowns, you won’t have to wait too long to enjoy a restored grin. But before you commit to getting a dental crown, it’s important to remember that this type of restoration can be made from a wide range of materials. What kind of crown should you get? Here’s a brief look at some common options.
Full Porcelain
If you want a dental crown that blends right in with your natural teeth, porcelain is often the material of choice. Not only can it reflect light the same way enamel does, but it can also be shaded to blend in better with the rest of your smile. Generally speaking, a casual observer won’t be able to tell the difference between a porcelain crown and an actual tooth. On top of that, a crown made out of porcelain can potentially last for many years.
A full porcelain crown is often highly recommended for the front teeth as well as any of the teeth that are visible when you pull back your lips to smile. The lifelike appearance of porcelain can go a long way toward helping you continue to feel confident about showing off your grin.
Gold
Gold has been used to make dental crowns for a very long time. It offers a high level of durability, and it can be strong even if only a thin layer is used. However, it is also quite noticeable compared to full porcelain. As such, gold crowns are typically recommended for the molars or other teeth near the back of the mouth.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
Some crowns have a metal base completely covered by layers of porcelain. This means you can enjoy the durability of a metal crown along with the natural appearance of a porcelain crown. Keep in mind, though, that sometimes this type of crown can leave a dark edge visible at the gumline.
Zirconia
Zirconia has become an increasingly popular option for dental crowns in recent years. Not only does it offer a natural appearance, but it is also a very strong material that does not fracture easily.
So which type of crown is truly the right choice for you? The best way to answer this question is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They can explain what materials are available for making dental crowns and point you toward the option that best fits your situation.
About the Author
At Silver Creek Dentistry, our highly experienced and caring dentists always make a point of listening carefully to patients in order to meet all of their dental needs. With our in-office CEREC machine, we can create beautiful dental crowns made out of porcelain in just one day. If you would like to schedule an appointment at our dental office in Ripon, please visit our website or call (920) 748-7200.