By Arthur Kezian
You have probably heard people talking
about dental crowns, or know someone who is about to get one. If you aren’t familiar
with and want to know about the basics of a crown, you have come to the right
place. A crown is basically a cap that is placed over a tooth for structural
support. It can improve a tooth’s strength as well as its looks. Crowns may be
used to protect a weak tooth, to restore a broken tooth, to cover a tooth that doesn’t
have enough tooth structure because it had a big filling and can not be
re-filled, and to cover a tooth with a root-canal, bridge, or implant. There
are a few types of crowns that are mostly used nowadays. Keep reading on to
find out about different crown types and crown procedures done by a local dentist.
All Metal Crowns:
Metal crowns are usually made of alloys such as
gold, palladium, nickel, or other base-metals. If a metal crown is used, less
tooth structure needs to be taken out as compared to other types of crowns.
Metal crowns are very strong and can take biting and chewing forces well. In
regards to wearing down, metal crowns probably last the longest of all crowns,
and they very rarely break or have a chip. The only problem with metal crowns
is the appearance because they have a dark color to them. They are usually used
for back molars because those teeth are not as visible.
Porcelain
Fused to Metal:
- Unlike the metal crowns, porcelain fused to
metal crowns can be matched to your exact tooth shade. These crowns are
self-explanatory. They are porcelain crowns but they are fused to metal –
the inside layer is metal while the outside layer is porcelain. As far as
looks go, porcelain fused to metal crowns are commonly used because they
look more esthetically pleasing. Although these crowns look nicer than all
metal crowns, they have a higher chance or breaking or chipping because
the outer layer (porcelain) is not as sturdy as the metal crowns. Even
though there is a chance of breakage, it rarely occurs. One concern
patients might have about porcelain fused to metal crowns is that over
time the metal underneath the crown might show through as a dark line, or
show around the gum line if the gum line recedes. Other than this,
porcelain fused to metal crowns are a great option. You and your dentist can
discuss which crown is best suitable for you and your budget.
All Porcelain Crowns:
All porcelain crowns are also
self-explanatory; they are made of porcelain and do not have any metals. For
looks, these are probably the best crowns. They look very natural and blend in
with your smile. They can be matched to your exact tooth shade just like
porcelain fused to metal crowns, except these crowns won’t leave dark lines
around your gums because they do not have metal on the inside. These crowns
would be best for patients who have allergies to types of metals. Although they
look great, they are not as strong as crowns with metals. You can have a
discussion with your dentist to see if all porcelain crowns are suitable for
your teeth. Most patients nowadays opt for porcelain crowns because they look
the most natural. If you want to have a natural looking smile, make sure you
ask your dental office about the types of crows they work with.
Crowns can be done is two appointments,
the first being the preparation of the crown, and the second being the seating
of the crown. Ask your dental professional to describe the steps he/she uses for a crown
procedure. It is best to know exactly what is going on during the procedure.
This makes you more aware which in turn makes your more relaxed. Many patients
have had satisfactory crown procedures done. If you need a crown, then don’t hesitate
to call your dentist. Your case can be the next satisfactory crown case!
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N.
Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles ,
CA 90004
-N.S.
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