Types of Crowns Used for Dental Restoration

When a tooth is chipped, decayed, or otherwise damaged, a crown is a popular method of dental restoration. A crown can both improve the look of a damaged tooth and protect what is left of the natural tooth from further deterioration. Understanding the types of dental crowns available can help when making a decision about which type is right.

Crowns involving metal

Strength and durability are two of the main reasons many people choose a metal crown. 

Gold

Typically created from a fusion of gold with different metals, including copper, nickel, and chromium, gold crowns are known for being highly resistant to wear and tear. The metallic color of these crowns makes them a better solution for restorations in the back of the mouth, as patients tend to not prefer a crown to be noticeable. Because the back teeth tend to absorb more of the chewing force, gold crowns can be an ideal solution for a molar restoration.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal

This type of crown has a porcelain coating over the top of a metal cap. The combination produces a more aesthetically appealing crown that is still strong because of its metal structure. In certain cases, the metal cap may cause gray discoloration at the gumline, so using this type of crown on a front tooth can be a risk.

Metal-free crowns

Crowns made without metal are especially appealing for dental restoration on front teeth. In addition to looking more natural, they are biocompatible and toxin-free. This can be a good solution for those with a metal allergy. 

All-porcelain

The natural look of all-porcelain crowns make them an extremely popular choice among patients. Dental professionals are able to create porcelain crowns that match the surrounding natural teeth in size, shape, and color, so the crown is not noticeable. While this type of crown can last a long time, it has to be well taken care of. It is not as durable as a gold crown, and those who grind or clench their teeth may want to consider other options. 

Zirconia

Although zirconia crowns do not contain metal, this type of crown is stronger and more durable than one made of porcelain. These crowns look very natural and can last many years. Because most dental professionals can cut and shape a zirconia crown on site instead of having it created by a dental lab, the process of getting this type of crown is usually faster. 

Lithium disilicate

A newer material made completely of ceramic, lithium disilicate is extremely thin and lightweight. This allows it to look completely natural, even at close range. However, because it is a recently developed type of crown, not as many dental professionals offer it as an option yet. 

Conclusion

When trying to decide which type of crown could be the right choice for a dental restoration, it is helpful to consider both the location of the crown as well as the amount of daily wear and tear it will endure. Teeth towards the back of the mouth where more of the chewing force is concentrated could benefit from a gold or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, while the natural appearance of metal-free crowns make them an aesthetically pleasing option for front teeth.

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