While today’s dental crowns may all seem the same, that isn’t actually the case. These caps can be made from different substances with varying traits and qualities. That said, it’s only natural to ask yourself: What’s the best material for dental crowns to use? Your Carrolton dentist is here to address this question, so there’s no need to make guesses. Read on to learn about dental crown materials and which one suits your smile best.
What Materials are Used for Dental Crowns?
Special labs make dental crowns from a wide range of materials. All in all, the most common of these are:
Full Porcelain
A rather popular crown material today is porcelain. It has amazing perks as a ceramic made by heating clay and minerals.
Porcelain crowns are known to be the most lifelike ones. Since these caps look nearly the same as normal teeth, each blends seamlessly with a patient’s smile. If they have a downside, it’s that porcelain is a tad harder than enamel; the material can thus damage other teeth and fracture easily.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
Rather than use one material, some crowns use blends of several. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) types are a key example.
A PFM crown is one with a metallic base and a porcelain surface. Given this makeup, it has long-term durability and provides a strong bond to the patient’s tooth. That means PFM crowns offer a compromise between the strength of metal and the good looks of ceramic.
Zirconia
Per its name, zirconia is a ceramic glaze made from zirconium. It’s one of the newer dental crown materials and has notable upsides.
Zirconia crowns generally combine metallic strength with the looks of porcelain. In other words, they greatly protect damaged teeth and enhance your smile’s beauty. Their cosmetic “weakness” is that they sometimes have a shade distinct from other teeth. Also, a health-related disadvantage is that patients can have allergic reactions to them.
Which One Suits Your Smile?
The best material for a dental crown is one that meets your needs. So, make a choice that’s suitable for your situation.
To be more specific, choose a material based on your priorities. A porcelain crown will work if you want gorgeous-looking results. On the other hand, a PFM cap can suit you when you need a tooth that’s as strong as it is pretty. Zirconia crowns may be your best bet if you’re willing to pay a higher price.
Ultimately, you should consult your dental provider before you pick a material. They’ll know your background and help you with your choice.
About the Practice
Celebration Family Dental is based in Carrolton, TX. Led by Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya, our practice (per its name) always wants to celebrate its patients’ smiles! We do so by offering preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency oral care. These comprehensive options ensure you and your family end each appointment with thriving grins! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (469)-694-3766.