It isn’t uncommon to need a dental crown. Maybe you have a worn-down tooth, maybe you’ve had a root canal, or maybe you recently cracked one of your teeth. Whatever the reason may be, a properly installed crown can mean the difference between a glowing smile and pain or discomfort.
But what kind of crown should you get? What are dental crowns even made of?
Dental crowns can be made of a number of materials, ranging from metal (often gold), to porcelain, composite, ceramic, and combinations of these materials. Each material has its own strengths and shortcomings, so the correct choice of crown depends on the function of the tooth it’s replacing as well as on your own preferences.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown or “cap” is an artificial tooth. They’re hollow in design, and are intended to fit over top of a damaged tooth. Crowns protect the tooth from harm and help restore the shape of your smile by giving the tooth its original appearance back.
A properly cared for crown will last many years, so it’s important to care for a crown just like you would care for your own teeth. With consistent and proper care, a crown can do a lot to preserve your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Dental crowns come in a variety of different materials, each of which has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some crowns are cost effective, some crowns are more durable, while others are chip-resistant or offer a more aesthetic/natural look.
The kind of crown you choose will depend on your circumstances, your budget, and your dentist’s recommendations.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are often made of gold. They don’t chip or break easily, they last for a long time, and they cause minimal wear to opposing teeth.
However, gold crowns lack the natural look of other options—they tend to be obvious, especially on front teeth. As such, many people prefer crowns made of more natural looking materials.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are the most natural-looking. However, they tend to be more prone to chipping than other materials, and are therefore more suitable for front teeth.
Composite Crowns
Composite crowns look natural, and are less prone to chipping than porcelain crowns. However, composite crowns tend to wear over time from chewing, and may be prone to staining if brushed frequently.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns can be made of different ceramic materials, including Zirconia.
Zirconia crowns, in particular, are especially strong and long-lasting, but may cause wear to other teeth.
Selecting a Crown
Choosing a crown isn’t a trivial task. With so many different materials available to choose from, making a decision can seem daunting. However, there are several factors that your dentist will likely consider when recommending a crown.
These considerations may include:
- The location of the tooth in the mouth
- The tooth’s visibility when you smile
- The function of the tooth
- The colour of your surrounding teeth
- The condition/health of the tooth
- The height, thickness, and health of your gums
As always, your dentist is experienced, and they can recommend the correct material for your crown based on the above factors and your personal preferences. Whether you prefer the most natural possible look or value durability and convenience, there’s a crown material for you. At Sundance Dental, we are happy to answer any questions about crowns and if they are right for you.
Getting a Crown
Getting your crown is a simple, two-step process.
First, your dentist will examine the tooth that requires a crown. They may take an x-ray of the tooth, after which they’ll file it down and make an impression of its shape. You’ll receive a temporary crown to wear while your permanent crown is being made. While you wait for your permanent crown, we recommend you:
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Avoid sugar
- Avoid excessively hot or cold foods
- Flossing and clean your crown gently
Your dentist will send the impression of your tooth to a lab, which will use it to create your permanent crown, typically arriving within 10 business days. Once your tooth is ready, you’ll return for a second appointment, during which your dentist will cement your crown to your damaged tooth.
Keep Smiling
Dental crowns can be made from a range of different materials, from metal to ceramic to porcelain. Each kind of crown offers different advantages, so depending on your particular needs and your personal preferences, different materials might be the best choice.
Getting a dental crown done is a simple and straightforward procedure—so make sure to visit your dentist and restore your smile to its rightful place. At Sundance Dental Clinic, we want you to be able to make informed choices about your health, so don’t hesitate to book an appointment and discuss your dental future with our team.
