Do you need a dental crown? Dental crowns serve as protective covers for damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their strength and natural shape. There are a variety of materials available to meet your unique needs and help you smile with confidence again.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have been used in dentistry for years. They combine a tooth-colored exterior with a metal base, balancing appearance with durable reinforcement. PFMs can show a faint gray line near the gum if tissue thins or recedes. In some cases, the porcelain may also chip over time, revealing the metal underneath. Fortunately, PFM crowns last almost as long as metal crowns and restore both front and back teeth.
All-metal crowns offer additional durability for the back teeth, which handle the majority of the chewing and bite forces. They adapt to the edges of the teeth and distribute forces evenly, prolonging their durability. They rarely chip or break and can handle years of wear without breaking down. Patients find that the metal feels gentle on the surrounding tooth enamel, reducing scuffing compared to harder dental crown materials. However, they do not mimic natural enamel. This design is why dentists typically place metal crowns in less visible areas, such as the back teeth.
All-ceramic or porcelain dental crowns mimic the appearance of natural enamel more than other crown materials. They are also an ideal option for patients with metal allergies. Unfortunately, they are not as durable as metal or PFM crowns, making them more ideal for more visible teeth rather than for back molars, which require greater durability for chewing and breaking down food. These crowns are also not ideal for patients who clench or grind their teeth, as they are more prone to chipping.
Zirconia provides a durable framework for a dental crown while providing the cosmetic benefits of porcelain. It is strong like metal crowns but is tooth-colored. It is also less likely to experience the wear and tear that naturally occurs in the crown over time, such as sharp edges on its surface. That said, zirconia crowns can sometimes cause additional wear on the surrounding tooth due to the hard material.
E-max dental crowns build on the cosmetic benefits of porcelain crowns with the strength and reliable bonding of metal crowns. It preserves more enamel because it can function at thinner dimensions. E-max matches the shade and brightness of the patient's natural teeth, which helps with transitions from the front teeth to the premolars. However, it does not match zirconia's design on the further back teeth and molars, particularly for patients who grind and clench their teeth.
Do you have further questions about dental crown materials? The Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics team is here to find the right crown to fit your functional needs and cosmetic goals. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call our Gilbert office today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.coralpointeaz.com or call Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics at (480) 750-1575 for an appointment in our Gilbert office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns in Gilbert, AZ.
Has it been over six months since your last appointment with a general dentist? Read on to learn more about the importance of regular dental checkups. Regular dental care is important for healthy, long-lasting smiles, and your general dentist aims to help you achieve optimal oral health.The basis of preventive dentistry is routine dental checkups.…
Toothaches in children require prompt attention to ensure comfort and prevent further complications. A kid-friendly dentist creates a welcoming and supportive environment, helping children feel at ease while addressing their tooth pain. However, many parents are unsure when to take their children to the dentist, as toothaches can sometimes go away independently. Recognizing when it…
A healthy smile is essential for overall health and well-being. A general dentist can help maintain and improve oral health through preventive care and restorative treatments. They offer comprehensive care to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy and happy.One of the primary responsibilities of a general dentist is preventive care. The American Dental Association…
Cavity prevention is a top priority for families, and a kid-friendly dentist can make this process enjoyable and stress-free for children. Encouraging healthy habits at an early age not only protects young teeth but also sets the foundation for lifelong oral health. For dental care that is both positive and effective, parents should partner with…
