Crowns, or caps as they are commonly known, are used regularly in dentistry. Rowen Dentistry provides patients with a variety of choices for their crowns and has created this guide to help patients understand the differences between older forms of dental caps and newer porcelain and zirconia crowns.
Gold and High Noble Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are no longer commonly used as they once were. While though these crowns are durable, due to their metallic composition, these crowns are susceptible to sudden changes in temperature causing tooth sensitivity. Cosmetically, since they are not tooth colored (usually silver colored or gold) they are more aesthetically noticeable in the mouth.
Micro-gaps can appear between teeth and crowns themselves, as they are cast similarly to golden jewelry; this makes them less able to seal out decay over time. Certain patients also exhibit metal allergies, making them ineligible for metal crown restorations.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Combining the advantages of both porcelain and metal, PFM crowns are commonly used in restorative dentistry. These caps are made with a metal base, providing a durable structure, and are coated in dental ceramic. PFM crowns are used for molars and teeth that need to withstand certain pressure. This strength is combined with the aesthetic benefits of a porcelain coating, making the restored tooth look much more natural.
PFM crowns are not commonly used at Rowen Dentistry for a variety of reasons. Due to the metallic base, these caps present an opaque appearance that looks different when compared to natural teeth. PFM crowns also cause an unnatural dark line at the base of the tooth, over time, where the metal layer is exposed.
All Porcelain Crowns
Full porcelain crowns are commonly used to restore teeth in the front of the mouth. These crowns appear semi-translucent, allowing Dr. Rowen to restore the full aesthetic appearance of your natural smile. With no metallic base, these crowns are also unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
Zirconia and e.max Crowns
To cap back teeth with cosmetic, yet durable restorations, options such as zirconia and e.max crowns are ideal solutions. These crowns are exceptionally durable, making them an option to restore molars. Zirconia and e.max, like porcelain, do not create the temperature sensitivity or aesthetic drawbacks of metallic crowns.
The main issue patients experience with these crowns are their cost, though the benefits are generally worth the investment.
Contact Rowen Dentistry Today
Our Boca Raton dentist and team provide lasting dental care using high quality materials. We only work with dental laboratories that are local and trusted. If you are in need of a crown that combines strength and aesthetic appeal,
contact Rowen Dentistry today.
