There are numerous products used in oral health restoration services, including dental crowns. Also known as dental caps, these tooth-shaped prosthetics fit over teeth that have sustained damage or decay to prevent further damage and extractions. If you think you need one or more crowns, review the common types here. 

4 Dental Crown Options 

1. Metal

Several different metals are used in crown fabrication, including gold, copper, nickel-chromium, platinum, and cobalt-chromium. There are also crowns featuring precious metal combinations and metal alloy bases. Known for their durability, metal crowns are often used on back teeth to avoid clashing with natural teeth. They do not wear on adjacent teeth, nor do they require as much natural tooth removal as other crown options. Removing some of the natural tooth is necessary for the restoration to fit comfortably in the mouth. 

2. Porcelain

Made of both porcelain and ceramic, these dental crowns are tooth-colored for natural-looking results. They are color-matched to blend with your other teeth and are ideal if you have metal allergies. Porcelain crowns are commonly used on front teeth because of the natural appearance they provide, but they are vulnerable to chipping from tooth grinding-related pressure. They can also wear on adjacent teeth. 

3. Resin

Composite resin crowns are among the most affordable dental restorations and do not require removing large amounts of natural tooth material. However, resin is relatively thin and subsequently vulnerable to fractures and wear. These crowns are frequently used on decayed baby teeth instead of permanent teeth, since they are not as long-lasting as other options. 

4. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal

Also known as PFM dental crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations feature metal bases and porcelain “coats.” These crowns combine the durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, though they can cause adjacent tooth wear like all-porcelain restorations. If gum recession occurs because of aggressive brushing or periodontal disease, the metal bases become visible. These options also cost less than all-porcelain options. 

Discuss the best dental crowns for your oral health with Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., LLC. Serving Oconto County, WI, and the surrounding areas since 1994, this dentist and his staff are all about exceeding patient expectations. Call (920) 846-3163  to make an appointment. You can also text JOIN to (920) 249-5938 for the latest office updates. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings.