Your dentist near Walnut Creek explains differences in material for dental crowns

For many decades, dental crowns have been used in restorative treatments around the world. There are several situations in which covering a tooth is the most suitable action. Crowns can restore structure to a tooth that has been broken or worn down. A cover may be necessary after the completion of root canal therapy, as remaining tooth structure often becomes brittle. In addition to replacing lost tooth structure as a part of a bridge or implant treatment, crowns can cover imperfections such as discoloration that is resistant to bleaching, or odd shapes.

When faced with the need for a dental crown, the question becomes what type of crown will fit both need and budget. Dental crowns are made from several materials, with a wide range in effectiveness and aesthetics. Before making a choice based on immediate price, we encourage you to consider the available options and the reasons for choosing better materials.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns

Crowns made with a metal base overlaid with porcelain are incredibly popular today. Dentists tend to like this type of crown because the metal base is extremely durable. Patients like PFM crowns because they are affordable and look good. The problem is, even on rear teeth, these crowns may not be as attractive as you would like. Over time, the metal substructure will show through where the crown meets the gums, displaying as a dark line or a shadow. For this reason, PFM crowns are not placed on teeth near the front of the mouth.

Full Porcelain/Ceramic Crowns

With the development of CEREC technology, all porcelain crowns have become more widely used. These crowns provide a metal-free alternative to the PFM crowns often used today. All porcelain crowns are aesthetically pleasing, they look very much like natural tooth enamel, and therefore, they are suitable for the repair of highly visible teeth. Although very attractive, all-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns have a tendency to crack or chip in time. At Brentwood Family Dental near Walnut Creek, we have treated several patients whose CEREC dental crowns have failed in such a way.

Zirconia Crowns

Years of research and innovative design has brought about new and improved materials for the lasting restoration of damaged teeth. Dr. Alkhoury maintains an eye on new research, and incorporates treatments deemed suitable for our patients. Our goal is to provide restorative care that will lead to years of strong, functional chewing. We use zirconium oxide dental crowns due to the fact that this material has been extensively studied, and shown to be virtually indestructible. The strength of zirconium oxide allows these crowns to be made thinner than other types of crowns, which leads to less of the wear on surrounding teeth that is common with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. The modest thickness of zirconia crowns also means that less natural tooth structure needs to be removed for a proper fit.

When you have the details behind the various materials used for dental crowns, you are better able to see the true value of the investment into your smile. Contact Brentwood Family Dental to arrange your dental check-up.

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