Types of Dental Crowns
If you want to get a tooth repaired to enhance your smile and correct functional issues in the Sammamish, WA, area, you’ve come to the right place.
Dr. Asha MadhavanThis link opens Home page and her team are making dental care simple for you!
We want to share one of the most effective solutions for improving the appearance and functionality of damaged teeth—dental crowns.
Since there are multiple types of dental crowns, we’ve taken the stress out of the research process and broken down and compared the main options based on price, longevity, and aesthetics.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of ceramic.
These crowns have a metal substructure for enhanced durability, while the outer layer is porcelain. PFM crowns are ideal for restoring either front or back teeth because of their durability.
However, their metal layer sometimes gives them a slightly opaque appearance, particularly in certain lighting conditions.
Fortunately, patients can expect these crowns to offer excellent sturdiness and longevity. In fact, on average, PFM crowns can last between 10 and 15 years with proper care and maintenance.
The metal substructure provides added strength and resistance to wear, while the outer porcelain layer delivers a natural-looking appearance.
In general, these crowns are relatively cost-efficient compared to some other options.
Gold crowns
Gold crowns could be the perfect fit if you want durability and a touch of elegance.
They consist of a high-quality gold alloy, offering exceptional strength and resistance to wear.
Although their appearance may not be as discreet as ceramic or porcelain, gold crowns are an excellent choice for molars where aesthetics are less of a concern.
Plus, gold crowns are renowned for their longevity and durability.
With proper care and maintenance, gold crowns can last for several decades, often surpassing the lifespan of other dental crowns.
When considering the cost of gold crowns, it’s important to understand they’re usually relatively more expensive than other varieties.
The higher cost of gold crowns is primarily based on the value of the material itself. Gold is a precious metal, fluctuating in price based on market conditions.
Additionally, crafting gold crowns requires expertise and precision, contributing to the overall cost.
However, when deciding, consider that gold crowns offer long-term benefits and durability that may exceed other options.
Zirconia crowns
Zirconia crowns are known for their remarkable strength and durability.
These crowns are highly resistant to chipping or cracking because they contain zirconium dioxide, a biocompatible, tooth-colored material.
Moreover, zirconia crowns are an excellent choice for front and back teeth, providing extraordinary aesthetics and longevity.
Their natural appearance, coupled with their robustness, makes them a popular option among our patients.
When properly cared for, zirconia crowns can last many years, typically exceeding a decade or more.
Zirconia, a high-strength ceramic material, offers exceptional chip, crack, and wear resistance.
These crowns generally come with a higher price tag when compared to traditional metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
You can attribute the cost to the superior strength, aesthetics, and biocompatibility of zirconia as a material, which is a consideration when comparing dental crowns.
Ceramic crowns
Ceramic crowns are the go-to choice for individuals seeking the ultimate aesthetic restorations, eliminating the need for metal substructures.
For one, they offer remarkable translucency, allowing them to blend seamlessly with surrounding natural teeth.
They’re also an ideal choice for those with metal allergies.
Regarding cost, ceramic crowns are generally priced higher when compared to other types of dental crowns because of their aesthetic appeal and natural-looking appearance.
In terms of their life expectancy, patients can typically expect them to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.
The durability of ceramic crowns comes from the strength and resilient nature of the material.
They are resistant to stains and less prone to wear and tear than other materials.
You can even choose same-day ceramic crowns known as CEREC.
Summing up dental crown options
Choosing the right type of dental crown is a personal decision based on various factors, including your specific dental needs, budget, and desired aesthetics.
Here’s a list of typical types of crowns for quick reference:
- Porcelain Crowns:
– All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns
– Highly esthetic and natural-looking
– Suitable for front teeth and visible areas
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns:
– A metal substructure covered with porcelain
– Provides both strength and aesthetics
– Good choice for both front and back teeth
- Metal Crowns:
– Made of non-precious or precious metals (e.g., stainless steel, gold)
– Very durable and strong
– Often used for back teeth, especially molars
- Zirconia Crowns:
– Made from zirconia, a strong ceramic material
– Offers excellent strength and durability
– Suitable for both front and back teeth
- Gold Crowns:
– Made of pure gold or a gold alloy
– Exceptionally durable and biocompatible
– Usually reserved for back teeth or those with metal allergies
- Composite Resin Crowns:
– Made from tooth-colored resin material
– Provide good esthetics and are more affordable
– Often used for front teeth
- All-Metal Crowns (e.g., Titanium):
– Made of metals like titanium
– Offer high strength and durability
– Typically used for back teeth
- Acrylic Crowns:
– Temporary crowns made of acrylic resin
– Used as placeholders until a permanent crown can be placed
– Often seen during the interim stage of dental treatment
Whether you opt for the natural beauty of ceramic, the strength of zirconia, or the durability of gold, each type of crown has its unique advantages.
During your visit with our trusted dentist, we’ll help you determine the best option.
Dental crownsThis link opens Services page from our Sammamish, WA, dentist enhance the appearance of your teeth, improve their functionality, and protect them from further damage.
Investing in a dental crown can transform your smile, boost your confidence, and contribute to long-term dental health.
We hope this guide helped answer some of your questions! And if you know which type of crown you want or would like to discuss further, contact Dr. Asha Madhavan and her team today!
Tooth correction with us is a call or message away!
Or:
- Call us: 425-409-3189
- Email us: hello@ashamadhavandds.com
While Dr. Madhavan and the crew proudly serve patients in Sammamish, WA, we gladly welcome residents of Redmond, Issaquah, Bellevue, Kirkland, Newcastle, Mercer Island, and East Renton Highland.
