Types of Materials Available for a Dental Crown

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Types of Materials Available for a Dental Crown

dental crown Gilroy, CA

The dental crown has long been a critical way to treat damaged, abnormal teeth. In some form, people have used these for centuries. Though crowns have changed as the years have gone on, their function is largely the same. Still, it is helpful to be aware of the materials your dentist can choose from when it is time to get your crown.

The dental crown process

Traditional crowns require a two- or three-appointment process for patients. It could take up to several weeks for the dentist to place the crown. The procedure starts with an examination where the dentist takes X-rays and makes impressions of the person’s mouth. A technician constructs the crown at a lab. At another appointment, the dentist numbs the patient’s mouth, shaves the tooth so the crown will fit and then cements the dental crown in place. The dentist will follow up to make sure it is a good fit and that the patient can bite down on it properly.

Metal crowns

In decades past, dentists usually turned to various metals to make a dental crown. Gold crowns were most common before the 21st century and had a lot of appealing factors because of their strength and durability. Now that other options are available, fewer people want a material that stands out as gold does. However, for patients who need a crown on back teeth, this could be a viable option because the crown would be difficult to see.

Porcelain fused to metal

This type of dental crown maintains the strength of metal crowns without it being so noticeable. The dentist would use gold, platinum or something else for the substructure. However, the exterior of the crown would be made of porcelain. At the gumline, the metal can show a little, but most people will not see this. Patients often like choosing this type for molar restoration.

Stainless steel

This type may not appeal to an adult patient, but it is a good one for children. A stainless-steel crown fits nicely over a damaged baby tooth. The baby tooth will grow with the crown, and the dentist will remove it once the permanent tooth is ready to come in. Parents like this option too because it is less expensive than permanent crowns.

Porcelain

This is the dental crown of choice for many people today. It is aesthetically pleasing because the dentist can fabricate a crown to match the color of the natural teeth. The crown will have natural-looking contours and depressions too. These types of crowns should last at least 15 years, though many patients can enjoy them for more than 25.

Take your pick

If you need a dental crown and have a preference on the type you get, share this with your dentist. Your dentist may recommend or typically use a certain kind, but your opinion matters. Study these different options and decide which one makes the most sense to you. Then, make an appointment with your dentist so you can get started on your treatment.

Request an appointment here: or call Gilroy Dental Associates at (408) 842-2818 for an appointment in our Gilroy office.

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