You’ll often come across the term veneer when talking about dental procedures. A crown is an artificial cap or veneer that fits over part of an existing tooth or post.
There are many reasons for using a coating. In some cases, crowns will be used to close or strengthen a broken or weak tooth.
Crowns can also be used to strengthen dental bridges, or crowns can be a purely cosmetic procedure. A whiter or flatter smile can be achieved by applying crowns to existing teeth. Crowns are not just for adults and can also be used in some pediatric dental scenarios. Since there are so many applications for crowns, it only makes sense to have different options for what the crown is made of. Below, let’s take a closer look at the different material options for crowns.
Metal Crowns
Let’s start with the most durable material. Metal crowns are very durable and will last the longest of any other type of material available. Typically, the metals used will be gold, platinum, or an alloy metal usually containing nickel. These crowns are perfect for strengthening dental bridges. One disadvantage of using this type of crown is that it can damage the surrounding teeth. In addition, metal harmonizes with a natural smile. For this reason, metal veneers are usually used so that only the back teeth and molars are not visible.
Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
A great option for people with metal allergies is a ceramic or porcelain veneer. These are metal free and are the most natural looking option. Ceramic or porcelain can be tinted to match your natural teeth perfectly. For this reason, ceramic or porcelain crowns can be used in the front or back of the mouth. Compared to metal crowns, this option is not as durable and may be prone to chipping or cracking over time. Additionally, ceramic or porcelain crowns are one of the more expensive options.
Porcelain Welded Coating – Metal Coating
A great alternative to both metal and porcelain is a combination of the two. By choosing a porcelain fused to a metal veneer, you will be able to achieve the look and aesthetics of a porcelain crown with the strength and durability of a metal crown. The only downside to this type of crown is that over time you can start to see the metal color show in the porcelain. As the crown stays in place over time, some patients report seeing the upper line of metal around the gum line as well.
Resin Crowns
One of the cheaper alternatives is an all-resin coating. Like porcelain or ceramic, these crowns can be shaded to match the color of your natural tooth. Unfortunately, these crowns are by far the most fragile and prone to cracks, chips and breakage. Therefore, they need to be replaced fairly regularly.
