The 4 Different Types of Dental Crowns

If you have ever had advanced tooth decay that could not be fixed by a filling, you might have heard of dental crowns as an alternative. When a tooth is weakened by tooth decay, fractures, teeth grinding or even old age, dental crowns can save the natural tooth by providing a protective cap over it.

Dental crowns are also used as the visible tooth-shaped part to a dental implant. Implants are the most effective method in replacing a tooth or teeth that have been lost. Crowns can restore the alignment of your bite and make your smile brilliant.

The 4 dental crown types

Depending on each case and patient preference, there are a variety of different options regarding dental crown type. Your dentist will examine your mouth, consider your preference and consult with you on the different types of dental crowns. There are generally four different types of dental crowns:

1. Gold alloy crowns

Gold is a fairly soft metal that is unlikely to damage surrounding or opposing teeth. A mix of gold, copper and a small amount of other metals, gold alloy crowns do not fracture like other materials. Gold has the unique ability to bond strongly to the prepared tooth or dental implant.

Gold and copper have natural antibacterial properties. This quality helps to keep microbial attack at bay, both in surrounding teeth and in the gum tissue.

2. Ceramic crowns

Ceramic crowns are typically used to replace or restore front teeth. Their sheen and ability to blend in with the color of your natural teeth make them an excellent choice for restoring teeth that show the most when you smile.

The ceramic is composed of a porcelain-based material. Porcelain closely mimics the hardness and appearance of natural tooth enamel. Although just as effective as other crown types, these crowns do tend to be more expensive since they are highly desirable for their appearance.

All-porcelain crowns, since they resemble enamel, can fracture just like normal teeth and are more susceptible to breakage under pressure. For this reason, ceramic crowns are not best for molars or for those who grind their teeth during sleep or clench their teeth during the day. The ceramic material can be abrasive to surrounding teeth when the surface is roughened by grinding.

3. Metal alloy crowns

Metal alloy crowns are the most durable. Made from non-noble metals, alloy crowns are highly resistant to both corrosion and fracturing. Metal alloys have the strongest bonding ability with the tooth, and therefore require less tooth structure to be removed for successful placement — in contrast to the porcelain crown which needs a sufficient amount of tooth to be taken away.

Gold and metal alloy crowns are both resistant to wear while being gentle on opposing teeth.

4. Porcelain-coated metal crowns

If you want the best of both worlds, consider this crown. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns provide a strong bond to the tooth and naturally stronger structure while still blending in with natural teeth. This custom crown is a little more pricey, but most patients find this crown works best with their lifestyle.

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