Researching dental crowns online for five minutes can be overwhelming. There’s a lot more out there than you probably realized. When you visit the team at Dr. Lori Woodburn, DDS and Associates, Dr. Lori Woodburn will review all crown options with you and help you decide which will work best.
Listed below are the different types of crowns available.
1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
The base layer of PFM crowns is metal. Then, porcelain is baked over the top. Dentists have been relying on these crowns for decades. Many people still have crowns in the back of their mouths and do not realize it. One issue with them is that if your gums recede, a thin dark line will start to show. That’s the metal.
2. Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns
Porcelain crowns are the most commonly used. Much of that comes from the fact that porcelain and ceramic look and behave much like natural dental enamel. So these look completely natural. This is what you want if you’re getting a crown on a front tooth. Porcelain reflects light nearly the same way your natural dental enamel does.
3. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is known for its exceptional toughness. This material is fracture-resistant, and that’s what makes it popular. If you need a crown on a back tooth that takes most of your chewing force, zirconia is a good option.
4. Metal Crowns (Gold and Other Metal Alloys)
Gold and other metals don’t have a porcelain layer, so you don’t have to worry about chipping. They wear down at about the same rate as enamel. Because they obviously look like metal, most people don’t want them on a front tooth. But they’re a good pick for a hard-working molar.
5. E.max (Lithium Disilicate) Crowns
E.max is a brand name for lithium disilicate. This glass-ceramic material is pressed or milled into the shape that goes over your tooth. It’s much stronger than older porcelains. And it’s still translucent enough that it blends well with its neighboring teeth. Dentists sometimes go with these for premolars.
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6. Stainless Steel Crowns
Crowns made of stainless steel aren’t designed to last the 10 to 15 years you get out of some of the other types of crowns. They’re pre-made in different sizes. Not custom-made in a lab. Dentists sometimes use these for kids’ molars on baby teeth that are decayed. For adults, it’s common to wear one temporarily while you’re waiting for the permanent crown to come in.
7. Resin (Composite) Crowns
Composite resin is the material that’s used in tooth-colored fillings. It’s one of the most affordable crown options. The problem is durability. Resin chips and wears down sooner. It’s also prone to staining.
Learn More About the Different Types of Crowns for Teeth in Frankfort, Illinois
At Dr. Lori Woodburn, DDS, and Associates, the type of crown you receive will depend on the specific location of your tooth and the personalized options that Dr. Woodburn offers. If you’re considering a dental crown or have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team. Call us today at (815) 469-9336 to schedule your appointment and take the next step toward a healthier smile.