At Sipes Dental, we understand that getting a tooth crown can be a big decision for our patients. Whether you’re undergoing a crown placement for a decayed tooth, a root canal treatment, or to improve the aesthetic of your smile, it’s important to understand the materials used to create your crown. In this blog, we’ll discuss what tooth crowns are made of, the different materials available, and help you choose the best option for your dental needs.
What Is a Tooth Crown?
A tooth crown is a cap or covering that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically used when a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling or when a tooth has undergone a root canal procedure. Crowns also provide extra protection for teeth that are severely worn down or broken.
At Sipes Dental, Dr. Bryan A. Sipes and Dr. Brian W. Benner offer crowns tailored to fit your dental needs while ensuring that your treatment is as comfortable and effective as possible. One of the key decisions that come with getting a crown is choosing the material it will be made from.
What Are Tooth Crowns Made Of?
Tooth crowns can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own benefits and considerations. The best choice for you will depend on factors such as the location of the crown, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. Below are the most common materials used to make dental crowns:
1. Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are a popular choice due to their natural appearance. They are highly resistant to staining and can be easily customized to match the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are often the material of choice for front teeth because they blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.
Advantages:
- Excellent aesthetic appearance
- Great for front teeth, where aesthetics are a concern
- Resistant to staining
Disadvantages:
- Maybe less durable than metal crowns, especially for back teeth
- Can be more prone to chipping or cracking under pressure
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer mimics the natural appearance of teeth. This type of crown is commonly used for both front and back teeth.
Advantages:
- Stronger than pure porcelain crowns
- More affordable than all-porcelain crowns
- Great for both aesthetic and functional purposes
Disadvantages:
- The metal underlayer may show at the gum line, which may affect aesthetics, especially for the front teeth
- May cause more wear and tear on surrounding teeth compared to porcelain crowns
3. All-Metal Crowns (Gold or Other Alloys)
All-metal crowns are made from various metals, including gold, platinum, or other durable alloys. They are highly durable and can withstand significant pressure, making them a great option for back teeth that experience heavy chewing forces.
Advantages:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to cracking or breaking
- Less likely to wear down surrounding teeth
Disadvantages:
- Not aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic appearance
- May not be the best option for visible teeth
4. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable ceramic material called zirconium dioxide. They offer both strength and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice for front and back teeth. Zirconia crowns are also resistant to wear and fracture.
Advantages:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Natural appearance
- Highly resistant to wear and chipping
- Biocompatible, making it suitable for those with allergies to metal
Disadvantages:
- Can be more expensive than other crown materials
- Requires advanced technology for fabrication, which may increase the overall treatment time
5. Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are made from tooth-colored composite resin. They are less durable than other materials but are often used for short-term solutions or for patients on a budget.
Advantages:
- Affordable
- Natural appearance that blends well with surrounding teeth
Disadvantages:
- Less durable than other materials
- Can wear down or discolor over time
- It may not be suitable for back teeth due to wear
Which Crown Material is Right for Me?
The choice of crown material depends on several factors, including:
- Location of the Tooth: A metal or zirconia crown may be more appropriate due to their strength if the crown is for a back tooth subjected to heavy biting forces. For front teeth, porcelain or zirconia may be preferred for their natural appearance.
- Aesthetic Preferences: If you’re concerned about the cosmetic appearance of your crown, porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are great options because they can be color-matched to your natural teeth.
- Budget: Different materials come with varying price points. Resin crowns are often the most affordable, while all-metal crowns and zirconia are more expensive due to their durability and longevity.
- Durability and Longevity: If you want a crown that will last a long time without wearing down or cracking, metal, zirconia, or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are great choices. However, resin or all-porcelain crowns may be sufficient if you need a temporary solution.
At Sipes Dental, we provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking a crown for its strength or for its aesthetic qualities, we will help guide you toward the best material for your situation.
Am I a Candidate for a Tooth Crown?
You may be a candidate for a tooth crown if you are experiencing any of the following conditions:
- Severe tooth decay that cannot be fixed with a filling
- A cracked or broken tooth due to injury or wear
- A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment and needs protection
- Cosmetic enhancement for discolored or misshapen teeth
- Worn-down teeth from grinding or aging
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, a dental crown may be the perfect solution to restore and protect your tooth for years.
Conclusion
Tooth crowns are an effective and versatile solution for various dental issues. The material used for your crown is key to its strength, appearance, and longevity. At Sipes Dental in York, PA, we offer a range of crown materials to meet your unique needs, ensuring you receive the highest quality dental care and results.
If you think you may need a dental crown or want to discuss which material is best for you, contact Sipes Dental today at 717-563-6653 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Bryan A. Sipes or Dr. Brian W. Benner.
FAQs
What is the most durable material for a crown?
Gold and zirconia crowns are among the most durable materials available, making them ideal for back teeth that need to withstand significant chewing forces.
How long do tooth crowns last?
The lifespan of a crown depends on the material used, but on average, with proper care, crowns last 10 to 15 years.
Are crowns painful to get?
No, crowns are typically placed after administering a local anesthetic to numb the area. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, but it usually subsides within a few days.
Can I eat with a temporary crown?
Yes, but it is important to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, as temporary crowns are more prone to damage. Once your permanent crown is placed, you can eat as usual.