Dental crowns are used for both restorative dental care and cosmetic purposes. They can be used to fix cracked or worn teeth and support dental bridges, as well as to replace a missing tooth or teeth. They can also be attached to dental implants or utilized for restoration after a dental root canal. In short, dental crowns are a key part of restorative dentistry.
What Dental Crowns are Made Of
Dental crowns can be created from a variety of different materials, like resin, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, stainless steel, and gold. The material that you and your dentist select will be chosen due to factors such as the location of your tooth, how much of your natural tooth remains, and how visible the crown will be when you smile. The durability and strength of the crown needed is something else to consider.
CEREC 1-day Crowns
At Stuart Prosthetic Dentistry, we utilize CAD/CAM technology in order to offer our patients high quality, natural-looking porcelain crowns in just a single visit. Instead of waiting to receive porcelain crowns crafted from a dental lab, the traditional method of creating a crown, our durable, attractive CEREC 1-Day crowns can be designed and placed easily and efficiently. The entire process will take under two hours, without using a lab or needing a temporary crown. CEREC crowns are a terrific option for most patients, which is why we provide them at our practice. They’re affordable and strong, and the quick placement and accuracy they afford eliminate any need for a temporary restoration, making CEREC crowns also better for your dental health.
Other Types of Crowns
Of course, there are other materials that crowns are constructed from as well.
- Traditional Porcelain Crowns
Like our CEREC crowns, traditional porcelain crowns match the color of your natural teeth. They are crafted in a dental lab by a technician, and offer a natural, attractive appearance.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns
This type of crown is also made from porcelain, matched to your natural teeth for appearance. Beneath the porcelain, underlying metal may make a thin dark line at the crown’s base. These crowns are long-lasting and are most often used when the strongest type of restoration is essential.
- Metal Crowns
Typically, metal crowns are gold, but other metal material used for crowns includes durable, natural looking zirconia, which is also very strong, and most often used with back teeth.
- Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are no longer commonly used as they are noticeable and less durable. However, they may be offered at some pediatric dental offices for baby teeth.
- All-Resin Crowns
Made of composite material that’s similar to your actual tooth color, all resin crowns are considered the least costly crown material but they are also the least durable option.
Ready to Learn More About Dental Crowns?
If you need a crown, Stuart Prosthetic Dentistry is here to help. We’re highly skilled in cosmetic and restorative dentistry techniques - CEREC Single Day crowns included.
If you’re ready to schedule a visit or simply learn more about crowns, give us a call. We’re ready to make sure your smile looks great and stays healthy.