What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Dental crowns are a popular solution in dentistry for restoring missing or damaged teeth, which has both aesthetic and practical benefits. But what exactly are dental crowns made of?Getting to know the materials used can help you choose the best option for your needs.
In this blog, we’ll cover the different types of dental crowns, their individual benefits, and answer common questions like what is a crown for teeth, preparing a tooth for a crown, and how long porcelain crowns last.
Types of Dental Crowns
So, what are crowns made of? Dental crowns can be made of several different materials, including resin, porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys such as gold and platinum. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns feature a porcelain top with metal on the base. Each tooth crown type has its own unique benefits, and some are likely to last longer than others.
The Benefits Of Different Types Of Dental Crowns
Here’s a quick overview of the benefits and features of different materials and where they are best used.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are one of the strongest and most durable dental crowns available. Resistant to chipping and much less likely to crack than other materials, metal dental crowns are an excellent choice for molars.
Ceramic Crowns
Crowns made from ceramic are highly aesthetic and closely resemble natural teeth. They are metal free, yet still strong enough to be ideal for front and back teeth and for people with allergies to metal. Ceramic is also a great choice in the long-term as it resists staining from foods like coffee, tea and wine.
Porcelain Crowns
Like ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns mimic the natural colour and translucency of tooth enamel, meaning they easily blend in with surrounding teeth. They are biocompatible and stain-resistant, making them a great option for visible front teeth.
Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are a cost-effective choice that look like natural teeth. These crowns require less of the natural tooth structure to be removed, which makes them a great temporary solution, however they are generally considered less durable than other options.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns combine the strength of a metal core with the aesthetics of porcelain. They are durable, long-lasting, and suitable for both front and back teeth, providing excellent functionality and appearance.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns typically last between 5 and 20 years, depending on thetype of dental crown and how well they are maintained. Metal crowns, made from alloys like gold or platinum, are the most durable and often last the longest. Porcelain, ceramic, and resin crowns can last 10 years or more with proper care, good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
Restore Your Smile With Dental Crowns From SmileOn Perth
Have you been considering a dental crown to restore your smile? Contact SmileOn Perth today to book your appointment, or talk to us for more information and advice on the different types of dental crowns. We can offer tailored solutions to keep your smile healthy and strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental crown is a common method used in dentistry to restore damaged or decayed teeth to their original size, shape and appearance.
How are teeth prepared for a crown?
When preparing a tooth for a crown, a dentist will remove a small portion of the tooth’s outer layer to create space for the crown. This process ensures a secure and natural-looking fit. If the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, additional steps like root canals may be necessary.
How long do porcelain crowns last?
Porcelain crowns typically last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. Factors such as oral hygiene, diet, and habits like teeth grinding can affect their lifespan. Regular dental check-ups can also help them last longer.