Teeth can become damaged in many ways. Whether you have suffered from tooth decay or experienced dental trauma, having an injured tooth doesn’t necessarily mean you have to lose it. Dental crowns are used to protect structurally compromised teeth, so they don’t need to be extracted. They can be comprised of various materials. Read on to learn about some of the most common options for dental crowns in Richardson.
Full Porcelain
This type of crown is regarded as the most lifelike and natural-looking restoration available. Porcelain doesn’t conduct heat and cold efficiently, so sensitivity is reduced. They are a great option for patients who have sensitivities to certain metals. Porcelain isn’t quite as strong as other potential materials, but it is the most cosmetically appealing and it won’t expand and contract when exposed to different temperatures.
Dental Composite
Dental composite is the least ideal when it comes to strength and durability, but it is a preferred option for patients who are highly sensitive to metals and porcelain. The bonding techniques are less sensitive than full porcelain and the material is less reactive than gold. While this can be a good solution for some people, it would likely need to be replaced more often than other crowns.
Gold
Gold has been used for a long time in dentistry because it is extremely durable and long-lasting. They rarely chip or break and wear down the least over time. It is also gentle on adjacent teeth. However, there are a few drawbacks of gold. For one, it conducts hot and cold temperatures quickly, so it can result in some sensitivity for a few weeks after being placed. It is also visibly different from your natural teeth, so it isn’t necessarily the best option for cosmetic use.
Porcelain Fused-to-Metal
This crown can be color-matched to the shade of surrounding teeth to give you a natural appearance. However, sometimes the metal under the porcelain caps appears as a dark line. There is also the possibility of the porcelain chipping over time and wearing down neighboring teeth.
Dental crowns definitely aren’t one and the same! Each variety has its attributes. By seeing your dentist in Richardson, you can discuss which material would best fit your needs and help to restore the integrity of your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Ellis Shwarts has been working hard for the smiles of patients for nearly a decade now after earning his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. If you are interested in dental crowns in Richardson, Dr. Shwarts and his friendly team are ready to create a customized restoration that blends with your smile, and sedation dentistry is available for your comfort. You can discuss the crown material and all related topics during an appointment which you can schedule on his website or by calling (972) 525-9283.