When you need the top part of a tooth replaced, a crown, there are several options to choose from. Each type has its own advantages, so it is in your best interest to decide what you need and want. Ceramic crowns are one type that you certainly want to look at when making your choice.
About Crowns
A dental crown is a cap that fits on top of a tooth root. It is the part that you see when you look at teeth. It looks just like the original and it restores the usefulness of the tooth.
When a Dental Crown Is Needed
The top part of a tooth can become damaged in many ways. When this occurs, it is possible that a dentist may recommend that you get a crown. Some situations that may require getting a dental crown include:
- Replacing a broken tooth
- Protecting a tooth that is weak
- Covering a large filling
- Capping a dental implant
- Covering a tooth that had a root canal
- Changing the shape of a misshapen tooth.
Types of Crowns
There are basically five types of crowns available today. Crowns can be made of various metals, such as gold, nickel, chromium, or palladium. They can also be made of porcelain that is fused to a metal frame. Crowns can also be made of all ceramic or all porcelain, and from a ceramic crown that has a hard inner core – called a pressed ceramic crown.
About Ceramic Crowns
Crowns that are all ceramic have the ability to look more like natural teeth than other types. The light is reflected from a solid ceramic crown in a different way than with mixed materials or other substances. This gives it the most natural look possible.
When a crown is placed on a metal substructure, it does not reflect light in the same way, making it look a little less real. When a crown is placed on a metal frame, there is also the problem that it is possible that the metal may be seen at the base of the tooth if the gums recede some.
Placement of Crowns Made of Ceramic
Crowns made from ceramics tend to be a little more brittle than other materials. For this reason, they are usually placed on the front teeth or on the back molars. One ceramic that seems to be the strongest so far are crowns made of zirconium.
May Be Made in a Single Visit
Some dentist offices have high-tech machines that are able to create a crown when needed. The machines use computer-aided drawing (CAD) programming and they are able to create the tooth out of a porcelain block. When completed, it is simply placed on top of the tooth and cemented. This enables the process to be completed in a single visit.
We offer complete dental services for the entire family, including cosmetic dentistry. Just call (914) 732-3377 for more information or to set up an appointment.