5 Considerations When Choosing Dental Crown Material

Once you and your dentist have decided that a crown is right for you, there are a few things to consider when choosing dental crown material.

A crown is essentially a cap that goes over a tooth that is broken, chipped or unsightly. Crowns are used to improve appearance and usability of these compromised teeth — they provide a stronger bite, an anchor for bridges, a fix for misshapen or discolored teeth and a boost of confidence.

Which material you choose for your dental crown will be dependent on the outcome you are looking for. Some materials provide more strength than others, while others are more aesthetically pleasing or more cost efficient. The following are five things to consider when making your choice.

1. Know the reason behind getting a crown

   If the goal is purely cosmetic, revisit whether porcelain veneers or tooth bonding may be more appropriate as both are less invasive. Crowns are costly and non-reversible. Make sure there isn’t another simpler solution before proceeding.

   Crowns are effective in holding together broken teeth, strengthening a tooth with a filling that takes up more than 50 percent of the tooth, and to hold dental implants and bridges in place. Their purpose is to extend the life of a tooth.

2. Compare costs

   Every insurance plan is different, so make sure to go into the consultation knowing what is covered in your plan and what is not. Crowns that are placed for cosmetic reasons alone are typically not covered. There are additional parameters that have exclusions for replacements and the type of material used.

   Choosing all-resin as a dental crown material is a cost effective option. This material is less expensive than other crown types but wears more quickly over time and they can fracture more easily than stronger materials, requiring replacements.

3. Consider gold

   Gold crowns are extremely durable and will not chip, crack or break. They also won’t wear down opposing teeth like other materials can. While the color of this material dissuades some, it remains an excellent choice, especially for back teeth. They also last longer than other dental crown materials.

   This crown material is great for strengthening the bite and ability to chew. Along with other metal crowns (which include a high content of gold, platinum, or base-metal alloys) they are a great, cost effective choice for out-of-sight molars.

4. Consider appearance

   If cosmetic enhancement is a concern, then porcelain makes for an excellent choice. All-porcelain dental crowns have the most natural appearance. Porcelain is a great option for those with metal allergies.

   Porcelain fused to metal is the most authentic-looking of the materials available, although the underlying metal can sometimes show through slightly, depending on the gum line. The metal reinforces the strength of the tooth and makes for the perfect option when functioning as an anchor for a bridge.

5. Do you grind your teeth?

   Knowing your habits is key to figuring out what it is you need when choosing dental crown material. If you grind your teeth, you will want to stay away from all-porcelain or resin and lean towards the metal dental crowns, which are more durable.

The bottom line

Spend some time speaking with your dentist when choosing the right material for your crown. Being proactive will help you save time and money.

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