What Are the Best Kinds of Dental Crowns?

Plus 8 Other Frequently Asked Dental Crown Questions

Dental crowns are a popular restorative dental procedure used to fix and protect damaged teeth. They come in a variety of materials, all of which impact the finished crown’s appearance and longevity. 

If you have a tooth in need of a crown but don’t know how to choose the right material for you, here is what you need to know.

1. What is the best type of dental crown?

The best type of dental crown is the one that fits your needs aesthetically, functionally, and financially. Many modern dental practices offer one or two dental crowns options, often a lab-created type and a same-day or in-office ceramic type. Others may only offer one type, such as Valley Dental Clinic that specializes in zirconia crowns.

When your tooth is in need of a dental crown, your dentist will discuss your options and suggest which material they believe fits your needs best. You absolutely have a say in which crown you receive, so don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unfamiliar with the material offered.

2. What are the benefits of zirconia crowns?

Zirconia crowns have a few unique benefits, which is why Valley Dental Clinic uses them exclusively. This material is stronger than porcelain and highly resistant to fractures and general wear and tear. They naturally have a translucent sheen that mimics natural tooth enamel, allowing the lab technician designing the crown to get the perfect color match to your smile. Lastly, zirconia crowns are perfectly suitable for both the molars and the front teeth.

3. Do people still get gold crowns?

They do! Gold dental crowns are still an option, though you will often need them to be specially designed by your dentist if you request it. While gold crowns are quite strong, their very flashy appearance is a deal-breaker for anyone who wants as natural-looking a smile as possible.

If you do have your heart set on a gold crown, speak to your dentist about what that treatment option entails.

4. How strong are dental crowns?

Dental crown durability is directly impacted by the material being used. All modern dental crowns are strong and suitable for typical use. As far as materials go, options like zirconia, gold, and porcelain are some of the strongest. 

Generally speaking, if you are having a crown placed on a molar, you’ll want to choose one of those materials to ensure maximum durability. 

5. Are dental crowns durable for front teeth?

We use our front teeth to bite through food, so it’s important these teeth are properly protected. Zirconia is a fantastic crown material for front teeth for two reasons. Firstly, it’s a stable, strong material that is unlikely to crack. Secondly, zirconia crowns allow for a seamless, natural finish, which is especially important on very visible front teeth.

6. How long do dental crowns last?

Crown longevity is also dependent on its material. Because molars receive so much biting force, dental crowns on these back teeth usually need to be replaced sooner than those on front teeth. A typical dental crown often lasts 10 years or longer with proper care. Ceramic crowns often reach this lifespan before needing to be replaced, though some ceramic blends may need to be replaced closer to eight years. The strongest dental crowns (including zirconia) can last upward of 15 to 20 years with proper oral hygiene.

7. Are dental crowns cosmetic or restorative?

Dental crowns can be considered both cosmetic and restorative in nature. Classification comes down to the reason why the crown is necessary. If your crown is restoring function to a decayed or broken tooth, it is considered restorative. If your crown is improving the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth that is otherwise healthy, it is considered cosmetic.

8. Does a crowned tooth look natural?

A skilled dentist and an experienced dental lab will ensure your crowned teeth match your natural teeth. Your crown will be carefully and artistically colored and shaped to blend in with your smile. If you are also interested in whitening, your dentist may recommend you whiten your natural teeth first to ensure your crown will be the right shade for your ideal smile.

Do you have a troublesome tooth that needs a protective or cosmetic dental crown?

The team at Valley Dental Clinic in Wasilla, Alaska, can help you protect your smile with stunning, ultradurable zirconia dental crowns. Our crowns are ideal for restorative care and equally capable as cosmetic solutions for treating individual teeth. To learn more about zirconia dental crowns or schedule your visit, give our office a call or use our online form.