Types of Tooth Crowns: A Detailed Overview

What are dental crowns and how do they work?

Dental crowns are an effective option for restoring both the functionality and aesthetics of damaged or weakened teeth. These structures, known as «caps,» are firmly attached to the natural tooth, providing protection, reinforcement, and a natural-looking appearance. Different types of tooth crowns are made of materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.

Types of Tooth Crowns:

1. Metal Crowns:

• Description: Made of gold, chrome-cobalt, or titanium, these crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability.
• They are an ideal option for teeth that endure a lot of biting force, such as molars.

Advantages:

• Extreme durability: Can last up to 20 years or more with proper care.
• Affordable cost: The most economical option among permanent crowns.
• Abrasion resistance: Can withstand frictional wear from other teeth.
• Biocompatibility: Titanium is ideal for patients allergic to other metals.

Disadvantages:

• Less aesthetic: Do not mimic the natural tooth color like porcelain or zirconia.
• Metallic appearance: May be noticeable in the smile, especially on front teeth.
• Possible sensitivity: Some patients experience sensitivity to cold or heat with metal crowns.

2. Porcelain Crowns:

• Description: Made of dental ceramic, these crowns offer impeccable aesthetics by blending with the natural tooth color.
• They are ideal for front teeth where appearance is crucial.

Advantages:

• Superior aesthetics: Perfectly mimic the color, translucency, and texture of the natural tooth.
• Biocompatibility: Highly biocompatible and rarely cause allergic reactions.
• Versatility: Can be customized to match the shape and color of adjacent teeth.

Disadvantages:

• Less durable: Typically last between 10 and 15 years, less than metal crowns.
• Higher cost: More expensive than metal crowns.
• Increased fragility: More prone to fracture than metal or zirconia crowns.

3. Zirconia Crowns:

• Description: Made of zirconia, a high-strength ceramic material, these crowns offer a balance between aesthetics and durability.
• They are an excellent option for both posterior and anterior teeth.

Advantages:

• Notable aesthetics: Mimic the color and translucency of the natural tooth, although not to the same level as porcelain.
• Considerable durability: Last between 10 and 15 years, similar to porcelain.
• High resistance: Stronger and more fracture-resistant than porcelain.
• Biocompatibility: Biocompatible and do not cause allergic reactions.

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost: More expensive than metal crowns but less than porcelain.
• Gradual wear: May wear opposing teeth over time, especially if the bite is not well-adjusted.

4. Resin Crowns:

• Description: Made of composite plastic material, these crowns are an economical and temporary alternative.
• They are ideal for teeth needing a provisional solution while a permanent crown is being fabricated.

Advantages:

• Very low cost: The most economical option among crowns.
• Temporary solution: Protect the tooth while awaiting the definitive crown.
• Easy repair: Can be repaired in case of breakage or damage.

Disadvantages:

• Less durable: Last only a few years.
• Inferior aesthetics: Do not mimic the natural tooth color as well as other options.
• Increased fragility: More prone to fracture or wear.

5. Temporary Crowns:

• Description: Made of temporary acrylic or resin, these crowns are used while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
• Their main function is to protect the tooth and maintain its position

Advantages:

• Low cost: The most economical option.
• Temporary function: Protect the tooth during the fabrication process of the permanent crown.
• Easy removal: Can be easily removed and placed for adjustments or cleaning.

Disadvantages:

• Limited aesthetics: Not as aesthetically pleasing as permanent crowns.
• Not permanent: Not considered a long-term solution.

How Dental Crowns Work:

Dental crowns function by covering the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line, effectively becoming the new outer surface of the tooth. This protects the underlying dental structure from further damage while restoring its function and appearance.

Crowns can be used for:

• Protection: Crowns protect the damaged tooth from decay, wear, and fracture.
• Strengthening: Crowns strengthen the weakened tooth and improve its ability to withstand biting force.
• Restoration: Crowns restore the shape, size, and function of the tooth.
• Aesthetics: Crowns enhance the appearance of the tooth, especially if they are white or have a natural design.

Care After Dental Crown Placement:

First 24 hours:

• Avoid eating on the side of the mouth where the crown was placed.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if you experience discomfort.
• Apply ice to the outer cheek area for 20 minutes every two hours to reduce swelling.
• Do not rinse your mouth forcefully.
• Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the crown area.
• Use dental floss carefully, avoiding the crown area.

Subsequent days:

• Eat soft foods and chew carefully.
• Avoid biting hard or sticky foods.
• Avoid using toothpicks.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and using dental floss once a day.
• Visit your dentist for crown check-ups and additional instructions.

General recommendations:

• Visit your dentist regularly for crown check-ups and dental cleanings.
• Inform your dentist of any changes in your oral health, such as pain, sensitivity, or inflammation.
• Avoid grinding your teeth, as this can damage the crown.
• Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.

Additional tips:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water after each meal.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash.
• Avoid smoking, as this can increase the risk of complications.

In conclusion, dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring both function and esthetics to damaged or weakened teeth. These «caps» firmly adhere to the natural tooth, providing protection, reinforcement and a natural look. There are different types of dental crowns in various materials, such as metal, porcelain, zirconium oxide and resin, each type of crown has its own advantages and disadvantages, which suit different needs and preferences.