Dental crowns, also known as caps, are a common dental restoration used to protect and strengthen damaged or weakened teeth. They are often recommended to patients who have undergone root canal therapy, have large cavities, or have suffered from trauma to their teeth. Dental crowns are custom-made and can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and a combination of materials. In this article, we will discuss dental crowns in London, including the different types of crowns available, the benefits and drawbacks of each material, the cost of dental crowns in London, and what to expect during the dental crown procedure.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The most common types of dental crowns are porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are the most common type of dental crown used in London. They are made from a translucent, tooth-colored material that closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are typically used on front teeth because they are highly aesthetic and can blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. However, they are not as strong as other types of crowns and can be prone to chipping or cracking.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are similar to porcelain crowns, but they are made from a different type of ceramic material that is stronger and more durable than porcelain. Ceramic crowns are also highly aesthetic and can blend in seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. They are an excellent option for patients who are allergic to metals or who prefer a metal-free restoration. However, like porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns can be prone to chipping or cracking.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from various metals, including gold, silver, and base metal alloys. Metal crowns are extremely strong and durable and are typically used on back teeth that are under a lot of pressure from chewing. They are also an excellent option for patients who grind their teeth or who have a history of clenching their jaw. However, metal crowns are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain or ceramic crowns, and they can be visible when smiling or talking.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns are a combination of porcelain and metal. The metal provides strength and durability, while the porcelain provides a natural-looking tooth-colored surface. PFM crowns are an excellent option for patients who want a strong and durable restoration but also want a natural-looking tooth. However, the metal portion of the crown can sometimes be visible, especially if the gums recede over time.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Each Material
Each type of dental crown has its own benefits and drawbacks. When deciding on a dental crown material, it is essential to consider factors such as strength, durability, aesthetics, and cost.
Porcelain Crowns
Benefits:
- Highly aesthetic and can blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth
- Custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of the patient’s natural teeth
- Biocompatible and do not cause allergic reactions
- Stain-resistant
Drawbacks:
- Less strong and durable than other types of crowns
- Can be prone to chipping or cracking
- More expensive than metal crowns
- Ceramic Crowns
Benefits:
- Highly aesthetic and can blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth
- Stronger and more durable than porcelain crowns
- Biocompatible and do not cause allergic reactions
- Stain-resistant
Drawbacks:
- Can be prone to chipping or cracking
- More expensive than metal crowns
