A dental crown, also known as a dental cap or tooth crown, is a prosthetic device that is placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its function, shape, and appearance. A crown can also be used to cover a dental implant or to support a dental bridge. Crowns are typically made of various materials and have different properties and characteristics.
What are my options in terms of material?
Zirconium crowns are made of a durable and strong material called zirconia, a ceramic type. Zirconium crowns are highly resistant to chipping and cracking and look natural. They are popular for patients who want a long-lasting, durable crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth. EMAX crowns are made of a type of ceramic material called lithium disilicate. EMAX crowns are highly esthetic, meaning they closely resemble the colour and translucency of natural teeth. They are also highly durable and resistant to chipping and cracking, making them a popular choice for patients who want a strong and natural-looking crown. Porcelain jacket crowns are made of porcelain that is fused to a metal framework. The metal framework provides strength and durability, while the porcelain gives the crown a natural-looking appearance. Porcelain jacket crowns are a good choice for patients with severely damaged or weakened teeth requiring a strong and durable crown. Porcelain bonded crowns, also known as porcelain fused to metal crowns, are similar to porcelain jacket crowns but have a thinner layer of porcelain. This makes them a more esthetic option, as the metal framework is less visible. Porcelain bonded crowns are a good choice for patients who want a crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth but also needs a strong and durable restoration.
Zirconium – Why do they look different? I.e. I’m comparing teeth made in Turkey to those I see in other countries
Different types of zirconia are used in dentistry, which can affect the appearance and properties of zirconium crowns. One type of zirconia is known as traditional or opaque zirconia. This type of zirconia is white and opaque, and it is often used for the core of the crown. A layer of porcelain is then added to the core to give the crown a more natural-looking appearance. Opaque zirconia crowns can be very strong and durable, but they may not have the translucency and esthetic qualities of other types of zirconia.
Another type of zirconia is called translucent or high translucency zirconia. This type of zirconia is more translucent than opaque zirconia, allowing more light to pass through it. Translucent zirconia crowns can have a more natural-looking appearance as they mimic the translucency of natural teeth. However, they may not be as strong as opaque zirconia and may require a thicker layer of porcelain to achieve the desired esthetic results.
There is also a type of zirconia called ultra-translucent zirconia, the most esthetic type. Ultra-translucent zirconia is even more translucent than high-translucency zirconia, allowing for a more natural-looking appearance without needing as much porcelain layering. However, ultra-translucent zirconia may not be as strong as opaque or high translucency zirconia and may not be suitable for all types of dental restorations.
In summary, different types of zirconia can affect the appearance and properties of zirconium crowns, with opaque zirconia being the strongest and most durable and ultra-translucent zirconia being the most esthetic but potentially less intense. The choice of zirconia type for a particular dental restoration will depend on the patient’s individual needs and goals.
How do I decide which type of dental crown is best for me?
Deciding which type of dental crown is best for you will depend on several factors, including your dental needs, budget, esthetic preferences, and your dentist’s recommendation. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which type of dental crown is best for you:
- Dental Needs: The type of dental crown that is best for you will depend on your specific dental needs. For example, if you have a highly visible tooth and want a crown that looks as natural as possible, an EMAX or ultra-translucent zirconia crown may be the best choice. If you have a back tooth requiring a crown and want a highly durable option, a traditional or opaque zirconia crown may be the best choice.
- Cosmetic Preferences: If you have a highly visible tooth requiring a crown, you may want to consider an aesthetic option like EMAX or ultra-translucent zirconia. However, a porcelain bonded crown may be more affordable if you are on a budget.
- Budget: The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the type of material used. Generally, zirconia and EMAX crowns are more expensive than porcelain bonded crowns. It’s important to discuss the cost and financing options with your dentist to determine which option fits your budget.
- Recommendation of your dentist: Your dentist can provide a professional recommendation on which type of dental crown is best for you based on your needs, dental history, and budget.
In summary, the best way to decide which type of dental crown is best for you is to consult with your dentist. Your dentist and team can help you evaluate the pros and cons of each option and make a recommendation based on your individual needs and budget.
What we Love at Tracey Bell – Digital Production and Single Visits
Digital production of dental crowns using milling machines is a process known as CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing). The process involves several steps:
- Digital scanning: A digital impression of the tooth that requires a crown is taken using an intraoral scanner. This scanner takes a 3D image of the tooth and surrounding structures, which is then used to design the crown.
- Crown design: Using specialized CAD software, we can design the crowns on a computer, taking into account the shape and size of the tooth, as well as the patient’s bite and aesthetic wishes.
- Milling: Once the crown is designed, the digital file is sent to a milling machine located in the dental practice. The milling machine uses a block of ceramic material, such as zirconia, to carve the crown to the exact specifications of the design.
- Finishing: Once the crown is milled, it may require some finishing touches to ensure a proper fit and aesthetic appearance. This may include trimming or polishing the crown to achieve the desired shape and surface texture.
The entire CAD/CAM process can typically be completed within a few hours, allowing patients to receive a custom-made crown in a single dental visit. This can be a convenient option for patients who do not want to wait for a crown to be fabricated in a dental lab and return for a second appointment to have it placed.
We Love Digital Dentistry
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