Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are cap-like restorations that surround the crown of a tooth. Dental crowns restore teeth damaged by moderate to advanced decay, erosion, or injury. Dental crowns can also address tooth loss. Dental crowns enhance oral strength, functions, and aesthetics, making them one of the most versatile restorative dentistry treatments.
At Garden City Smiles, Dr. Louis Buono offers several types of dental crowns. He assists his Long Island, NY, and Garden City, NY, patients in selecting the type of dental crown that is best suited to their unique needs and desires. Here, we provide an overview of the dental crowns offered at our dental practice.
Metal Crowns
Metal dental crowns can be composed of gold, stainless steel, or a variety of metal alloys. Metal crowns are stronger and more durable than most other types of crowns. However, metal crowns cannot be matched to the color of a patient’s teeth, so they are not used as often as other types of crowns. Metal crowns are a suitable option for the back teeth, which are not easily visible when a person smiles or talks.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are the most frequently used dental crown. Porcelain crowns are composed of layers of porcelain. Porcelain crowns are designed to match the color of the patient’s teeth, so they blend in seamlessly. Porcelain crowns reflect light like natural teeth, making them the most life-like of all available dental crowns. Although porcelain crowns are not as strong as metal crowns, they are extremely durable. Porcelain crowns are made of the highest-quality materials and can withstand the usual wear and tear of biting and chewing.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
Those of our Garden City patients who desire the strength of metal crowns and the aesthetics of porcelain crowns may be ideal candidates for porcelain fused to metal crowns. These crowns consist of a metal core surrounded by layers of porcelain. Crowns fabricated of porcelain fused to metal are strong and attractive, making them suitable for the back teeth.
One potential drawback of these restorations is the appearance of the metal. A small amount of metal can be visible at the base of the tooth. Likewise, as porcelain wears down over time, the metal core of the crown can show through.
Implant-Supported Crowns
Implant-supported crowns address tooth loss. A dental implant is a small titanium screw surgically placed in the jaw. The implant fuses with bone tissues and acts as an artificial tooth root. The implant connects to a metal abutment that protrudes from the gum line to hold a dental restoration in place, including dental crowns. An implant-supported crown replaces missing teeth to restore oral functions and enhance the smile’s appearance.
Contact Us
Dental crowns are a versatile restorative dentistry treatment that can address decay, dental damage, and tooth loss. There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its advantages and drawbacks. If you’d like to learn more about dental crowns and which may be right for you, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Louis Buono. To get started, send us a message online or call (516) 294-0375 at your earliest convenience.
