What Are Ceramic Dental Crowns?
Ceramic dental crowns, also known as porcelain crowns, are a type of dental restoration used to repair damaged or decayed teeth. They are made of a hard, durable ceramic material that closely resembles the look and feel of natural teeth. Ceramic crowns are popular among patients because they are long-lasting, resistant to stains, and can be matched to the color of the surrounding teeth for a natural-looking smile.
The process of getting a ceramic crown typically involves a few steps. First, the damaged tooth is prepared by removing any decayed or weakened areas and reshaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. Next, an impression is taken of the tooth and sent to a dental lab, where the ceramic crown is custom-made to fit the patient's unique mouth shape and bite. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.
Once the ceramic crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is carefully fitted onto the tooth. The crown is then permanently bonded in place using a special dental cement. With proper care and maintenance, a ceramic crown can last for many years, providing a comfortable, durable, and natural-looking solution for a damaged or decayed tooth.
There are several advantages to using ceramic crowns over other types of dental restorations. For one, ceramic crowns are highly esthetic, meaning that they closely mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. This can be particularly beneficial for front teeth that are visible when a patient smiles or speaks. Additionally, ceramic crowns are extremely durable and have a long functional lifespan. Unlike metal crowns, ceramic crowns are also resistant to corrosion and do not conduct heat or cold, making them a comfortable and safe choice for patients.
While ceramic crowns may be more expensive than other types of dental restorations, many patients find that the benefits are well worth the investment. Not only do ceramic crowns provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution for damaged or decayed teeth, but they can also improve overall oral health by restoring proper tooth function and reducing the risk of further decay or damage.
4 Types Of Ceramic Crowns
With new advancements in dental technology and materials, patients and dentists have a variety of ceramic materials to choose from. The 4 ceramic materials include:
Lithium Disilicate Crowns
These all-ceramic crowns are made out of thin and light lithium disilicate. These crowns are extremely resilient with a high flexural rate (durability), allowing them to withstand hard biting and chewing. They are regularly used to restore front teeth thanks to their aesthetic appearance.
Solid Or Monolithic Zirconia
Solid or monolithic zirconia crowns are used for posterior restorations as they are virtually unbreakable. They provide a very precise, secure fit and have different shades available to match neighbouring teeth. Because of the smoothness and durability of this crown, it is commonly used for patients who have bruxism (a condition where you unconsciously grind your teeth).
High Translucent Zirconia
High translucent zirconia is made of highly biocompatible materials, promoting a healthy response to surrounding tissue. They are traditionally used for anterior restorations because of their low flexural strength.
This crown offers lifelike translucency as it transmits the color of adjacent teeth, thus blending in extremely well with the rest of your teeth. The translucency of these crowns are formed by how materials are processed, which minimizes impurities and structural defects.
Leucite Reinforced Pressable Porcelain Crowns
Leucite reinforced pressable porcelain crowns are famous for combining high durability with great aesthetics. These crowns have high translucency and can transmit the shade from adjacent teeth, allowing them to match the shade of the surrounding teeth even in the most difficult cases. These crowns can mimic a natural appearance but are not as durable as the other options.
Overall, ceramic dental crowns are an excellent choice for patients who want a long-lasting, natural-looking solution for a damaged or decayed tooth. With proper care and maintenance, a ceramic crown can provide many years of reliable and comfortable service, improving overall oral health and enhancing the patient's smile.