Is An All-Ceramic Dental Crown Right For You?
Once the decision has been made that a dental crown offers the best possible solution for your specific dental problem, the next question is which type of crown you need. Dental crowns are available in a wide range of materials, from acrylic to metal. Many patients opt for porcelain or ceramic crowns as these offer the most natural outcome, both in terms of how the finished restoration looks, and how it functions as a tooth. Your dentist is likely to have their own recommendation. But why might they suggest an all-ceramic crown?
Hard and Refractory
The type of ceramic used to fabricate a dental crown is typically zirconia. It creates a hard, refractory restoration, which means that it's not bothered by most of the situations it will encounter. Zirconia is resistant to temperature changes, pressure, and chemical deterioration. This means it's one of the most durable materials available for dental restorations. Its thermal expansion is similar to natural dental enamel, thereby making it more biocompatible than acrylic or metal.
A Natural Appearance
Arguably, a metal crown is somewhat more durable than ceramic. The downside is that a metal crown looks undeniably metal. Whether the ultimate finish means that the crown looks gold or like brushed steel, it will be conspicuous, meaning that it's generally reserved for when a molar needs a crown, and as such, is unlikely to be quite so obvious. However, ceramic more accurately replicates the look of natural dental enamel, which metal simply cannot do.
Translucence
Teeth aren't a solid block of color. The shade of your teeth is largely determined by your dental enamel, which coats your teeth. This enamel is actually translucent, and solid, light-blocking materials, such as metal or acrylic, cannot replicate the natural translucence of dental enamel. Porcelain and ceramic can definitely achieve this translucence, allowing for the most lifelike restoration that can be achieved. And a lifelike restoration must be cared for to the same high standard as your other teeth.
Dental Hygiene
Yes, an all-ceramic crown is designed for longevity, but it still requires care. Dental restorations can harbor microorganisms that can cause cavities. While the restoration will not develop a cavity, your other teeth are certainly still susceptible when a high standard of dental hygiene isn't maintained.
An all-ceramic crown isn't going to be the least expensive dental restoration offered. But when you consider the look and durability of the crown, along with the fact that (with proper care) you won't need to have it repaired or replaced for quite some years, it becomes a very sensible investment.
For more information about ceramic crowns, contact a local dental clinic.