Planning to get dental implant treatment soon? You’ll soon learn that choosing the right crown is just as important as the implant itself. That’s not to say that you’ll need to decide between dental implants vs. crowns, but that each component plays a vital role in the success of the restoration.
Your dental implant crown is the visible part of your new tooth; it gives you the confidence to smile, chew, and speak naturally. But with so many crown materials available, how do you know which one is best for you? Let’s explore the different types of dental implant crowns and what to consider when getting dental implants in Pikeville, KY.
What is a dental implant crown?
A dental implant crown is an artificial tooth that sits atop your dental implant. These artificial teeth are custom-made to closely resemble your natural teeth in terms of color and shape. They are designed to be durable and realistic so they can blend seamlessly with your real teeth. Dental crowns are usually crafted from high-quality materials like zirconia, porcelain, or metal for long-term strength and functionality.
What to look for in a dental crown?
Not all crowns are created equal. The durability, biocompatibility, cost, and aesthetics of your crown may vary based on the material. Here’s what to look for:
- Durability: You want your dental crown to be strong enough to chew through your favorite foods with minimal risk of chipping or cracking. A strong crown material promotes long-lasting performance. Metal crowns are usually the strongest, but they don’t look like real teeth. Zirconia offers the best of both worlds.
- Aesthetics: The crown should match your natural teeth in color and shape. You’ll have an opportunity to choose your preferred shade and tooth mold during your consultation. Porcelain and zirconia typically yield the most realistic results.
- Biocompatibility: Ceramic, porcelain, or zirconia may work better for individuals with metal allergies or sensitivities.
- Cost: Cheap crowns may cost you more in the long run if they require frequent replacement. Look for a balance of cost and quality.
Placing your dental crowns is the very last step in the dental implant process. Your dental care team typically waits for your gums and oral tissue to heal and recover from essential treatments (like a pre-dental implant sinus lift, bone graft, or gum graft) and the implant surgery itself so that the final crowns can be customized to suit any changes in your bite or tooth alignment.
Types of dental crowns
Zirconia crowns
Zirconia is a popular choice for dental implant crowns. Zirconia crowns offer excellent strength and durability. They’re resistant to cracks, chipping and wear, boasting a natural-looking color that blends well with the rest of your pearly whites. Zirconia is also highly biocompatible and less likely to cause allergies.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are designed for both strength and aesthetics. The sturdy metal base ensures long-term durability, while the porcelain coating gives them a tooth-like appearance. They’re a great option for many patients, but one thing to keep in mind is that if your gums recede over time, a small portion of the metal base may become visible.
Porcelain crowns
Porcelain crowns are known for their lifelike translucency and color, making them a great choice for front teeth. They reflect light similarly to natural enamel, giving them a realistic and natural appearance. However, they are more prone to chipping compared to zirconia. They may also cost less than zirconia crowns.
Porcelain crowns also require careful handling to ensure their longevity. While they are strong, they can be brittle under high pressure, so patients are often advised to avoid biting down on very hard foods. According to this professional oral surgeon in Chattanooga TN, with proper care and maintenance, however, a porcelain crown can provide a durable and beautiful solution for many years
Acrylic/resin crowns
Acrylic and resin crowns are lightweight and practical, though not as strong as zirconia, porcelain, or PFM crowns. These crowns tend to be cheaper than sturdier options but may require more frequent replacement due to wear. Because they wear down faster, they’re usually used as placeholders until your final crown is ready.
Caring for your dental crowns
Dental crowns may not be susceptible to decay, but they require the same care as your natural teeth. Follow these tips to keep your crowns looking great for years to come.
- Brush crowns twice a day using gentle circular motions
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Use unwaxed floss or a water pick to dislodge food trapped between your teeth
- Avoid overconsumption of coffee, tea, wine, and other items that can stain your crowns
- Use a mouthguard if you tend to grind your teeth at night
Choosing the right dental implant crown depends on your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Your implant specialist or care team will take your needs and budget into consideration during your initial consultation and make recommendations accordingly.
