What Types of Dental Crowns Are Available?

Dental crowns are an essential tool in restorative dentistry, providing protection and improving the appearance of damaged teeth. At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, we offer a variety of dental crowns to meet our patients’ diverse needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of dental crowns available, when they’re needed, and how to choose the right one for you.

Understanding Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are designed to look and function like natural teeth, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns are typically recommended in the following situations:

To protect a weak tooth from breaking
To restore a severely worn-down or broken tooth
To cover and support a tooth with a large filling
To hold a dental bridge in place
To cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth
To cover a dental implant

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, our team at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC can evaluate your needs and determine if a dental crown is the right solution for you.

Types of Dental Crowns

At our Bethesda practice, we offer several types of dental crowns to suit different needs and preferences:

1. Temporary Crowns

Temporary crowns are used as a short-term solution while your permanent crown is being fabricated. They:

Protect the prepared tooth
Allow for normal chewing and speaking
Help to prevent teeth shifting while waiting for the permanent crown
Are typically made of acrylic or stainless steel

2. Permanent Crowns

Permanent crowns are the long-term solution for restoring damaged teeth. They can be made from various materials, including:

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
All-ceramic
Gold alloys

3. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns:

These are the traditional crowns that have been used for decades.
They offer esthetics with high strength
They include a metal substructure that is covered by porcelain.
Many kinds of metals can be used (non-precious, semi-precious, Noble, High-Noble)
They are selected according to the clinical needs and the patient’s budget.

4. All-Ceramic / E-Max Crowns

E-Max crowns are made from lithium disilicate ceramic, offering exceptional strength and aesthetics. These crowns are known for their:

Natural appearance
Durability
Minimal tooth reduction requirement

E-Max crowns are an excellent choice for both front and back teeth, providing a balance of strength and beauty.

5. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable ceramic material. They offer:

High strength and resistance to chipping
Natural-looking appearance
Biocompatibility

Zirconia crowns are ideal for patients who need extra durability, especially for back teeth that endure significant chewing forces.

6. Gold Alloys

Made of different kinds of alloy combinations. Not tooth colored. Typically used on back teeth. It causes the least amount of wear to the opposing teeth. The most durable, and typically the longest-lasting crowns.

Each material has its own set of advantages, and our experienced team can help you choose the best option for your specific needs.

Choosing the Right Dental Crown

Selecting the appropriate type of dental crown depends on several factors:

Location of the tooth
Visibility of the tooth when smiling
Amount of natural tooth remaining
Color of surrounding teeth
Bite and chewing habits

During your consultation at Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, our expert dentists will assess these factors and recommend the best crown type for your individual case.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer numerous benefits, including:

Improved appearance of damaged or discolored teeth
Enhanced chewing ability
Protection of weak teeth from further damage
Long-lasting results with proper care
Restored confidence in your smile

Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation

At Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC, we’re committed to providing top-quality dental care, including a wide range of dental procedures. Our team has extensive experience in placing dental crowns, ensuring optimal results for our patients in Bethesda and the surrounding areas.

If you’re considering dental crowns or have questions about which type might be right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll assess your needs, discuss your options, and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile and oral health. Don’t let damaged or weakened teeth hold you back. Contact Dental & TMJ Specialists of Greater DC today to learn more about our dental crown options and how we can help improve your oral health and confidence.