The appearance of your teeth can make or break your confidence. Having strong, healthy, white teeth is beneficial to your self-esteem. But when you have imperfections, it’s easy to worry about your smile.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options available to help improve the appearance of your teeth. These options are increasing with the advent of new technology and the use of different materials.
Crowns can be made out of zirconia, porcelain, and metal. Each produces a different result, so before you get crowns you will want to at least know the differences between them.
Why Use Metal for Dental Crowns?
Gold is a durable yet gentle option for crowns. It has been used for a long time in dentistry because of that. It helps to preserve tooth structure and improve the patient’s comfort level.
There are downsides to using gold, though. One of the biggest is that it is not ideal for someone concerned about their teeth looking natural. Gold crowns are also often made with more metals than just gold to ensure that they are strong enough. This could be an issue for someone who is sensitive or allergic to specific metals.
Another issue with gold is that the metal reacts to hot and cold quickly. This means that patients are often more sensitive to hot and cold food and drinks after the crown is placed.
Gold crowns are best for back teeth that are less visible because their appearance is so unnatural.
Why Use Porcelain for Crowns?
Porcelain has long been considered the most realistic and natural restoration for the teeth. It is easily the best choice for someone who is interested in obtaining a more attractive smile. Unlike metal, this material will not react to cold or heat and it will not trigger reactions in patients who are sensitive to certain metals.
The downside to using porcelain is that it is damaging to natural teeth. In order to minimize the chance of cracking or fractures, the natural tooth needs to be worn down so the crown fits best. This can also be an issue for patients who tend to clench and grind their teeth because the material is so easily damaged.
Why Use Zirconia for Crowns?
Zirconia, like porcelain, produces a better, more natural cosmetic result. Still, it is not as natural looking as porcelain but is a much better option than gold for front teeth. It is also much stronger than porcelain so it is less likely to be damaged which can be cheaper in the long run.
The downside to using zirconia is that it is not as effective for veneers and partial tooth restorations as porcelain. It also can trigger a reaction in patients who have metal sensitivities.
Sometimes zirconia is used for a base for porcelain. This combination creates a more natural look with greater durability than porcelain alone.
Choosing the right material for your crowns can be confusing. It is best to consult with a dental professional to determine the best fit for your teeth.
If you’re interested in learning more about crowns and the materials that they are constructed from, call our office to schedule an appointment today.