|
Crowns (often referred to as "Caps")
There are three types of crowns that we can do for patients:
All porcelain crowns
When decay has damaged considerable tooth structure or chewing forces in the mouth are too great for veneers, a stronger solution is needed. In this situation we use all-porcelain crowns. Porcelain crowns are made entirely of porcelain. They are the most cosmetic of all full crown type restorations. All-porcelain crowns have greater translucency - light passes through them just like a natural tooth, making them the most life-like option. These are often performed on front teeth where cosmetics are the greatest concern.
Porcelain/metal combination crowns:
These crowns have a metal (usually a gold alloy) understructure with a layer of tooth-coloured porcelain over top. The metal gives the cap strength and the porcelain makes it attractive. These crowns are done where a tooth needs to be as strong as possible but cosmetics are still a concern. The extra strength may be required because the tooth itself is weak or the crown will be in an area that will receive excessive chewing forces. Porcelain/metal crowns do not have the translucency of all-porcelain crowns. Therefore, aesthetics may be slightly compromised in some situations. However our talented technicians, with experience in custom staining, can usually overcome these limitations, thereby creating beautiful restorations.
Metal (gold) crowns:
All-metal crowns are the strongest and most durable crowns available. These are usually only done on very back teeth or other areas where they won’t be seen. These are often done on men or other patients who grind their teeth, to help withstand the greater chewing forces. While not the most "cosmetic" of the procedures we have available, they are the most durable. If properly cared for, gold caps can often be expected to last a patient's lifetime. Gold is used, not because it is the most expensive or for how it looks, but because it provides the best fit and increases the cap's durability.
|
