Dental Crowns: Variety of Uses
A crown is a restoration used to cover the entire part of the tooth that shows above the gum line. The crown is dyed and shaped to look exactly like a natural tooth. Made of durable material, a crown can withstand the same functions as natural teeth and last for years with proper dental care.
Crowns can be used to rebuild the structure of a tooth after injury, internal infection, or other damage. They are also used to support a dental bridge that replaces missing teeth.
At Dentistry on Broadway, we develop beautiful crowns made of all-ceramic, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or zirconia. We offer our patients options that fit their specific needs for a dental crown. Dr. Oliviero will work with you to determine the perfect crown for your specific situation.
Metal Crowns
Made of a gold alloy or other metal alloy such as nickel or chromium, metal crowns can withstand chewing and biting forces like natural teeth. Because metal crowns are typically stronger than other crowns, yet less attractive, they are usually reserved for posterior, or back, teeth. A benefit for the strength of your tooth, metal crowns require less tooth removal for sound placement.
All-Ceramic Crowns
The best match to natural tooth color than most crowns, all-ceramic crowns are ideal for more prominent front teeth. Although they are less durable than metal crowns or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, all-ceramic crowns are a good alternative for patients with metal allergies or who are worried about the harmful health effects of certain metals.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Combining the benefits of an all-ceramic crown and a metal crown, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are durable and discreet. PFMs are made of a metal base which attaches to the porcelain crown. A good choice for back teeth, PFMs provide the support of metal and look like natural teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Strength, longevity, and subtlety make zirconia crowns the ultimate choice in some cases. Made from solid blocks of zirconia, the crowns are custom milled to exact specifications. The nature of the material captures the natural-looking translucent quality of teeth while maintaining lifetime durability.