Our team at The Hills Dental Spa Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Austin, TX, understand that choosing a material for your dental crown may seem daunting or overwhelming. We know that having too many choices can make it challenging to select the type of crown most appropriate for your needs. To select the proper treatment, it is best to understand both the pros and cons of each material.
Below are some of the more common types of crowns we provide at the practice of Dr. Kevin Winters:
• Metal. Metal crowns are strong, durable, and can last many years. They do not chip or break easily, making them ideal for molars that see a lot of chewing force. However, they may contain nickel or other alloys that some people may be allergic to. Additionally, they are not as aesthetically pleasing and will stand out when compared to natural teeth.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM). PFM crowns provide the strength and durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, allowing for a more natural-looking smile. The downside to these crowns is that the underlying metal structure can cause a grey line around the gum line over time as it begins to show through the porcelain covering.
• Porcelain. Porcelain crowns are popular for their aesthetic appeal, as they can be shaded to match the exact color of your surrounding teeth. They also offer a natural look and feel. However, porcelain is not as strong or durable as metal and PFM crowns, so it may need to be replaced more frequently and is best suited for front teeth that do not receive as much force when chewing.
• Zirconia. Zirconia crowns combine the strength and aesthetic beauty of porcelain crowns with additional durability provided by this advanced ceramic material. It provides an ideal combination of form and function while providing a natural-looking smile without the risk of grey lines that often occur with PFM restorations.
Which One Is Right for Me?
By working with Dr. Kevin Winters and his team in Austin, TX, you can educate yourself further on each solution to make an educated decision regarding the material best for your smile. Call 512-347-0044 to request an appointment at our office.
