Types of Dental Crowns

You probably know that crowns are used by dentists to restore damaged or decayed teeth or to improve their appearance. But did you know that there are actually three different kinds of crowns to choose from? If you are in need of a crown, here is a look at the options you have.

•    All ceramic: Generally made of porcelain, these tooth colored crowns look extremely life-like thanks to properties that allow them to reflect light similar to tooth enamel. This makes them ideal for front teeth. To place them, our expert in porcelain crowns in West Hollywood first removes enough enamel from the tooth to accommodate the crown. Though they are durable enough to last for decades if properly cared for, they are not as durable as the other types. For instance, they may not hold up well if put under excessive pressure, such as from teeth grinding or clenching.
•    Porcelain fused to metal: These are similar to ceramic crowns, except that they contain an underlying metal structure, making them much more durable than pure ceramic crowns.
•    All metal: These crowns are made of gold or other metal. They are extremely durable and will not erode or fracture. Placing them also requires less enamel to be removed. However, since they are visible, they are normally used for back teeth where they will not be seen.

If you are in need of one or more crowns, our West Hollywood cosmetic dentist can help determine which kind is best for you. Call our office to schedule your consultation today.