A dental crown is often suggested to restore the function and enhance the appearance of a damaged or weakened tooth. Acting as a protective cap, it helps shield the remaining enamel while also improving bite strength and overall oral stability. There are various types of crowns available today, each offering a unique way to achieve both structural support and a natural-looking smile.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is often advised when a cavity is too large for a filling or when tooth decay has weakened the structure enough to require a protective cap. If an old filling is no longer effective, your dentist might recommend replacing it with a crown. Similarly, root canal treatments are usually completed with a crown for added strength.
Crowns can also restore badly damaged teeth, such as ones that are visibly cracked, improving both bite function and smile alignment. They may also be used to correct a misaligned bite.
Multiple materials are used in crafting crowns. Porcelain, ceramic, and resin are among the most common, used alone or paired with metal. In some cases, metal alloys or zirconia are recommended depending on the patient’s needs.
Crown Types Based on Application
Dental crowns are available in various styles and uses, and the most appropriate one depends on your dental condition.
Provisional Crowns
As the term suggests, provisional crowns are meant for short-term protection. This temporary shell is attached with a light adhesive while the dentist prepares a custom permanent crown. Once it’s ready, the provisional crown is removed and replaced with the final version.
Since these crowns are not securely bonded, it’s important to be gentle while brushing, eating, or flossing.
Multi-Visit Crowns
Multi-visit crowns usually involve a two-step process. In the first session, the dentist performs a detailed evaluation, takes X-rays, and makes impressions for the crown. A portion of the enamel is shaped, and a temporary crown is placed.
The impressions are then sent to a dental lab to craft the final crown. On your return visit, the permanent crown is cemented and adjusted for a perfect fit.
Single-Visit Crowns
Single-visit crowns avoid the need for return appointments. At our Shelton clinic, we use CAD/CAM technology to scan, design, and produce the crown within the same visit.
From capturing digital images to permanently bonding the crown, the entire procedure takes about four hours, and there’s no need for a temporary fix.
Partial Coverage Crowns (Onlays)
Also known as partial crowns, onlays are used when part of a damaged tooth can still be saved. The dentist removes the decayed area, reshapes the remaining tooth, and places the partial crown to restore function and balance the bite.
Crown Types Based on Materials
There are various materials used to make dental crowns, ranging from metal to ceramic-based options.
Metal Crowns
Often called gold crowns or metal alloys, these crowns provide maximum strength and longevity. However, their metallic appearance makes them stand out visually. These crowns are typically used on molars or other teeth that endure heavy chewing pressure.
Porcelain
Most patients are fitted with porcelain crowns because of their natural appearance, closely matching the color, shape, and texture of real teeth. That’s why they are commonly placed on front teeth where aesthetics matter most.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) & Pressed Ceramic
Both types have a metal core that touches the natural tooth, while the outside is covered in porcelain or ceramic. This design is ideal for people with bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching), as it combines the durability of metal with the visual appeal of ceramic suitable for any part of the mouth.
Resin
Resin crowns are the most budget-friendly option available. However, the composite material tends to wear down faster and is more prone to fractures compared to porcelain or metal alternatives.
Zirconia
A newer material, zirconia merges strength and aesthetics in a single layer. Unlike PFM crowns, it doesn’t leave a dark line at the gum line. It also offers a better color match and is more durable than both ceramic and porcelain options.
E-Max
Also known as lithium disilicate, E-Max crowns are both thin and strong, while offering a natural look. They’re a growing choice for both front and back teeth thanks to their balance of appearance and resilience.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Dental Crown
With so many types and materials to choose from, picking the right dental crown comes down to your individual needs, budget, and treatment goals. While metal and zirconia crowns offer maximum durability, porcelain and E-Max options provide superior aesthetics. Some materials are better suited for molars, while others shine on front teeth.
The smart move? Talk to your dentist about what works best for your specific case. A well-chosen crown can restore your oral function, enhance your smile, and last for years when properly maintained.