Porcelain
dental crowns serve as both a
restorative dentistry procedure and offer
cosmetic dentistry benefits. They protect teeth, enhance their strength, and contribute to more aesthetically pleasing smiles. The dental professionals at Advanced Family Dentistry are ready to craft personalized
dental crowns to reinforce and enhance your smile.
What Makes Porcelain Crowns Unique?
Porcelain crowns are intricately designed to replicate the appearance of your original, natural teeth. Unlike crowns made from metal, porcelain crowns prioritize aesthetics and closely resemble your natural teeth. This is particularly important for front teeth in need of crowns. They are utilized when a substantial portion of the tooth structure is compromised, typically as a result of breakage, decay, root canal therapy, or the deterioration of a large filling.
Metal Crowns vs. Porcelain Crowns
Metal crowns are typically made from cobalt-chromium, nickel-chromium, and other metal-based alloys. They have a long history in dentistry and are well-known for their durability. Unlike porcelain crowns, metal crowns are the least likely to wear down or become chipped or damaged over time. This makes them a popular choice for teeth toward the back of the mouth (posterior teeth), as they are not visible. On the other hand, porcelain crowns are crafted to imitate the natural look of teeth and come in two main types: all-ceramic or all-porcelain. Both types can be used for both front and back teeth, offering a safe option for patients with metal allergies.
Types of Porcelain Crowns
E-Max Porcelain Crowns
E-Max represents the latest advancement in cosmetic materials for porcelain dental crowns and veneers. Similar to traditional porcelain fused to metal crowns, E-Max crowns consist of two layers. The first layer is a sturdy and resilient supporting layer known as the coping. A lifelike top layer is then meticulously applied by a ceramic artist to seamlessly blend the restoration with the natural teeth.
E-Max stands out as the ceramic system of choice for front teeth (anterior teeth). It boasts both biocompatibility and a long-term wear pattern similar to that of natural enamel. Remarkably, E-Max allows for minimally prepared veneers or crowns as thin as 0.2mm, resulting in exquisite restorations that are 2.5 to 3 times stronger than other contemporary glass-ceramic systems in use today.
E-Max Monolithic Porcelain Crowns
E-Max dental crowns represent a single-layer system utilizing only the coping layer. The E-Max coping itself is aesthetically pleasing and does not rely on a weaker top layer, resulting in increased resistance to chipping. Typically, it is the custom top ceramic layer that presents a vulnerability in all-porcelain systems. E-Max monolithic crowns are an excellent option for creating cosmetic dentistry porcelain crowns.
Zirconium Crowns
Zirconium crowns are renowned for their exceptional strength, making them a top choice for dental restorations. This ceramic material is utilized in the creation of one or two-layer restorations. The zirconium coping is incredibly robust but tends to appear opaque and unattractive. Two-layer versions can be designed to be visually appealing, but they do not offer greater strength than layered E-Max crowns.
The underlying coping is milled and has a top layer that is baked on, which is weaker. This top layer is responsible for enhancing the restoration appearance, making it look natural and realistic. The thicker the top layer, the less visible the coping beneath it. Additional drilling allows the veneer to cover the opaque, bright white coping material.
Empress Porcelain Crowns
Empress crowns can be designed to resemble natural teeth closely. However, their popularity is diminishing due to their relatively lower strength. This type of ceramic crown consists of two layers: a coping layer with medium strength and a weaker top layer that is baked on. The top glass layer is meticulously stacked by hand and then fired onto the pressed base coping below. Because they have only modest strength, Empress crowns are not recommended for individuals who grind or clench their teeth.
Porcelain Crowns Process
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to your dentist. Even so, you can get your crown sooner if you are visiting a family dentist. Here is what you can expect during the procedure:
Examination: First Visit to the Dentist
Your dentist will assess your oral health and may take X-rays to determine if a crown is the appropriate treatment for you. Many patients are good candidates for this type of restoration. If you maintain good oral hygiene and do not suffer from gum disease or oral cancer, you may go ahead and get crowns.
Patient Preparation
The tooth in need of the crown will be prepared for the procedure. This may involve removing any decay or infection present. Usually, the tooth preparation happens on the first visit. After the tooth is treated, an impression will be taken so that the dental lab can create a custom crown.
Waiting for Prosthetics
Depending on the extent of work needed and the healing time of your mouth, there may be a waiting period. Dental labs typically take about two weeks to craft the crown. During this time, your dentist might provide a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.
Final Bonding
Once your custom crown is ready, you will return to the dentist. The fit and appearance of the crown will be checked, and then it will be permanently bonded to your tooth. Any necessary adjustments will be made to ensure proper fit and function. If the tooth does not fit well, you may be required to come back at a later date.
Durability of Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns typically have a lifespan ranging from 5 to 20 years. Different from metal or PFM crowns, they are less resilient, underscoring the need for proper maintenance. Ensuring the longevity of your dental crown primarily involves a straightforward dental hygiene regimen: regular brushing, flossing, and minimizing consumption of sugary foods and beverages.
Insurance Coverage for Porcelain Crowns Treatment
The extent of coverage for dental treatments varies based on your specific dental insurance plan, as policies differ. In most cases, porcelain crowns are treated as cosmetic dentistry rather than restoration. This may affect whether your insurance will cover the cost or not. Nonetheless, with a good plan, you can access financing for various dental procedures.
Porcelain crowns quickly offer one of the best solutions in cosmetic dentistry. Unlike other types of dental crowns, porcelains naturally match your teeth. If you are experiencing a persistent tooth issue, it is recommended that you seek guidance and treatment from a dentist. At Advanced Family Dentistry, our experienced dentists are ready to help you restore your smile. You can learn more about our porcelain crown treatment process by calling us at (765) 287-5338.
