Dr. Shackelford at Dentistry of Johns Creek, GA may recommend a crown for a number of tooth deterioration issues.
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that permanently cover teeth. They’re recommended when teeth are decayed, broken, worn or severely stained. Or if a tooth has a large filling, where there is not many teeth remaining, a crown may save the tooth and keep the patient from having to have an implanted tooth or partial.
You may not know that crowns come in a variety of materials such as metal, ceramic, porcelain, and resin. So, aside from the aesthetic differences, crowns also vary in cost and function. It’s good to be informed of your options.
Appearance Differences
Crowns made of porcelain or ceramic are recommended for cosmetic dentistry and when you want an exact match to your tooth’s natural color. Keep in mind, however, that one type of crown, where the porcelain is fused to metal, may initially look the same as all-porcelain or all-ceramic crown, but as time goes by and natural wear occurs, some of the metal may begin to show through. If you have receding gums, this may not be the best choice.
Difference in Function
When it comes to standing the test of time, metal crowns are the way to go. They are the most durable and resistant to chipping. However, if you’ve ever seen someone with these types of crowns laugh or open wide, it’s quite obvious that they aren’t exactly the most aesthetically pleasing choice. That’s why Dr. Shackelford may recommend ceramic or porcelain as an alternative option. The downside to ceramic and porcelain crowns is that they are more vulnerable to chipping. As we mentioned above, one type of crown that has porcelain or ceramic fused to metal, offers the strength of the metal without sacrificing the look of porcelain or ceramic.
Investment Differences
While most dental insurance covers part of your investment, be aware that there are distinctions in cost as well. The least expensive of your options are typically resin crowns. Keep in mind that crowns really are an investment. If you choose to pay for the cheaper option, your resin caps may chip or wear down more over time, requiring a replacement. On the other hand, a porcelain crown is typically more expensive than a gold crown, and a gold crown was typically more expensive than porcelain fused to metal crown. Other factors impact the cost of crowns, such as the location of the tooth, the materials used and the extent of your problem.
Dr. Robert Shackelford will help you in your decision as to which type of crown would be best for you. Dentistry of Johns Creek is conveniently located for those living in Alpharetta, Suwanee, Cumming, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call and schedule your dental appointment today.
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