Short answer: Dental crowns show different characteristics in appearance, strength and gum compatibility depending on the material they are made from. Zirconia, all-porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns each have their advantages and limits. Which one is suitable is determined through an evaluation by the dentist according to the condition of the tooth and gum, the location and the expectations.
What is a dental crown?
A crown is a restoration that covers the outer surface of a tooth that is broken, heavily decayed, has had root canal treatment or has lost its shape. It aims to rebuild the shape, function and appearance of the tooth. For a crown, the tooth is reduced by a thin amount and an impression or digital scan is taken; this stage may resemble the process in our article on digital smile design.
Zirconia crown
Zirconia is a high-strength ceramic material and is produced by milling from a block.
- Pros: Its strength is high, it contains no metal and it can behave in harmony with the gum. It is often considered for back teeth, bridges and areas under heavy chewing load.
- Points to consider: Some types of zirconia can look more opaque. For front teeth where aesthetic expectations are high, the type of material and the layer structure should be discussed with the dentist.
All-porcelain (glass ceramic) crown
These are ceramics known for their translucent structure, which transmits light much like a natural tooth.
- Pros: Because its light transmission is good, it may be preferred where a natural look is the aim in the front area.
- Points to consider: In areas under high chewing load or with a clenching habit, the dentist’s evaluation is needed with regard to the risk of fracture.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown
This is a classic method with a metal substructure underneath and a layer of porcelain on top.
- Pros: It has been used for a long time, and its resistance to chewing forces is well known.
- Points to consider: Because the metal substructure does not let light through, the look may be more opaque. When the gum recedes, a dark line may be noticed at the margin. Some people may be sensitive to metal.
For gum changes under a bridge, you can see our article on gum recession under a bridge.
How does the crown process proceed?
- Examination: The tooth’s decay, cracks and root condition are assessed clinically and with an X-ray.
- Preparing the tooth: Usually under local anesthesia, the tooth is reduced to make room for the crown.
- Impression or digital scan: A record of the tooth is taken for making the crown.
- Temporary crown: A temporary restoration may be made to protect the tooth while the crown is being produced.
- Try-in and cementation: The fit, bite and color are checked, and then the crown is cemented.
In which cases is a crown considered?
- Teeth weakened by large decay or a wide filling
- Teeth that have had root canal treatment and need support
- Broken or cracked teeth
- Teeth whose shape or color is a problem aesthetically
- Bridge and implant-supported restorations
Factors that affect the choice
- The position of the tooth in the mouth (front or back)
- The amount of remaining tooth structure
- A clenching and grinding habit
- The level and color of the gum margin
- The color of neighboring teeth and the aesthetic expectation
- A history of metal sensitivity or allergy
Options other than a crown
If the tooth structure is sufficient, in some cases methods that remove less material may be considered. Examples include inlay and onlay fillings or, for front teeth, a laminate veneer. Whether these are suitable is also determined through an examination.
Crowns and gum health
The margin where the crown meets the gum is important for long-term health. If the margin does not fit well, plaque buildup can increase and gum inflammation can develop. For this reason, gum health is put in order before a crown, and regular care and check-ups are planned afterwards. Along with the choice of material, the precision of the procedure is also a factor affecting oral health.
Questions you can ask your dentist
- Which materials are considered suitable for this tooth, and why?
- How much material will be removed from the tooth?
- Does my clenching habit affect the choice of material?
- Where will the crown margin sit in relation to the gum?
- What do you recommend for care and check-ups?
The answers to these questions make it easier to make the decision together. It should not be forgotten that, as much as the name of the material, the planning and the execution play a part in the result.
Care after a crown
- Brush the crowned teeth and the gum margin regularly.
- Keep cleaning with an interdental brush or floss.
- Avoid biting very hard objects.
- Do not skip your check-ups.
Frequently asked questions
Which crown is suitable for everyone?
There is no single right option. The material is chosen together with the dentist according to the location, the tooth structure and the expectations.
Can a tooth with a crown get decay?
Yes, decay can develop at the margin of a crown. For this reason regular cleaning and check-ups are important.
Do crowns change color?
Ceramic surfaces are generally resistant to staining; still, the color of the gum at the margins and of the neighboring natural teeth may change over time.
How do you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right plan for you is determined through an examination and the dentist’s evaluation. At our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara, we go through your questions together. For appointments and directions, you can see our contact page.
