Crowns are one of the increasingly popular methods for repairing teeth. The materials used can be divided into three main types: Full Metal Crown, which is very strong but has the disadvantage of not matching the natural tooth color; All-Ceramic Crown, which provides an appearance similar to the natural tooth color; and Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM), which has a strong metal core but may develop dark lines at the gum margin over time due to material degradation.
Differences Between Ceramic Crowns VS Metal Crowns
| Characteristic | Ceramic Crown | Metal Crown |
| Material | Ceramics such as porcelain, zirconia | Metals such as cobalt-chromium, titanium, chromium-copper |
| Appearance | White color close to natural teeth, aesthetically pleasing | Color unlike natural teeth, usually used for molars |
| Strength | Moderate strength; if shaped with digital technology, strength increases | High strength |
| Durability | Resistant to wear but brittle if impacted or cracked | Resistant to chewing forces and impact |
| Maintenance | Careful chewing required; difficult to repair if broken | Easy to maintain, more durable, no worry about breakage |
| Suitability | Suitable for front teeth requiring aesthetics, patients allergic to metal, or cases where the crown margin is deep under the gum | Suitable for molars where aesthetics are not a priority and for severely damaged teeth |
| Comfort | Fits tooth shape well, feels like natural teeth | May feel uncomfortable as it sometimes does not fit snugly or conform well |
| Lifespan | 5-15 years depending on care and placement | May last longer than 15 years |
| Cost | Higher price | Lower or higher price |
Which Crown Material Should You Choose?
Choosing crown material may consider several factors together such as aesthetics, durability, tooth condition or existing problems, and it is important to consult a dentist as follows:
- Ceramic Crowns are suitable for front teeth or teeth visible to others because of their white color, which looks aesthetically close to natural teeth. They can be used for chipped or broken teeth, discolored teeth, or to improve the appearance of teeth. They are also suitable for patients with allergies or metal sensitivities, or for deep decay under the gum. There are some limitations in cases of very short teeth or patients who grind their teeth heavily and do not wear a night guard.
- Metal Crowns are suitable for molars or teeth not visible to others because they are very strong and can withstand chewing forces well. They are also suitable for teeth with severe damage or wear and for patients who want a long-lasting material without frequent crown replacement.
Differences Between Traditional Crowns and Digital Crowns
Generally, crown fabrication is divided into two main types: Traditional Crowns and Digital Crowns, each with different advantages and limitations. The choice depends on factors such as tooth condition, convenience, cost, and fabrication time. In recent years, digital crown technology has advanced significantly, resulting in clear differences from traditional crowns as follows:
| Characteristic | Traditional Crown | Digital Crown |
| Fabrication Process | Uses soft impression material to take a mold, then sends it to the lab for crown fabrication | Uses digital scanning technology (3D Scanning) and CAD/CAM to create the tooth model immediately |
| Accuracy | Impression and mold production are less accurate | Provides detailed and more accurate data matching the oral structure |
| Time Required | Takes several days due to lab production | Much faster; in some cases, can be completed in 2-3 hours |
| Convenience | Requires multiple impressions, which may be uncomfortable | Only one scan needed, no impression materials required |
| Design and Adjustment | If errors occur, design and adjustments at the lab may require restarting the impression process | Design and adjustments can be made immediately via digital software before production |
| Data Storage Convenience | Stored as film sheets | Stored digitally, easy to access |
| Durability and Lifespan | Depends on accuracy of fabrication and materials used | Accurate design enhances durability and extends lifespan |
| Cost | Lower cost | Similar to traditional lab cost but reduces travel expenses with faster and more accurate production |
Traditional Crown Procedure by a Dentist
Generally, the crown procedure requires 2-3 dental visits depending on tooth condition and crown type chosen as follows:
- Visit 1: Diagnosis and Tooth Preparation Starts with a dental health examination, which may include X-rays to check tooth structure and surrounding tissues. Then, the dentist administers local anesthesia and prepares the tooth by shaping it to fit the crown. An impression is taken to create a mold for the permanent crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth.
- Visit 2: Permanent Crown Placement The dentist removes the temporary crown and tries in the permanent crown, adjusting it for proper bite and aesthetics. Once confirmed, the crown is permanently cemented to the natural tooth. The dentist provides care instructions such as brushing, flossing, and avoiding hard or sticky foods to prevent damage and prolong crown lifespan.
- Visit 3: Follow-up After crown placement, a follow-up visit is necessary to monitor the results.
If you are looking for standardized dental care, Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital offers comprehensive dental services, including crown procedures by specialized dentists using modern technology for precise and beautiful results. You can trust the quality of crown materials and treatment techniques that help extend crown lifespan and reduce the risk of recurrent decay or crown wear. Start taking care of your dental and oral health today for a better quality of life you choose.
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Dr. Thanapon Noomanoi
Prosthodontist
Digital Dentistry and Implant Center
Phyathai Phaholyothin Hospital
