Ceramic vs Porcelain Crowns
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a common treatment used in dentistry. A crown can restore a damaged tooth and is also used to restore minor cosmetic issues. Small chips and cracks often occur due to regular use and routine wear over time. Two materials commonly used for a crown are porcelain and ceramic.
Patients who are considering a crown often want to know which material is better. Various factors impact which material is best for a crown. This can include durability and appearance. Below is a summary of the key differences between ceramic and porcelain crowns.
Treatment
A crown is placed over the entire outer surface of the tooth. It exists above the gum line. The crown gives a damaged tooth additional strength and can also improve the appearance of the tooth. Crowns are effective in preventing further damage and also work to preserve the other natural teeth. Crowns are commonly used to treat the following issues:
- Support for a weak tooth with a large filling
- Broken or damaged teeth, often following an accident or trauma
- After the completion of a root canal
- Support in a dental bridge
- Used in combination with a dental implant
Materials
Various materials can be used to create a dental crown. Because of their ability to match the appearance of natural teeth, porcelain and ceramic are most commonly used in crowns. Metals, resin, and zirconia can also be used in addition to a combination of these various materials.
Ceramic vs. Porcelain
A ceramic crown is made from entirely ceramic materials. A porcelain crown, in comparison, contains a metal base that is covered with porcelain. Additional details regarding the difference between ceramic and metal crowns are outlined below.
Ceramic Crowns
As implied by the name, a ceramic crown is made from all ceramic materials. Ceramic has the ability to closely match the color and appearance of the natural teeth. A ceramic crown is incredibly durable, but it can be at a higher risk of experiencing chips and damage. These crowns are commonly used on teeth in the front of the mouth because they are attractive, do not contain metal, and look similar to the natural teeth.
Many of our crowns are fabricated in-house utilizing optical scanning and cad-cam technology to provide final restorations at the initial appointment.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns include a metal base that contains a porcelain exterior. These crowns are more durable and typically last longer. While the metal base is incredibly strong, it is sometimes visible, especially for patients with receding gums. In many cases, porcelain crowns are recommended for teeth in the back of the mouth that endure extreme forces from chewing. One challenge associated with porcelain crowns is the risk of making the teeth appear to be yellow or darker in color compared to the natural teeth.
Call the office today if you are considering a dental crown. We can help you compare the advantages and disadvantages of ceramic and porcelain crowns to determine which one will best meet your needs.