Advantages & Disadvantages of Ceramic Crowns?
Ceramic crowns are a common treatment used in dentistry to restore a tooth which is damaged. A ceramic crown is incredibly strong, durable, and has a natural appearance. In addition, the treatment restores the tooth’s function. While there are various materials that can be used in the fabrication of a crown, ceramic is the most popular. There are multiple benefits of ceramic, such as its ability to withstand the extreme forces of chewing and its ability to mimic the appearance of the adjacent natural teeth. A detailed summary of the ceramic crown procedure, including advantages and disadvantages, is outlined below.
Ceramic Crown Candidates
In order for a patient to be a good candidate for a ceramic crown, they must have enough space between their teeth. When a patient has an overbite or their teeth are misaligned, it can put additional pressure on the crown. This puts the crown at an increased risk for damage. If the patient has bruxism or chronically grinds their teeth and clenches their jaw, they may also not be a good candidate for a ceramic crown. These strong forces place an incredible amount of force on the crown and often cause serious damage to the crown. In order to protect the restoration from this type of damage, dental professionals often recommend that patients use a night guard while they are sleeping.
Key Advantages
A primary benefit of ceramic crowns is their appearance and ability to closely match the natural teeth in their shape, color, and overall appearance. The crown also protects the natural tooth while working to prevent any further damage. Their natural appearance allows the restoration to blend in with the surrounding teeth. As a material, ceramic is incredibly durable, making it resistant to damage. When these crowns are properly cared for, they can last for many years. These key advantages of ceramic crowns make them an excellent solution for many patients.
Disadvantages and Limitations
One limitation or disadvantage of ceramic crowns is the added complexity in creating the restoration. This results in a longer fabrication process. Patients typically require two or more visits to complete their treatment. For most patients, the advantages associated with ceramic crowns are typically greater than any disadvantages.
Below is a summary of the procedure used to place a ceramic crown.
Tooth Preparation
In order to prevent the ceramic crown from breaking or experiencing damage, it must be thicker. This means more of the natural tooth’s surface is removed to accommodate the crown and achieve a proper fit. This can also make it more difficult to repair a damaged crown. When a ceramic crown is fractured or has significant damage, the patient may require a new restoration. The dental professional works with the lab closely throughout the fabrication process to ensure a successful treatment. When the tooth is properly created, it helps minimize the likelihood of the crown being damaged.
Fabrication
The fabrication process for ceramic crowns is another key advantage. The lab technician will undergo specialized training. This ensures they are able to create an attractive restoration that closely matches and blends in with the natural teeth. Ceramic crown fabrication is actually considered to be somewhat of an art.
Many of our crowns are fabricated in-house utilizing optical scanning and cad-cam technology to provide final restorations at the initial appointment.
Call the office today if you are considering a ceramic crown restoration. The team can discuss the advantages and disadvantages to help determine if a ceramic crown restoration will meet your unique needs.