Types of Dental Crowns Mesa AZ

3D rendered cross-section view of three teeth with dental crowns made of different materials at Timothy H. Kindt, DDS in Mesa, AZ

Dental crowns stand as a pivotal element in both dental restoration and cosmetic enhancement, offering a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

As dental technology continuously evolves, the diversity in dental crown materials and types has significantly broadened, enabling us at Timothy H. Kindt, DDS to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of patients.

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-fitted coverings precisely placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength and to significantly improve its overall appearance.

Once affixed, the crown meticulously encases the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, becoming a permanent part of the tooth's structure. Crowns are incredibly versatile in their use, serving both restorative and cosmetic purposes.

They can strengthen teeth that have been weakened by decay or damage, cover discolored or misshapen teeth, and protect the overall structural integrity of a tooth after root canal therapy.

Exploring the Types of Dental Crowns

The choice of dental crown material is critical and depends on various factors, including the tooth's location, the patient's bite, gum tissue health, and aesthetic considerations. Below is an overview of the primary materials used in dental crowns and the distinct advantages each type offers:

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are predominantly composed of alloys that may include gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. Their standout feature is durability, resisting wear and tear over years of use. Ideal for back molars, they withstand biting and chewing forces exceptionally well, minimizing the risk of breakage.

While the metallic color is their main drawback, making them less suitable for visible teeth, their longevity and functional reliability make them a preferred choice for teeth not on display.

Ceramic and Porcelain Crowns

Ceramic and porcelain crowns are celebrated for their natural color and texture, closely mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. This makes them an excellent choice for front teeth restoration, ensuring a seamless blend with the patient's natural smile.

They are also biocompatible, posing no risk of allergic reactions, which is beneficial for patients sensitive to metals. However, they may wear down opposing teeth more than metal crowns, requiring careful consideration of their placement.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the durability of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, offering a balanced solution for many patients. The metal underlayer provides a strong foundation, while the porcelain exterior can be matched to the color of adjacent teeth for a natural look. However, over time, the porcelain can wear or chip, potentially revealing the metal underneath.

This compromise between strength and appearance makes PFM a versatile, widely used option.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a recent innovation in dental materials, offering strength and aesthetics. Made from zirconium dioxide, a durable ceramic, zirconia crowns boast excellent wear resistance and can withstand the forces of chewing without breaking.

They are suitable for both front and back teeth due to their ability to be colored to match natural teeth closely. Additionally, zirconia is biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and promoting healthy gum tissue around the crown.

CEREC Crowns

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) crowns represent a leap in dental technology, allowing for the design, creation, and fitting of ceramic crowns within a single visit. Utilizing computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), these crowns offer a convenient and quick solution without compromising on quality or aesthetics. Ideal for patients needing timely dental restorations, CEREC crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits.

It is important to note that each material has its unique benefits, and the decision on which type to use is made after careful consideration of the patient's specific situation and preferences.

Crown Fitting Procedures

The process of fitting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist's office. The first appointment includes preparing the tooth, taking impressions for the crown, and fitting a temporary crown. The second visit involves removing the temporary crown and fitting the permanent crown. However, with advancements like the CEREC system, some practices now offer single-visit crown fittings, using digital scanning and on-site milling machines to create the crown in the office.

Maintenance Tips for Dental Crowns

Ensuring your dental crowns last for as long as possible requires a combination of diligent oral hygiene, mindful eating habits, and regular dental check-ups with Dr. Kindt.

Dental crowns are made to be durable and to mimic the function of your natural teeth, but like natural teeth, they require care and maintenance to stay in optimal condition. So, below are some crucial tips to help you maintain the integrity and appearance of your dental crowns:

•	Establish a Comprehensive Oral Hygiene Routine: Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day are fundamental. Pay attention to the area around the crown to prevent plaque buildup. Incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash can also help maintain oral health and protect the gums around the crowned tooth.
•	Avoid Damaging Habits: Chewing on hard, solid foods, ice, or non-food items can cause damage to your crowns. Also, avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bite nails. If you grind your teeth at night, consider getting a custom night guard to protect both your crowns and natural teeth.
•	Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to check-ups are crucial. These appointments allow for the professional cleaning of areas that are hard to reach through daily brushing and flossing and provide an opportunity for your dentist to check the crown's condition.
•	Be Mindful of Staining Substances: Especially for porcelain and ceramic crowns, it's wise to limit exposure to substances that can stain, like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. While crowns are resistant to discoloration, excessive exposure can affect the natural teeth surrounding the crowns.
•	Know When to Seek Professional Help: If you experience discomfort or notice any changes in the fit or integrity of your crown post-procedure, contact your dentist immediately. At the end of the day, early intervention can prevent further issues and ensure the longevity of your crown.

Dental crowns are a testament to the advancements in dental technology, offering solutions that not only restore functionality but also enhance the aesthetic appearance of teeth. Whether it's the durability of metal crowns, the natural appearance of ceramic and porcelain, or the convenience of CEREC crowns, there's a solution available to meet the needs of every patient.

Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation Today

Timothy H. Kindt, DDS is committed to leveraging the latest in dental technology to provide our patients with the best possible care. Whether you're in need of a crown due to decay, damage, or cosmetic reasons, our team is here to help you through every step of the process.

For more information about our dental crown services or to schedule a consultation, please call us directly at (480) 939-5818.

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Types of Dental Crowns in Mesa, AZ
Different types of dental crowns, in terms of function and material, are available at our Mesa, AZ dental practice. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, 1244 N Greenfield Road, Suite 105, Mesa, AZ 85205, (480) 939-5818, drkindt.com, 12/3/2024, Key Phrases: dentist,