What is a Ceramic Crown?
Whatever material it’s made of, a dental crown is essentially a tooth-shaped cap that is custom-made and installed to fit snugly over a damaged tooth. The crown encases the remnants of the tooth above the gumline, which not only restores its function and appearance but also prevents further damage.
Other Materials
Traditionally, crowns have been made from any of a variety of metals, from gold to palladium. Yet metal crowns carry with them the unfortunate consequence that, in being made of metal, they do not look much like teeth.
To address this, dentists developed crowns with porcelain-fused-metal (PFM) construction, which start with a metal core but then cover it in a layer of sculpted porcelain. Such ceramic-enhanced crowns are much more successful in mimicking the look of tooth enamel.
Still, the inclusion of metal in PFM crowns can sometimes create the appearance of a grayish hue on the gumline. Furthermore, contact with metals can have adverse effects for patients with sensitivities or allergies.
Ceramic’s Natural Appearance
Ceramic crowns, by contrast, are metal-free, and consist entirely of high-quality porcelain.
Perhaps the most compelling reason to choose a ceramic crown is its ability to replicate the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. Porcelain closely mimics the color and texture of tooth enamel. Their remarkable resemblance to natural teeth makes ceramic crowns ideal for front teeth restorations, where aesthetics matter most.
While not as strong as pure metal crowns, ceramic crowns are robust enough for most patients’ needs, and are made of materials engineered to withstand daily wear and tear. However, those with heavy grinding habits or a preference for hard foods may need to exercise caution, as excessive friction can lead to chipping or cracking.
Ceramic crowns are also notable for their versatility. They can address multiple dental issues, for instance, by covering a dental implant, anchoring a dental bridge, or protecting a tooth after a root canal. Their adaptability extends to cosmetic applications, such as reshaping uneven teeth or closing small gaps between teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Proper Installation
The placement process for a ceramic crown typically involves two dental visits. During the first appointment, the tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown, and impressions are taken to create a custom-fit restoration. A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is crafted in a dental lab. During the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the ceramic crown is bonded securely to the tooth. Advances in digital dentistry, such as CEREC technology, now allow some clinics to design and mill ceramic crowns in a single visit, streamlining the process.
Because ceramic crowns require the same care as natural teeth, maintaining them is as straightforward as regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. With proper care, ceramic crowns can last a decade or longer, making them a durable, long-term investment in oral health.