Ceramic vs Porcelain Crowns
Dental crowns are key to restoring both damaged teeth's function as well as look. When choosing a crown, ceramic and porcelain are often recommended. Even when these materials look similar, they possess a range of traits that change strength, appearance and suitability for multiple dental applications. Grasping their special qualities can further aid your decision, depending on your desires.
Material Composition and Structure
Ceramic and porcelain crowns are similar, but what they're made of makes them different. Ceramic crowns often use lithium disilicate and zirconia because these materials are stronger and more durable. Often employed in porcelain crowns, feldspathic porcelain displays translucent and natural characteristics. A porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown is made by layering porcelain over a strong metal base to make it much more durable.
Aesthetic Considerations
Along with porcelain, ceramic crowns offer natural appearances that blend in with actual teeth. Ceramic crowns, especially those fabricated from zirconia, regularly show a more uniform color and a bit more opacity. Strength is always guaranteed, but replicating the translucency of a natural tooth is not quite as close as multiple porcelains. Many porcelain crowns, especially the usual nonmetal kind, may reflect light nearly as well as actual enamel. All-porcelain crowns are favored by many patients because they look better on teeth that are highly visible, such as the front ones.
Durability and Strength
The lifespan of a dental crown is related to the material's overall strength along with its ability to hold up against everyday activities such as biting as well as chewing. Zirconia ceramic crowns are known to be exceptionally strong and to handle a great deal of pressure. This makes them a preferred choice for all molars and particular teeth that experience large force when chewing. Porcelain crowns are aesthetically pleasing, but they tend to chip or crack more easily, particularly in PFM restorations where porcelain is thinly layered over metal. Over time, the crown's look may change if the porcelain wears down and the metal base shows.
Compatibility with Natural Teeth
How a crown works with all nearby teeth and gums is important. Ceramic crowns are often recommended for people with metal sensitivities or allergies because they have no metal parts. Because zirconia-based ceramic crowns have smooth surfaces, they can be gentle on opposing teeth, which reduces wear. Porcelain crowns, particularly those with a metal base, might be noticeably rougher, which may create more friction against real teeth and possibly wear them.
Longevity and Maintenance
To keep both kinds of crowns looking good in addition to working right, care must be taken. Regular brushing, flossing and routine dental visits extend lifespan. Because they have more strength, ceramic crowns and particularly those made of zirconia, typically have improved longevity. Porcelain crowns are durable; however, many fractures or large wear could mean replacement is needed sooner. Avoid too much force on the crown from teeth grinding or biting on hard things to keep each crown from being damaged too soon.
Schedule an appointment with the dentist to learn if a dental crown can help you and your overall plan for better dental health.
