Which is better: Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns?

If you have a damaged tooth that needs to be fixed, you may be considering porcelain or ceramic crowns. However, it is crucial to learn the differences between the two so that you can make the best choice for your personal and unique needs. Read on to learn more about porcelain and ceramic crowns, and by the end, you can be confident to make an informed decision.

Porcelain Crowns

While porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns do not look as natural, they do have a longer life-span end and are much sturdier in the long run. During the procedure, your dentist will apply a small metal piece, similar to a thimble, over what is left of your broken tooth. Then, they will fuse the porcelain to the metal so that it is hidden, and your tooth is protected.

However, the most common problem seen in this procedure is that when the patient’s gums recede, the metal can be potentially damaging to the mouth or aesthetically displeasing.

Luckily, a new porcelain crown method has taken the stage. Bonded-all-porcelain and porcelain inlays have become a more popular alternative to those seeking porcelain crowns. While they are a bit more expensive, they require less tooth grinding, and the end result is much more cosmetically appealing. In the long run, these new porcelain crowns prevent gum inflammation in patients. It is important to note, however, that a specially certified cosmetic dentist must do this procedure.

Ceramic Crowns

The most significant difference between ceramic and porcelain crowns is that ceramic crowns do not contain any metal. Because of this, it is much easier to match the crown to your natural tooth color, but it will also make it more fragile than the mix of materials used in porcelain crowns.

Ceramic crowns are best for those with any allergies or metal sensitivities or those simply looking to do less damage to the surrounding tissues. The materials used in ceramic crowns are not bio-reactive and give the patient a much more pleasing healing period.

The only real drawback of ceramic crowns is that they have a shorter life span and are not as sturdy.

Luckily, you and your dentist can discuss these pros and cons now that you are more informed of your options.

If you would like to learn more about porcelain or ceramic crowns, give North County Dental Care a call today at 760.940.4266!

North County Dental Care brings together a host of dental specialists to provide a full spectrum of dental care for you and your family, all in one convenient location. Our family dentistry office in Vista, California, does not require referrals or running from one specialist’s office to another to receive the care you need. Best of all, we treat patients of all ages so that you can schedule your entire family’s dental appointments all in one place.