When a tooth is seriously damaged—whether it’s from a big cavity, a crack, or after a root canal—a simple filling just won’t cut it anymore. Your tooth needs a new, strong outer shell to protect it and get it back to working properly. That’s what a dental crown is: a custom-made cap that fits over your entire tooth like a helmet.But here’s the thing: not all crowns are made of the same stuff. And the material we use makes a big difference in how it looks, how it feels, and how long it lasts. Here at FIFTH ST Dental, we believe you should be a part of that decision. So, when we talk about the different types of dental crowns, we want you to really understand what your choices are.
Why Are There Different Types of Dental Crowns?
The simple reason we have different types of dental crowns is that every tooth in your mouth has a different job to do. Your front teeth are on display—they need to look fantastic and completely natural. Your back teeth are your workhorses—they need to be incredibly tough to handle all the force from chewing.
Because of this, there isn’t one single “best” material for every situation. The conversation about the different types of dental crowns is always about finding the perfect balance for your specific tooth. We’ll look at where the tooth is, what your budget is, and what’s most important to you.
A Closer Look at the Main Types of Dental Crowns
Here are the most common and effective options we work with every day in our Etobicoke office. Each one has its own personality and strengths.
1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
This has been the go-to, reliable choice for dentists for decades. It’s a great all-arounder.
- What it is: It’s a hybrid. It has a strong metal base that’s covered with a layer of tooth-coloured porcelain.
- Why we like it: The metal inside makes it super strong and durable, great for any tooth. The porcelain outside makes it look natural. It’s a trusted and often more budget-friendly choice among the different types of dental crowns.
- The one thing to know: Because there’s metal underneath, sometimes a very thin, dark line can show right at the gum line. It’s not always noticeable, but it’s something to be aware of.
2. All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns
When looks are the number one priority, this is the clear winner.
- What it is: Just like the name says, these crowns are made entirely out of a beautiful, dental-grade ceramic.
- Why we like it: They are perfect for front teeth. Because there’s no metal, they have a lifelike translucency that allows them to blend in flawlessly with your other teeth. Honestly, they can be stunning.
- The one thing to know: Of all the types of dental crowns, these are often considered the most beautiful. While modern ceramics are very strong, they aren’t quite as tough as metal-based crowns. For a back molar on someone who grinds their teeth heavily, we might suggest a stronger option.
3. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a game-changer. It’s a super-strong ceramic that gives you the best of both worlds: incredible strength and great looks.
- What it is: It’s a solid block of a white, tooth-coloured ceramic material that is virtually unbreakable.
- Why we like it: It’s strong enough for your toughest back molars but beautiful enough for your front teeth. It’s biocompatible, looks great, and is built to last. It’s one of the most versatile types of dental crowns we have.
- The one thing to know: It’s a premium material, and the cost can reflect that. But for a long-term, worry-free solution, it’s a fantastic investment.
4. Gold Alloy Crowns
You might think of gold as old-fashioned, but from a purely clinical standpoint, it’s still one of the best materials out there.
- What it is: It’s made from a mix of gold and other strong metals.
- Why we like it: For a molar way in the back, it’s an amazing choice. It’s incredibly durable, will likely outlast any other material, and is actually very gentle on the teeth it chews against.
- The one thing to know: The obvious one—it’s gold-coloured. That’s why we only use it on teeth that are completely out of sight.
How We Help You Choose at FIFTH ST Dental
Making this decision is a team effort. When we sit down to discuss the different types of dental crowns, we’re not just going to list them off; We’ll give you our professional recommendation based on our exam.
We’ll talk about where the tooth is, what your bite looks like, and what your goals are. Our job is to give you all the information you need to make a choice you feel great about. We want to restore your tooth in a way that will keep you healthy and smiling for years.
Conclusion
A dental crown is an amazing way to save a tooth that’s in trouble. And knowing about the different types of dental crowns makes you an active partner in your own health. Whether it’s the proven strength of PFM, the beauty of all-ceramic, or the modern power of zirconia, our team at FIFTH ST Dental is here to give you the expert care and beautiful results you deserve.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you have a tooth that’s been bothering you, let’s talk. Schedule a visit at our Etobicoke office to discuss the different types of dental crowns and find the perfect fix for your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long will my new crown last?
With good home care and regular checkups, a crown can easily last for 10-15 years, and often much longer. It really depends on the material and how well you take care of it.
2. Is it painful to get a crown?
Not at all. We make sure you are completely numb with local anesthetic for the entire process. Our number one priority is making sure you are comfortable from start to finish.
3. Does my insurance help pay for a crown?
Yes, most dental plans provide coverage for crowns because they are a necessary procedure to restore a tooth’s health. We can help you figure out your specific benefits.
4. How do I take care of a crown?
You treat it just like a natural tooth! Brush it, floss around it every day, and come in for your regular cleanings. The crown itself can’t get a cavity, but the tooth underneath it can, so good hygiene is key.
