The Five Different Types of Dental Crowns

Have you ever wondered what dental crowns are made of? Your dentist in St Cloud, MN will tell you there are five types of dental crowns most commonly used today. So let’s go over them so you and your dentist can decide which one is right for you.

The Five Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns in St Cloud, MN are made of a variety of materials.

1. All Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns in St Cloud, MN are not as durable as metal crowns. However, all-porcelain crowns (sometimes called all-ceramic crowns) are the most commonly used because of their strength and because they look like your natural teeth.

Porcelain crowns are hand-crafted by a dental technician from a block of ceramic. Alternatively, they are cut using a computerized milling machine. All porcelain crowns are great for people who are allergic to metal because porcelain crowns are biocompatible.

2. Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are crafted using porcelain. The porcelain is then placed over most of the metal surface of the underlying crown. Porcelain fused to metal crowns are the best of both worlds. The metal makes these crowns extremely durable, and the porcelain makes them look like natural teeth.

Sometimes a dentist in St Cloud, MN will use zirconia instead of metal as the base because zirconia is a strong metal; however, unlike other metals, zirconia is white. That means you won’t have a thin dark line showing under your porcelain fused to metal crown.

3. Metal Crowns

The most common metal crown used is gold. However, there are many other types of dental alloys that are used as well. The good thing about metal crowns is that less of your tooth structure will have to be removed. Metal crowns are typically used for molars and back teeth.

4. Stainless Steel Crowns

Stainless steel crowns are made up of nickel, manganese, carbon, iron, and chromium along with other metals. These are extremely durable and can be used on both molars and your primary teeth. Stainless steel crowns are great; however, some dentists don’t provide this option because there are other newer metals available.

5. All Resin Crowns

All resin crowns are the most affordable of all types of crowns. However, they are also the least durable as well. These are generally used as temporary crowns. Another disadvantage of all resin crowns is that your dentist must remove a larger part of your tooth to place them.

What’s Next?

If you need a dentist in St Cloud, MN, please Contact Friesz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry today. We have a warm, comfortable, relaxing environment and we promise to treat you and your family with all the care and respect you deserve.