The Different Types of Dental Crowns Available in Plano

Dealing with a cracked, chipped, or severely decayed tooth can be frustrating and painful.
You might be wondering about your options, and dental crowns are a common and effective solution.
But did you know there are different types of dental crowns available?
Here’s what you need to know about the various materials used for crowns in Plano, so you can make the best choice for your smile.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Think of it like a helmet for your tooth!
Crowns are a versatile solution, used to protect a tooth after a root canal, cover a dental implant, or anchor a dental bridge.
If you are dealing with damaged teeth, consider our crowns services at Icon Smiles Dental near 309 W Spring Creek Pkwy, Suite 100A, Plano, TX 75023.

Types of Dental Crowns

Let’s break down the different types of dental crowns available to you.
Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences to make an informed decision with your dentist at Icon Smiles Dental.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice due to their natural appearance.
They can be closely matched to the color of your existing teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from your natural smile.

Pros: Excellent aesthetics, biocompatible, good for people with metal allergies.
Cons: Can be less durable than metal crowns, may chip or crack under pressure.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns offer a combination of strength and aesthetics.
They have a metal base for durability and are covered with a layer of porcelain for a natural look.

Pros: Stronger than porcelain crowns, good aesthetics, more affordable than all-ceramic options.
Cons: Metal base can sometimes show as a dark line near the gums, porcelain layer can chip.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability.
They are a type of ceramic crown that can withstand heavy chewing forces, making them a good option for back teeth.

Pros: Very strong and durable, biocompatible, natural-looking.
Cons: Can be more abrasive to opposing teeth than other materials, can be more expensive.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, typically made of gold alloys or other base metals, are the strongest and most durable type of crown.
They are less likely to chip or break compared to other materials.

Pros: Extremely strong and durable, long-lasting, less likely to chip or break.
Cons: Poor aesthetics (metallic color), not suitable for people with metal allergies.

E-Max Crowns

E-max crowns are made from lithium disilicate ceramic, known for their strength, durability, and natural translucency.
They’re a great option for front teeth and offer a balance of aesthetics and function.

Pros: Excellent aesthetics, strong and durable, good for front teeth.
Cons: May not be as strong as zirconia for back teeth.

Comparing Dental Crown Materials

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you visualize the key differences:

Material	Aesthetics	Durability	Cost	Best For
Porcelain	Excellent	Moderate	Moderate to High	Front teeth, aesthetics prioritized
PFM	Good	Good	Moderate	Back teeth, balance of strength and aesthetics
Zirconia	Good to Excellent	Excellent	High	Back teeth, strength prioritized
Metal	Poor	Excellent	Moderate	Back teeth, strength is the most important factor
E-Max	Excellent	Good	High	Front teeth, aesthetics and strength

Considering your options?
We can help!
Call us at 469-312-1118 or book a consultation to get started.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Crown

Several factors can influence which type of dental crown is best for you:

Location of the tooth: Back teeth require stronger materials than front teeth.
Aesthetics: If the crown will be visible, you may want to prioritize a natural-looking material.
Biting forces: If you have a strong bite or grind your teeth, you’ll need a more durable crown.
Allergies: If you have metal allergies, you’ll need to choose a metal-free option.
Cost: Different materials have different price points, so consider your budget.

Remember to discuss these factors with your dentist at Icon Smiles Dental to determine the most suitable type of dental crown for your specific needs. We also provide options such as veneers, implants and bridges, and full mouth reconstruction, to restore the function and aesthetic appearance of your teeth.

Dental Crown Procedure at Icon Smiles Dental

Here’s what to expect when you get a dental crown at our Plano office:

Consultation and Exam: Your dentist will examine your tooth and discuss your options.
This may also involve x-rays.
Preparation: The tooth will be reshaped to make room for the crown.
Impression: An impression of your tooth will be taken to create a custom crown.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown will be placed while your permanent crown is being made.
Placement: Once your permanent crown is ready, it will be cemented onto your tooth.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

To ensure the longevity of your dental crown, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene:

Brush your teeth twice a day.
Floss daily.
Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods.
Schedule regular dental check-ups with Icon Smiles Dental.

How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last for 5 to 15 years, or even longer.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits are essential for maintaining the longevity of your crown. See our recent blog post to learn more about the lifespan of dental crowns!

Will my crown look natural?

Yes, especially if you choose porcelain or zirconia crowns.
These materials can be closely matched to the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration.

Is getting a dental crown painful?

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the process.
You may experience some sensitivity after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

How much do dental crowns cost in Plano?

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the material used and the complexity of the case.
We offer a new patient special, and it’s best to schedule a consultation with Icon Smiles Dental to get an accurate estimate. We also work with insurance and financing options to make your dental care more affordable.

Understanding the different types of dental crowns available in Plano is the first step towards restoring your smile and oral health.
At Icon Smiles Dental, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you choose the best option for your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile with the right type of dental crown.