Even if you’ve never received one, you’ve more than likely heard of a dental crown or bridge. You may even be familiar with how these restorations are used, particularly following root canal therapy or dental implant placement. What you may not be aware of is how the materials used for these teeth replacement options makes all the difference when it comes to appearance and performance.
If the quality of your smile has been diminished by decay, injury, or congenital factors, consider the benefits each restoration material has to offer:
Proven Durability with All-Metal Restorations
Using metal to cover a decayed or damaged tooth has a history dating back to the Etruscans in 700 BC. Though modern methods are significantly more predictable and hygienic, metal-based materials still have their place in restorative care. There are few choices that match the resiliency of an all-metal restoration for withstanding chewing and biting forces. Crowns and bridges made from alloys of precious metals like gold are not only strong, they are malleable enough not to damage neighboring teeth.
Suffice it to say, gold crowns and pontics are far from discreet, especially when compared with the rest of the smile. Despite not being a uniform shade with naturally healthy teeth, metal restorations are fabricated to be as attractive as possible without sacrificing function.
Dental Ceramics Return Genuine Appearance and Function
While porcelain and other ceramics have been used for crowns as early as Charles H. Land’s 1889 all-porcelain “jacket” crown, these materials have grown in popularity due to the demand for restorations that look like naturally healthy teeth.
One of the most valuable features of porcelain is its ability to reflect light the same way a genuine smile does. When working with dental ceramics, dentists use their keen eye for aesthetics, take precise impressions, and collaborate with skilled dental technicians to capture the exact shade and contour of their patients’ teeth. It is this process that, to some, exemplifies the art of dentistry.
Not only is porcelain lightweight, not as much of it is needed to add support. As a result, dentists can be more conservative when preparing a tooth for treatment, preserving much of its healthy structure. Though capable of enduring typical function, a porcelain crown is more likely to fracture or need replacement when compared to all-metal restorations, especially for patients who excessively grind or clench their teeth. For these cases, zirconia and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) options provide patients with the strength they need without detracting from their appearance.
Explore your Options – Schedule an Appointment Today!
Whether your natural teeth would benefit from renewed structure or you’re looking to replace those that are missing, Dr. Ward Clemmons is committed to providing his patients with the treatment they need to achieve the results they deserve. To learn more about recapturing the health and beauty of your smile, call our Fort Smith dental office and schedule an appointment today.