Advantages and Disadvantages of Ceramic Crowns
Crowns are one of the most common dental restorations performed each year across the world. Millions of people have crowns installed to support their teeth when they have become damaged or worn. Whether it is because of a slip and fall or cavity, damaged or worn teeth need support. Crowns do just that. If you are one of the millions of people needing a crown, you’ve likely seen that they are typically made from either ceramic or porcelain. Ceramic crowns are very popular and for good reason. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of ceramic crowns.
What are the advantages of ceramic crowns?
The biggest advantage of ceramic crowns is in their appearance. Ceramic crowns are made to match the color and contours of natural teeth. The ceramic also is reflective like natural teeth. This means that a ceramic crown will blend in and not be as noticeable as crowns made from other materials.
Another advantage of ceramic crowns is their durability. Ceramic is a very strong material that will stand up to the stress placed on teeth through everyday use. Ceramic is resistant to wear and chipping, meaning with proper care, the crown will last a long time.
What are the disadvantages of ceramic crowns?
Despite their many advantages, there are some disadvantages to be aware of with ceramic crowns. Ceramic crowns typically take longer to produce than other crowns. This is because of the complexity and intricacy of their design. The process to have ceramic crowns installed can also be more involved than other crowns due to the nature of the material.
Another disadvantage is that ceramic crowns tend to be slightly thicker than other crowns. This increases their durability and function, but in some cases requires shaving some of the natural tooth off to make room for the ceramic crown to fit into the natural bite. Ceramic crowns are also more difficult to repair if damage occurs to them due to the nature of the material.
Who is a good candidate for a ceramic crown?
Most people are good candidates for ceramic crowns. They are very effective at supporting and protecting teeth and their durability means they will be long lasting. There are a few circumstances that may make someone not a good fit for ceramic crowns, however. In some cases, a stronger material is required than ceramic due to the nature of the person’s mouth. If the structure of their mouth will cause additional pressures on the tooth, such as someone with a deep overbite, the ceramic may not be strong enough. Similarly, if someone clenches or grinds their teeth a lot, ceramic may not be the right choice.
What does this mean for me?
If you are in the market for a crown and are wondering if ceramic is right for you, speak with your dentist today. They will be able to assess your needs and let you know if ceramic is the right choice for you. They will also be able to answer any additional questions that you might have.