Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration designed to cover and protect damaged or decayed teeth, restoring their shape, size, and strength. These tooth-shaped caps can be crafted from various materials, including metal and porcelain materials. Metal dental crowns, known for their exceptional durability and strength, have been a reliable choice in dental restorations for decades. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of a metal crown and how they can contribute to maintaining a healthy smile.
What is Metal Crown?
A metal crown is a type of dental crown made entirely from metal alloys, such as gold alloy, palladium alloy, chromium-cobalt alloy, or titanium. Metal alloys are classified into 3 groups; high-noble, noble, and base metal alloys.
- High-noble alloys are mostly gold, silver, palladium, or platinum. They are the most expensive type of alloy and the most biocompatible, which means they have fewer potential adverse reactions in the body. They are used to make all-metal crowns, such as silver crowns and gold crowns, for the molars and premolars.
- Noble alloys contain more base metals, such as nickel and chromium, but less gold than high-noble alloys. They are also used to make all-metal crowns for the molars and premolars.
- Base metal alloys, or non-noble metals, contain mostly base metals, such as nickel, chromium, and cobalt. They are more affordable than noble and high-noble alloys. They are rarely used in all-metal crowns but are commonly used as a metal base in porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
Dental professionals usually recommend crowns for weak teeth, teeth with extensive decay, or after root canal treatment to restore the tooth’s structure and chewing function.
Benefits of Metal Crown
One of the biggest advantages of all-metal crowns is their superior strength and durability. They can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding without breaking. This makes them an excellent choice for molars and premolars that experience heavy chewing forces.
Metal crowns, including gold alloy crowns and stainless steel crowns, also require minimal removal of the natural tooth structure because they don’t need as much space for placement. This means that a more natural tooth structure can be preserved, which is beneficial for long-term dental health. Also, they can be used in cases where space for ceramic or porcelain crowns is limited.
All-metal dental crowns don’t cause abrasion to the opposing teeth over time, which is a common problem with porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) and ceramic crowns.
Additionally, metal dental crowns are often the most economical option among the various types of crowns, excluding gold crowns. This cost-effectiveness makes them a practical solution for those on a budget needing a durable restoration.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, metal crowns can last up to 15 years or more. Prefabricated stainless steel crowns are also a common and effective option for severely decayed primary teeth or child pulpotomy, providing the same benefits for younger patients.
How is the Dental Crown Procedure Done?
During the dental crown procedure, the dentist performs tooth reduction, carefully removing a portion of the damaged tooth’s structure to make room for the crown. This step ensures that the dental crown will fit seamlessly over the entire tooth without affecting the neighboring teeth. For metal crowns, minimal tooth preparation is done, preserving the natural tooth structure.
Dental impressions are then taken to capture the precise shape and size of the prepared tooth and adjacent teeth. They can be made using traditional putty-like materials or with advanced digital impressions, which provide a more accurate and comfortable experience for the patient. The dental impressions are then sent to dental laboratories, where skilled technicians create a custom crown that matches the patient’s natural teeth in shape and size.
While waiting for your permanent crown, the dentist may place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it and maintain its function. Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit of the custom crown on the tooth before placement. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure a perfect fit. Finally, the permanent crown is cemented into place using a strong dental adhesive, ensuring it stays securely attached to the tooth.
Throughout the dental crown procedure, the dentist takes care to protect the integrity of the neighboring and adjacent teeth, ensuring that the patient’s bite and overall dental health are maintained.
What to Expect After the Dental Crown Procedure?
After the dental crown procedure, patients may experience some tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures, which is normal and typically subsides within a few days. However, if the sensitivity persists or worsens, it’s advisable to contact the dental practice for further evaluation.
It’s essential to avoid consuming sticky or chewy foods immediately after getting a dental crown, as these may dislodge the crown. Regular dental checkups are recommended to ensure the crown remains in good condition and maintain oral health.
Disadvantages of Metal crown
While metal crowns offer exceptional strength and durability, they come with some drawbacks:
- Metallic color: their metallic appearance can be very noticeable and aesthetically unpleasing, making them unsuitable for front teeth where natural color is desired.
- Allergy concerns: patients with metal allergies may experience adverse reactions due to the presence of nickel in metal crowns, necessitating alternative crown options to avoid discomfort and complications associated with metal allergies.
Alternatives to Metal Crowns
For those who prefer not to opt for an all-metal crown, several alternatives are available, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are a common alternative, combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. This combination results in a durable and natural-looking smile. The metal base provides support, while the layers of porcelain ensure a pleasing appearance, making it a preferred option for those who prioritize strength and aesthetics.
However, one downside is that, over time, the metal margin may become visible at the gum line as gums recede, causing dark lines at the gum line.
All Ceramic Crowns
All ceramic crowns, such as zirconia crowns, are renowned for their superior aesthetic properties. They mimic the natural appearance of teeth more closely than any other type of crown, making them the preferred choice for individuals seeking a perfect smile. Zirconia crowns, in particular, offer additional benefits such as exceptional strength and durability, making them less prone to chipping compared to other ceramic crown types. Both porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) and all ceramic crowns are stain-resistant.
These crowns are also biocompatible, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and promoting healthier gums and beautiful smiles. Despite their advantages, zirconia crowns can be more expensive and require more extensive removal of natural tooth enamel during placement.
Acrylic or Composite Resin Crowns
Acrylic or composite resin crowns are often used as temporary restorations while waiting for a permanent crown. They are less expensive and quicker to produce, making them a viable short-term solution.
However, they are not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as porcelain-metal or all-porcelain crowns. Temporary crowns can easily get chipped, requiring extra care during the interim period before receiving a permanent crown.
Porcelain Onlays
Porcelain onlays, also known as porcelain overlays or partial crowns, offer a conservative alternative to full crowns by preserving more of the natural tooth structure. They are custom-made to fit over the damaged portion of the tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function while seamlessly blending with the surrounding teeth.
Porcelain onlays are crafted from high-quality ceramic materials, providing excellent durability and aesthetics. They are less invasive than traditional crowns, requiring minimal removal of healthy tooth enamel for placement. While porcelain fillings are often preferred for their aesthetic appeal, individuals seeking unparalleled durability may consider gold onlays as an alternative option.
However, it’s essential to note that porcelain and gold fillings may not be suitable for extensive damage or when significant structural support is needed. In such cases, a full crown may be a more appropriate option. When considering porcelain overlays, consult your dentist to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific dental needs and oral health goals.
Caring for Your Metal Crown & Oral Health
- Maintain consistent oral hygiene practices: Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup around your crown, which reduces the risk of decay.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash: Incorporate an antibacterial mouthwash into your oral health routine to minimize bacteria that can lead to gum disease and other oral health issues.
- Schedule regular dental checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional dental cleanings and checkups to ensure your crown and surrounding teeth remain in excellent condition.
- Protect against teeth grinding: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to protect your crown and other teeth from excessive wear. Wearing a mouthguard at night can help extend the lifespan of your crown.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools: Avoid using your teeth to open packages, bottles, or other items. This can put excessive pressure on your crown and increase the risk of damage or dislodgement.
- Be cautious with staining substances: Although metal crowns are resistant to staining, the surrounding natural teeth can still be stained over time by substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco.
- Monitor for sensitivity or discomfort: Pay attention to any changes in sensitivity or discomfort around your crown. These could indicate issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or problems with the fit. Report any unusual sensations to your dentist promptly for evaluation.
By following these dental care tips, you can help ensure the longevity of your metal crown and maintain excellent overall oral health.
Conclusion
Metal crowns are strong, durable, and cost-effective for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They require minimal tooth preparation, preserving more of the natural tooth structure than other types of crowns. Also, they can last up to 15 years or more with proper care. While metal crowns offer unmatched strength, their metallic appearance can be a drawback for visible teeth.
Alternatives to metal crowns are available for those wanting a more aesthetic result. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns balance durability and a more natural look, but the potential for metal visibility at the gum line remains.
All-ceramic crowns, especially zirconia crowns, provide the most natural-looking smile, but at a higher cost and with more invasive preparation.
Each option presents a trade-off between cost and the desired aesthetic, allowing patients to choose based on their priorities and the specific needs of their dental restoration. If you’re considering a metal crown, discuss all the treatment options with your dentist to determine which option is best for you.
