Advantages & Disadvantages of Ceramic Crowns?
Ceramic dental crowns provide durable, aesthetically superior results for patients who wish to restore the strength and appearance of a damaged or decayed tooth. Because they are made entirely of ceramic material, they match the natural teeth in color and luminescence, blending impeccably with the surrounding teeth. Ceramic is also highly resistant to wear, providing long-lasting results. While the benefits of ceramic dental crowns are clear, they’re not without their disadvantages, and they may not be a good idea for every patient in every circumstance.
What Are the Downsides of Ceramic Crowns?
Because of their complex, precise design, ceramic crowns require more time for fabrication than some other types of dental crowns. In most cases, at least two office visits are needed to ensure precise measurement and design, and additional laboratory fees may be incurred, increasing the overall cost of the dental crown treatment. It is also important to fabricate ceramic crowns that are thick enough to prevent fracture and breakage, which means that the dentist may need to remove more of the natural tooth structure to comfortably accommodate the crown. This also means that ceramic crowns may be more difficult to repair in cases of breakage or fracture, and an entirely new restoration may be needed. Close collaboration between the dentist and laboratory technicians can help reduce the risks of fracture and ensure the longevity of the ceramic crown.
What Are Some Advantages of Ceramic Crowns?
The most obvious benefit of ceramic crowns is their superior, lifelike appearance. The fabrication process for ceramic restorations allows expert technicians to craft precisely shaped and colored crowns that look exactly like natural teeth, matching in shape, color, and reflectiveness. Ceramic crowns are also highly durable and resistant to wear, providing long-lasting satisfaction when cared for properly.
How Do I Know if Ceramic Crowns Will Work for Me?
Your dentist is the ultimate authority on what type of dental crowns will best serve you, so if you are considering a crown to restore or protect an extensively damaged or decayed tooth, don’t hesitate to set up a consultation. Patients with severe overbites may not be good candidates for ceramic crowns, as such issues with the bite can place disproportionate pressure on the crown and may necessitate stronger materials. Additionally, patients with insufficient distance between their teeth may find that there isn’t enough room to accommodate a ceramic crown, and a more streamlined material may be needed. Certain habits like chronic grinding or clenching of the teeth can cause issues with ceramic crowns, and habits like chewing on ice or other hard objects should be curbed before ceramic crowns are placed. In these cases, your dentist can help you by providing recommendations for a mouthguard or for behavior-modification techniques, which can help keep ceramic crowns safe and whole. Proper oral hygiene is also a crucial part of maintaining ceramic crowns and helping ensure their success over the long term while preserving the health of the teeth and the rest of the oral cavity. With regular dental checkups and healthy lifestyle choices, ceramic crowns can provide many years of satisfaction and superlative smiles.