Porcelain Crowns
in Boca Raton, FL

There are three basic types of crowns available:

Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) crowns: PFMs have a metal inner layer with an outer layer of porcelain that bonds to the metal, providing durability and aesthetic qualities.

All-ceramic or porcelain crowns: All-ceramic crowns are a metal-free alternative that offers excellent cosmetic results. There are different brands (e.max, CEREC) and materials (lithium disilicate, zirconia), that are indicated depending on the specific needs of each case.

All metal crowns: classified by their gold content, they are not as popular but provide longevity, strength, and biocompatibility. Despite not being very aesthetic, the gold crown remains the standard to which other crowns are compared.

Whether porcelain crowns are better than other types of crowns depends on a variety of factors. Porcelain crowns are highly durable, biocompatible, and can be matched to the natural color of your teeth for a natural-looking restoration. They are also stain-resistant and long-lasting when properly cared for. However, other types of crowns, such as gold or metal crowns, may be more appropriate in certain situations, such as for back teeth or for patients with certain dental conditions. Ultimately, the best type of crown for your individual needs will depend on a variety of factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of damage or decay, and your overall dental health. Your dentist can help you determine the best type of crown for your specific situation.

Yes, porcelain crowns are generally considered safe for most dental patients. Porcelain is a biocompatible material, meaning that it is not harmful to living tissue and can be safely used for dental restorations. Porcelain crowns are also free of harmful chemicals, such as mercury or other metals, which can be a concern with other types of dental restorations. However, as with any dental procedure, there may be some risks and potential side effects associated with porcelain crowns, such as sensitivity, discomfort, or complications such as cracking or chipping. It’s important to discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist and to carefully follow any post-procedure instructions to minimize the risk of complications.

To keep your crown in good condition, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. as well as maintaining regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. Additionally, it is important to avoid chewing on hard foods or using your teeth to open packages, as this can put excessive force on the crown and potentially cause it to chip or break. If you grind your teeth at night or participate in contact sports, it is a good idea to wear a mouthguard to protect your porcelain crown from damage.

Porcelain crowns cannot be whitened in the same way that natural teeth can. While porcelain crowns are generally stain-resistant, they are not completely immune to discoloration, so it’s important to avoid exposing your porcelain crown to staining agents such as coffee, tea, or red wine. If your porcelain crown has become discolored or stained, your dentist may be able to adjust the shade of the crown by way of a process called veneering, or by replacing it entirely to improve its appearance.

Getting a porcelain crown is generally a painless procedure. Before the crown is placed, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. This will ensure that you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the crown preparation process. However, some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity in the days following the procedure, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. If you have any concerns about pain or discomfort during the porcelain crown procedure, talk to your dentist about your options for managing pain and anxiety.

While both porcelain crowns and veneers are cosmetic dental restorations made from ceramic material, they serve different purposes and are applied to different parts of the tooth. Think of a porcelain crown like a helmet for your tooth, and a porcelain veneer like a mask for your tooth.

A porcelain crown is a type of dental restoration that is placed over the entire tooth structure to protect and strengthen it. It is typically used to repair a tooth that has been extensively damaged, decayed, or weakened by a large filling or root canal therapy.

In contrast, a veneer is a thin layer of porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of a tooth to improve its appearance. Veneers are typically used to correct cosmetic imperfections such as chips, stains, or gaps between teeth. Veneers are less invasive than porcelain crowns, as they only require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed to make room for the veneer.