For oral health issues and cosmetic flaws, crowns are still an effective solution for patients of all ages. If you have a large cavity that requires a root canal, your dentist may have to use a crown to protect it. Or, if you suffered a hard blow to the face from an accident or playing sports, you may have cracked or chipped a tooth. A cap can repair the damage and make the tooth look natural again. Your dentist has the training and knowledge to perform this procedure and help renew your smile. Understanding the similarities and differences between porcelain and metal caps can help prepare you for the process.
Extensive tooth decay can weaken a tooth beyond that which a filling can handle. The crown will strengthen the tooth and protect it from further damage. Crowns can also restore the function and appearance of a broken or badly damaged tooth. Patients who do not like their smile may also choose this option to cover up misshaped teeth. Dental crowns can also help with jaw alignment and keep adjacent teeth from applying pressure on damaged teeth.
Metal caps have been around longer than all-porcelain varieties. This type is stronger and more durable. While porcelain caps can last 10 to 15 years, porcelain to metal caps can last up to 25 years or longer. This option is less likely to break due to excessive force or injury.
The metal portion of the cap will be visible at the edges of the tooth. This can hinder a person’s smile and stand out easily. Also, dentists cannot see the tooth on an X-ray under the cap. Fewer dentists may offer this choice today.
Patients who want a natural-looking alternative should consider all-porcelain crowns. The general dentistry professional can choose a color shade to match the surrounding teeth. When the cap fits over the tooth, it will be difficult to notice. There are no dark lines at the edge of the tooth on the gumline. Another benefit is that the porcelain type does not require the dentist to remove as much of the tooth as with a metal cap, which can speed up the process. Porcelain caps will wear out faster, however, and may break more easily if the patient eats something hard or gets hit in the mouth.
With both types of caps, patients can enjoy the ability to once again chew and speak normally. A person will have an improved smile and appearance. The caps help reduce pain and discomfort from the damaged tooth as well. If the patients take good care of the cap, it should serve the person’s needs for many years.
Consider these two options and decide which one is right for you. Your dentist can provide further insight into what may work more effectively in your case. Call your dentist today and make an appointment to discuss this procedure. Put an end to toothaches or a smile you dislike.
Request an appointment here: https://precisionsmiles.net or call Precision Smiles. at (201) 204-1355 for an appointment in our Hackensack office.
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