Crowns are caps that cover 3/4 or the entire tooth. Teeth that are badly weakened by decay or trauma may require more support than basic fillings. Chipped, cracked, weakened, or decayed teeth can be strengthened with crowns. Different materials are available for crowns including porcelain (tooth-coloured), porcelain fused to metal, gold and other metals. We also place Implant Crowns, which are the tooth shaped attachment to dental implants.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM)
The most common restorative material for dental crowns is a mixture of porcelain and metal. When porcelain and metal are heated together, the porcelain chemically fuses to the oxides in the metal, which creates a durable bond. Porcelain fused to metal crowns are stronger than pure porcelain because they are supported by a metal structure. They also blend in well with the shape, look, and function of your natural teeth.
Metal Crowns & Gold Alloys
Metal crowns come in a few different forms and colours. They provide a strong bond, are fracture-resistant, and do not wear away teeth. These crowns typically consist of gold, copper, or other metals. Crowns require the removal of tooth structure before placement, but Metal-based crowns require the least amount of removal, making them a more conservative option.
Cosmetic Crowns (Ceramic)
Ceramic crowns are made of porcelain. In dentistry, porcelain is used to create tooth-coloured dental materials, such as cosmetic crowns, that match the look, shape, and function of natural teeth. Cosmetic crowns are generally used to restore front teeth and blend in with your natural tooth colour. They are strong, durable, and do not chip or break easily.