Dental crowns come in myriad of types; from metal to porcelain and ceramic, patients can choose any number of crown materials. However, as far as ceramic crowns go, four main types dominate the market: porcelain-fused-to-metal (or PFM), E-max, zirconia and all-ceramic.
Here, Dr. Gilly Calcagno, your Rochester, MN dentist describes the different types of ceramic crowns.
Choose from One of These Ceramic Crown Varieties
- PFM. The porcelain-fused-to-metal ceramic crown type is a mixture between a metal crown and a ceramic one. This crown is metal-based, however, the outer portion is coated with a ceramic material. A PFM crown has the durability of a metal crown with aesthetic appeal of a ceramic crown.
- E-max. The E-max crowns have become one the most popular crown varieties available. These have been manufactured with ceramic material that’s pressed with glass. The E-max crowns provide more durability than all-ceramic crowns, plus, the added glass gives these extra strength.
- Zirconia. When zirconia material was first introduced, doctors used it used to recreate joints for patients who required joint replacement surgeries. Today, zirconia is also used to make restorative dental pieces. Zirconia is not only strong, it’s biocompatible, too.
- All-ceramic. After the first all-ceramic crowns were utilized, patients couldn’t wait for a crown that camouflaged amongst their natural teeth. While an all-ceramic crown does provide a number of benefits, your Rochester, MN doesn’t recommend its use on back teeth. The all-ceramic variety can’t support the biting force of back teeth and thus, works more effectively on front teeth.
Yet, if your crown placement is meant for any molars and you wish to have a color-matching crown, the dentist might suggest one of the aforementioned crown types.
Calcagno Family Dentistry Provides Restorative Dentistry
If you’re in need of a ceramic crown and would like more information about this type of dental restoration piece, talk to Dr. Calcagno. She can explain the benefits to each type of ceramic crown to help you choose the most suitable one. To schedule an appointment with our Rochester, MN dental practice call us at (507) 281-3659. Also, visit our website for services, before and after photos, and testimonials. We look forward to treating patients from Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington and surrounding communities.
