Porcelain crowns are ordinarily used to make functional and aesthetic modifications to chipped, fractured, misaligned or discolored teeth. They have long-term prognosis and are one of the most effective smile improvement methods applied in dentistry today.

Numerous types of cosmetic dentistry procedures have increased the demand for porcelain crowns. With the introduction of bonding techniques, the crowns made of various types of materials are now implemented routinely as they provide durability and aesthetic value while enhancing patient’s ability to masticate and speak.

Indications for Porcelain Crown Fabrication:

• Multiple spacing (diastemas)
• Excessive staining that cannot be corrected with other methods
• Severe hypocalcyfication
• Fractures
• Chips and breaks
• Reinforcement of weakened teeth due to Root Canal Therapy (RCT)

Contraindications for Crown Fabrication

• Poor oral hygiene
• Rampant caries caused by medical conditions
• Insufficient tooth structure
• Severe malposition that requires orthodontic intervention
• Parafunctional habits (grinding or clenching)

Philosophy of Crown Placement

Less invasive methods of tooth repair are always implemented first as with crown placement the changes are irreversible. The dental professional may suggest tooth whitening for stain correction, orthodontic re-positioning or re-contouring and equilibration. If none of the suggested techniques bring visible results, the crowns are recommended as the ultimate venue for tooth restoration.

The advantages include durability, color stability and aesthetic value. The disadvantages encompass the length of the treatment, inability to change the color after the placement and difficulty to repair should the porcelain fracture in the future. Additionally, the patient may be required to wear a nightguard during sleep or mouthguard during the day to protect the porcelain from breaking.

Types of Porcelain Dental Crowns

Porcelain dental crowns can be fabricated using an assortment of different components but the ultimate goal is to create a life-like looking crown that is both functional and beautiful. They are categorized into two types; all-ceramic and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM).

All-ceramic crowns – This version is preferred mostly for its aesthetic value and is typically placed on the anterior teeth. Because all-ceramic crowns are not supported by any other structure, they tend to be more fragile than any other types of crowns available today. The superior cosmetic appearance is created by a dental technician who uses high-strength porcelain and closely follows the anatomy of the natural dentition. All-ceramic crowns can also be manufactured chair-side in a single appointment, but they do not offer the same sturdiness as the materials used differ slightly from those used by a technician.

PFM crowns – These crowns are manufactured in two layers. The understructure may consist of metals such as zinc, copper, gold, platinum or a combination of many different components. The metal layer serves as a protective shield and provides long-lasting results. The porcelain layer is placed over the metal for cosmetic reasons. PFM crowns are typically used in posterior regions where extra strength is recommended for functional reasons.

Many general dentists now offer cosmetically oriented services such as placement of crowns and bridges. It is sensible to become more educated about the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure by allowing the dentist to fully explain the pros and cons of each choice including the benefits associated with porcelain crowns.