Philadelphia Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns protect and preserve teeth that are badly damaged, decayed, or worn. A dental crown covers the entire tooth—from the gumline up—to protect it from further damage.
Types of Crowns
Many people use the term “porcelain crown” to refer to any tooth-colored ceramic crown. Technically, though, porcelain is only one of several ceramics that are used for dental crowns. Other ceramics that are commonly used are lithium disilicate and zirconia. These ceramics are tooth-colored and also have a translucency that mimics the translucency of natural teeth. To reach their maximum lifelike aesthetic properties, however, they are veneered with porcelain.
These other ceramics are extremely strong. They are provided to dentists and dental laboratories as blocks which are then milled by computer-controlled processes to fit on the tooth and to replicate the shape of the tooth. Because of this, there is limited ability to manipulate the aesthetics of the restoration. Porcelain, on the other hand, is stacked as a paste and then fired in an over. An artistic ceramist thus has great control over the color and will be able to layer different tints and translucencies to create a perfect imitation of a natural tooth.
e.max
e.max crowns are made of lithium disilicate and then veneered with porcelain. The core is thus extremely strong, and the porcelain veneer gives it a beautiful aesthetic. Their appearance will mimic the gloss, translucency, and shade of beautiful natural teeth. These crowns are metal-free, biocompatible, and have great long-term wear.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal
In some cases Dr. Weiss uses porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns on molar teeth. The metal support adds strength and durability to the crowns. Crowns with a metal foundation can withstand the forces of bruxism (teeth grinding) and chewing if you have a strong bite. A high-noble metal foundation (an alloy of gold, platinum, and palladium) is biocompatible and won’t irritate gum tissue.
How to Take Care of Your Crowns
- Brush your crowns with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive paste.
- Avoid biting hard or sharp objects.
- Keep your follow-up appointments to evaluate the crowns, and keep your regularly scheduled appointments for dental cleanings and exams.
- If you grind your teeth at night, Dr. Weiss can provide a custom mouthguard to protect the porcelain from the forces of grinding. Wear the mouthguard nightly.
Lifelike Crowns that Last
Dr. Weiss is one of six dentists in Pennsylvania accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His advanced training and skill will provide you with comfortable lifelike crowns that will last. The photos below show how Dr. Weiss transformed a patient’s smile with crowns.
If you’re interested in dental crowns, schedule an appointment for an exam or a 30-minute complimentary consultation. Call us or request an appointment online.