If you have recently undergone root canal treatment in Long Beach, CA, or you have a damaged tooth that needs to be protected, your dentist might recommend a dental crown. Dental crowns are essentially a cap that covers your entire tooth, giving it the stability it needs to function. Before you have your dental crown procedure, your dentist might give you the choice between a porcelain and a metal crown, so what are the benefits and drawbacks of each? Keep reading to find out more.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Porcelain?
Porcelain dental crowns are a popular choice for many patients, but here are the pros and cons of this type of dental crown:
Pros
- Porcelain can be formed to look just like your other teeth, so it looks very natural.
- Porcelain can be colored to match your natural teeth, so it is extremely difficult to notice the difference.
- Porcelain is biocompatible, so there is no danger of an allergic reaction.
Cons
- Porcelain can chip or crack if too much force is applied, so it may not be the best option for back teeth, where most chewing occurs.
- Porcelain crowns require more of your natural tooth to be filed down before they can be placed on your tooth.
- Porcelain may cause you to experience an increase in hot and cold sensitivity.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Metal?
For some applications, metal dental crowns are considered a better choice than porcelain, but here are the pros and cons of this type of dental crown:
Pros
- Metal crowns are stronger than porcelain crowns, so if you are going to be chewing on the tooth with a crown, metal may be a better option.
- Metal crowns can last longer than porcelain crowns; if you maintain your oral health and properly care for your crown, you may not have to replace it as soon.
Cons
- Metal crowns do not look like your natural teeth, so they are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain crowns.
- Metal is a conductor of heat, so you may experience tooth sensitivity with a metal crown.
Do You Need a Long Beach Dentist?
If you need dental crowns in Long Beach, CA, or you’re simply looking for a dental office in Long Beach, CA, look no further than Golden Coast Dental Care. Our professional dental team can’t wait to help you with your oral health needs. You can contact us by calling (562) 421-8401 to schedule an appointment.