subject: What Are The Common Misconceptions About Porcelain Crowns? [print this page] Marketed as an alternative to metal dental crowns, porcelain crowns are a popular option for patients who do not want noticeable dental work. However there are many misconceptions out there concerning porcelain crowns. Your cosmetic dentist will be able to work with you to help you choose the right treatment for you and your needs and aesthetic goals.
The marketing literature for porcelain crowns explains that the dental crowns can be shaped and placed over the course of two visits. The marketing also claims that there is no pain or drilling involved in the placement of the crowns. This is all truein a perfect world where everyone has the same tooth shape, thickness, color, and size. However, we live in reality and this isnt possible. For many patients, the process takes two visits where there is little drilling and, depending on the person, relatively little pain. However, those with thicker teeth or in need of extensive shaping may have to visit their cosmetic dentist several times to get a proper fit on the porcelain dental crown. An ill-fitting dental crown can lead to decay, disease, and tooth loss. Slipshod fittings of dental crowns to adhere to marketing promises is not advised.
Though porcelain crowns are less noticeable than their metal counterpart, porcelain crowns become more noticeable over time as the surrounding teeth submit to natural staining. Contrary to what the marketing says, porcelain crowns do not come in a variety of colors and shades to exactly match the shade of the surrounding teeth. Instead they come in basic shades that may or may not match the surrounding teeth exactly. Your cosmetic dentist can try to match it as close as possible. However, even if the shade of porcelain is a pretty good match, this will change over time, especially if you smoke or ingest foods or beverages that cause staining. Unfortunately teeth whitening treatments do not whiten dental work, including porcelain dental crowns.
Despite the misconceptions, porcelain crowns are a good option for most people, once they are made aware of all of the facts. Discuss porcelain dental crowns with your cosmetic dentist.
