Types of Dental Caps

Over the years, dental caps have been a go-to option for the restoration of a damaged tooth. These caps help restore the health of your tooth. And, of course, improve your look and smile. 

So, we bet that you might just be looking to get a dental cap. Well, one thing that comes to your mind is what type of dental crown to get. And this can get quite tricky thanks to the availability of different options for different purposes.

So, are you looking to know about the types of dental caps? We have got you covered. In this article, we will tell you all you need to know about dental caps types.

Enjoy!

What Are Dental Caps

Just before we get to the types, you might just be curious about what dental crowns are. Well, we have also got that covered.

A dental cap, also called a dental crown, is a prosthetic device that you can fix on your tooth. Typically, once it gets installed, you can only get it removed by a dentist.

Also, to get a crown or cap, the dentist takes an impression or measurement of your existing teeth. However, the dentist would have to reduce the size of your teeth beforehand. This way, the crown looks proper for your tooth. 

Usually, this crown can either be temporary or fixed. And the temporary comes while your dentist gets the permanent made. The temporary cap’s role is to protect your teeth from injury or damage while your permanent crown undergoes the production process. Even more, the temporary crown ensures you can function with your teeth effectively during this stage. 

Why Do You Need Dental Caps?

Again, one thing that is on your mind is why you need a dental cap. Well, that is easy. A dental crown improves the general condition of your teeth.

Typically, a dental cap is useful in any of the following situations:

• Where you have a weakened tooth following a severe cavity or decay 
• When you need to cover implants
• When you need to replace large fillings 
• Where your natural tooth gets cracked or damaged
• Where your teeth have undergone a root canal
• Where you need to align or adjust your bite
• Where you need to level the shape, color, and size of your teeth for aesthetic purpose

Types of Dental Caps

Now, you are ready to get to the types of dental caps you can take advantage of. And as we earlier stated, they are various types that you can consider. Well, based on their material make-up, here are the major types of dental crowns that you can use.

1. All Porcelain

This is perhaps the most used type of dental cap. And this is thanks to its aesthetic capacity. Precisely, with this option, you get an option that can fit with your tooth’s color easily. Even more, they can easily agree with the size and shape of your teeth. 

Pros 

• There are free from toxic and allow you to avoid metal allergies
• They provide perhaps the best option if you are concerned about your tooth’s look 
• They are perfect for the restoration of your front tooth

Cons

• They don’t provide as much strength as metal or gold crowns 
• They have a higher maintenance requirement
• They might come off as more expensive compared to porcelain fused caps and metal caps

2. Gold Caps

Your next option is a gold cap, a mixture of copper and various metals like chromium or nickel. With this option, you enjoy durability and strength. 

Typically, your dentist may suggest it for back restorations. And in some cases where you need a cap that provides additional strength. Unfortunately, when it comes to aesthetics and color, gold caps are not the most preferred. 

Pros 

• • Strength, high resistance, and durability 
  • You do not need to remove a considerable part of your actual tooth 
  • They are perfect for the restoration of your back tooth, especially your second molar

Cons

• • They don’t provide a natural look 
  • It might produce swelling or allergic reaction in some people

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Caps

The next option is a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. It is quite a popular option that provides the gold crown’s strength and a porcelain crown’s aesthetic. Great right?

With this option, you get the natural color of the porcelain that can fit well into the look of your tooth. Although, the metal might pop up with a dark mark under the porcelain.

Pros 

• It provides both aesthetic and durability in one option 
• It is a popular option making it easier to find an expert in its installation
• They are perfect for the restoration of both your front and back tooth
• It is cheaper compared to full porcelain crowns

Cons

• • A grey or black line may show under the porcelain cap around your gumline and ruining the aesthetic of the crown 
  • This option might wear out faster where you clench your teeth regularly

4. Lithium Disilicate Crowns

This is the latest option in the industry today. It comes from ceramic, although lithium disilicate is both lightweight and thin. This option provides:

Pros 

• • It provides both aesthetic and durability in one option 
  • They are perfect for the restoration of both your front and back tooth

Cons

• • It is quite expensive, particularly to dentists who might transfer the costs to you or otherwise 
  • It is relatively new, and there might be some problems with its installation

5. Zirconia Caps

Another cap that you can opt for is the relatively new zirconia cap. Like the porcelain-fused-to-metal caps, this option brings the aesthetic and strength of porcelain and metal, respectively. And, perhaps this is why it is becoming fast popular.

Pros 

• • It provides both aesthetic and durability in one option 
  • It is less susceptible to breaking and chipping
  • It is not so time-consuming as dentists can cut and shape zirconia easily inside one dental office 
  • It is biocompatible, meaning there is less possibility of swelling or allergic reactions

Cons

• • It can be tricky to adjust 
  • This option might wear out faster where you clench your teeth regularly

Final Thoughts

Dental caps are always a great idea. And there even different options you can maximize. However, remember to make a choice based on your needs and the dentist recommendation.