what is the difference between crowns and caps

3 min read 25-12-2024

what is the difference between crowns and caps

Dental crowns and caps are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. While they serve similar purposes—restoring damaged or missing teeth—there's a key distinction. This article will clarify the difference between dental crowns and caps, explaining their uses and helping you understand what to expect.

Understanding Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that completely covers a damaged tooth. Think of it as a "jacket" for your tooth. Crowns are typically made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal (gold, alloys), or a combination thereof.

When are Crowns Used?

Crowns are used to:

Protect a weakened tooth: A tooth with extensive decay, a large filling, or a fracture may need a crown for support and stability.
Improve the appearance of a tooth: Crowns can restore a tooth's shape, size, and color, improving its aesthetics.
Cover a dental implant: Crowns are used to cap dental implants, providing a natural-looking and functional tooth replacement.
Strengthen a tooth after root canal treatment: A tooth weakened by root canal therapy often requires a crown to prevent breakage.

Understanding Dental Caps

The term "dental cap" is essentially a synonym for a dental crown. There is no technical difference between the two terms in dentistry. The usage of "cap" is often more colloquial or less precise than "crown." Dentists typically use the term "crown."

What Material is Best for My Crown?

The choice of material for your crown depends on several factors, including:

Location of the tooth: A crown on a back molar might benefit from a more durable metal crown, whereas a crown on a visible front tooth might require a more aesthetically pleasing porcelain crown.
Your budget: Porcelain crowns are generally more expensive than metal crowns.
Your personal preferences: Discuss your options with your dentist to determine what best suits your needs and preferences.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns closely mimic the natural appearance of teeth. They're strong, durable and stain-resistant, making them a popular choice for visible teeth. However, they are more expensive and can be more prone to chipping compared to metal crowns.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are very strong and durable. They're ideal for teeth under significant stress, such as molars. However, they aren't as aesthetically pleasing. They're often used for back teeth because of their strength.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)

These crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. The metal base provides strength and durability, while the porcelain layer provides a natural appearance. They are a good compromise between strength and aesthetics.

The Procedure: Getting a Crown or Cap

The process of receiving a crown generally involves several appointments:

Tooth preparation: The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing some enamel to make space for the crown.
Impression taking: An impression of your prepared tooth will be taken to create a model for the lab to fabricate the crown.
Temporary crown: A temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
Permanent crown placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will cement it into place.

Long-Term Care of Crowns

With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. This includes:

Good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly.
Regular dental checkups: See your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings.
Avoid biting hard objects: This can damage or fracture the crown.

Conclusion

While the terms "crown" and "cap" are often used interchangeably, both refer to the same procedure. A dental crown is a restoration that completely covers a damaged tooth, improving its function, strength, and appearance. Choosing the right material is crucial for both aesthetics and longevity. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene practices for long-lasting results. Always consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.