Partial vs Full Coverage Crowns
What is a dental crown?
The crown of a natural tooth is the visible part of the tooth that sits above the gum line. It is made of enamel, a hard layer that protects the tooth. If the crown of a natural tooth is damaged by tooth decay, accidents, or other dental diseases, an artificial crown will be needed.
An artificial dental crown is made in a dental laboratory based on impressions of the tooth to be treated. It is then placed on the tooth and secured with dental adhesive or cement. Artificial dental crowns can restore both the function and aesthetics of a damaged tooth, giving it protection, stability, and a natural appearance.
Difference between dental crown and dental bridge
The main difference between a dental crown and a dental bridge is how they are used. Dental crowns cover the entire visible part of the tooth, while bridges use two or more crowns to fill the gap created by missing teeth. On the other hand, dental crowns are used for individual teeth. In terms of material selection, dental bridges can only be made of porcelain fused to metal (PFM), while dental crowns are made of a variety of materials, such as metal alloys, composite resin, and ceramics.
Types of dental crowns
There are different types of dental crowns that can be selected according to individual needs. In this section, we will take a closer look at the different types of dental crowns.
What is the difference between a full crown and a partial crown?
The difference between a full crown and a partial crown is the amount of tooth preparation, that is, how much of the natural tooth is prepared for the crown. Here is an explanation to clarify the difference:
Full crown
With a full crown, the entire visible part of the tooth is crowned. This means that the tooth is reduced to a conical shape to make room for the crown. A full crown encloses the entire tooth and is placed on the tooth stump. Full crowns are used in cases where the tooth is severely damaged, severely worn, or weakened by root canal treatment. They provide a high degree of stability and are long-lasting.
Partial crown
Unlike a full crown, a partial crown covers only part of the tooth. The preparation of the tooth for a partial crown is less extensive than for a full crown. Only the damaged or weak part of the tooth is removed, while the healthy tooth structures are preserved. A partial crown provides protection for the affected area of the tooth and allows for the preservation of as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. Partial crowns are generally used when the tooth has a larger defect that cannot be treated with fillings or inlays alone.
The main difference between a full and partial crown is, therefore, the extent to which the tooth is preserved. While a full crown involves crowning the entire tooth, a partial crown involves preparing and crowning only the affected part of the tooth. The choice between a full crown and a partial crown depends on the specific situation of the tooth, the extent of the damage and the patient's aesthetic goals.
If you want to restore your smile, a full or partial crown may just be the solution you are looking for! Contact us today to make an appointment and discuss your options!