Partial vs Full Coverage Crowns
When a tooth becomes damaged or weakened, your dentist might recommend placing a crown. Dental crowns help protect your tooth, restore its shape, and keep it working properly. There are two types of crowns a dentist may recommend: partial coverage crowns and full coverage crowns. Each type of crowns serves slightly different purposes and offer unique benefits. Knowing the differences between these two types of crowns can help you have an informed conversation with your dentist about which one might be the right fit for your dental needs.
What are Partial Coverage Crowns?
A partial coverage crown covers only a portion of the tooth. Instead of surrounding it completely, this type of crown is carefully designed to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. Dentists usually recommend partial coverage crowns when the tooth has mild to moderate damage or decay but is still mostly intact.
Because partial coverage crowns cover less of the tooth, the dentist will not need to remove as much of the tooth structure. This makes the procedure less invasive. It also helps preserve the natural tooth, which can lead to better long-term health. Partial crowns are usually made from porcelain, ceramic, or gold alloys. Porcelain or ceramic materials commonly used for teeth that are easily visible when a person smiles. Gold can provide extra strength for teeth in the back that require heavy chewing power.
What are Full Coverage Crowns?
Full coverage crowns completely cover the tooth down to the gum line. They provide full protection, surrounding and strengthening a tooth that has been severely damaged, cracked, or has undergone extensive dental work like a root canal. Dentists also use full coverage crowns for cosmetic reasons such as to help teeth that are severely stained, misshapen, or otherwise damaged. Full coverage crowns can help these teeth appear more attractive and natural.
Because full coverage crowns entirely cover the tooth, the dentist will need to reshape the tooth by removing more of its structure. This ensures the crown fits perfectly and can hold up under chewing forces. Materials used in full coverage crowns include porcelain, ceramic, gold alloys, and sometimes a combination, such as porcelain fused to metal.
What's the Difference and Which Should You Choose?
The main difference between partial and full coverage crowns comes down to how much of the tooth they cover. Partial crowns preserve more of the original tooth structure, making them a less invasive choice. They are best when damage to the tooth is minor to moderate, and preserving healthy tooth structure is a priority.
Full coverage crowns provide complete protection for severely damaged or weakened teeth. Because they're fully protective, they offer stronger reinforcement for teeth needing significant restoration or after root canal treatments. However, placing a full coverage crown involves removing more tooth structure to accommodate the crown.
When deciding which crown is best, your dentist will consider how damaged the tooth is, its location, and your overall dental health. Teeth that require greater protection, such as back molars, typically benefit more from full coverage crowns. Teeth in visible areas needing minimal restoration may benefit more from partial crowns due to their more conservative approach and minimal impact on natural tooth structure.
Speak with your dentist about your dental concerns, budget, and personal preferences. Together, you can make the best decision on whether a partial or full coverage crown will work for you.