If you’re looking for ways to restore your damaged tooth, a dental crown or cap can help. While these terms are interchangeable, they actually refer to two different kinds of tooth restorations. Let’s discuss the differences between a dental crown vs. a cap so you know which option is right for you.
What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps fixed over a damaged or decayed tooth. This helps in restoring its shape, size, strength, and of course, visual appeal. Usually, the crowns are made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal and placed over the tooth using a dental adhesive.
Dental crowns treat a variety of dental issues, some of which include:
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Teeth that have recently undergone root canal therapy
- Large fillings in the tooth, which are weak now
- Extensively damaged teeth that cannot be restored with a filling
Dental Cap vs. Crown
On the other hand, a dental cap vs. a crown is a type of restoration that encapsulates the entire visible part of your tooth. This includes the area of the chewing surface to the gum line.
Dental caps are also referred to as full-coverage crowns because they cover more portion of the tooth than a standard dental crown.
The materials usually sought for a dental cap are porcelain, ceramic, or metal and are fixed the same way a crown is on to the tooth. They cover teeth that are severely damaged or decayed or have undergone extensive cosmetic work.
Dental crown Vs. Cap – The Difference
The main difference between a dental crown vs cap is the length and extent of the tooth structure they cover.
While dental crowns only cover the damage or tooth decay, caps cover the entire visible portion of your tooth.
Another difference between the two is the situations in which they are used.
Dental crowns are best to restore teeth that have undergone root canal therapy or, in other cases, to repair a crack or chip in teeth or if it is severely decayed.
On the other hand, dental caps cover up the damaged or decayed surface that a traditional crown cannot.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Crowns and Caps
Both have their own set of pros and cons. Here are some for your knowledge:
Advantages – Dental Crowns
- Less tooth structure removal during the preparation process.
- Crowns cost less than dental caps.
- Crowns offer a solution for a wider range of dental problems.
Disadvantages – Dental Crowns
- Crowns cover less area than tooth caps.
- Dental caps are stronger and more durable than crowns.
Advantages – Dental cap
- A dental cap vs. crown covers more parts of the tooth, providing better stability and support to it.
- They are better in terms of durability and long-lasting.
- Caps can be used to restore teeth that are severely damaged or decayed.
Disadvantages – Dental Cap
- The preparation process needs more tooth structure removal for cap placement.
- Caps are more expensive than crowns.
- They may not be suitable for all dental problems.
Which Option is Right For You?
You and the dentist will mutually make the call. Whether you go for a dental crown vs. a cap, it will impact your tooth and your overall dental health.
Your dentist will be able to recommend the best option for you based on a thorough examination of your teeth and gums.
Closing Note
Make sure you talk to your dentist and discuss in detail the options and best route according to your condition. You can get in touch with dental care experts from Modena Dentistry at (346) 966-3362 to fix an appointment.