Why Does My Dental Crown Look Different from My Friend's?

If you've ever had a dental crown, you may have noticed that the way it looks or feels can vary significantly from someone else's crown. Whether it’s the color, texture, or fit, you might be wondering why your dental crown differs from your friend's, even though you're both effectively getting the same treatment.

The answer lies in two key factors: the customization of the crown to fit your individual needs and the materials used in its creation. In this article, we'll explore why dental crowns can look so different from one person to another, and the role that both custom design and material choice play in this variation.

Part 1: Custom Design to Fit You and Only You

Dental crowns are custom-designed to suit the specific needs of each patient. This customisation goes beyond just fitting the crown to the tooth—it involves creating a crown that matches your natural smile, bite, teeth alignment, and dental anatomy. When you get a dental crown, your dentist will take precise measurements of your tooth and surrounding area to ensure the crown fits seamlessly into your mouth. They also consider factors such as:

• Tooth Shape and Size: Every tooth in your mouth has its unique shape, and a dental crown must be made to match that shape. A dentist will mold the crown to fit the contours of your tooth and the natural alignment of your teeth.

• Bite and Functionality: Your dentist will design the crown to ensure it aligns properly with your bite. The crown needs to function like your natural tooth, allowing you to chew and speak without discomfort.

• Aesthetic Considerations: Dentists often aim for a crown that complements the natural appearance of your other teeth. For instance, they will match the crown’s size, shape, and color to blend in with your smile, ensuring it’s aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking.

As a result of these customisations, crowns are tailored specifically to you, which is why your dental crown might look and feel different from your friend's, whose dental needs may be slightly different.

Dental crowns, regardless of material, are made to fit you and only you!

Part 2: The Different Materials Used in Dental Crowns

The material used to create a dental crown also plays a significant role in its appearance, durability, and function. Several materials are commonly used in crown creation, and each has its own characteristics that affect how the crown looks and performs. The most commonly used materials are:

(L) Full porcelain crowns are the most natural looking. (M) PFM crowns are often covered with a layer of porcelain over the metallic portions. (R) Full gold crowns are highly durable.

1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns are a popular choice due to their strength and durability. These crowns consist of a metal base (typically made of gold or another metal alloy) covered with a layer of porcelain that mimics the natural appearance of teeth. However, because of the metal base, PFM crowns may not blend in as well with the natural teeth due to its lack of translucency, which causes it to look very flat and one-dimensional. They happen to be the most affordable among those in this list.

2. Full Porcelain Crowns: Full porcelain crowns, including lithium disilicate crowns and zirconia crowns, are made entirely from ceramic material and are known for their natural appearance and high aesthetic value. These crowns are typically used for situations where appearance is a priority or consideration. Lithium disilicate crowns are often translucent, which helps them blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth; lithium disilicate crowns are used for aesthetic situations where the tooth is unlikely to be subjected to fatigue or stress. On the other hand, zirconia crowns are another type of full porcelain crown that offers superior strength and durability, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. In my experience, zirconia crowns tend to be a top choice for those wanting a crown that looks natural and blends well with their smile, while still offering durability and strength during chewing.

3. Full Gold Crowns: Full gold crowns are made entirely of gold or a gold alloy. These crowns are known for their unmatched durability and are often used for molars or teeth that experience heavy wear. Gold crowns are less noticeable compared to other types of crowns, but they are highly functional and long-lasting. They offer excellent fit and resistance to wear, but they are not as aesthetically pleasing for visible teeth due to their metallic appearance. Gold crowns are a great option for people who prioritise strength and longevity over appearance, and specifically for non-aesthetic regions of the mouth (we don’t normally use them for front teeth!). In my observation, those that opt for full gold crowns are either those that value longevity and functional comfort more than aesthetics, or dental professionals. Yes, we dentists opt for them because they are that good.

I often find full porcelain crowns to be the right balance between function and aesthetics. It's strong enough to function for many years ahead, and beautiful enough to be part of a smile.

So What Now?

The difference in the appearance of your dental crown compared to your friend’s likely comes down to two main factors: custom design and the material used. Each dental crown is tailored to meet your individual needs, from the fit to the aesthetics, and the material selected plays a crucial role in how the crown looks and performs. Whether you choose a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown for affordability, a full porcelain or zirconia crown for a more natural look, or a full gold crown for durability and longevity, the right material and design can help restore the functionality and appearance of your smile.

If you're considering a dental crown or wondering why your crown looks different from someone else’s, it’s always a good idea to discuss your options with your dentist. They can help guide you to the best choice for your dental needs, ensuring a functional and beautiful smile.