Crowns for Molars: Which Crown Is Best to Choose

A dental crown mimics natural molars and front teeth. Artificial materials are used to make it. It is recommended for a patient when the natural tooth is more than half destroyed. Modern technologies make it possible to create crowns that perfectly replicate the shape of any element of the dental arch, fit into the oral cavity, and function well.

Before placing crowns on molars and front teeth, the specialist prepares (shapes) them. In such cases, the structure becomes a kind of shell for the natural tooth unit. It protects it from the effects of pathogenic bacteria and abrasive foods.

Since molars bear more load than the rest, only materials that can withstand such pressure should be used for their prosthetics. Today, instead of plastic products, metal-ceramic and zirconia are used for these purposes. Each type has advantages and disadvantages.

Metal-ceramic structures consist of a framework and a veneer. Gold, titanium, platinum, or cobalt-chromium may be used as the framework. It is then covered with ceramic. Some models are made on a translucent zirconia framework and covered with ceramic material.

Zirconia crowns have a high level of strength and wear resistance. They can last approximately 17-20 years, while metal-ceramic ones last about 15 years.

Some models of crowns for molars are made from combined materials. This approach helps the patient save on treatment. Metal is used as the framework. It tightly covers the supragingival part of the molar, and the veneer is partially made of ceramic — at the front and top.

Crowns are placed on molars also depending on the extent of the defect. For example, if a patient is missing 3-4 molars in a row, an all-ceramic prosthesis may be placed to restore them. In cases where a large number of teeth are missing, metal-ceramic or combined types may be installed.

Zirconia structures are valued for their greater attractiveness and resemblance to natural molars. Regardless of lighting, they are difficult to distinguish. Metal-ceramic, however, reflects glare from ultraviolet light and bright sun.

Crowns are recommended for molars and front teeth in the following situations:

• The tooth unit is more than ½ destroyed, but the root is still functional;
• There is a large gap between molars;
• Units are worn down pathologically;
• They are misaligned or have become deformed;
• Due to periodontitis, the level of mobility of molars or front units has increased;
• Filled molars need to be reinforced or masked;
• Stains have formed on them.

It is better not to place crowns if the following contraindications are present:

• Molars are very loose;
• They have very thin walls;
• The supragingival part of the molar is too low;
• Low bone volume;
• Allergy to the material of the structure;
• Poor oral hygiene;
• Malocclusion (bite defects);
• Acute inflammatory processes are occurring in the body;
• Diabetes mellitus;
• Children under 16 years of age;
• Pregnancy;
• Breastfeeding period;
• Mental disorders;
• A malignant formation in the jaw area;
• Hypertonicity of the masticatory muscles;
• Periodontal problems;
• Undergoing a course of radiation therapy;
• Drug addiction;
• Taking prescription medications that reduce blood clotting;
• Rehabilitation period after a long illness or surgery;
• Weakened body.

Before placing restorations on the chewing molars, the dentist administers a local anesthetic. This allows the entire procedure to be performed painlessly for the patient. It may last from half an hour to 3 hours. Dental prostheses are attached to the molars using dental cement. To speed up the bonding, the specialist uses a special curing light. Once the prosthesis is secured, they remove all remnants of the mixture to prevent the development of gum inflammation.

For an hour after the restoration is placed, eating is not recommended. After that time, the load should be applied gradually.

In some situations, the dentist may first place temporary crowns on the chewing teeth to check how well they fit in the dental arch. They cost less, and they are worn for 2-4 weeks.