Dental Crowns on Molars: Everything You Need to Know

Dental crowns play a crucial role in restoring and maintaining oral health. The importance of dental crowns becomes even more pronounced when it comes to molars, particularly the large back teeth. Molars are responsible for chewing, and when they are damaged or decayed, a dental crown can help restore function and prevent further complications. This article will explain why you may need crowns on molars, the best crown options, and the procedure for placing a crown.

What Are Dental Crowns on Molars?

A dental crown is an outer shell placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and aesthetic appearance. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth is damaged, decayed, or has undergone complex treatments like a root canal. Molar teeth, due to their role in bearing significant chewing forces, are more prone to wear over time. Therefore, crowns on molars need to be durable and able to withstand these forces.

Dental crowns can be made from various materials, but for molars, materials with high durability are typically used to endure heavy chewing pressures. Let’s explore the best crown options for molars and why they are suitable for restoring these teeth.

Why Do You Need Dental Crowns for Molars?

There are several reasons why you might need crowns for molars. Below are some common scenarios in which a dentist may recommend a crown:

• Restoring a Damaged Molar: Molars are often affected by decay, cracks, or large fillings. A crown helps protect the tooth from further damage and restores both its shape and function.
• Supporting Large Fillings: If the filling in a molar is too large, a crown can provide additional support and structure for the tooth.
• Improving Aesthetics: In some cases, molars may become discolored or have an irregular shape. A crown can improve the appearance of the tooth.
• After Root Canal Treatment: Following a root canal, a molar can become weakened and may need a crown for protection to prevent the tooth from breaking or cracking.

The Best Dental Crown Options for Molars

When choosing crowns on molars, you need to balance durability, aesthetics, and cost. Since molars endure heavy chewing forces, the material used for the crown must be strong enough to withstand these pressures. Here are the most popular crown options for molars:

Porcelain Crowns (All-Ceramic Crowns) Porcelain crowns are a popular choice for restoring molars due to their aesthetic appeal and ability to withstand chewing forces. These crowns on molars are made from materials that mimic the shape and color of natural teeth. While not as durable as metal crowns, porcelain crowns are a good option for patients seeking a more natural appearance.
Pros:

• Natural appearance, ideal for patients who want the crown to blend with their natural teeth color.
• Stain-resistant, helping to maintain a long-lasting aesthetic.

Cons:

• May wear down over time when used on molars.
• Can be more prone to cracking compared to metal crowns if subjected to excessive force.

Metal Crowns (Gold, Silver, Alloys) Metal crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand heavy chewing forces. While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain crowns, they are often the best choice for molars due to their exceptional strength. Gold crowns, in particular, are known for their durability and long-lasting nature, making them an ideal option for those prioritizing function over aesthetics.
Pros:

• Extremely durable, ideal for molars that endure large chewing forces.
• Less likely to crack or break.
• Gold crowns have excellent biocompatibility and do not cause irritation to gum tissue.

Cons:

• Not suitable for those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing crown.
• Higher cost compared to other crown materials, although their durability saves on long-term costs.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM Crowns) If you want a combination of the durability of metal and the natural appearance of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are an ideal choice. These crowns have a metal core that enhances strength, while the outer porcelain layer provides a more natural look. PFM crowns are a great compromise for molars, offering both durability and aesthetics.
Pros:

• Strong and durable, ideal for molars.
• The porcelain exterior blends well with natural teeth, providing a more aesthetic result.
• More affordable than all-porcelain crowns.

Cons:

• The metal core may be visible if the gum line recedes over time.
• It can be more prone to chipping than all-porcelain crowns.

Zirconia Crowns are a newer option that combines the durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. Made from a very strong material, zirconia crowns resemble the color of natural teeth and offer excellent resistance to chewing forces. They are an excellent choice for molars, where both function and aesthetics are needed.
Pros:

• Extremely durable and resistant to wear, perfect for molars.
• Natural tooth color blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
• High biocompatibility, causing minimal irritation to gums.

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than porcelain or metal crowns.
• May require the tooth to be shaved down more to fit the material.

The Procedure for Getting Dental Crowns on Molars

The process of getting dental crowns on molars typically involves several appointments. Here are the basic steps involved:

• Step 1: Initial Exam and Assessment
  During the first visit, your dentist will examine your tooth and determine if a crown is the right solution. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of the damage or decay.
• Step 2: Preparation and Shaping of the Tooth
  The dentist will clean and reshape the damaged tooth to prepare it for the crown. The remaining tooth structure will be shaped to fit the crown.
• Step 3: Impressions and Crown Fabrication
  The dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth and send it to a dental lab where the crown will be fabricated. This process usually takes a few weeks.
• Step 4: Crown Fitting and Adjustment
  Once the crown is ready, you will return to the clinic to try it on and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and function.
• Step 5: Aftercare
  Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your new crown to ensure its longevity and maintain the health of your molar.

The Trusted Dental Lab for Crowns on Molars

Dental crowns on molars are an essential solution for restoring damaged back teeth. When selecting a crown, you need to consider durability, aesthetics, and the functionality of the material. Whether you choose porcelain, metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or zirconia, your dentist will help you choose the best option for your needs.

At VTA Dental Lab, we take great care in the crown fabrication process, from selecting premium materials to using cutting-edge technology. Our skilled technicians ensure every crown is crafted to meet both aesthetic and functional needs, providing the best solution for each patient.

Contact us today or visit our website for more details on our current promotions.