All About Ceramic Tooth Caps: Cost, types and advantages

Cracked, decayed or worn-out teeth can affect your confidence, chewing ability and daily comfort. That is where tooth caps come in. They come in different materials. Out of which ceramic tooth cap is the most popular choice among patients and most preferred by dentists. It has become a go-to solution in modern dentistry for improving smiles and function.  

This blog will describe everything about ceramic tooth caps that you should know.  

What is a ceramic tooth cap? 

A ceramic tooth cap is a custom- made dental crown that is made to fit over your natural tooth. It is designed in a way that will restore your function and aesthetics as well. Unlike the old metal crowns, they are made from a material which is ceramic. This makes them 100% metal-free and gives a natural look.  

When do I need a ceramic tooth cap? 

Your dentist might recommend a ceramic crown in these situations: 

• To restore a tooth with extensive decay or damage 
• To protect a cracked or weakened tooth 
• After a root canal treatment, to protect the tooth 
• To cover the dental implant  
• For cosmetic reasons- covering a discoloured or misshapen tooth 

Types of ceramic tooth caps 

Making the correct choice for all ceramic dental crowns depends on certain factors. Like your budget, functional needs and cosmetic expectations. The word ‘All Ceramic’ here means that the dental crown is completely made up of ceramic material which has 0% metal.  

Now, let’s talk about the most common options: 

1. Zirconia crowns 

• Zirconia crowns are considered one of the best advancements. They are a premium choice- strong, metal-free and translucent like natural teeth.  

Pros:  

• Safe for long-term use 
• The translucency and texture are like a natural tooth. 
• Stain- resistant 
• Fracture-resistant  

Chosen for: 

• Front and back teeth 
• Patients with metal allergies 

Illusion Zirconia Dental Crown is a top choice for anyone looking for a natural look without compromising quality. These crowns are made using computer aided technology. This makes them precise and safe to use for a long time.  

1. Glass ceramic crowns 

They are the most popular choice for front teeth. They are natural looking. They are made up of glass and ceramic materials like lithium disilicate. This gives them a natural teeth look.   

Pros: 

• Superior aesthetics 
• Natural translucency and light reflective property 

Chosen for: 

• Front teeth 
• Aesthetic restorations 

The most popular glass ceramic crown is iMAX. It is considered one of the best smile makeover tools. This improves the look of your smile while being safe and comfortable.  

The Procedure: Step by Step 

1. First Consultation- The dentist will check the tooth, take X-rays and inform you about the options.  
2. Tooth preparation – A shape is given to the tooth, where a small amount of the natural tooth is removed. This makes space for the dental crown to be seated over.  
3. Digital scan – A 3D scan by an intraoral scanner is done. To get exact dimensions required to design the ceramic crown  
4. Final crown placement – The entire procedure takes about 1 week to be completed. In the last seating, the ceramic crown is fitted, adjusted and permanently placed with a dental cement.  

Best practices when choosing a ceramic tooth cap:  

• Ask for a warranty- Some dental laboratories offer lifetime warranties of dental crowns. Make sure to choose the one with a warranty.  
• EMI options- Ceramic crowns cost between INR15000-INR 30000. EMI financing makes it easily affordable. Therefore, make sure to ask your dentist if the dental laboratory accepts EMI options.  
• Maintain oral hygiene- Brush, floss and rinse your mouth regularly. 
• Routine dental visits- It is advised to visit your dentist every 6 months. This is done to keep your oral health in check.  
• Avoid hard and sticky foods- This will loosen the cap.  
• Don’t delay- Ignoring worn out, decayed or cracked teeth can only worsen the condition.  

Let’s make the choice easier! 

 Choosing the right type of ceramic tooth cap is a balance of aesthetics, function and budget. Whether you are exploring more aesthetic options over the metal crowns or want to know the high-performance benefits of zirconia crowns. This is the right place to know about it. Always consult a dentist and ask them questions to know which dental crown will best suit your needs.  

Although the cost for a ceramic crown might be higher than other alternatives, the natural look and long term benefits are attractive and worth every investment you make.  

Frequently asked questions: 

1. Are tooth caps for children? 

• Sometimes, the damage or decay in children is extensive and the pediatric dentist may suggest a dental crown for that. Usually, a metal crown or resin crown is suggested. But the type and material of the crown depend on the condition of the tooth and treatment plan.  

1. How can I make my dental crown last for a lifetime? 

• To extend the lifespan of your dental crown, make sure you follow a proper oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and avoiding hard and sticky foods. Avoid chewing on hard substances like ice, pens or betel nuts. Schedule regular check-ups with the dentist.  

1. Is tooth cap painful? 

• Getting a tooth cap is typically painless. Dentists administer local anaesthesia to numb the area during tooth preparation.