The Main Differences Between ¾ and Full Crowns
Coverage
One of the main differences between the two types of crowns is how much of the tooth they cover. A full crown, as the name suggests covers the entire visible part of the tooth. ¾ crowns, on the other hand, do not cover the entire tooth but leave one or more of the natural surfaces of the tooth exposed.
The Tooth's Condition
How damaged the tooth is will also influence the choice between the two. A full crown is best suited for teeth that have significant decay and require a root canal to be treated. These crowns provide maximum protection and strength.
A ¾ crown works best for teeth that still have a substantial amount of healthy tooth structure. They are usually recommended when only a part of the tooth needs reinforcement.
There Are Some Aesthetic Differences Too
Full crowns, whether lab-made or same-day crowns can be made to look indistinguishable from natural teeth. They look so natural that they can be used even for front teeth.
With ¾ crowns, things are a little bit more complicated. Since a portion of the natural tooth remains exposed, color matching becomes crucial so you really need to work with a dentist who has extensive experience with these types of onlay crowns.
One Is More Invasive Than the Other
The amount of tooth structure that needs to be removed varies from one type of crown to the other.
Full crowns require more trimming and tooth reshaping to properly fit the cap. But, with ¾ crowns, less tooth structure is removed and more of the natural tooth is preserved, making it a less invasive option.
Durability
Both types of crowns are durable and can last for many years with proper care. However, the longevity might vary slightly based on the amount of natural tooth remaining.
Which One Is Right for You?
That's for Dr. Juan Martinez to decide after examining your tooth's health and taking into account all of the factors described above.
At Corona Smile Shoppe, we like to opt for the least invasive approach and always focus on preserving as much of the natural tooth's structure as possible. Whatever the doctor's recommendation will be, you can rest assured that it's based on the careful examination of your oral health and needs.
If you want to learn more about ¾ crowns and their benefits, don't hesitate to get in touch.
