Difference between dental caps and crowns

Within the world of dental hygiene and esthetics there are different treatments that help us to have a healthy and well cared for smile. However, many of them tend to cause confusion either because of their name, their purpose or the type of treatment they require. In this case, we are going to clarify the difference between dental caps and dental crowns.

For example, many people come to a dental clinic asking for advice on whether to use dental crowns or caps, without knowing that they are talking about the same thing. In the professional field, the term “crowns” is used, while “caps” is more common among people who are not related to the esthetic or dental health sector.

What are dental crowns or caps?

Dental crowns are a cosmetic dental treatment based on the placement of prostheses that cover the tooth, with the purpose of improving its shape and appearance. They also have the function of protecting the teeth that have deteriorated after a case of severe caries or other pathology.

They are usually placed on molars or premolars but can be used on any other tooth whenever necessary.

How are dental crowns placed?

All people who want to start this treatment need to have custom-made crowns. This implies that they must visit the clinic on more than one occasion, since the first visit consists of a check-up of the teeth in question and before preparing the crowns.

Dental crowns can be made of different materials such as metal, ceramic, porcelain or zirconium. Those made of metal achieve more durable results over time and are safer when biting hard, but are not as esthetic as porcelain crowns.

There are extreme situations in which some teeth are very damaged and temporary dental crowns are used until the definitive ones are available. Because they are intended for short-term use, their materials do not have the same performance.

In any case, it is important to have professional advice in order to make the most appropriate decision for each case.

Care of a dental crown

Although dental caps are designed to protect the teeth and are prepared for daily use, there are a series of recommendations to keep them as well as possible:

• Avoid biting on foods that are too hard. Forcing our dental crowns can cause them to fracture, in the same way as if we try to open an object such as a bottle with our teeth.
• Do not bite your nails. Many people have the habit of biting their nails when they are nervous or unconsciously out of boredom. This gesture, at first glance harmless, can have serious consequences for our dental crowns.
• Maintain proper oral hygiene. This is probably one of the most universal recommendations, but it is also one of the most effective both to keep your dental crowns in good condition and to avoid almost any other dental problem.

The best way to take care of your dental crowns is to make regular visits to the dentist, no one better than a specialist will be able to evaluate their condition. Thanks to these revisions you have the certainty that the treatment is kept in good condition and is not deteriorating.

At Clínica Gallardo & Jiménez we can help you and advise you on the difference between dental caps and crowns and how to apply them effectively. In our office you will always have the peace of mind of knowing that you are in the hands of a group of professionals with years of experience dedicated to dental health.

Dra. Tatiana Gallardo Jiménez

Ortodoncista especializada en estética dental, ortodoncia y endodoncia, con un amplio bagaje profesional siempre aportando el mejor tratamiento posible, donde te acompañaremos durante todo tu proceso para que te sientas cómodo y seguro.