Dental crowns and caps are two common treatments used in dentistry to restore the shape and structure of a tooth. While both involve the application of a dental prosthetic, there are important differences between the two.
A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that completely covers a tooth, from the gum line up. It is designed to restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth while also improving its aesthetic appearance. Crowns are commonly used to repair teeth that have been cracked, chipped, decayed, weakened, or otherwise damaged. They can also be used to restore a tooth after a root canal or to cover a dental implant.
A dental cap, also known as a dental onlay, is a type of dental restoration that covers part of a tooth. It is usually used to replace a large filling or to restore a tooth when a crown is not necessary. Caps are often used to repair cracked, decayed, or weakened teeth, but they can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth.
The primary difference between a dental crown and a dental cap is the amount of coverage they provide. A crown covers the entire visible surface of the tooth, while a cap covers only part of the tooth. In addition, crowns are typically made of metal or porcelain, while caps can also be made of composite resin, ceramic, or gold.
Dental crowns and caps both serve important purposes in restoring the health and function of a tooth. However, the amount of coverage they provide and the materials they are made of do differ. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine the best treatment for your specific needs.
What’s the Difference Between a Crown and a Cap?
The Structure
A crown is the uppermost part of the tooth, which is visible above the gum line. It is typically the most visible part of the tooth and is often made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. The crown is cemented over the tooth and is used to restore the appearance and strength of the tooth. A crown is also used to protect a weak tooth from fracture or to hold a dental bridge in place.
A cap, also referred to as an inlay or onlay, is an indirect restoration that is used to replace a large portion of a tooth’s structure. A cap is created in a dental laboratory and custom-fitted to the tooth. It is made from either gold, porcelain, or a combination of both and is generally less visible than a crown.
Function
The primary purpose of a crown is to restore the size and shape of a tooth that has been significantly damaged or worn down. A crown can also be used to cover a dental implant or to hold a dental bridge in place.
A cap is used to replace a large portion of a tooth’s structure. It can be used to replace cusps, fillings, or other tooth structure that has been damaged or decayed. In some cases, a cap can also be used to protect a weakened tooth from further damage.
Procedure
The procedure for placing a crown is a two-step process. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the tooth to ensure that the crown fits properly. An impression of the tooth is then taken and used to create the custom crown. At the second visit, the dentist will check the fit and bite of the crown and cement it in place.
A cap is a three-step process. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the tooth to ensure that the cap fits properly. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory to be custom-created. At the second visit, the dentist will check the fit and bite of the cap and then cement it in place.