When it comes to dental restorations, the two most common options are dental crowns and dental caps. Both procedures are design to restore your oral health, but they are used in different ways. While both options are effective and offer similar benefits, there are key differences you should be aware of.

In this article, we will examine dental caps vs. crowns in detail and discuss when you should visit a dentist for the same. 

Dental Crown vs Cap: What are They?

Dental crowns and caps are restorative procedures design to protect and strengthen teeth. Both serve as a shield and provide structural support, creating the necessary surface and protection for other restorative treatments. They are commonly use to cover decayed or damaged teeth.

What is a Dental Crown?

Among the most popular dental procedures, dental crowns act as armor for damaged or decayed teeth. These protective coverings are typically made from metal alloys, porcelain, or a combination of both. The primary goal of a crown is to strengthen the tooth, restore its shape, and improve its appearance.

Many patients prefer porcelain crowns because they closely resemble natural teeth. However, other materials are also available, including metal alloys, gold, silver, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. 

Pros:

1. Strengthens weakened or damaged teeth.
2. Improves appearance by restoring tooth shape, size, and color.
3. Supports dental bridges or other restorative work.

Cons:

1. A significant portion of the natural tooth structure needs to be shave down.
2. Some patients experience tooth sensitivity to hot or cold after the procedure.

What is a Dental Cap?

A dental cap, also known as an onlay or inlay, is similar to a crown but only covers a portion of the tooth surface rather than the entire structure. Dentists typically recommend a cap to treat fractures in molars and premolars, tooth sensitivity, decay, or trauma. These caps are often made of porcelain and can be customize to match the natural color of your tooth..

Pros:

1. Dental caps (inlays/onlays) offer strong support and stability while preserving more of the natural tooth structure.
2. They are often easier to clean around than full crowns, which can help with long-term oral hygiene.
3. Caps can be highly durable, especially when made from porcelain or composite materials.

Cons:

1. Not ideal for teeth with extensive damage, as they only cover part of the tooth and may not provide enough protection in severe cases.

Dental Cap vs Crown: What are the Similarities?

Due to their similar function, dental caps and crowns are often use interchangeably. Both are restorative techniques made from tooth-colored materials like porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin. They can be custom-made to match the color and shade of your natural teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile.

Dentists typically recommend one of these procedures to treat tooth fractures, cracks, trauma, decay, or sensitivity.

Dental Cap vs Crown: What are the Key Differences?

While there are many similarities between the two, there are also some key differences that you should know about:

1. The main difference between a dental cap and crown is the amount of tooth structure they cover. While a dental cap only covers the biting surface or one or two sides of the tooth, a crown entirely covers and encases the tooth for protection.

2. Since a dental cap only covers part of the tooth’s surface, it is less invasive than a dental crown procedure.

3. Dental caps are less expensive than crowns because the procedure is less invasive.

4. If the dental cap does not fit properly, the dentist can easily remove and replace it. However, this may not be possible with a crown.

Dental Cap vs. Crown: What’s the Best Option?

While dental caps and crowns share many similarities, each offers unique benefits. If you’re unsure which restoration is right for you, consult your dentist. After a thorough evaluation, they can recommend the most suitable option based on your specific dental needs.

Takeaway

Dental caps and crowns are often compared because of how closely they resemble each other. While the terms are often use interchangeably, they differ in their specific applications. A dental crown covers the entire tooth, offering full protection, whereas a cap typically covers only a portion of the tooth. Depending on your dental condition, your dentist will recommend the most suitable option.

Get Your Dental Cap or Crown at Norwood Dental

Don’t let a damaged or fractured tooth affect your smile or comfort. At Norwood Dental, our team is ready to provide the expert care you deserve. With years of experience, our specialists can guide you through the best course of action and support you with recovery.

If you’re looking for a trusted Norwood dentist, we’re here to help. Call us today at (952) 467-3518 to schedule your appointment, or visit us at 222 E Wilson St, Norwood, MN. Let us restore your smile with confidence.