05/12/2026
We often see broken teeth and fillings in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. That's because clenching and grinding happens when patients are struggling to breathe at night. In addition to wearing a sleep appliance to keep the airway open, we also recommend restoring those broken teeth to prevent future problems and pain. Most often when a tooth is badly damaged, we recommend restoring it with a crown. Dental crowns are one of the most effective solutions for restoring broken teeth and large broken fillings. But not all crowns are created equal—understanding your options helps you make the right choice for your smile and budget.
**Types of Dental Crowns:**
**Porcelain Crowns** — The gold standard for front teeth. They match your natural tooth color perfectly and look completely natural. They're durable but can chip if you grind your teeth.
**Ceramic Crowns** — Similar to porcelain but even more lifelike. Excellent for cosmetic cases where appearance matters most.
**Metal Crowns** — Usually made from gold or other alloys. Incredibly strong and long-lasting—ideal for back molars that handle heavy chewing forces. Less natural-looking, but they rarely break.
**Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)** — Combines the strength of metal with the appearance of porcelain. A solid middle ground, though the metal base can sometimes show near the gum line over time.
**Zirconia Crowns** — The modern choice. Tooth-colored, exceptionally strong, and biocompatible. Perfect for patients w
