Which type of restoration is best reserved for teeth with extensive structural loss?

Full crowns are ideal for teeth with extensive structural loss because they provide comprehensive coverage and support for the entire tooth structure. When a tooth has significant damage due to decay, fractures, or other issues, a full crown encapsulates the tooth, effectively restoring its function and aesthetics. The design of a full crown allows it to bear the load during chewing, distribute forces evenly, and protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage.

In contrast, partial crowns, inlays, and onlays are more conservative restorations that are better suited for teeth with minimal to moderate structural loss. Partial crowns only cover a portion of the tooth, which may not provide the necessary support for a heavily compromised tooth. Inlays and onlays are used for smaller restorations where only specific areas of the tooth need to be rebuilt, leaving significant portions of the natural tooth exposed. As such, while these options can be effective for less extensive damage, they lack the level of coverage and support that full crowns provide for cases involving substantial structural loss.