Dental crowns can be made of different materials. The metal ones are usually made of alloy which can have a high concentration of gold or platinum or be made from a base metal like cobalt-chromium. When a child receives a crown on a baby tooth, that crown is usually made from medical-grade stainless steel to spare the family the cost of a crown on a tooth that will soon be lost. White crowns can be used, however, if a metal one might cause the child embarrassment.
All-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns look the most natural. These materials can be colored to match the adjacent teeth. The ceramic or porcelain crown will be shaped to fit into the smile perfectly. These crowns are also very strong.
The third main option is the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. These do not have the most natural appearance but they are durable and have a low likelihood of fracturing. They are most suitable for non-visible teeth.
Zirconia crowns have the highest strength. These or porcelain crowns made with the current technology and newest porcelain material are long-lasting solutions and are the choice of many patients. Zirconia is not the best material for a visible tooth because it does not resemble natural tooth material quite as much.
Different materials may be chosen for a crown depending on whether it will protect a damaged tooth or if it is being used for cosmetic dentistry. The amount of stress that tooth will experience should also be taken into account. A tooth that is visible in the front does not experience as much stress as a tooth in the back that is subjected to heavy chewing.
Zirconia crowns are often used to crown molars. The material used for a crown placed over a visible tooth doesn’t need to be quite as strong. A porcelain or ceramic crown is a better choice for a visible tooth because it more closely resembles natural tooth tissue. It has a greater luster and translucence, just like natural teeth.
Our dentist will discuss the best type of crown for your situation and the advantages of each choice. Together, you can come to a determination of your best option.