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Updated: December 12, 2024
Dental crowns are essential for preserving tooth structure and enhancing oral functionality when teeth become weakened, damaged, or discolored.
Acting as a protective cap, a crown can restore a tooth's shape, size, and strength while blending seamlessly with the natural look of surrounding teeth.
Whether you need durability for back molars or a lifelike appearance for front teeth, understanding the options available can help you make an informed choice about the right crown for your situation.
A dental crown is a cap or covering placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Crowns are commonly used to protect a weakened or fractured tooth, improve a tooth’s functionality, or restore a tooth that is severely discolored or damaged by decay or injury.
Many patients need dental crowns when their teeth have suffered significant damage or decay that a simple filling can't repair.
Crowns serve as functional and aesthetic restorations designed to encapsulate a tooth's entire visible portion. A crown may be necessary in the following circumstances:
Dental crowns enhance durability and restore oral function, but they're not without drawbacks, such as the potential for increased tooth sensitivity or the requirement of enamel removal.
Alternatives to crowns, such as inlays, onlays, or dental bonding, may be advisable, depending on the case specifics.
Dental crowns vary significantly in material composition and appearance and are tailored for specific durability needs and aesthetic preferences. Your dentist can help you decide which type of crown is most suitable for your individual situation.
Metal crowns are known for their exceptional longevity. They rarely chip or break and can last for decades with proper care. They require minimal maintenance beyond regular oral hygiene practices.
Metal crowns are typically made from alloys such as gold, palladium, nickel, or a combination of metals.
Due to their metallic color, they are not ideal for visible teeth, particularly those in the front of the mouth. Metal crowns are best suited for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces and are less noticeable.
They are also a good choice for those with a history of grinding their teeth (bruxism) due to their ability to resist wear over time.
All-porcelain crowns are crafted entirely from high-grade ceramic, a choice renowned for its ability to mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, providing a restoration that's virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
These crowns are highly aesthetic and ideal for front teeth, and because they are biocompatible, they are an excellent choice for those who prefer a metal-free restoration.
Unlike some materials that can discolor over time due to dietary habits or oral hygiene practices, porcelain maintains its pristine, natural appearance without succumbing to staining agents such as coffee, red wine, or tobacco.
However, porcelain crowns are more prone to chipping or cracking than metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, especially in areas of heavy bite force, and they may not be as durable for molars or patients who grind their teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine a metal interior with a porcelain exterior to offer both durability and a more natural appearance. The metal core provides strength and support, while the porcelain layer is color-matched to surrounding teeth for an aesthetically pleasing look.
PFM crowns are versatile and can be used on both front and back teeth, providing a balance of durability and appearance that makes them suitable for many dental restorations.
Despite these advantages, PFM crowns come with a few drawbacks. Over time, the porcelain layer can wear down or chip, especially with heavy chewing or grinding, which may reveal the metal layer underneath.
Additionally, the metal core may sometimes create a slight gray line along the gumline, which can be noticeable when gums recede.
Regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene are essential to prolong the life of PFM crowns. It's important to avoid habits that could cause damage, such as teeth grinding, but with proper care, these crowns can last for many years.
Pressed ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic but are created through a unique process that compresses the ceramic material for enhanced strength and durability.
This manufacturing method allows pressed ceramic crowns to maintain a natural, tooth-like appearance, similar to all-porcelain crowns but with higher durability.
The absence of a metal core in these crowns allows for better translucency, making them an ideal choice for front teeth restorations where a natural appearance is desired.
These crowns are strong and resistant to chipping but can still be more fragile than metal-based options.
Additionally, because they are crafted solely from ceramic, they may be more susceptible to wear when placed against natural teeth, especially in patients who grind or clench their teeth.
Resin crowns are made from composite resin material, making them a more affordable option than other crown types. They can be color-matched to blend with surrounding teeth to provide a natural appearance.
Resin crowns are typically used as a temporary solution, such as during the waiting period before a permanent crown is placed, but they may also be used in cases where budget is a primary concern.
However, resin crowns don't typically last as long as other types of crowns. Their material composition is more prone to wear, discoloration, and fractures over time, so they may need to be replaced more frequently.
Despite this, the immediate cost savings and aesthetic benefits make resin crowns a valuable option for many patients.
Zirconia crowns are made using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. They are made with zirconium dioxide, a strong, biocompatible material with exceptional durability and a natural appearance.
Known for their high strength, these crowns can withstand heavy biting forces, making them ideal for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia crowns can also be color-matched to the patient’s natural teeth, providing a blend of strength and aesthetics without the need for metal. Additionally, they are gentle on surrounding teeth, reducing the risk of causing wear on adjacent surfaces.
Despite their benefits, zirconia crowns can be more challenging to adjust once placed due to the material’s hardness. Some patients may also find them slightly less natural-looking compared to all-porcelain or pressed ceramic crowns, as zirconia can appear more opaque.
However, they are an excellent option for patients seeking a long-lasting, metal-free solution that offers both strength and aesthetics, particularly in areas of the mouth exposed to significant chewing forces.
E-Max crowns are a type of all-ceramic dental crown made from lithium disilicate, a high-strength ceramic known for its durability and natural-looking translucency.
These crowns are prized for their aesthetic appeal, as they closely resemble the natural enamel’s color and translucency, making them an excellent choice for visible front teeth.
However, they may not be as strong as zirconia crowns, even though they are made using a similar process. They can be slightly more prone to chipping, especially when used on back molars that endure significant chewing force.
E-Max crowns are often used for patients who prioritize a lifelike appearance but still want a durable crown that holds up to daily use.
The cost of an E-Max crown can vary, but it's generally in the mid to high range of dental crown materials due to its superior qualities and longer lifespan.
Same-day crowns, or CEREC crowns, are custom crowns that can be created and placed in a single dental visit using CAD/CAM technology.
These crowns are made from ceramic materials and designed to match the natural color of surrounding teeth, providing a fast and convenient solution for patients who need a dental crown but prefer to avoid multiple appointments.
Same-day crowns are crafted in-office using digital impressions and a milling machine, allowing for precise, personalized restorations without the wait. This eliminates the need for temporary crowns, which are typically used while waiting for a lab-created crown.
However, because same-day crowns are typically made from ceramic, they may not be as durable as metal or zirconia crowns for heavy-duty chewing.
Same-day crowns are ideal for patients looking for a quick and aesthetically pleasing solution, especially for front or moderately used teeth with less demanding strength requirements.
Porcelain dental crowns are made from a ceramic material that closely mimics the natural appearance of teeth, making them a popular choice for visible areas. They are often chosen for their aesthetic qualities but may be more prone to chipping or cracking under certain conditions.
Metal crowns, typically made from gold or other alloys, are more durable and less likely to fracture. They are often used for teeth at the back of the mouth, where appearance is less of a concern.
Metal crowns generally present a more budget-friendly option over time, but many people find that the higher price of porcelain is worth the aesthetics provided.
Porcelain crowns, often preferred for their superior aesthetic impact, mimic the translucency and color of natural teeth. However, they require careful care to prevent chipping, and they tend to require more frequent replacements compared to metal crowns.
Metal crowns boast impressive durability and generally last longer than porcelain crowns because they are made with harder materials that resist wear and tear.
Generally, porcelain crowns are more expensive than metal crowns, but the price you’ll actually pay depends on several factors, including:
Metal crowns generally offer superior durability, as they're less likely to chip compared to their porcelain counterparts, which can translate into fewer replacements over a patient's lifetime.
This factor alone can make metal crowns more cost-effective over time. However, the higher cost of porcelain can be justified by its ability to blend seamlessly with existing teeth.
On average, you can expect to pay $900–$3,000 per tooth for an all-porcelain crown and roughly $800–$2,500 for a metal crown.
Although the application of dental crowns is a common procedure, it requires careful attention to detail to ensure success. The process typically involves two separate appointments.
During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown, take impressions to ensure the crown is made correctly, and fit a temporary crown on the tooth. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is installed.
Proper dental crown care is essential for prolonging its lifespan and maintaining oral health.
Regular brushing habits and flossing routine prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar, which can lead to gum disease and crown failure. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown's surface.
Avoiding hard foods and ice can prevent chipping, and avoiding sticky candies minimizes the risk of dislodging the crown. Patients should also refrain from using their teeth as tools to open packaging or bite nails.
During routine checkups, your dentist can assess the integrity of the crown and the surrounding gum health. He or she can utilize specialized tools to clean areas around the crown that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
A dental crown restores a damaged tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are made with durable, natural-looking materials that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth and allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Choosing the right dental crown can greatly impact both the function and appearance of your teeth, enhancing your smile while protecting your oral health. Your dentist can help you weigh considerations and find a crown that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
With proper care, your dental crown can be a lasting investment in both your smile and your overall well-being.
For those in the Chicago area, Forever Dental can help you determine which crown material is best for you and guide you through every step of the procedure.
Which type of dental crown is best?
The best type of dental crown depends on your needs. For durability, zirconia or metal crowns are excellent for back teeth. For aesthetics, all-porcelain or E-Max crowns are ideal for visible areas, offering both strength and a natural look. Your dentist can help determine the best option.
Which type of crown lasts the longest?
Metal crowns, particularly those made from gold or other durable alloys, tend to last the longest. Their resistance to wear and damage allows them to endure for decades with proper care, making them an excellent option for molars that experience heavy chewing pressure.
Are dental crowns covered by health insurance?
Dental crowns may be covered by health insurance, but it depends on the plan's details, including pre-authorization requirements and potential out-of-pocket costs. Patients should verify their insurance coverage before proceeding with treatment.
How long do temporary crowns last?
Temporary crowns typically last for two to three weeks. Proper care, observing eating restrictions, and addressing emergency repairs promptly helps to maintain their integrity until the permanent crown is ready.
