Choosing the Right Dental Crown: Materials & Options

When a tooth is damaged or weakened by injury or by surgery, a crown is typically applied to keep your bite in line and to protect the tooth's foundation. The tooth is shaved down, and the crown is cemented over the top of it. As of 2009, the three most widely used crowns include: porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, ceramic crowns and gold crowns. The materials used for each crown vary as well as the amount of tooth structure required to accommodate the crown.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. For a strong, durable and aesthetic treatment option, choose porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. Less life-like than a ceramic crown, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown may show underlying metal or gold margin at the gum line as the gums recede. However, patients may opt to undergo a new crown or upgrade to an all-ceramic crown to correct the problem. Dentists recommend porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns to correct damaged teeth; especially in the back of the mouth where the appearance of underlying metal or gold is less of a concern.

• 2

  Choose a ceramic crown. Made with zirconia or aluminous materials, ceramic crowns offer a metal-free option. Ideal for patients who want the best aesthetic option, ceramic crowns require less reduction of the tooth during the adhesion process. Because more light can pass through the porcelain, ceramic crowns are typically used for front teeth.

• 3

  Choose a gold crown. Ideal for patients with strong bites and parafunctional habits (such as grinding or clenching), gold crowns offer durability, especially for teeth located in the back of the mouth, and require less preparation than porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. Gold crowns are less damaging to nearby teeth during the chewing process.