How to Choose the Best Dental Crown Material

Dental crowns have been used for generations to protect and repair compromised teeth. Traditionally, they are made from a variety of metals, like silver and gold. However, porcelain and zirconia have become the go-to materials for restorations. They offer better aesthetics without compromising durability, but which material is the best? Here’s what you need to know to choose the right material for your restoration. 

Gold

Gold is a durable material that has the least reactivity out of all metals used in the mouth. Gold is a great option for molars, especially for patients who grind or clench their teeth. It is gentle on the surrounding teeth and requires less of your tooth to be altered when prepping for your crown. 

Although gold has its benefits, it can cause allergic reactions in some patients. It is also quite noticeable when compared to other materials, like ceramics. Gold can also conduct heat and cold quickly, which may cause temporary sensitivity to temperatures. 

Full Porcelain

Modern crowns are made of porcelain and ceramics, allowing them to be completely metal-free. They are biocompatible and pose little risk of allergic reactions or temperature sensitivity. Best of all, they are customizable to look just like a natural tooth for seamless results. 

Porcelain crowns are strong, but they can fracture if you grind your teeth. They are also thicker than gold, so more of your tooth will need to be removed to prep it for the cap.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

Porcelain can cover a metal crown to make it look more natural. The base can be made from silver or gold to add strength to the restoration, which is covered by porcelain or zirconia to create natural-looking results. 

While they are more aesthetically pleasing than metal, there’s the risk of allergic reactions for some patients. They can also cause a dark line where your crown meets your gum line. 

Which is the Best Material?

Every mouth differs. Your dentist will learn more about your preferences and needs to determine which material is right for you. They’ll choose a safe, effective solution to provide long-lasting results that won’t break the bank. 

You can use your dental insurance to partially cover the cost of medically necessary restorations. You can pay any remaining balance using a monthly payment plan through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit. 

Don’t settle for less than the best with choosing a material to rehabilitate your tooth. Invest in a high-quality material that meets your needs to improve your dental health and functions.

About Dr. Corey Martinez

Dr. Martinez strives to positively impact his patients’ lives by improving their overall oral health. He earned his dental degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has continued his education in oral surgery, endodontics, general dentistry, and family dentistry. Dr. Martinez is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (317) 659-9335.