what is a tooth crown made out of

3 min read 24-12-2024

Dental crowns are a common restorative treatment used to strengthen and protect damaged teeth. But what exactly are they made of? Understanding the materials used in tooth crowns is crucial for making an informed decision with your dentist. This comprehensive guide will explore the various materials used to create durable and aesthetically pleasing crowns.

Types of Materials Used for Tooth Crowns

Several materials are used to craft dental crowns, each with its own advantages and disadvantages regarding cost, durability, and aesthetics. Let's delve into the most common options:

1. Porcelain

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice due to their exceptional aesthetic qualities. They're highly biocompatible, meaning they integrate well with the body, and can be precisely matched to the shade of your natural teeth for a seamless and natural-looking result. Porcelain is strong and durable, making it suitable for most teeth. However, it may be more prone to chipping than some other materials.

Porcelain Advantages:

Natural Appearance: Matches the color of your natural teeth seamlessly.
Biocompatible: Gentle on gums and surrounding tissues.
Strong & Durable: Suitable for most teeth.

Porcelain Disadvantages:

Higher Cost: Typically more expensive than metal crowns.
Potential for Chipping: More susceptible to chipping compared to metal.

2. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM)

Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal substructure provides durability and support, while the porcelain outer layer ensures a natural appearance. PFMs are a good balance between strength and aesthetics. They're less expensive than all-porcelain crowns but may show a metal line at the gumline over time.

PFM Advantages:

Strong & Durable: Offers excellent strength and longevity.
Cost-Effective: Less expensive than all-porcelain crowns.

PFM Disadvantages:

Visible Metal Line: Metal may show through at the gum line.
Less Natural Appearance: Not as aesthetically pleasing as all-porcelain crowns.

3. Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, typically made of gold, alloys (a mix of metals), or base metal alloys, are highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. They're a cost-effective option and are known for their longevity. However, their metallic appearance is less aesthetically pleasing than porcelain. They're often used for molars, where aesthetics are less of a concern.

Metal Crowns Advantages:

Most Durable: Highly resistant to wear and fracture.
Cost-Effective: The most affordable crown type.
Long Lasting: Can last for many years.

Metal Crowns Disadvantages:

Unnatural Appearance: Noticeably metallic in color.

4. Zirconia

Zirconia crowns are a newer material gaining popularity. They're incredibly strong, biocompatible, and highly aesthetically pleasing. Zirconia crowns are a very strong alternative to all-porcelain crowns, with superior strength and fracture resistance. While more expensive than metal crowns, they offer a great balance of strength and natural appearance.

Zirconia Advantages:

High Strength: Excellent fracture resistance.
Natural Appearance: Highly aesthetic, similar to porcelain.
Biocompatible: Gentle on gums and tissues.

Zirconia Disadvantages:

Higher Cost: More expensive than metal or PFM crowns.

5. Gold Crowns

Gold crowns are known for their exceptional durability and biocompatibility. They're highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and are a great option for patients who prioritize longevity. However, the gold color isn't ideal for all patients.

Gold Crowns Advantages:

Extremely Durable: Highly resistant to wear and fracture.
Biocompatible: Very gentle on gums and tissues.

Gold Crowns Disadvantages:

High Cost: Typically one of the most expensive options.
Appearance: The gold color may not be desirable for all patients.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Crown

The best material for your tooth crown depends on several factors, including your individual needs, the location of the tooth, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. A consultation with your dentist is crucial to determine the most suitable option for your specific situation. They will consider factors like the extent of tooth damage and your overall oral health.

FAQs About Tooth Crown Materials

Q: How long do tooth crowns last?

A: The lifespan of a tooth crown varies depending on the material and your oral hygiene practices. With proper care, most crowns can last 10-15 years or longer.

Q: Are tooth crowns covered by insurance?

A: Insurance coverage for dental crowns varies depending on your specific plan. It's always best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

Q: What is the most durable type of crown?

A: Metal crowns, particularly gold crowns, are generally considered the most durable. However, zirconia is also very strong.

Your dentist can discuss the various options in detail and help you choose the material that best suits your needs and preferences. Remember that proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding harmful habits like teeth grinding are crucial for extending the lifespan of your tooth crown, regardless of the material used.