What materials are used to make dental crowns?

A dental crown is a small cap that a dentist places over a patient’s tooth to cover a cavity, root canal, implant, fracture, or filling.

Three aspects of crowns - longevity, appearance, and cost - influence choosing a type.

Material Options

There are multiple options to choose from:

• Metals

• Resin

• Ceramics

• PFM (Porcelain Fused to Metal)

Discuss options with your dentist, but a basic knowledge of the materials can help you start.

Metals

Metals are a strong option.

Zirconia doesn’t cause any allergic reactions.

Stainless Steel is great for pediatric dentistry due to its adaptability with tooth movement.

Gold is a tough metal and can be mixed with other alloys to create an aesthetic look of the patient’s liking. It is also the most costly option.

Resin

Composite resins and plastics are used to create temporary crowns. However, resin can also be used in creating a long-lasting crown. The downside is that it won’t be as durable as a metal crown. The upside is that resin offers an affordable option.

Ceramics

Ceramics can create a more aesthetically cohesive smile, as they look just like teeth. These are usually used on the front teeth visible in a patient’s smile.

While ceramics are less durable than metal, dental innovation has continually improved their strength.

PFM (Porcelain Fused to Metal)

PFM combines the benefits of both metal and ceramics. Metal can be visible slightly under the porcelain, but they are fantastic options for back teeth.

Choosing a Material

While crown benefits vary, so do patient needs. Reach out to a dentist at Ridge View Dental to learn more about what works best for you.