There are four different kinds of dental crowns, but how do you know which one is best for you? The kinds of dental crowns are gold, porcelain, stainless steel and ceramic.
Here’s a breakdown of each of those different types.
Gold
Gold is best for durability, longevity and the least destructive to opposing teeth. Although they’re not natural-looking, they are known to last as long as 40 years – if maintained properly. Gold crowns are most often used for back teeth.
Gold is also the most costly of the materials, being that it is the strongest metal for a tooth crown. The price, however, is worth it for those who grind their teeth at night or have a sensitivity to metals.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
Porcelain to metal crowns provide a stronger bond than ceramic crowns due to being connected to a metal fuse. It has a more natural look than the gold alloy and is just as durable.
The only downside with porcelain fused to metal crowns is the damage of opposing teeth if their surface becomes rough, unlike the gold alloy. Those who grind their teeth at night are advised to choose gold over porcelain for this reason.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel crowns are best for children, as they can be placed on top of baby teeth and grow with them until they fall out, with the new tooth shedding the crown. These crowns are temporary, easy to remove and put on, as well as affordable.
Ceramic
Ceramic crowns are mainly porcelain-based and the most natural-looking of all the options, often used for front teeth. But, in terms of durability, they are very brittle compared to gold and porcelain fused to metal. Therefore, they are not well suited for molars and back teeth.
To learn more about what crown suits you best, contact Gulf Coast Dental to find out more about cosmetic dentistry.
