4 Different Materials Your Dental Crown Can Be Made From
If you need a new dental crown, be sure to explore your material options. There are various materials it can be made from. Each different material will offer unique benefits. As a dental crown is designed to last for years, you want to choose the material you are putting in your mouth carefully.
#1: Base Metal Alloy
A base metal alloy crown comprises a small portion of a metal such as palladium, silver, platinum, and gold. The majority of the structure is made from nickel and chromium. The nickel and chromium help to strengthen it and allow for more bite pressure when chewing. It is an affordable option.
However, a base metal alloy crown is not a good choice for anyone who has allergies to any type of metal, as it contains so many different types of metal. It is also not the most visually appealing material and works better as a crown for a back molar than a more visually prominent tooth.
#2: Gold
Another material used to construct dental crown implants is gold. Gold is an excellent material if you want something that will be really strong. If you have a history of grinding your teeth, it can withstand that level of pressure for years without degrading.
The downside to a gold crown is that it does look like gold. Many people stick to using gold crowns only for the back molars, where the crown is not visible but where you may need a stronger crown to handle the force of chewing and grinding your teeth.
#3: Porcelain Fused to Metal
Another choice is a crown where the base structure is made from metal and then it is covered with porcelain. The base of metal helps to strengthen the overall composition of the structure. The cover of porcelain makes it appear more natural.
However, the porcelain doesn't completely hide the metal. There will be a small dark border that will run along the gum line. Another disadvantage is that sometimes, the porcelain separates from the metal, necessitating a repair.
#4: Ceramic Porcelain
Finally, you can go with a ceramic porcelain crown. It is made from a specific type of ceramic and porcelain that creates a strong structure. It is stain-resistant, and it looks as close as possible to natural tooth enamel in color.
The big downside to ceramic porcelain crowns is that they tend to wear down over time, which may require replacement down the line. Ceramic porcelain crowns are most often used for front teeth, where the crown will be easily visible.
When it comes to choosing the material for your crown, you need to consider the visibility and appearance of the crown, as well as its relative strength, to make the right choice for yourself.