What Type of Tooth Crown Lasts the Longest?

What are dental crowns?

When a tooth is damaged, decayed, or discolored, a tooth crown can be the solution to restoring its shape, functionality, and aesthetic. Dental crowns serve as caps that envelop the entire visible portion of a tooth, available in various materials, including metal, porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia. Deciding on the best type of dental crown for your situation involves understanding the benefits and limitations of each material. This article offers clarity on the variety of dental crown choices, guiding you to an option that suits your needs and goals.

What type of tooth crowns lasts the longest?

Dental crowns near you come in four primary types, each offering its set of advantages and challenges. The most suitable dental crown for you hinges on multiple considerations, such as the tooth’s position and state, your personal tastes, budget, and insurance coverage. The guide will delve into the characteristics of these four dental crown categories:

• Metal crowns: Crowns made of metal are sturdy. These crowns are the hardest you will find, made from metals such as gold, silver, or others. They can withstand high pressure and force, and they rarely chip, crack, or break. They also require the least amount of tooth removal, and they cause the least amount of wear and tear on the opposing teeth. Metal crowns are ideal for back teeth, such as molars, that are not very visible when you smile. However, metal crowns are also the most noticeable and least natural-looking type of dental crowns, and they may not be suitable for people who are allergic to metal or prefer a more aesthetic option. Metal crowns can last for 10 to 15 years, or even longer, with proper care.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns. PFM crowns feature a robust metal foundation enveloped in porcelain, merging metal’s resilience with porcelain’s aesthetic appeal. These crowns withstand significant stress and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in hue and form. They are suitable for front or back teeth and can also be used to attach a bridge or denture. However, PFM crowns are also prone to chipping, cracking, or breaking, especially if the porcelain layer is thin or weak. They also require more tooth removal than metal crowns, and they can cause more wear and tear on the opposing teeth. In addition, PFM crowns may show a dark line at the gum line, where the metal base is exposed, which can affect the appearance of your smile. PFM crowns can last for 5 to 15 years, depending on the quality and thickness of the porcelain layer and the metal base.
• Ceramic crowns. Ceramic crowns are made of a solid glass-ceramic material and are the most natural-looking and natural-feeling type of dental crowns. They can mimic the color, clarity, and texture of your natural teeth and blend in flawlessly with your smile. They are also biocompatible, meaning they do not cause allergic reactions or irritations. They are ideal for front teeth, people with metal allergies, or those who want a more aesthetic option. However, ceramic crowns are also the most brittle and fragile type of dental crowns, and they can crack, chip, or break under high pressure or force. They also require more tooth removal than metal crowns, and they can cause more wear and tear on the opposing teeth. When maintained well, ceramic crowns have the potential to endure from 5 to 15 years and, in some cases, beyond.
• Zirconia crowns. Zirconia crowns are made of a synthetic material similar to ceramic but stronger and more durable. They can withstand high pressure and force, and they rarely chip, crack, or break. They can also match the color and shape of your natural teeth, and they can blend in well with your smile. They are suitable for front or back teeth, and they can also be used to attach a bridge or a denture. They are also biocompatible, which means they do not cause any allergic reactions or irritations. However, zirconia crowns are also the most expensive and the most difficult to adjust type of dental crowns, and they may require special equipment and techniques to place and fit. They also require more tooth removal than metal crowns, and they can cause more wear and tear on the opposing teeth. Ceramic crowns, with the proper care, can serve you well for 5 to 15 years, sometimes even more.

How to Choose the Best Dental Crown for Your Smile

To choose the best dental crown for your smile, you should consult with your dentist and discuss your needs and goals. Your Pleasant Hill dentist will examine your oral health and your specific situation and recommend the best type and strength of dental crown for your tooth. Your dentist will lay out the benefits and drawbacks of each crown type, considering cost, longevity, looks, and comfort. If you are looking for a dental crown in Pleasant Hill, CA, you can trust Grafton Dental. Call our dental office to schedule an appointment with our dentist.