Crowns are a common and popular dental restoration used to protect or strengthen a natural tooth that is damaged or showing wear. The most commonly used materials for crowns are ceramic and porcelain. What is the difference?
What are Crowns and What are They Used For?
A crown is a dental restoration that covers, like a cap, the entire surface of a tooth above your gum line. Crowns can enhance and improve the appearance of a tooth and also to help strengthen and protect it. They are most often fabricated from ceramic or porcelain, and they are created to match the color of your surrounding natural teeth. Sometimes metal or resin crowns might be used. Usually, all-metal crowns are more expensive and are not commonly used. Crowns are usually placed on a broken tooth, or a tooth that has had a root canal, or damaged by tooth decay. Crowns are also used to support a dental bridge or to finish an implant.
What is the Difference Between a Ceramic Crown and a Porcelain Crown?
Ceramic crowns are made completely of ceramic, while a porcelain crown has a metal core covered with porcelain. Porcelain is more expensive than ceramic.
Porcelain crowns are more durable and will last longer. Ceramic crowns look more natural and do not have any metal edges, which at times will show if the gums recede. A ceramic crown is a preferred choice for a front tooth. The best type of crown for you will depend on your budget and aesthetic goals.
How can You Choose the Right Crown Material?
Porcelain dental crowns are strong and durable, making them a good choice for a molar or another tooth that tends to experience more wear and tear. But porcelain can sometimes cause your teeth to look darker or more yellowish.
Ceramic crowns are made completely of ceramic to match your natural teeth’s color. They are also more resistant to chipping or fracturing than porcelain. They cannot be as strong and are more likely to wear over time. They are also the best option if you have metal allergies.
The Cost of Ceramic and Porcelain Dental Crowns
An important consideration when choosing your crown is the cost. Porcelain is often considered the gold standard because they offer premium aesthetics and durability. Porcelain dental crowns cost $1,000 to $1,500 per tooth on average.
Ceramic dental crown cost is more budget-friendly, averaging $600 to $800 per tooth. They are not as durable as porcelain, but they still provide pleasing aesthetics and are a good option for a tight budget.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns, with the right care, can last 15 to 30 years. Gold crowns can last a very long time, but they are also quite expensive and not used as often.
Wear and tear are natural, and it can cause your crown to weaken and break. If you eat quite a few nuts, there is a higher risk of wear because of the hardness of the nuts. Because everyone has varying diets and different dental hygiene practices, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact lifespan of your crown.