Patients may require crowns for a variety of reasons. Used to protect a weak tooth, hold a broken tooth together, shield a tooth that has been worn down, hold a dental bridge, or to make cosmetic dental modifications, crown can be made from a variety of different materials. Some of the most popular materials are gold alloy, nickel alloy, or chromium alloy. Other options include ceramic and porcelain.

Benefits of Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are strong and durable and limit the wear on opposite teeth, (which can be a problem with other types of crowns). They hold up well to chewing and biting and rarely break. They are also significantly cheaper than ceramic and porcelain crowns. Their biggest drawback is their appearance.  Most people prefer white crowns for front teeth. Metal crowns are often used for back teeth, i.e. molars

Benefits of Ceramic and Porcelain Crowns

Ceramic and porcelain crowns can be fabricated to match the existing color of a patient’s teeth, making them aesthetically preferable to metal crowns. However, patients need to be prepared to pay more for ceramic and porcelain crowns. And though easier on the eye, ceramic and porcelain are not as durable as metal crowns…and they may cause more wear to opposing teeth.

A compromise?  For the patient who wants white crowns but also appreciates the benefits of a metal crown, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, is one option. Ask your dentist which is best for you.

Whatever your choice, SML (Space Maintainers Laboratories), can provide the fabricated white crowns and metal crowns for your dentist or orthodontist.