Your dentist just told you that you need a dental crown. Now you’re faced with choices: porcelain, metal, zirconia, something called PFM. Here’s what you really want to know: which material will work best for your tooth, your budget, and your life?
In this blog, we’ll cover:
- The different types of crown materials available
- Which crowns work best for different teeth
- How to choose the right material with your Houston dentist
Different Types of Crown Materials Available
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns look just like your real teeth. Seriously, nobody will know you have one unless you tell them.
These dental crowns reflect light the same way natural teeth do. Your Houston dentist can match the exact shade of your other teeth, so everything blends perfectly.
The downside? Porcelain can chip if you grind your teeth or bite down on something really hard. Think ice cubes or popcorn kernels.
Porcelain works great for front teeth where appearance matters most. You smile, you talk, you want those teeth to look natural.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
People call these PFM crowns. They’ve got a metal base with porcelain on top.
You get strength from the metal and natural appearance from the porcelain. It’s like getting the best of both worlds.
But here’s the catch. The metal may show through as a dark line at your gum line. It’s not a huge deal for back teeth, but it bugs some people if it’s visible when they smile.
Still, PFM is the most common choice for dental crowns for molars, according to an article published in Pubmed.
These dental crowns last a long time and handle chewing pressure really well. Your Houston dentist might recommend them for teeth that do heavy lifting but still show when you smile.
Metal Alloy Crowns
These crowns use a mix of metals like nickel, chromium, or palladium. They’re not gold, but they’re still really strong. A few people go for gold crowns as well, which fall under the category of metal crowns.
Metal alloy crowns resist wear better than anything except gold. They almost never break or chip. You can bite down hard without thinking twice.
Like gold, the appearance is the tradeoff. They’re silver-colored and stand out.
Dentists usually save dental crowns for back molars where strength matters more than looks.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia has become a more preferred choice among dental patients for quite some time.
This material is incredibly strong. It’s actually stronger than porcelain but still looks natural. You can use it anywhere in your mouth without worrying.
Zirconia doesn’t chip easily. It handles grinding and clenching better than porcelain alone. And it lasts just as long as PFM crowns without that metal line at the gums.
The only real downside is cost. Zirconia crowns typically run a bit more expensive than other options.
More Houston dentists recommend zirconia for dental crowns now because it combines strength and appearance so well.
Which Material Works Best Where?
Front teeth: Go with porcelain or zirconia. You need them to look natural.
Back molars: Any material works, but gold, metal alloy, or zirconia give you the most durability.
Teeth that show when you smile: Porcelain, zirconia, or PFM. Skip the full metal options.
If you grind your teeth: Zirconia or gold. They handle the extra pressure.
Your Houston dentist will look at which tooth needs the dental crown and help you decide. They’ll consider your bite, your habits, and what matters most to you.
What is the cost of dental crowns?
All-porcelain crowns usually cost less than zirconia but more than metal. Gold crowns vary depending on gold prices. PFM crowns fall somewhere in the middle.
Here’s the thing though. A cheaper dental crown that cracks in five years costs you more in the long run than paying extra for something that lasts for a decade or more.
Talk honestly with your dentist about your budget. They can help you find the best option that you can actually afford.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good care, most dental crowns in Houston last 10 to 15 years. Gold and zirconia often last longer.
“Good care” means brushing twice daily, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly. Don’t use your teeth as tools. Don’t chew ice.
If you grind your teeth at night, wear a night guard. That one habit can double the life of your crown.
Making Your Decision
You don’t need to become a dental crown expert. You just need to ask your Houston dentist the right questions:
- Which material do you recommend for this specific tooth?
- How long will it typically last?
- What does my insurance cover?
- Are there payment plans available?
A good dentist won’t push the most expensive option just because. They’ll recommend what actually makes sense for your situation.
The best crown material is the one that fits your tooth, your lifestyle, and your budget. Work with a Houston dentist you trust, and you’ll end up with a dental crown that serves you well for years to come.
All Stars Dental: Houston’s Crown Experts
Choosing the right material for dental crowns in Houston doesn’t have to stress you out. Our team at All Stars Dental walks you through every option clearly.
We’ll examine your tooth, consider your budget, and explain which materials work best for your specific case. No pressure, no confusing dental jargon, just straight answers.
All Stars Dental uses high-quality materials for dental crowns and carries out the dental crown procedure that last for years.
Whether you need a dental crown on a front tooth or a back molar, we’ve got the experience to do it right.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a dental crown in Houston?
Traditional crowns require two visits about two weeks apart. Some dental offices offer same-day dental crowns using advanced technology. Your Houston dentist can tell you which option they provide.
Will my dental crown look fake?
Not if you choose porcelain or zirconia dental crown. Modern dental crowns in Houston match your natural teeth so well that even you might forget which tooth has the dental crown.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Yes! Once your crown is in place and fully set, you can eat normally. Just avoid chewing ice or using your teeth to open packages. Treat your crown like you’d treat your natural teeth.