If your dentist has recommended a crown, one of the first decisions is what it’s made from. Crown materials differ in strength, appearance, how much tooth needs to be prepared and where in the mouth they work best. This guide explains the main options so you can have an informed conversation with your dentist.
When is a crown recommended?
A crown is a cap that covers the visible part of a tooth. It’s usually recommended when a tooth has lost so much structure that a filling won’t hold up, for example:
- a large filling that has broken or keeps failing
- a cracked tooth that needs to be held together
- a back tooth after root canal treatment, which can become brittle
- a badly worn tooth, often from grinding
- an implant, where the crown sits on top of the implant post
Read more about what a dental crown is and the crown procedure.
All-ceramic (porcelain) crowns
All-ceramic crowns are made entirely of tooth-coloured ceramic, such as lithium disilicate. They can closely match the translucency and colour of natural teeth, which makes them a popular choice for front teeth. Modern ceramics are much stronger than older porcelain, though very heavy biting forces or grinding can still cause chipping. Your dentist will consider your bite before recommending them for back teeth.
Zirconia crowns
Zirconia is a very strong ceramic. Solid (monolithic) zirconia crowns resist chipping and can be made thinner than some other ceramics, which may mean less tooth needs to be removed. They’re often used for back teeth and for people who grind. Earlier zirconia was quite opaque, but newer layered and multi-layer zirconias look more natural and are increasingly used at the front as well.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
PFM crowns have a metal inner layer covered with porcelain. They’ve been used for decades and have a long track record. The metal core gives strength, but it can show as a dark line at the gum edge if gums recede, and the porcelain layer can chip. Many dentists now use all-ceramic or zirconia crowns in situations where PFM was once the default.
Gold and full-metal crowns
Gold alloy crowns are very durable and gentle on opposing teeth, and they need less tooth removed than many alternatives. Their colour means they’re mostly used on back teeth where they aren’t visible. Some people choose them for molars because of their longevity.
How the materials compare
| Material | Appearance | Strength | Often used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-ceramic | Very natural | Good | Front teeth, premolars |
| Zirconia | Natural (newer types) | Very high | Back teeth, grinders |
| PFM | Good, may show a dark margin | High | Back teeth, bridges |
| Gold alloy | Metallic | Very high | Back molars |
Made in our in-house ceramic lab
Parramatta Dentistry is part of Cosmetique Dental Group, which runs its own in-house ceramic lab. The group’s technicians design and make crowns, bridges and veneers, working closely with your dentist on shade, shape and fit. Having the lab within the group means your dentist can communicate directly with the technician about the details of your case.
What affects how long a crown lasts?
Many crowns last for many years, but no crown lasts forever. Lifespan depends on the material, how much healthy tooth remains underneath, your bite, whether you grind, and how well you clean around the crown. The tooth under a crown can still decay at the edge where crown meets tooth, so brushing, cleaning between teeth and regular check-ups remain important.
Cost
Crowns at Parramatta Dentistry start from $1,800. The final fee depends on the material, whether you need other treatment first (such as a root canal or a core build-up) and the complexity of your case. Your dentist will give you a written treatment plan and quote, and if you have extras cover, we can claim on the day with HICAPS. Conditions apply. See our dental crowns page.
Risks and things to consider
Preparing a tooth for a crown removes some natural tooth structure, which can’t be reversed. Some people have temporary sensitivity afterwards, and occasionally a tooth that’s been prepared for a crown later needs root canal treatment. Crowns can also chip, loosen or need replacement over time. Your dentist will discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives for your tooth before you decide.
Questions to ask your dentist
- Why do you recommend a crown rather than a filling or onlay?
- Which material do you recommend for this tooth, and why?
- How much tooth will need to be removed?
- What happens if the crown chips or comes loose?
Frequently asked questions
Which crown material is strongest?
Solid zirconia and gold alloy crowns are among the strongest options and are often used for back teeth and people who grind. All-ceramic crowns are strong enough for many situations and offer excellent appearance. Your dentist will recommend a material based on the tooth’s position and your bite.
Will a crown look like my natural teeth?
Modern ceramic and zirconia crowns can be closely matched to the shade, shape and translucency of your natural teeth. Your dentist and the lab technician will work on the shade together, and photos may be taken to help.
Can I whiten a crown?
No. Whitening gels don’t change the colour of crowns. If you’d like whiter teeth, it’s best to whiten before your crown is made so it can be matched to your new shade.
Are metal crowns safe?
Metal alloys used in dentistry are generally well tolerated. Some people have allergies to particular metals, such as nickel. Tell your dentist about any known allergies so they can choose a suitable material.
How many visits does a crown take?
Most crowns take two appointments: one to prepare the tooth and take a scan or impression, and a second, a couple of weeks later, to fit the final crown. A temporary crown protects the tooth in between.
Book at Parramatta Dentistry
Parramatta Dentistry is at Suite 25, Level 3, 27 Hunter Street, Parramatta, a short walk from Parramatta Station. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and HICAPS is on site, so you can claim from your health fund on the day and pay only the gap, if there is one. Call (02) 8090 1109 or book online.
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for personalised advice from your dentist. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.