Common Crown and Bridge Materials – What Are Crowns Made Of?

Dental crowns and bridges are common restorative treatments used to restore the function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. Whether you're looking to replace a damaged tooth with a crown or restore multiple missing teeth with a bridge, understanding the materials used in these treatments is essential. Different materials offer various benefits in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. Let’s explore the most common materials used for dental crowns and bridges, and what makes each one unique.

1. Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns and Bridges

Porcelain is one of the most popular materials for crowns and bridges due to its natural, tooth-like appearance. It’s highly aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for front teeth or any visible restoration. At Derby Dental Group, porcelain crowns and bridges are custom-designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly with your smile.

Advantages:

• Natural appearance: Porcelain closely mimics the translucency and color of natural teeth.
  
  
• Biocompatibility: It’s highly compatible with gum tissue, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
  
  
• Stain-resistant: Porcelain does not discolor easily and maintains its appearance over time.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Less flex than metal-based options: Porcelain is more prone to chipping or cracking under excessive pressure.
  
  
• More expensive: Porcelain crowns and bridges tend to be more costly compared to other materials.
  
  

Porcelain is an excellent choice for people who prioritize aesthetics and want a restoration that looks just like a natural tooth.

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns and Bridges

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns and bridges combine the durability of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The inner structure of these restorations is made of a metal alloy, which provides strength and support, while the outer layer is made of porcelain to give it a more natural look. PFM crowns and bridges are commonly used for both front and back teeth, offering a balance between function and aesthetics.

Advantages:

• Durable and strong: The metal base provides superior strength, making PFM restorations suitable for areas with high chewing pressure, such as the back molars.
  
  
• Good to fair aesthetics: The porcelain outer layer provides a more natural appearance compared to all-metal crowns.
  
  
• Versatile: Suitable for both front and back teeth.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Visible metal line: The metal base can sometimes show along the gum line and appear black of grey, especially if the gums recede over time.
  
  
• May cause more wear on adjacent teeth: The porcelain can be abrasive on adjacent teeth, potentially causing wear over time.
  
  
• Beware of nickel allergies: Should not be used in patients with a nickel allergy due to the composition of the metal alloy.
  
  

PFM crowns and bridges are less commonly used today in modern dentistry but its use is still employed in very specific cases. PFM can be ideal for those who need a durable restoration but still want a natural-looking outcome, particularly for teeth that will be subjected to heavy chewing forces.

3. Metal Crowns and Bridges (Gold or Other Alloys)

Gold and other metal alloys, such as platinum or palladium, have long been used for dental crowns and bridges. These crowns and bridges are made from strong, durable metals that are capable of withstanding the forces of biting and chewing without wearing down. While metal crowns and bridges don’t offer the same aesthetic appeal as porcelain, they are highly functional and can last for many years.

Advantages:

• Durable and long-lasting: Metal crowns and bridges are incredibly strong and can endure significant pressure without chipping or cracking.
  
  
• Less tooth removal required: Since metal crowns are thinner, less of the natural tooth may need to be removed to accommodate the restoration.
  
  
• Biocompatibility: Most gold crowns are well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Aesthetic concerns: Metal crowns are not color-matched to the adjacent teeth and appear gold or silver, making them more suitable for teeth at the back of the mouth, where they are less visible.
  
  

Metal crowns are perfect for patients who prioritize strength and durability over aesthetics, particularly for back teeth where appearance is less of a concern.

4. Zirconia Crowns and Bridges

Zirconia, a type of ceramic made from zirconium oxide, has gained popularity as a crown and bridge material due to its strength, durability, and natural appearance. Zirconia crowns are highly resistant to wear and fracture, making them an excellent choice for both front and back teeth. When fabricated properly, they are also biocompatible and do not cause irritation to the gums.

Advantages:

• Strong and durable: Zirconia is one of the strongest materials used for crowns and bridges, making it resistant to fractures and wear.
  
  
• Aesthetic: Zirconia has a translucent quality that mimics the appearance of natural teeth, though it may not be quite as aesthetic as porcelain.
  
  
• Minimal metal use: While zirconia may be layered with porcelain in some cases, many zirconia crowns are all-ceramic, making them ideal for people seeking a metal-free restoration.
  
  

Disadvantages:

• Can be abrasive and brittle: Zirconia can be harder on adjacent teeth if not properly polished or designed.
  
  
• More costly: Zirconia crowns and bridges tend to be more expensive than traditional metal options.
  
  

Zirconia is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable, metal-free restoration that also offers an excellent aesthetic outcome.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for your dental crown or bridge depends on a variety of factors, including the location of the restoration, your occlusion or bite, and your aesthetic preferences. Porcelain and zirconia offer the best appearance for visible teeth, while PFM and metal crowns are highly durable options for molars and teeth that endure heavy chewing. Consulting with us at Derby Dental Group will help you select the best material to suit your specific needs and ensure that your new crown or bridge not only restores your smile but also provides long-lasting functionality.