Ceramic vs. Porcelain Crowns | Cosmetic Dentistry (2024)

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Crowns | Cosmetic Dentistry (1)

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Crowns

Crowns are a common dental restoration used to rebuild or strengthen a natural tooth that is damaged or showing signs of wear. The most commonly used dental crown materials are ceramic and porcelain. But which is the better material?

What are crowns, and what are they used for?

A crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire surface of a tooth above the gum line. Crowns can improve the appearance of a tooth and help strengthen and protect it from further damage. They are most often made from porcelain or ceramic, and they are matched to the color of the surrounding natural teeth. In some cases, metal or resin crowns may be used. However, all-metal crowns are usually expensive and aren’t commonly used. Crowns are typically placed on a broken tooth or a tooth that has been treated with a root canal or damaged by tooth decay. In addition, crowns may be used to support a dental bridge or to cover an implant.

What is the difference between a ceramic crown and a porcelain crown?

Ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic, while porcelain has a metal core covered with porcelain. As a result, porcelain is more expensive than ceramic.

Porcelain crowns are more durable and tend to last longer. Ceramic dental crowns look more natural and don’t have any metal edges, which can sometimes show if the gums recede. A ceramic crown is a preferred choice for front teeth. Ultimately, the best type of dental crown for you will depend on your budget and aesthetic goals.

How can I choose the right crown material?

Porcelain dental crowns are made of a metal core covered with porcelain. This makes them strong and durable, making them a good choice for molars or other teeth that tend to experience a lot of wear and tear. However, they can sometimes cause your teeth to look darker or more yellowish.

All-ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic to match your natural teeth’s color. They are also less likely to chip or fracture than porcelain dental crowns. However, they may not be as strong and are more likely to wear down over time. Nevertheless, they are the best option for patients with metal allergies.

The Cost of Ceramic and Porcelain Fused to Metal Dental Crowns

An important consideration when choosing the right material is the cost. Porcelain is often considered the gold standard in dental crown material because they offer premium aesthetics and durability. However, they are also more expensive. Porcelain dental crowns cost $1,000 to $1,500 per tooth on average.

Ceramic dental crown cost is a more budget-friendly option, averaging $600 to $800 per tooth. While they are not as durable as porcelain, they still provide pleasing aesthetics and can be a good option for patients on a tight budget.

What to Do if You Need a Dental Crown

Our team at Olympic View Dental is here to help! Dr. Chilton will assist you deciding on which dental crowns are best for you based on your needs and budget.

Give us a call at (206) 824-4700 to schedule a consultation!

VISIT OUR SEATTLE DENTAL OFFICE

Cosmetic Dentist in Seattle

We are open:

Mon-Thurs: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Fri: Appointment Only
For additional questions you can call us at 206-824-4700 or you can find us on Yelp.

We proudly serve Seattle, Tacoma, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Sea Tac and surrounding areas.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Crowns | Cosmetic Dentistry (2024)

FAQs

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Crowns | Cosmetic Dentistry? ›

Both will blend well with your natural teeth, but ceramic crowns offer a slightly superior look. They mimic the translucency of natural teeth better than porcelain crowns, making them the preferred choice for front teeth makeovers. Also, both are more expensive than metal.

Are ceramic crowns better than porcelain crowns? ›

All-ceramic crowns are made entirely of ceramic to match your natural teeth's color. They are also less likely to chip or fracture than porcelain dental crowns. However, they may not be as strong and are more likely to wear down over time. Nevertheless, they are the best option for patients with metal allergies.

What is one of the main problems with all ceramic crowns? ›

One of the main problems with all ceramic crowns might be that they are less durable compared to metal crowns. Because they are more subject to wear and tear, they may not be suitable for back teeth where the chewing force is greatest.

What is the disadvantage of all ceramic crown? ›

Due to their complexity, all-ceramic crowns take longer to fabricate than other types of dental crowns. Typically, you will need to visit our office twice to complete all-ceramic crown treatment. Additional laboratory fees can often increase the overall cost.

Are porcelain crowns strong enough for molars? ›

For many years, porcelain has been thought of as one of the best crown materials for molars. It imitates natural teeth very well. It also decreases teeth sensitivity since porcelain doesn't conduct heat or cold well. The drawback of having a porcelain crown molar is that this material is actually very fragile.

What is the best type of dental crown? ›

Zirconia crowns are extremely durable and can withstand heavier forces than other types of ceramic crowns. They're also gentle on your opposing teeth, resulting in less enamel wear.

How long do ceramic dental crowns last? ›

PFM and all-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns were popular choices as they match the color of natural teeth closely. However, they may wear down over time due to chewing and biting forces. On average, these types of crowns last between 5 to 15 years.

Why doesn't insurance cover porcelain crowns? ›

However, crowns are generally not covered if they're requested purely for cosmetic reasons. That's because dental insurance usually doesn't cover cosmetic procedures, which mainly aim to improve the appearance of a patient's teeth and smile rather than for health reasons.

Why are dentists pushing crowns? ›

Dentists use crowns if the original tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken; if it requires a filling that's too large for the tooth to support; if it has too much decay or is too worn; or if it's extremely discolored or misshapen. A tooth is also crowned to cover a dental implant or hold a bridge in place.

Do ceramic crowns break easily? ›

Can all-ceramic crowns break or chip? Ceramic crowns are very durable, however, they may still break or chip. Trauma while playing sports, and teeth grinding or clenching must be managed to protect crowns.

Which is cheaper porcelain or ceramic crown? ›

The cost of a porcelain crown can range from $800 to $2,000, while a ceramic crown can cost between $600 and $1,500. The exact cost of your crown will depend on factors such as the material used, the size of the crown, and the complexity of the procedure.

What is the survival rate of all ceramic crowns? ›

Polycrystalline ceramics tend to be relatively opaque compared to glassy ceramics, thus these stronger materials are esthetically unsuitable as monolithic materials (4, 9, 10). Typical survival rates for all-ceramic restorations range from 88-100% after 2-5 years in service and 84-97% after 5-14 years in service (11).

What is the longest lasting crown material? ›

In general:
  • Gold crowns last the longest, from 10-30 years or more. ...
  • Porcelain fused to metal can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.
  • All-ceramic zirconia crowns offer comparable longevity of 10 years or more.
Dec 4, 2023

What is the best crown for a back molar? ›

The patient's needs should define the best type of tooth crown for molars. Generally speaking, PFM crowns are usually the best option since they have a great balance between looks, resistance, and cost. This is the best alternative for patients who want long-lasting restoration with good aesthetic properties.

Can you chew gum with porcelain crowns? ›

Instead of chewing gum following a meal, use mouthwash or rinse your mouth out with water. Gum can damage your crown if it gets stuck to the tooth. Raisins: Although raisins (if they are unsweetened) are a healthy snack, they are way too sticky for a mouth that has a fresh crown.

What is the hardest crown for a tooth? ›

What type of tooth crowns lasts the longest?
  • Metal crowns: Crowns made of metal are sturdy. These crowns are the hardest you will find, made from metals such as gold, silver, or others. ...
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns. ...
  • Ceramic crowns. ...
  • Zirconia crowns.
Mar 1, 2024

How much does a ceramic crown cost? ›

All-ceramic Tooth Crown cost range starts from INR 12,000 & upwards, with a 5 to 20 years warranty. In the true sense, the cost of Tooth Crowns, in this case, seems less important than the life it brings to your natural tooth.

Do ceramic crowns look natural? ›

Ceramic crowns reflect light in a manner similar to tooth enamel, giving a more natural appearance. As a trade-off, they are not quite as strong as PFM or all-metal crowns and may cost more.

Are ceramic crowns permanent? ›

Unlike temporary crowns, permanent crowns come in a range of comparatively better materials, like gold, ceramic, stainless steel and even porcelain. As the name states, these are designed to be a permanent solution so that they do not need to be replaced for a time period of 5 to 15 years after installation.

Can ceramic crowns stain? ›

A simple cleaning may help

Porcelain crowns are also not totally immune, and may simply have a tough surface stain that needs some more attention than regular brushing. Stains on crowns can be caused by acidic foods like tomatoes, alcohol or cigarette smoke.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Madonna Wisozk

Last Updated:

Views: 6438

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (68 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Madonna Wisozk

Birthday: 2001-02-23

Address: 656 Gerhold Summit, Sidneyberg, FL 78179-2512

Phone: +6742282696652

Job: Customer Banking Liaison

Hobby: Flower arranging, Yo-yoing, Tai chi, Rowing, Macrame, Urban exploration, Knife making

Introduction: My name is Madonna Wisozk, I am a attractive, healthy, thoughtful, faithful, open, vivacious, zany person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.