How do you choose whether to get a porcelain crown vs gold crown?

For years, dentistry offered only gold or other metal crowns. Not the most aesthetic solution for your teeth. Then porcelain came on the scene. While porcelain is strong and beautiful, it was brittle and prone to fracture on sharp impact. Porcelain has gotten more tooth-like and much stronger than in previous years. Porcelain crown fractures happen much less than in the past.

Now when choosing a porcelain crown versus a gold crown you have a new option.

Advantages of Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns have come a long way in recent years. Modern porcelain is both strong and aesthetically pleasing, closely mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. This makes porcelain crowns an excellent choice for front teeth, where cosmetic appearance is crucial. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a beautiful and uniform smile. Additionally, porcelain is biocompatible, meaning it won't cause allergic reactions or adverse effects in your mouth.

Advantages of Gold Crowns

Gold crowns have been a reliable dental solution for many years. Known for their durability and strength, gold crowns can withstand heavy biting and chewing forces, making them ideal for back molars. Gold is also very gentle on opposing teeth, reducing the risk of wear and damage. Despite their less natural appearance, gold crowns are a great choice for patients who prioritize longevity and functionality over aesthetics.

Zirconium Crown

Zirconia crowns are an entirely new type of aesthetic tooth colored crown. Zirconia crowns are much stronger than porcelain crowns and to be made thinner; necessitating less reduction of your tooth. Zirconia crowns are a great choice for back molars where the highest pressures in the mouth occur. Zirconia is so tough it is almost impossible to fracture. If you are a patient who grinds their teeth but doesn’t want a flashy gold crown, zirconia may be a perfect choice.

What are the disadvantages of zirconia? First, zirconia is less translucent than porcelain resulting in a more opaque crown. Because they are less translucent, zirconia crowns are a good acceptable choice for back teeth where pressures are high, and a porcelain crown is a better choice for a front tooth where pressures are low and esthetic need is crucial. Second, because zirconia is so hard it is important that regular dental visits are maintained so that your dentist can follow up and make sure that no damage is being caused to surrounding teeth by grinding.

Choosing the Right Crown for You

 When deciding between porcelain, gold, and zirconia crowns, consider the location of the tooth, your aesthetic preferences, and functional needs. Porcelain crowns are best for visible front teeth, gold crowns for durability in the back teeth, and zirconia crowns for a strong, tooth-colored option in high-pressure areas. Consulting with your Boise dentist at Atlantis Dental Care will help you make an informed decision based on your specific dental needs and goals. When choosing what type of crown to have in your mouth ask your Boise Dentist about Zirconia crowns. Contact Atlantis Dental Care to schedule an appointment.