What Materials Are Used for Dental Crowns?

May 5, 2025

Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, especially when strength, function, and aesthetics all matter. At Salo Manhattan Beach, we work with advanced materials to provide high-quality, custom crowns that not only look natural but also last for years. Below is a breakdown of the most common materials used for dental crowns and why one might be recommended over another.

1. Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns

Porcelain and all-ceramic crowns are widely used for front teeth due to their ability to closely match natural tooth color and translucency. These materials are ideal when aesthetics are a top priority.

Pros:

  • Excellent for front teeth
  • Metal-free
  • Biocompatible (low risk of allergic reaction)
  • Natural appearance

Considerations:

  • Not as strong as metal-based crowns
  • Can wear down opposing teeth if not polished properly

2. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia offers a combination of strength and beauty. It's a type of ceramic that can handle heavy chewing forces while still looking close to a natural tooth. There are also layered zirconia options that enhance the look further.

Pros:

  • Very strong and durable
  • Tooth-colored
  • Good for both front and back teeth
  • Resistant to fractures and chips

Considerations:

  • Can be slightly more opaque than porcelain
  • May require more tooth reduction depending on design

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

These crowns blend strength and aesthetics. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer allows for a natural appearance. They’ve been used for decades but are less common in high-aesthetic practices today.

Pros:

  • Stronger than all-ceramic crowns
  • Can be used on front or back teeth

Considerations:

  • The metal core may show as a dark line at the gum over time
  • Porcelain can chip from the metal base

4. Gold and Metal Alloy Crowns

Gold crowns and other metal alloys (such as palladium or nickel-chromium) are known for their durability and precise fit. These are often used for molars, where aesthetics are less of a concern and chewing forces are highest.

Pros:

  • Extremely long-lasting
  • Gentle on opposing teeth
  • Require minimal removal of natural tooth structure

Considerations:

  • Not tooth-colored
  • Less common for cosmetic cases

Which Material Is Right for You?

At Salo Manhattan Beach, the choice of material depends on your goals, tooth location, bite forces, and how visible the tooth is when you smile. We’ll evaluate all of these during your consultation and make a recommendation that balances strength, longevity, and appearance. 

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

At Salo Manhattan Beach, choosing the right material for your dental crown isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. We consider several factors, including the location of the tooth, how much pressure it handles during chewing, your gum health, and your long-term goals for aesthetics and durability. Request an appointment today to explore your options and see how comfortable and customized dental treatment can be.