Explained by Dr. Shweta Dwivedi, Endodontist & Cosmetic Dentist at Amrit Dental & Maxillofacial Clinic
If you’ve been advised to get a dental crown, you might be wondering: Which type of crown is right for me?
As an Endodontist and Cosmetic Dentist, I often meet patients who are unsure about their options. In this blog, I’ll explain the different types of dental crowns, their advantages, disadvantages, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or root canal-treated tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, function—and enhances your smile.
1. Metal Crowns
Material: Gold alloy, palladium, nickel, or chromium
Pros:
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Minimal tooth removal required
- Resistant to wear and corrosion
Cons:
- Metallic appearance—not suitable for front teeth
- Rare chances of allergic reaction
Best For:
Back molars where strength is more important than appearance.
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Material: Metal base with porcelain coating
Pros:
- Strong due to metal base
- More aesthetic than full metal crowns
- Suitable for both front and back teeth
Cons:
- Porcelain may chip over time
- Metal line might become visible near the gum
Best For:
Patients seeking a balance between durability and aesthetics.
3. All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns
Material: High-quality ceramic or porcelain
Pros:
- Best natural tooth-like appearance
- Biocompatible—no risk of metal allergies
- Ideal for cosmetic restorations
Cons:
- Less durable than metal or PFM crowns
- Can wear down opposing teeth if not fitted well
Best For:
Front teeth where a natural look is most important.
4. Zirconia Crowns
Material: Zirconium dioxide (a high-strength ceramic)
Pros:
- Extremely strong and fracture-resistant
- Tooth-colored and aesthetically pleasing
- Metal-free and biocompatible
Cons:
- Slightly opaque appearance in some cases
- Costlier than traditional options
Best For:
Both front and back teeth—a great all-rounder crown.
5. E-Max Crowns (Lithium Disilicate Crowns)
Material: Lithium disilicate glass-ceramic
Pros:
- High strength with stunning aesthetics
- Minimal tooth preparation needed
- Long-lasting and natural-looking
Cons:
- More expensive than other crown types
Best For:
Visible teeth where both durability and beauty matter.
6. Resin Crowns
Material: Composite resin
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Can be prepared quickly
Cons:
- Least durable option
- Prone to wear and fractures
Best For:
Temporary crowns or cost-effective short-term solutions.
How to Choose the Right Dental Crown
Selecting the ideal crown depends on several factors:
- Location of the tooth
- Function and bite force on the tooth
- Your aesthetic preferences
- Budget
- Any known allergies or sensitivities
At Amrit Dental & Maxillofacial Clinic, we offer customized consultations to help you choose the best option for your dental health and smile.
Why Choose Us?
As a seasoned Endodontist & Cosmetic Dentist, I, Dr. Shweta Dwivedi, specialize in advanced restorations and smile transformations. Using precision techniques and the latest materials, we ensure that every crown we place looks natural, fits perfectly, and lasts long.
Restore your tooth—and your confidence.
Book your consultation today at Amrit Dental & Maxillofacial Clinic.
