Choosing between metal and porcelain crowns can feel overwhelming without the right information. It’s a common question in dental care: are metal crowns better than porcelain crowns?
There’s no universal answer. Each type of crown offers different benefits depending on your needs. Factors like where the tooth is, how visible it is, and how much pressure it takes when chewing all play a role in what’s suitable.
This blog offers a side-by-side comparison to guide you through the key differences. We’ll look at materials, uses, and the types of situations where each crown option may be more appropriate. The goal is to give you clear, helpful information you can use when discussing your options with your dentist.
Summary of the Content:
- Metal and porcelain crowns each offer distinct benefits depending on the tooth’s location, function, and visibility.
- Metal crowns are highly durable and well-suited for back teeth that experience strong chewing forces.
- Porcelain crowns provide a natural appearance and are often chosen for visible teeth, especially in the front of the mouth.
- Crowns can be made from various materials, including gold alloys, zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and all-ceramic options.
- Tooth condition, bite pressure, aesthetic preferences, and cost considerations all play a role in crown selection.
- Some crown types require more removal of tooth structure, while others offer a more conservative fit.
- Modern hybrid crowns, such as porcelain-fused-to-zirconia, combine strength with a natural appearance.
- Longevity depends on material, fit, oral hygiene, and regular dental visits.
- There is no one-size-fits-all option. The most suitable crown depends on your individual oral health and treatment goals.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape and support everyday function. It covers the entire tooth and is designed to fit comfortably within your bite. Crowns are commonly recommended when a tooth is too weak or has lost too much tooth structure to hold a filling securely.
For front teeth, appearance is just as important as strength. Unlike back teeth, which must manage heavy chewing forces, front teeth are more visible and play a key role in your smile’s aesthetic appearance. Because of this, the choice of material and design is especially important.
You might be advised to consider a crown on a front tooth in the following situations:
- A broken or cracked tooth may require protection and coverage to prevent further damage.
- A discoloured tooth that doesn’t respond to whitening treatments can be covered to match the shade of its surrounding natural teeth.
- A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may be structurally weakened and benefit from added support.
- A tooth with severe tooth decay may need a crown if much of the original tooth structure has been lost.
- Teeth affected by significant wear or naturally misshapen teeth may be improved in both function and appearance with the help of a crown.
Because front teeth are visible, crowns in this area are designed with greater attention to details, like colour, shape, and surface texture.
These considerations are discussed during your initial consultation, where your dentist will assess the condition of the tooth and your overall oral health.
Metal Dental Crowns: Overview
Metal crowns have long been used in restorative dentistry due to their strength and ability to handle heavy chewing forces, especially in back teeth. They are made from different metal alloys and remain a reliable option alongside modern ceramic crowns.
They are often selected when strength matters more than appearance or when minimal tooth preparation is needed. While less common for front teeth restorations due to their metallic appearance, they remain useful in many clinical scenarios.
They are well-suited for patients who need long-lasting support in areas exposed to regular pressure, such as molars.
Types of Metal Crowns
Several types of metal crowns are available, each with its characteristics:
- Gold alloy crowns are made from a blend of gold and other metals. They are known for being highly durable, and they are often gentle on opposing teeth.
- Silver-palladium alloy crowns use a combination of palladium and other metals. These crowns provide strength and are generally more cost-effective than gold-based options.
- Base metal alloy crowns, such as those made from nickel-chromium or cobalt-chromium, offer strong resistance to wear and corrosion. However, they may not be recommended for patients with metal allergies.
Each of these materials is selected based on the specific needs of the tooth and the surrounding oral health environment.
Advantages of Metal Crowns
Metal crowns offer several well-documented benefits:
- They often require less tooth removal than many porcelain counterparts, which helps preserve more of the natural tooth.
- Their metal structure is highly resistant to both wear and fracture.
- These crowns are capable of withstanding strong biting and chewing forces over extended periods.
- A long-term study found that high gold-based metal crowns can demonstrate long-term durability. In this study, more than 2,000 crowns were tracked for up to 25 years, showing a 97.08% survival rate at 10 years and 85.4% at 25 years, with most failures related to biological rather than material issues.
- Compared to some ceramic crowns, metal crowns are less likely to result in crown chipping or problems like a loose crown.
These features make them especially useful when restoring damaged teeth in less visible areas of the mouth.
Disadvantages of Metal Crowns
Despite their functional benefits, metal crowns have some limitations:
- The metallic appearance of these crowns may be noticeable and is generally not preferred for front teeth.
- Some patients may experience allergic reactions to specific base metal alloys.
- In some cases, a dark line may appear near the gum line, particularly when fused to metal PFM crowns.
- These limitations are important to discuss during treatment planning, especially for patients who place a high priority on the aesthetic appearance of their teeth.
Ideal Situations for Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are often used in the following scenarios:
- They are often chosen for posterior teeth that are not visible when smiling.
- They may be suitable for individuals with a history of teeth grinding or who place strong biting forces on their molars.
- They are commonly used in cases where there is limited space and minimal tooth preparation is preferred.
- They may be considered in situations where the focus is on function and long-term durability rather than appearance.
In these situations, metal crowns can provide a strong and stable custom-made cap. They fit well with adjacent and neighbouring teeth, and they are often considered a cost-effective option when compared to some porcelain and metal alternatives.
These recommendations are based on established material characteristics and clinical reasoning rather than individual brand claims or promotional opinions.
Porcelain Dental Crowns: Overview
Porcelain crowns are commonly chosen in dentistry for their ability to resemble natural teeth, especially in visible areas such as the front teeth. These crowns are made from porcelain material or other ceramic materials and are selected when appearance is an important consideration.
Over the years, porcelain crowns have evolved to become stronger and more versatile. Early designs were fragile and prone to breakage. However, advances in all-ceramic systems, zirconia, and computer-aided design have significantly improved their strength and durability.
These crowns are commonly used when appearance is an important factor. They are also a suitable choice for individuals with metal allergies, as many porcelain options are metal-free.
While porcelain crowns provide several aesthetic benefits, they may not be the most suitable fit in every situation, especially where extreme bite pressure is expected.
Types of Porcelain Crowns
There are several types of porcelain crowns, each made with different materials and processes:
- Traditional porcelain crowns are made entirely of porcelain material and are known for their ability to blend with natural tooth colour.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (PFM) combine a strong metal layer with a porcelain exterior for added durability, though they may sometimes show a dark line at the gum line.
- Pressed ceramic crowns are made using heat-pressed ceramic and offer a strong, natural-looking restoration that fits well with surrounding teeth.
- Zirconia crowns are created using zirconium dioxide, a material known for its exceptional strength and ability to resemble its natural form closely.
Each of these options is selected based on the specific needs of the tooth, aesthetic preferences, and material selection recommended during the dental procedure.
Advantages of Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns have several benefits, especially in visible areas of the mouth:
- They can be made to match the natural tooth colour, which helps them blend with the surrounding teeth.
- Many porcelain crowns are metal-free. This may be suitable for people with metal allergies.
- Porcelain is generally biocompatible. This means it’s less likely to irritate the gum line.
- These crowns are often chosen when appearance matters most. This includes front teeth or areas visible when smiling.
- A systematic review found the 5-year survival rate for all-ceramic crowns was 93.3%. Some types, like densely sintered alumina, reached 96.4%, especially on front teeth.
Porcelain crowns are often selected for their aesthetic appeal and ability to look like natural teeth.
Disadvantages of Porcelain Crowns
While porcelain crowns offer aesthetic benefits, they also have some limitations that are important to consider:
- They may require more tooth structure to be removed.
This allows for a proper fit but may not suit all situations, especially when preserving natural tooth material is a concern. - Some porcelain crowns can chip or crack over time.
This is more likely when chewing hard foods or in patients with teeth-grinding habits. - They may gradually wear down the opposing teeth.
This is especially a consideration for people with strong bites or heavy chewing patterns. - Porcelain crowns may have higher costs.
This is particularly true when using advanced materials or digital same-day manufacturing methods.
It is important to discuss these factors with your dentist during treatment planning based on your individual needs and goals.
Ideal Situations for Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are generally chosen in situations such as:
- Restoring front teeth or visible teeth where aesthetic appeal is a key concern.
- Patients who have metal allergies require a metal-free option.
- These are cases where the goal is to achieve a natural-looking restoration that blends well with surrounding teeth.
- When the patient prefers a crown that closely resembles the original tooth in colour and shape.
These crowns are often used in dental clinics when a balance of appearance, function, and biocompatibility is needed. Your dentist’s advice will guide the selection of a crown type based on clinical factors and oral health status.
Comparative Analysis
Patients often ask, “Are metal crowns better than porcelain crowns?” There is no single answer, as both types offer different benefits.
The choice depends on factors such as your tooth’s location, how much pressure it absorbs, and whether appearance is important to you.
The following comparison outlines the strengths and considerations for both options.
Durability and Longevity
Metal crowns are widely known for their strength and ability to last many years. A long-term study of more than 2,000 gold-based metal-ceramic crowns found that:
- 97.08% of the crowns were still functional after 10 years.
- 85.4% remained functional after 25 years.
- Biological factors, not material breakdown, caused most failures.
Porcelain crowns, including all-ceramic crowns, have also 93.3%.
- Densely sintered alumina crowns had a survival rate of up to 96.4% on front teeth.
- Glass-ceramic crowns had lower survival rates when placed on back teeth.
The lifespan of any crown depends on several factors:
- Patients who maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups often experience better crown longevity.
- A crown that fits well is less likely to cause problems or fail early.
- Crowns on molars are subjected to greater biting forces and may wear faster.
- Material selection plays a key role in how long a crown lasts.
Aesthetic Considerations
Porcelain crowns are usually chosen for teeth that are visible when smiling. They are valued for their natural look. This is because:
- They can be colour-matched to nearby teeth to blend seamlessly.
- They reflect light in a way that closely mimics natural enamel.
- They are often used on front teeth or highly visible areas of the mouth.
- They support a more natural appearance when compared to metal crowns.
Metal crowns do not blend with natural teeth. They may be more noticeable when talking or smiling. For example:
- They have a metallic colour, which may not suit patients with cosmetic concerns.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns may show a dark line near the gum if the gums recede.
- They are usually recommended for back teeth, where appearance is less important and strength is the priority.
Cost Comparison
The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the material used, the complexity of the procedure, and laboratory involvement.
Here are approximate price ranges in Australia:
- Ceramic or porcelain crowns can cost up to $2,100.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns usually range from $1,700 to $2,500.
- Full metal crowns, such as gold or high-noble alloys, range from $1,800 to $4,700.
Several factors can influence these costs:
- Crowns made from high-end materials or that require detailed colour matching may be priced higher.
- Same-day dental crowns, made using CAD/CAM technology, may have different pricing based on the dental clinic’s equipment and lab processes.
- Tooth location, bite strength, and cosmetic goals can affect the choice of material, which in turn affects cost.
Your dentist can provide a personalised treatment plan and written cost estimate before proceeding with care. If you have private health cover, your provider can explain what portion of treatment costs may be included in your plan.
Comfort and Sensitivity
Both metal and porcelain crowns can feel comfortable once fitted properly. However, there are some material-based differences that patients may notice.
Metal crowns tend to be thinner than porcelain crowns. As a result:
- They often preserve more of the natural tooth during preparation.
- They conduct temperature more easily, which may cause mild sensitivity to hot or cold in some people.
- They usually adapt well to the shape of the tooth and bite.
Porcelain crowns are thicker and may require more tooth structure to be removed. In general:
- They are less likely to cause temperature sensitivity.
- Their smooth, polished surface can feel comfortable against the tongue and surrounding teeth.
- They may be a better choice for patients who are more sensitive to metal.
Comfort is affected by how well the crown fits, how the bite feels after placement, and the overall condition of your gums and neighbouring teeth. Most patients adapt quickly once the crown is adjusted and cemented.
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Choosing the right crown involves more than just selecting a material. It’s about balancing function, appearance, budget, and your unique dental needs. There is no single crown type that suits everyone.
Dentists and patients work together to make these decisions. This process includes a full assessment of your oral health, as well as a discussion about your goals and preferences.
Each crown material comes with a set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these will help you feel more confident during your consultation.
Important Factors to Consider
When deciding between crown options, it’s helpful to think about how the crown will be used and what matters most to you. These are some common factors your dentist will consider and discuss with you:
- Tooth location plays a key role, as back teeth need to handle strong chewing forces, while front teeth may require more focus on aesthetics.
- Bite strength and grinding habits can influence whether a more durable material is recommended.
- Appearance goals matter, especially for teeth that show when you smile. Porcelain crowns are often chosen for their aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Budget and cost considerations will also be discussed. Different materials and techniques come with varying cost implications.
- Tooth condition also affects the choice. If the tooth is worn down, has filling material, or is a broken tooth, some materials may offer better support.
- Personal preferences and comfort with certain materials (such as avoiding metal) are also part of the conversation.
There is no single crown type that suits everyone. The choice depends on your goals, oral health status, and what will work well for your specific case.
The Consultation Process
Your dentist will guide you through the decision-making process. This begins with a thorough assessment of your tooth and overall oral health.
The process typically includes the following steps:
- A clinical examination will be performed. If needed, dental X-rays will be taken to assess the tooth’s structure, the health of your gums, and the condition of surrounding teeth that may be affected by chewing pressure.
- You will have a conversation about your individual goals and preferences. This may include your desired appearance, how strong the crown needs to be, or whether you’d like to preserve as much natural tooth as possible.
- Your dentist will explain the different types of dental crowns available. They will go over the advantages and disadvantages of each option, such as ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or gold.
- Based on your oral health and personal priorities, your dentist will provide a tailored recommendation. This guidance will aim to support both the long-term function and appearance of your tooth.
You may wish to ask your dentist questions like:
- Will this crown help protect teeth from further damage?
- What are the cost considerations for each option?
- How long is each type of crown expected to last with proper care?
- Are there any concerns about gum recession, sensitivity, or compatibility with neighbouring teeth?
This is a shared decision-making process. Your input matters as much as the clinical findings.
Modern Alternatives and Hybrid Options
In addition to traditional metal or porcelain crowns, there are now hybrid materials that combine the strength and protection of metal with the natural aesthetics of ceramic.
Some of the most common options include:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns use a metal base covered by a porcelain exterior. These are strong and offer better aesthetics than full metal crowns.
- Porcelain-fused-to-zirconia crowns use zirconia as the base instead of metal. This can reduce the chance of a dark line appearing at the gum line.
- Zirconia crowns made with modern CAD/CAM systems offer exceptional strength and a more natural-looking result, especially on visible teeth.
- Other new materials may offer unique benefits, such as less removal of the tooth or reduced wear on opposing teeth.
These options may help address issues like frequent replacement, the risk of chipping, or the need for stronger material in areas with heavy biting forces.
However, each has its set of trade-offs. Your dentist will help you understand how these compare to other crown materials in terms of performance, appearance, and cost implications.
Final Thoughts
Both metal and porcelain crowns have their place in dental care. Each offers different benefits depending on the tooth’s position, how much pressure it handles, and your goals for function and appearance.
So, are metal crowns better than porcelain crowns? The answer depends on your individual needs. Metal crowns may provide strength and support for back teeth. Porcelain crowns may be preferred for visible areas where appearance is important. The most appropriate choice will vary from person to person.
A personalised consultation helps determine which option suits your tooth, lifestyle, and oral health. At Ashburton Dental Centre, we take the time to explain your options clearly and answer any questions you may have.
This article is designed to offer general information. It does not replace personalised advice from your dental professional.
