Metals have been used for dental crowns longer than any other material, and they’re still being used today because of their durability and cost-effectiveness. If you think a metal crown may be best for your damaged tooth, we’ll break down the benefits and disadvantages to ensure you end up with a crown that makes you smile.
What Are the Benefits of Metal Crowns?
Metals are popular for crowns because they’re strong and tend to be more affordable than other tooth capping options. Their durability also makes them a great material choice for your back teeth because they take on more pressure when you chew than your other teeth do.
Gold alloy crowns are a mix of gold and another metal – usually copper, zinc, platinum, silver, or palladium. Gold alloys bond extremely securely to teeth, won’t fracture or wear, and won’t wear down surrounding teeth.
Base metal alloys like nickel and chromium are strong and highly resistant to corrosion, too. Base metal caps require the least amount of healthy enamel to adhere to, making them a good choice for extremely decayed or broken teeth.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a metal crown can last anywhere from five to fifteen years, depending on wear and tear.
What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Crowns?
If you want your crown to look like your actual tooth, metal probably isn’t the material choice for you. That’s why metal caps are most often used for the back teeth, where they are less visible. If you need a crown near the front of your mouth and don’t mind having a shiny, reflective tooth surface, then metal could still be a great option.
If you’re allergic to metal, you’ll want to communicate that with your dental professional. If you already have a crown and believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction, contact your dental professional right away.