If you need a dental crown to repair a broken or decayed tooth, you may be wondering what your options are. Many people think there are only two options: metal and natural. However, there are actually four. Before getting a dental crown, it’s important to understand your options and choose one that’s right for your health and budget. To help make the right decision, consult the guide below.

Understanding the Different Types of Dental Crowns

1. Base Metal Alloy

Base metal alloy dental crowns are strong and durable, as they are resistant to corrosion. They cause little damage to the opposing teeth and require little, if any, removal of the remaining healthy tissues. They are one of the cheapest dental restorations available, but they are not the most aesthetically pleasing, so they’re best reserved for restoring back molars that are less visible.

2. Gold Alloy

Gold alloy crowns are actually made of more than just gold. These crowns may also include copper and some other metals. They are durable, gentle on the opposing teeth and gums, and strengthen the remaining tooth structure. Gold dental crowns are more expensive than base metal ones, though, and they look unnatural, so they are also best suited for back teeth.

3. Porcelain Fused to Metal

Porcelain fused to metal, or PFM, crowns use a metal base with a porcelain outer layer. This provides the strength and durability of the metal, while the porcelain provides the patient with a more natural-looking smile. This type is stronger than porcelain alone and is long lasting, but requires the dentist to remove a moderate amount of the remaining healthy tissues.

4. Ceramic

All-ceramic dental crowns have become more popular as ceramic technologies have advanced. Although they provide the most natural appearance possible, they aren’t as durable as the other three options. Ceramic crowns are generally recommended to restore front-facing teeth, as the ceramic can precisely match the natural shade of the surrounding teeth, making the crown virtually invisible.

If you need help deciding which dental crown is right for you, enlist the help of Joy K. Lunan, DDS, in Middlebury, CT. She will evaluate your dental needs and listen to your goals and budget before making a recommendation. Her goal is to give you a smile that is not only healthier, but also beautiful. Visit her website to view all the services she offers, including teeth cleanings, veneers, and dental implants, and give her office a call at (203) 598-7920 to schedule an appointment today.