In the past, metals were commonly used to make false teeth. While many metals and metal alloys are sturdy and resistant to corrosion, they don’t offer a natural look or feel. Today, patients in NYC and across the world can select zirconia, porcelain, ceramic, and resin crowns that offer much more natural looks.
Let’s compare the most common types of dental crown materials in New York.
Crowns Made With Zirconia
Many of our patients in NYC are opting for zirconia, or zirconium oxide, crowns. Zirconia is a type of ceramic but it’s different than porcelain and other common ceramics used for crowns. Quite simply, zirconia is much stronger and resistant to wear and tear. Zirconia crowns typically last for a long time and are currently the “gold standard” for crowns.
Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns in New York City
Porcelain is actually a type of ceramic, which is a nonorganic, nonmetal material that is shaped and treated with high heat. This provides flexibility and strength. Porcelain is a popular choice for crowns because it can be fused with metals. This means you can enjoy a natural-looking porcelain exterior while also leaning on the strength of metals.
A porcelain and metal crown may cost a bit more than a pure ceramic crown. However, it is typically more sturdy and may last longer. If you lead a busy lifestyle, say playing sports, a porcelain and metal crown can provide peace of mind owing to its durability.
Ceramic Crowns
Many ceramic crowns also use porcelain. However, other ceramic materials may also be used. Typically, when someone refers to a ceramic crown, they mean one that is purely ceramic rather than bonded to metals. Pure ceramic crowns are often a bit more affordable than porcelain and metal crowns and zirconia. These pure ceramic crowns may not be as durable, but they are still hardy dental crowns that will last a long time and are relatively easy to care for.
If you live in or near Brooklyn and would like to learn more about the differences between porcelain and metal browns and pure ceramic crowns, get in touch with Cosmopolitan Dental of Brooklyn.
All-Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are typically the most affordable type of crown in NYC. They are made with resins that are similar to everyday plastics. All-resin crowns are relatively cheap to make, and that cost-savings can be passed on to dental patients. Resin crowns aren’t as durable as porcelain and ceramic crowns, and especially, porcelain-fused-to-metal or zirconia crowns. However, resin crowns are still quite durable and easy to care for.
