What Materials Are Used for Crowns and Bridges?

 

Crowns and bridges are two of the most commonly used dental restorations, helping to restore the form, function, and aesthetics of damaged or missing teeth. Whether you're an athlete concerned about performance or a professional seeking a confident smile, understanding the materials used in crown and bridge treatments is essential. Each material offers unique benefits in terms of durability, appearance, and cost.

In this article, we’ll explore the most popular materials used for dental crowns and bridges, their pros and cons, and how they affect the crown and bridge cost.

What Are Crowns and Bridges?

Before diving into materials, let’s briefly define what crowns and bridges are:

• Crown: A tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or worn-down tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance.
• Bridge: A fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth or implants.

Why Does Material Matter?

The material used in your crown and bridge affects several key factors:

• Aesthetics (how natural it looks)
• Strength and durability
• Biocompatibility
• Longevity
• Cost
• Suitability for specific locations (front vs. back teeth)
• Lifestyle compatibility (especially for athletes or people who grind their teeth)

Choosing the right material is a collaborative decision between you and your dentist, tailored to your dental health, budget, and aesthetic goals.

Common Materials Used in Crowns and Bridges

1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)

Overview: A popular choice for decades, PFM crowns combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain.

Pros:

• Strong and durable
• Aesthetic (matches tooth color)
• More affordable than all-ceramic crowns

Cons:

• May show a dark metal line near the gum line over time
• Porcelain can chip or wear down adjacent teeth

Best for: Back teeth, or where a balance between strength and appearance is needed.

Crown and bridge cost: Moderate. PFM crowns typically range from $800–$1,500 per tooth.

2. All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain

Overview: These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain without any metal base.

Pros:

• Excellent aesthetics – closest to natural tooth appearance
• Biocompatible (no metal allergies)
• Ideal for people with metal sensitivities

Cons:

• Not as strong as metal-based options
• May fracture under heavy bite force

Best for: Front teeth, high-aesthetic areas

Crown and bridge cost: Generally higher, around $1,000–$2,500 per unit, due to the material and craftsmanship.

3. Zirconia Crowns

Overview: Zirconia is a type of ceramic known for its exceptional strength and durability.

Pros:

• Very strong – suitable for both front and back teeth
• Excellent biocompatibility
• Can be translucent for natural aesthetics
• Less tooth reduction is needed

Cons:

• Higher cost
• May be too opaque for some front teeth

Best for: Molars, athletes, or those who grind their teeth (bruxism)

Crown and bridge cost: $1,000–$2,000 per tooth. High-performance zirconia may cost more.

4. E-Max (Lithium Disilicate)

Overview: E-Max crowns are made from lithium dislocated glass-ceramic, known for both beauty and strength.

Pros:

• Highly aesthetic
• Durable for front and some back teeth
• Minimally invasive preparation

Cons:

• May not be suitable for patients with a firm bite
• Can be expensive

Best for: Front teeth, patients seeking high-end cosmetic restorations

Crown and bridge cost: $1,200–$2,500 per unit

5. Gold Alloys

Overview: Gold crowns have been used for over a century due to their unmatched durability and biocompatibility.

Pros:

• Very durable and long-lasting
• Gentle on opposing teeth
• Won’t chip or fracture

Cons:

• Not aesthetic (visible gold color)
• Higher cost depending on the market gold price

Best for: Back molars, patients prioritizing function over looks

Crown and bridge cost: $1,000–$2,500+, depending on gold content and weight.

How to Choose the Right Crown and Bridge Material

1. Location of the Tooth

• Front teeth: Aesthetics are key — consider all-porcelain, E-Max, or zirconia.
• Back teeth: Strength matters — zirconia, PFM, or gold are better options.

2. Bite Force and Habits

• Do you grind your teeth or play contact sports? Go for zirconia or gold.
• Use a night guard if you’re an athlete or bruxer to protect your restorations.

3. Budget

• If you're cost-conscious, PFM crowns offer good value.
• Zirconia provides a balance of aesthetics and durability at a mid-range price.

4. Aesthetic Preference

• For a natural look, E-Max or all-ceramic are top-tier.
• Avoid metal-based crowns for visible front teeth unless necessary.

Crown and Bridge Cost Breakdown by Material

The cost of crowns and bridges depends mainly on the type of material used. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are often the most cost-effective, typically ranging between $800 and $1,500 per tooth. If you prefer a more natural appearance, all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns offer superior aesthetics but come at a higher price point, generally between $1,000 and $2,500 per tooth.

For those seeking a balance between strength and appearance, zirconia crowns are a popular choice and usually cost between $1,000 and $2,000. E-Max crowns, made from lithium disilicate, are known for their cosmetic appeal and durability, with prices ranging from $1,200 to $2,500.

Lastly, gold crowns, while highly durable and long-lasting, vary in price based on the gold content and current market rates. They typically cost between $1,000 and $2,500 or more per tooth.

Keep in mind, these figures are general estimates. They can fluctuate depending on factors such as your location, the complexity of the procedure, and your dentist’s fees. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost, so it’s worth checking with your provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Which crown is best for athletes?

A: Zirconia or gold crowns are ideal for athletes due to their high strength and resistance to fracture. Use a sports mouthguard for additional protection.

Q2: How long do crowns and bridges last?

A: With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10–20 years or longer. Material choice, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits all influence longevity.

Q3: Are zirconia crowns better than porcelain?

A: Zirconia is stronger and better suited for high-stress areas. Porcelain offers better aesthetics, especially for front teeth. The best choice depends on your needs.

Q4: Can I get insurance for crown and bridge work?

A: Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of crown and bridge procedures. Check with your provider for specific benefits and eligibility.

Q5: Do crowns and bridges feel like natural teeth?

A: Yes. Once placed and adjusted, most patients can't tell the difference between crowns/bridges and their natural teeth in terms of feel and function.

Choosing the right material for your crown and bridge isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about long-term durability, functionality, and comfort. Whether you’re an athlete protecting your teeth on the field or a busy professional aiming for a confident smile, the material you choose plays a key role.

Talk to your dentist about your specific goals, lifestyle, and budget. With the right choice, your restoration can last for decades and improve both your oral health and quality of life.