Dental crowns are protective caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, strength, and appearance. There are several types of dental crowns, including porcelain or ceramic crowns that offer a natural look, metal crowns known for their durability, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns that balance strength and aesthetics, and zirconia crowns that provide both high strength and a tooth-like appearance. The right type of crown depends on the tooth’s location, bite pressure, cosmetic needs, and budget. A dentist can help select the most suitable crown to ensure long-lasting protection and a comfortable, natural smile.
Types of Dental Crowns: A Complete Guide
- Published on :
- Last updated: January 30, 2026
Dental crowns are one of the most reliable and commonly used treatments in restorative dentistry. If a tooth is damaged, weakened, or heavily filled, a crown can protect it, restore its shape, and help it function normally again. At Summit Dental Clinic, patients often ask a simple but important question: What type of dental crown is best for me?
This guide explains the types of dental crowns, how they differ, when each is used, and how dentists decide which option is right for you.
What Is a Dental Crown?
Restore strength and structure
Protect a weak or cracked tooth
Improve appearance
Once cemented, a crown functions like a natural tooth and allows you to bite, chew, and smile with confidence.
Why Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Worn-down teeth from grinding
Misshapen or discoloured teeth
Replacement of a missing tooth using an implant
Choosing the right type of dental crown depends on location, function, durability needs, and aesthetics.
Types of Dental Crowns Explained
There are several types of dental crowns, each with its own advantages. Below is a clear breakdown.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from alloys containing gold, palladium, or other metals.
Best suited for:
Back teeth (molars)
Advantages:
Extremely strong and long-lasting
Resistant to wear and fractures
Require minimal tooth removal
Limitations:
Metallic colour makes them visible
Not suitable for front teeth
Metal crowns are often chosen when durability is more important than appearance.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns have a metal core covered with porcelain.
Best suited for:
Front or back teeth, where strength and appearance are both needed
Advantages:
Strong metal base
Tooth-coloured outer layer
Good balance of durability and aesthetics
Limitations:
Porcelain may chip over time
Dark metal lines can appear near the gum
PFM crowns were once the most commonly used option and are still suitable in certain cases.
All-Ceramic / All-Porcelain Crowns
These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain without metal.
Best suited for:
Front teeth
Patients prioritising aesthetics
Advantages:
Closest match to natural tooth colour
No metal, ideal for sensitive gums
Excellent cosmetic results
Limitations:
Less durable than metal-based crowns
Not ideal for heavy biting forces
All-ceramic crowns are preferred when appearance is the top priority.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a very strong ceramic material.
Best suited for:
Both front and back teeth
Advantages:
Extremely strong and durable
Natural-looking appearance
Less tooth reduction is required
Biocompatible and metal-free
Limitations:
Slightly higher cost than basic options
Zirconia crowns are increasingly popular because they combine strength and aesthetics.
E-Max (Lithium Disilicate) Crowns
E-max crowns are a type of high-strength ceramic crown.
Best suited for:
Front teeth and premolars
Advantages:
Highly aesthetic and translucent
Stronger than traditional porcelain
Excellent colour matching
Limitations:
Not recommended for very heavy bite forces
E-max crowns are often chosen for smile-zone restorations.
Stainless Steel Crowns (Temporary)
These are prefabricated metal crowns, mainly used in children.
Best suited for:
Temporary use
Baby teeth in children
Advantages:
Cost-effective
Quick placement
Limitations:
Not permanent
Poor aesthetics
Comparison Table: Types of Dental Crowns
| Crown Type | Strength | Appearance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Metal |
Very High |
Poor |
Back teeth |
PFM |
High |
Moderate |
Front & back |
All-Ceramic |
Moderate |
Excellent |
Front teeth |
Zirconia |
Very High |
Excellent |
Any tooth |
E-max |
High |
Excellent |
Front & premolars |
Stainless Steel |
Temporary |
Poor |
Children |
How Dentists Choose the Right Crown
The best crown is not the same for everyone. Dentists consider:
Location of the tooth
Bite force and chewing pressure
Aesthetic expectations
Gum health
Budget considerations
Existing dental restorations
A proper clinical evaluation ensures the crown functions well and lasts longer.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With good oral care, dental crowns typically last:
10–15 years on average
Zirconia and metal crowns may last longer
Regular dental check-ups, good brushing habits, and avoiding hard biting can extend crown lifespan.
Caring for Dental Crowns
Crowns do not decay, but the underlying tooth can. Proper care includes:
Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
When Should You Replace a Crown?
A crown may need replacement if you notice:
Pain or sensitivity
Cracks or chipping
Loose crown
Gum irritation around the crown
Early evaluation prevents further damage.
