Description

A metal crown is a dental restoration made primarily from durable metals or metal alloys, designed to cover and protect a damaged tooth while providing superior strength and longevity. Metal crowns are commonly used for molars and back teeth due to their ability to withstand heavy chewing forces and resist wear over time. They may be recommended when durability outweighs the need for aesthetics.​ Common Metal Crown Materials Gold alloy: Combines gold, copper, and other metals for excellent biocompatibility and corrosion resistance.​ Silver alloy: Includes silver, tin, and other metals, offering affordability and durability, though may discolor over time.​ Platinum and Palladium alloys: Strong, corrosion-resistant options sometimes combined with gold for added durability.​ Base metal alloys: Typically include nickel, chromium, cobalt, and sometimes titanium for strength and cost-effectiveness.​ Key Features and Benefits Metal crowns are incredibly strong, reliable, and very long-lasting—making them ideal for molars and posterior teeth.​ They rarely chip or break and can tolerate extensive bite forces. Due to their metallic appearance, they are less common for visible front teeth where aesthetics are important.​ Metal crowns resist corrosion and provide excellent long-term protection for restored teeth.​ They provide a high-value solution when durability and function are more important than appearance.​ Other Options Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer the strength of a metal base with an aesthetic porcelain overlay for a natural look, mostly used for visible teeth.​ Pure ceramic, zirconia, and composite resin crowns are available for those seeking natural tooth color or metal-free options.​ Metal crowns remain a popular and reliable choice for dental restoration where strength and longevity are priorities