What are crowns made of? We will likely recommend the material that we use for your crown. There are several options that we use for crowns: The most common type of crown that we recommend is a zirconium oxide (zirconia) crown. It is a tooth-colored material, so it looks like natural tooth structure, but it is also very strong. It is strong enough to be used on the back chewing teeth (molars and premolars). This crown material is the best of both worlds, being both strong and esthetic. The strongest possible material for a crown is a gold alloy. For some people this is the best option for their back molars, if they have a very strong bite or grinding habits. Gold crowns will not fracture and are very durable. They, however, are not tooth colored. We will use these crowns occasionally if the situation warrants and the patient agrees. Another type of crown that we use frequently on front teeth is a monolithic porcelain crown called eMax. We will typically use this crown on front teeth, canines, and sometimes premolars. This is the crown we use when esthetics and beauty are paramount. It is not quite as strong as zirconia but produces very beautiful results and can mimic natural tooth structure to a high degree.

What are bridges? Bridges are crowns that replace missing teeth. The teeth on either side of a missing tooth are shaped for crowns and a replacement tooth is connected in the middle. The replacement tooth is called a “pontic.” Bridges are cemented into your mouth just like crowns and are a way to replace missing teeth. Bridges can replace one, two, or sometimes even more teeth depending on the situation. We can guide you through the possibilities and costs of the process. Just give us a call and set up an appointment to discuss the possibilities.

The Colgate website has additional information about crowns and bridges if you are interested.