I need a dental crown on tooth number four. My dentist wants me to get an all ceramic one,  think zirconia. But, those cost more money (shocker). I just want to get the porcelain fused to metal one because I don’t see any cosmetic/esthetic value in putting the other on tooth number 4. Maybe a front tooth, but not number 4. Why spend the extra money?

Grady

Dear Grady,

 

There are two things you need to be aware of when it comes to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. First, is they need to be made more opaque in order to cover the metal base. This tends to give them a dense chalky look. The second thing to be aware of is they will all eventually develop a black line at the gumline. Many consider this to be unsightly and a bit distracting. All-porcelain crowns do not have this problem. Neither do all ceramic crowns. One benefit of zirconia crowns is not only are they all ceramic, but they also are strong enough to use on back teeth.

Tooth number four is still in what dentists consider the smile zone. That means it is visible when you smile. Because of that, I disagree with the idea that there is no cosmetic benefit to using an all-porcelain crown. That being said, it is your smile, your money, and your choice. Your dentist is obligated to advise you on every option available to you, but he should be willing to allow you to make the final choice. Not all dentists will, however. Because your smile reflects on their business, there may be dentists who will only do procedures that will leave you with a beautiful smile.

If you really want the metal based crown, you can get it, but you may have to see a different dentist to do the work.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.