Gold dental crowns vs. ceramic dental crowns: Choosing the material for dental crowns (tooth caps) can be very confusing. This is because there are four different options (gold dental crowns, metal-ceramic crowns, all-ceramic crowns, and zirconia-ceramic crowns), and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Before we clarify the differences and similarities, let’s consider what you should discuss with your dentist in Zagreb before deciding which dental crowns to choose:

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  • Can they be used on all teeth?
    Some dental crowns are intended for molars or “back teeth.” This is important to keep in mind when discussing your options.
  • Which crown is the strongest for the position of the tooth?
    Some crowns are very resistant to breaking, while others still carry a risk of fracture. Certain crowns add strength to the tooth, while others do not. It’s important to know which option will provide the strength needed for a functional bite.
  • Will it look good?
    Although aesthetics are secondary to functionality, you will wear the crown for many years, so you will want it to look natural and aesthetically pleasing, similar to a real tooth.
Gold dental crowns

Gold dental crowns are the most conservative material for crown replacement and also the most expensive. However, gold is a very “friendly” material for the oral cavity. It requires removal of a minimal amount of tooth structure during preparation.

Gold never fractures and is extremely biocompatible in the mouth. It also has antibacterial properties and helps protect teeth from secondary decay, which is a common problem under dental crowns.

However, gold is very noticeable and stands out next to natural white teeth, which makes it most suitable for back teeth, preferably as an inlay or onlay solution.

If you still decide on gold crowns, modern dentistry also offers crowns with a gold base coated with ceramic on the outside. Such crowns can be acceptable as circular bridges or single crowns, even in the front region.

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Metal-ceramic dental crowns

Metal-ceramic crowns have a metal base coated with ceramic that matches the color of the tooth.

They offer excellent strength thanks to the metal base and are also the most economical solution for replacing a dental crown.

However, because gums tend to recede with age in many patients, the dark metal edge can become visible near the gum line over time.

Dentist Ivan Antolković from Zagreb recommends metal-ceramic crowns for back teeth.

All-ceramic dental crowns (Emax/Empress)

All-ceramic crowns are becoming increasingly popular in aesthetic dentistry due to their high aesthetics, durability, and strength.

They are most commonly used on front teeth to achieve the natural appearance and transparency of a real tooth.

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Zirconia-ceramic dental crowns

Zirconia-ceramic crowns stand out for their excellent aesthetics, strength, and biocompatibility.

They are an ideal solution for all tooth positions, which is why they are considered the best material for full circular dental bridges (for example, a bridge made of 12 crowns).

As you can see, there are truly many different solutions and materials for replacing your dental crown. It is important to consult with your dentist, Ivan Antolković, to determine which option best suits your wishes and possibilities.

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Don’t forget that teeth are an integral part of your body –
 and you have the possibility to restore them! 🦷