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What Are Crowns Made
Of?
Crowns are most often made of gold or porcelain. Crowns also can be made
of stainless steel, but those crowns are often temporary and not
designed for long-term wear.
Porcelain crowns usually are built on a metal base, which fits snugly
over the natural tooth. Your dentist will choose a porcelain that
matches the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns usually are so
carefully matched in color, they cannot be distinguished from your
natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns for the cosmetic
appearance and the confidence it gives them.
New materials are now available that allow the use of "all-ceramic"
crowns in some cases. They have a beautiful life-like appearance and
short-term studies support their success, with long-term trials ongoing.
Crowns also can be made of all gold. Some people prefer not to use gold
because it stands out from the other teeth in appearance. At the same
time, if the crown is on a back molar, some people feel the cosmetic
issue is not a big one. Your dentist will discuss the types of materials
available if a crown is recommended.
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