What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is permanently fixed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. There are several types of dental crowns available — including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and gold alloy — each suited to different clinical needs and aesthetic goals. Choosing the right crown depends on the location of the tooth, your bite, your budget, and your personal preferences.
What Is a Dental Crown and How Does It Work?
A dental crown fully encases a tooth above the gum line, acting as a protective shell. The process typically involves two visits: the first to prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of structure and taking an impression, and the second to fit and cement the permanent crown. A temporary crown is placed between visits to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent restoration is fabricated in a dental laboratory.
At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team will assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate crown material for your situation.
Why Might You Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are one of the most versatile restorations in dentistry. Your dentist may recommend a crown for any of the following reasons:
- To protect a weakened or frail tooth from fracturing
- To hold together the parts of a cracked tooth
- To restore a broken, severely decayed, or injured tooth
- To cover a tooth following a large filling or root canal treatment
- To serve as an anchor for a dental bridge
- To correct a severely discoloured or misshapen tooth
- To complete a dental implant restoration
Types of Dental Crowns: A Detailed Comparison
Each crown material has distinct advantages. Below is a breakdown of the most common types used in modern dentistry.
1. Ceramic (All-Porcelain) Crowns
Best for: Front teeth and patients with metal allergies.
Ceramic crowns are made entirely from porcelain and are widely regarded as the most aesthetically pleasing option. They mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel and can be colour-matched precisely to the surrounding teeth. Because they contain no metal, they are an excellent choice for patients with metal sensitivities. However, they are generally less durable under heavy biting forces than metal-containing alternatives, so they are most commonly recommended for front teeth.
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Best for: Front or back teeth where both strength and aesthetics are needed.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer a balance of durability and natural appearance. A metal substructure provides structural strength, while a porcelain outer layer gives the crown a tooth-like colour. Over time, a thin dark line may become visible at the gum line as gums naturally recede — a minor aesthetic consideration your dentist will discuss with you. PFM crowns remain a reliable and widely used option in Calgary and across Canada.
3. Gold Alloy Crowns
Best for: Back teeth (molars) where strength and longevity are priorities.
Gold alloy crowns are composed of gold, copper, and other metals. They are exceptionally strong, biocompatible, and gentle on opposing teeth. While not a cosmetic choice, gold crowns are highly durable — often lasting 20 or more years with proper care — making them a practical option for back molars that endure significant chewing forces. Some patients in Calgary NW specifically request gold crowns for their proven long-term performance.
4. Base Metal Alloy Crowns
Best for: Back teeth requiring maximum strength.
These crowns are made from non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion and wear. They require the least amount of tooth structure to be removed prior to placement and are very strong. Their metallic appearance generally limits their use to back teeth that are not visible when smiling.
5. Zirconia Crowns
Best for: Patients seeking strength and aesthetics for any tooth.
Zirconia is a newer, increasingly popular crown material that offers exceptional strength comparable to metal, combined with a natural tooth-coloured appearance. Zirconia crowns can be milled from a solid block using CAD/CAM technology, meaning some practices can produce them faster than traditional laboratory-fabricated crowns. They are an excellent all-around option for both front and back teeth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, most dental crowns last between 10 and 30 years, depending on the material used and how well they are maintained. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental hygiene visits are essential to maximising the lifespan of your crown. Avoiding hard foods, ice chewing, and teeth grinding will also help protect your restoration over time.
Dental Crown vs. Other Restorations
A crown may not always be the first treatment option. Depending on the extent of damage, your dentist may consider alternatives such as composite white fillings or dental inlays and onlays for moderate tooth damage. Your licensed dentist will always recommend the most conservative and effective solution for your specific situation.
Book a Crown Consultation at Expressions Dental Calgary
If you think you may need a dental crown — or if you have a damaged tooth that needs attention — the licensed dental team at Expressions Dental in Calgary NW is here to help. We offer a full range of crown options, personalised treatment planning, and flexible payment solutions including dental financing and direct insurance billing.
Ready to restore your smile? Learn more about dental crowns at Expressions Dental or contact our Calgary NW clinic to book your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most natural-looking type of dental crown?
All-ceramic (porcelain) and zirconia crowns are considered the most natural-looking options because they closely mimic the colour and translucency of real tooth enamel. They can be precisely shade-matched to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth. Your dentist will help you choose the best aesthetic option based on the location and function of the tooth being crowned.
How do I know which type of dental crown is right for me?
The best crown material depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the strength required, your bite, any metal allergies, and your aesthetic preferences. For example, ceramic or zirconia crowns are often recommended for front teeth, while gold or base metal alloy crowns are frequently chosen for back molars. Your licensed dentist at Expressions Dental Calgary NW will assess all of these factors and recommend the most suitable option during your consultation.
How long does it take to get a dental crown in Calgary?
In most cases, a traditional dental crown requires two appointments spaced one to two weeks apart. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared and an impression is taken; a temporary crown is placed while your permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory. At your second appointment, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is fitted and cemented. Some clinics offering CAD/CAM technology may be able to provide same-day crowns in certain situations.
Are dental crowns covered by insurance in Canada?
Dental crown coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Many Canadian dental benefit plans provide partial coverage for crowns, particularly when they are deemed clinically necessary. The team at Expressions Dental Calgary NW offers direct insurance billing to help maximise your benefits and can provide a treatment cost estimate before your procedure. We also offer dental financing options for patients who require additional payment flexibility.
Do dental crowns require special care?
Dental crowns do not require any special maintenance beyond a thorough daily oral hygiene routine. You should brush twice daily, floss around the crown carefully, and attend regular professional cleanings with your dental hygienist. It is advisable to avoid chewing very hard foods, ice, or sticky substances that could dislodge or crack the crown. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect your crown from excessive wear.
Can a dental crown be placed on top of a dental implant?
Yes — a crown is the most common restoration placed on top of a dental implant. The implant post acts as an artificial tooth root, and once healing is complete, a custom crown is attached to restore the full appearance and function of the missing tooth. If you are exploring dental implant options in Calgary NW, Expressions Dental offers a complete range of implant-supported restorations.
What happens if a crowned tooth becomes damaged or the crown falls off?
If your dental crown is damaged, loose, or falls off, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible, as the underlying tooth may be vulnerable to further damage or sensitivity. Expressions Dental Calgary NW offers emergency dental care for situations like this. Do not attempt to re-cement a crown at home with household adhesives, as this can make professional repair more difficult.