If you have decayed or damaged teeth, dental crowns are a great way to restore your smile and protect your teeth. Zirconia and gold dental crowns are two common choices, each with distinct advantages. Gold has been in dental restorations for a long time. On the contrary, zirconia is a newer material. Both materials work well but they have some differences. So, it can become difficult to choose the best fit for you.
In this article, we’ll compare zirconia vs gold dental crowns. We’ll also look at differences like strength, biocompatibility, cost, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia dental crowns are a modern type of crown made of zirconium dioxide which is a strong ceramic material. They are known for their strength and durability. In terms of aesthetics, zirconia crowns blend seamlessly with teeth.
Types of Zirconia crowns
Different types of zirconia crowns are available based on the types of Zirconia Material used in the manufacturing. Here are the main types:
- Monolithic Zirconia: Solid or monolithic zirconia dental crowns are cut from a solid block using computer-aided design (CAD) and milling (CAM) technology. Monolithic zirconia is very durable. Aizir by Aidite is a high-strength zirconia block. It has impressive features like high translucency and compatibility with digital workflow systems.
- Layered Zirconia: This type of zirconia dental crown crown combines a zirconia base with a porcelain or ceramic layer on top. The top layer makes it suitable for anterior restorations.
- High Translucent Zirconia: High translucent zirconia is made to increase the translucency of zirconia. These zirconia crowns have both aesthetics and strength.
Pros of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia dental crowns have the following advantages:
- Zirconia dental crowns are tooth colored which makes them an excellent choice for visible areas like front teeth.
- Zirconia is a safe option for patients with metal allergies.
- They are highly resistant to stains and maintain their appearance over time.
Cons of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns have the following disadvantages:
- There are not enough studies to support the durability of zirconia.
- The hardness of zirconia can cause wear on opposing teeth.
- Zirconia is not as translucent as natural teeth or porcelain.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for decades. They are made from gold alloys, often mixed with metals like copper or platinum. Gold crowns can handle pressure well. They are recommended for back teeth. Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of gold crowns:
Pros of Gold Crowns
- Exceptional Durability: Gold crowns have a high level of durability and can resist chewing and grinding, especially in posterior teeth. They hardly chip off or break down.
- Longevity: With proper maintenance, gold crowns can last for more than 20 years. In most cases, they outlast other crowns.
- Gentle on Opposing Teeth: Because gold is a soft metal, it will not cause wear on opposing teeth,
- Precise Fit: Gold crowns yield a high level of fit. Which means lesser opportunity for decay and bacterial growth.
Cons of Gold Crowns
- Aesthetic Concerns: Due to metallic luster gold crowns can stand out. So they are less suitable for front teeth.
- Tooth Preparation: To have gold crowns, a larger part of the tooth structure must be removed.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to metals. In that case, gold can cause adverse reactions.
- Higher Cost: When comparing zirconia vs gold dental crowns cost, gold crowns tend to be more expensive.
Zirconia vs Gold Dental Crowns
When deciding between zirconia vs gold dental crowns you should consider various factors. Here is a detailed comparison between both materials:
1. Aesthetics
- Zirconia: Zirconia is tooth-colored and it blends seamlessly with natural teeth. It is an ideal choice if aesthetics is your preference.
- Gold: Gold is not aesthetically pleasing. It looks very different from natural teeth. When comparing zirconia vs gold dental crowns in appearance zirconia wins.
2. Durability
- Zirconia: Zirconia has high flexural strength. Its strength makes it resistant to chipping or cracking.
- Gold: Gold is exceptionally durable and it can withstand heavy chewing forces. In zirconia vs gold crown strength gold is an ideal choice for molars.
3. Longevity
- Zirconia: With proper oral care zirconia dental crowns can last for up to 20 years.
- Gold: Gold is a very long-lasting crown material. It can often last for 30 years or more.
4. Comfort and Fit
- Zirconia: Zirconia dental crowns made using CAD/CAM technology have a very good fit. But as compared to gold they are less malleable.
- Gold: Dental crowns made of gold have a precise fit with minimized gaps. It reduces the risk of decay.
5. Impact on Opposing Teeth
- Zirconia: Zirconia is a hard material and its hardness can cause wear on opposing teeth.
- Gold: In the zirconia vs gold dental crown comparison gold is soft and gentle on opposing teeth.
6. Tooth Preparation
- Zirconia: Getting a zirconia dental crown requires less removal of natural tooth structure. In this way, your natural tooth structure remains preserved.
- Gold: Gold dental crowns require more tooth removal, which can be a downside for some patients.
7. Biocompatibility
- Zirconia: Zirconia is highly biocompatible and nonreactive. It is 100% metal-free and ideal for patients with metal allergies.
- Gold: Gold crowns are also highly biocompatible. Some people may have sensitivities to the alloys mixed with gold (such as nickel), but this is rare.
8. Cost
- Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are generally more affordable than gold crowns. They cost $1100 to $1500 per tooth.
- Gold: Gold crowns cost $1000 to $2500 per tooth. They are more expensive than zirconia crowns.
9. Maintenance
- Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are low-maintenance. Once placed, they tend to require less care compared to some other crowns. They are durable and resistant to staining.
- Gold: Gold crowns also require little maintenance due to their smooth surface and durability. Regular brushing and flossing are usually sufficient to keep them in good condition.
Zirconia vs Gold Dental Crown: Which is Better For You?
Zirconia crowns are a good choice if you’re seeking something natural and strong. They are ideal for the front teeth because they blend in perfectly with them. They also endure well if you grind your teeth a lot.
In contrast, gold crowns are all about dependability and longevity. They are a fantastic choice for the back teeth, where appearance is less of an issue. They are renowned for their extended lifespan and low maintenance requirements. Because they are smooth, they are also kind to the teeth around them. Depending on what you want, each material has different advantages.
Conclusion
When choosing between zirconia vs gold dental crowns, it’s important to consider both your aesthetic goals and functional needs. Zirconia offers an appealing blend of strength and beauty. It is a solid option for those prioritizing a natural look. Gold remains a staple for its unmatched durability and reliability, especially in high-pressure areas. Aizir by Aidite is a zirconia material combining higher translucency and compatibility with digital workflows. Which makes it a great choice for patients looking for both strength and a more refined appearance. Ultimately, whether you go with zirconia or gold, both materials offer lasting solutions for restoring your smile.