Full Metal Crown: Pros and Cons of Full Metal Crown

Among the different types of crowns are porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns, full metal crowns, and zirconia crowns. You want a full metal crown, but consider  why a full metal crown?  Here is some information to help you.

A full metal crown is also known as a metal crown or metal alloy crown and is a type of dental crown. Unlike other types of crowns, which may incorporate a combination of materials like porcelain or ceramic for a more natural appearance, full metal crowns are primarily made of metal alloys. Full metal crowns are used to restore and protect heavily damaged or decayed teeth, especially in the back of the mouth, due to their strength and durability. They are known for making them a suitable choice for situations where durability is a primary concern.

Full metal crown preparation

 The process of full metal crown preparation:

•  Examination and Diagnosis: The dentist will first examine the tooth to assess the extent of damage or decay and determine whether a crown is the appropriate treatment option.
•  Local Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, ensuring the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
•  Tooth Reduction: The dentist will use specialized dental instruments to remove any decayed or damaged portions of the tooth. Then, the tooth is reshaped to create space for the crown. This involves reducing the tooth’s size by removing a portion of its outer structure.
•  Impression: After the tooth is prepared, an impression of the tooth and the surrounding teeth is taken using dental putty or digital scanning technology. This impression serves as a mold for creating the crown.
•  Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being fabricated at a dental laboratory. This temporary crown is usually made of acrylic or other temporary materials.
•  Crown Fabrication: In the dental laboratory, the full metal crown is custom-made based on the impression. Metal alloys are cast and shaped into the final crown design.
•  Crown Cementation: Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is placed over the prepared tooth. The dentist will check for proper fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics before permanently cementing the crown in place.

 Pros and Cons of a Full Metal Crown

 Full metal crowns have both advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of whether to use them depends on the specific needs of the patient and the location of the tooth being treated. Here are the pros and cons of full metal crowns:

 Pros of full metal crowns:

•  Durability and Strength: They are strong and durable, making them an excellent choice for teeth in the back of the mouth (molars and premolars). Full metal crowns can withstand the forces of chewing and biting without chipping or breaking.
•  Minimal Tooth Removal: These crowns require less tooth structure removal compared to other types of crowns, such as porcelain crowns. This means more of the natural tooth can be preserved.
•  Biocompatibility: Metal alloys used for full metal crowns are generally well-tolerated by the body, and allergic reactions are rare.
•  Resistance to Wear: Full metal crowns do not cause significant wear on opposing teeth, which can be a concern with certain other crown materials.
•  Less Tooth Sensitivity: Some patients experience less tooth sensitivity with metal crowns compared to crowns made of materials like ceramics or porcelain.

 Cons of Full Metal Crowns:

•  Aesthetics: The most significant drawback of full metal crowns is their metallic appearance, which makes them less suitable for visible teeth, such as front teeth. They do not provide a natural, tooth-like appearance.
•  Conductivity: Metal crowns can conduct temperature, so they may feel hotter or colder to the touch than natural teeth, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals.
•  Thinning of Tooth Structure: Although less tooth structure is removed compared to some other crowns, there is still some removal involved, and this can potentially weaken the tooth over time.
•  Cost: The cost of full metal crowns can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth and vary depending on the type of metal used (e.g., precious or non-precious alloys), but they are generally more expensive than some other crown options, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal or all-ceramic crowns.
•  Allergies: While allergies to dental metals are rare, some individuals may be sensitive to certain metals used in full metal crowns, such as nickel or chromium.

How long does a full metal crown last?

 The longevity of a full metal crown can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s oral hygiene practices, the location of the crown, the type of metal used, and the overall wear and tear it experiences. On average, full metal crowns can last 20 years or more, and many can last even longer with proper care. Regular dental check-ups and diligent oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, can help extend the lifespan of a full metal crown.