A crown can be fabricated of either a gold alloy, or a veneer of porcelain over a gold framework, or all porcelain. We will recommend the type of crown which will best meet your needs based on the material and its properties. In the case where either type of crown is acceptable, the following information will help you to decide which is best for you.

All Porcelain

• Usually the treatment of choice for front teeth
  
• It is the most esthetic option. The appearance can be indistinguishable from enamel
  
• Uses the latest generation of fracture resistant porcelain
  
• Is bonded to the tooth, not cemented, so it has superior strength
  

Porcelain Fused to Gold

• Combines the benefits of gold (see below) with the esthetics of porcelain
  
• Made with the latest generation of porcelain which is "pressed" not painted
  
• The porcelain is the most esthetic available (translucency, opalescence)
  
• The porcelain is more fracture resistant than older generations
  
• This crown works well in any area of the mouth
  

Gold

• Requires the least amount of tooth reduction
  
• Very well accepted by the gingival tissue and periodontal ligament
  
• Highly polished surface resists plaque accumulation
  
• Non-abrasive to enamel of opposing tooth
  
• Usually the treatment of choice for back teeth or where not visible