In the past, the choices for dental crowns have been limited to metal. Silver or gold crowns have been a staple in dental work for many years, and are still used extensively. Porcelain crowns, though, provide an alternative that many people prefer over metal, particularly if they’re considering the cosmetic dentistry applications of their crowns, rather than just repair of the tooth. Why would I choose porcelain crowns instead of metal crowns? One of the drawbacks to metal crowns is that they don’t look like your natural teeth. A gold or silver crown is immediately noticeable, sometimes even when it’s positioned in the back of the mouth. Many people find porcelain crowns not only more attractive, but more comfortable than metal crowns. Because porcelain crowns are non-conductive, they don’t cause discomfort from heat and cold the way metal crowns can. Won't porcelain crowns break easily? Porcelain crowns are very strong and durable. Although porcelain by itself is delicate, when it bonds with your teeth, it becomes nearly as strong as your natural enamel. As with your natural teeth, though, you should be careful not to bite down on metal objects or other hard items to prevent chipping. With good dental hygiene and general care, Porcelain crowns can easily last many years. Do I have to worry about staining my porcelain crowns? Modern porcelain materials are more resistant to staining than older dental bonding agents. Even so, if you smoke or consume strongly colored beverages or foods on a regular basis, you could experience staining on the surface of your porcelain crowns. To avoid staining, watch what you eat, don’t smoke, and brush and floss regularly. How do I know if porcelain crowns are a good choice for me? Consulting with a qualified, experienced cosmetic or general dentist can give you a good idea if porcelain crowns are an appropriate choice for your teeth. Porcelain crowns can be used to reconstruct teeth that have been damaged, cracked, extensively decayed, or need to be restored after a root canal. 
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