Medically reviewed by Dr. Ayse Bagatır, Aesthetic and Prosthetic Dentistry ·
A gold crown is better for strength and lifespan, especially on back molars. A porcelain or zirconia crown is better for looks, especially on front teeth.
In the US, a gold crown costs between $900 and $3,000 and usually lasts 15 to 30 years. A zirconia or Emax crown costs between $1,000 and $2,500 and lasts 5 to 20 years.
What are Gold Crowns for Teeth?
Dental crowns are custom-fitted caps that protect decayed or damaged teeth. They can enhance a tooth’s structure and appearance. The two major materials used to create dental crowns are gold and porcelain.
Gold crowns are made from a gold alloy, usually mixed with palladium, silver or copper. They are strong, rarely chip, and need less tooth to be removed than most other crowns.
They are used less today because of their metallic colour. Most dentists now place them only on back molars that are not visible when you smile.
Which is better gold or porcelain crowns?
Gold is better for back teeth and teeth grinders. Porcelain, zirconia or Emax is better for front teeth and anyone who wants a natural look.
Older all-porcelain crowns could chip under heavy biting. Modern zirconia is much stronger, so it is now the most common tooth-coloured alternative to gold on molars.
| Factor | Gold crown | Porcelain / Emax | Zirconia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Metallic gold | Most natural | Natural |
| Strength | Very high | Good (best on front teeth) | Very high |
| Typical lifespan | 15 – 30 years | 5 – 15 years | 10 – 20 years |
| Tooth removed | Least | More | Moderate |
| US price per tooth | $900 – $3,000 | $1,000 – $2,500 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Best for | Back molars, grinders | Front teeth | Front and back teeth |
But you should discuss the matter with your dentist to know which type fits you and your needs.
Are gold tooth crowns the best?
Gold crowns are the best choice for back molars in people who grind their teeth. They fit precisely, need little tooth removal and are gentle on the opposing teeth.
Gold crowns have several health advantages that other materials might not have. It is worth noting that the biocompatibility of gold ensures that:
- Your health is unaffected or subject to any negative reactions.
- The crowns fit the gum lines well.
- No discomfort or issues with oral health are brought on by the crowns or fillings.
A gold crown can save money over time because it often lasts 2 or 3 times longer than a porcelain crown. But the upfront price depends on the price of gold.
Read more: Full Set of Crowns Cost Turkey .
What are the disadvantages of gold crowns?
Gold crowns have 3 main disadvantages:
1. They look metallic, so most people do not want them on visible teeth.
2. Their price changes with the price of gold.
3. A very small number of people react to metals in the alloy.
Also read: What is the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Veneers?
Is a Gold Crown Better Than Porcelain Crown? Pros and Cons?
When it comes to choosing between a gold crown and a porcelain crown, there are pros and cons to each option.
Gold Crowns Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Excellent for molars that require a lot of strength for biting and chewing
- Minimal removal of tooth structure required
- Doesn’t wear down opposing teeth as quickly as porcelain crowns
Gold Crowns Cons:
- Highly visible in the mouth and not aesthetically pleasing
- Can be expensive due to the high cost of gold
- Rarely, a reaction to metals in the alloy
Porcelain Crowns Pros:
- Highly aesthetic and can be matched to the color of the natural teeth
- Great for front teeth and visible areas in the mouth
- Metal-free, so no grey line at the gum
- Provides a natural appearance
Porcelain Crowns Cons:
- Less durable and long-lasting compared to gold crowns
- Can be more prone to chipping or cracking
- Requires more tooth structure to be removed for placement
- May wear down opposing teeth quicker than gold crowns
In conclusion, the choice between a gold crown and a porcelain crown depends on your specific dental needs and preferences. While gold crowns are more durable and require minimal tooth structure removal, they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option. Porcelain crowns, on the other hand, offer a more natural appearance but may not last as long and require more tooth structure removal. Your dentist can help you make an informed decision about which option is right for you.
Explore: Difference Between Ceramic and Porcelain Dental Crowns.
Are porcelain crowns more expensive than gold crowns?
No, they usually cost about the same. In the US, a gold crown costs between $900 and $3,000, and a zirconia or Emax crown between $1,000 and $2,500.
Gold has the widest price range because the cost of the metal changes. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are often the cheapest, at $800 to $2,000.
Let us talk in more detail about the cost!
How much do gold crowns cost?
A gold crown costs between $900 and $3,000 per tooth in the US, with an average of about $1,600. The final price depends on the gold content, the lab and your dentist.
Most dental insurance plans treat crowns as major work and pay part of the cost. Check your plan before treatment.
If you want a tooth-coloured crown for less, Mavidenta in Istanbul offers zirconia crowns from £200 to £450 and Emax crowns from £160 to £300 per tooth.
Explore the Best Dental Implant Clinic in Istanbul.
Conclusion
Choose gold for strength on back molars, especially if you grind your teeth. Choose zirconia or Emax if you want a crown that looks like a natural tooth.
💬 Want a price for zirconia or Emax crowns in Istanbul? Send a photo of your teeth on WhatsApp:
FAQ
Are gold teeth cheaper than white crowns?
Not usually. Gold and tooth-coloured zirconia crowns cost about the same in the US.
Can you put a gold crown on a front tooth?
Yes, but it is rare because the gold is visible when you smile. Most people choose Emax or zirconia for front teeth.
Is zirconia as strong as gold?
Zirconia is very strong and is now the main tooth-coloured choice for molars. Gold still needs less tooth removal and is gentler on opposing teeth.
Do dentists still do gold crowns?
Yes. Gold crowns are less common because of their colour, but many dentists still recommend them for back molars and teeth grinders.
How long do gold crowns last?
Usually 15 to 30 years, and often longer with good care. That is longer than most porcelain crowns.
Which is cheaper gold or porcelain crowns?
They cost about the same. In the US, gold costs between $900 and $3,000 and zirconia between $1,000 and $2,500. Porcelain-fused-to-metal is often cheapest.
How long do gold crowns last?
Gold crowns are extremely durable and can last several decades or even a lifetime with proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
