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After undergoing a root canal procedure, Meera was happy to be free of the bothersome, enduring toothache. She froze, however, when the dentist asked if she wanted a zirconia crown or a metal crown.
She had no clue what the difference was – all she knew was one sounded shinier than the other!
Later that evening, she stood in front of the mirror, smiling from different angles and googling “metal crown vs zirconia”, “zirconia crown cost in Hyderabad”, and similar phrases. It was no longer just about durability. It was also about how her smile would look, how natural it would feel and whether it would last without putting a hole in her pocket.
If you are like Meera, don’t fret! Many people are confused when deciding on the appropriate dental crown, especially when both cosmetic and functional factors need to be taken into consideration. To help you choose the best option for your smile, we examine the cost, durability, and looks of metal and zirconia crowns in this blog.
1. Why Are Dental Crowns Necessary and What Are They?
Dental crowns are customized caps that are placed over a broken or treated tooth to improve its strength, look, and functionality.
Dental crowns are often used following the completion of the following procedures:
• Root canal treatment
• Fracture or break of a tooth
• Large cavities
• Worn-down teeth
• Cosmetic restoration
Currently, the two most common crowns being offered are metal crowns or zirconia crowns. They have their own benefits and drawbacks.
2. Metal Crown vs Zirconia – Understanding the basics
Before we jump into aesthetics or the cost. Let’s explain what these crowns are made of.
Metal Dental Crowns
Metal crowns are mostly made of gold or other metal alloys like nickel and chromium. They are known for being strong and lasting a long time, but metal crowns have one main disadvantage which is visibility. Because they’re metallic, they aren’t typically placed on teeth because of this.
Zirconia Dental Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a type of crystal that is stronger and looks more like a natural tooth. They are biocompatible, aesthetic, and can be used on both front and back teeth.
3. Aesthetic Comparison – Metal vs Zirconia
When we talk about aesthetics, we have a howe winner.
Zirconia for a Natural Look
Zirconia crowns are tooth-colored and reflects the translucency characteristics of natural enamel. They are so similar to natural teeth that they can be mistaken for natural teeth. Thus, if you are in need of a crown in a cosmetic area — such as your front teeth — you don’t have to worry about the color or shade of your teeth when you smile, laugh or talk.
Metal Crowns For Function Not Aesthetics
Metal crowns, on the other hand, are strong but not discreet. They have a full metallic shine and may be a considerable source of concern for individuals who are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. Metal crowns may work great for teeth from more than 90% of us will not be seen or teeth that are not visible like molars; they are rarely recommended for teeth that are visible to other people.
Book your FREE consultation3. Durability and Strength–Which Last Longer?
Both materials are durable, but their strength is focused on different qualities.
Metal Dental Crowns – Proven Longevity
Metal crowns are the only dental crown material that has proven the test of time. For years metal crowns have been extremely resistant to chipping, breaking, etc. Metal crowns can and have lasted for decades if well maintained. Metal crowns are also the preferred dental crown option when an individual displays strong biting forces or competent teeth grinding habits.
Zirconia Crowns – Strong and Beautiful
Zirconia is not lightweight. It is one of the strongest tooth-colored materials available today. While it is not as flexible as metal, it holds up extremely well to force. The crowns are a very nice blend of beauty and strength.
4. Comfort and Fit – What is more comfortable?
Both crowns are custom-fitted, but zirconia wins in comfort in most cases because of it’s compatibility with the body.
Metal Crowns and Allergies
Some people react to the alloys in metal dental crowns. Nickel bothers some patients a lot. It may not irritate you right away, but it can be problematic over time.
Zirconia is Biocompatible
Zirconia crowns are biocompatible and do not cause any allergic reactions. They are gentle on adjacent teeth, and more comfortable for you in the long term.
Zirconia Crown Cost vs Metal Crown Cost in India
Now we get to the elephant in the room, how much does either type cost?
Metal Crown Cost
Cost (per tooth) ₹1,500 – ₹4,000
Zirconia Crown Price
Zirconia crown prices will vary significantly from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 per tooth, depending on the quality, type, and whether it’s monolithic, layered, etc. The zirconia cap is justified because it generally has superior aesthetics, a longer useful life, and biocompatibility.
Tip: There are flexible EMI and zirconia cap cost (package) options available at Partha Dental so that zirconia cap cost and metal dental crowns become affordable.
5. Metal Crown Cost vs Zirconia Crown Cost & Usage – Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Metal Crowns | Zirconia Crowns |
| Appearance | Metal, visible | Tooth-colored, appears natural |
| Strength | Very high | High |
| Biocompatibility | May cause allergies | High biocompatibility |
| Cost (per tooth) | ₹1,500 – ₹4,000 | ₹8,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Longevity | 10 – 20 years | 10 – 15 years |
| Best Use | Molars, areas that aren’t visible | Front teeth, areas that are visible |
When to Choose Metal Crowns
• You are on a budget
• The crown is for a back molar (e.g. tooth #31)
• You are ok with the metallic look
• You grind your teeth often
When to Choose Zirconia Crowns
• The crown is visible when you smile
• You want the most natural looking result
• You prefer metal-free / hypoallergenic
• You want long-term aesthetics and comfort
Every day at Partha Dental, we assist patients like Meera make the best decision for their comfort, lifestyle, and smile. Our knowledgeable staff is here to honestly and simply explain the process, whether you’re searching for a durable and reasonably priced metal dental crown or you’d rather have zirconia’s more beautiful, natural finish.
Are you prepared to go forward?
Call us now – 04041420000 for your consultation right now to get a crown that feels appropriate for you and let your smile shine.
6. FAQs
Q1. Which lasts longer – zirconia or metal crown?
With good care, both can last over a decade! Metal crowns have a greater track record, but zirconia offers lots of strength and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Q2. Is zirconia better than metal?
If appearance, comfort and biocompatibility are important to you, zirconia is better. If the dental crown is for functional support for a molar and the tooth won’t be visible, metal dental crowns could be acceptable.
Q3. I need a crown, but I don’t want it to show – what are my options?
If the crown is for a front or visible tooth, zirconia is your best option. Zirconia is very natural-looking and compliments your natural teeth better than metal dental crownsthat are stronger but purely metallic in makeup. In terms of function and natural appearance, zirconia gives you the best options.
Q4. Why are zirconia crowns more expensive than metal crowns?
Good question. The reason you paid more for a zirconia crown is because of the material. Zirconia is tooth-coloured, super strong and biocompatible. Also, the lab work and technology used to produce a zirconia cap is a step up from the traditional metal crowns, so you are paying for a cosmetic and functional upgrade.
Q5. I’ve heard of metal crowns causing allergies so should I be concerned?
For the vast majority of the population, metal crowns are completely safe. But if you have an establishment they could suggest zirconia or at least a metal free option that is more compatible with your body’s chemistry. Read more
Disclaimer:
The prices mentioned in this blog are indicative and may vary based on the severity of the condition, technology used, and materials suggested by the Dentist. They are accurate as of the date of publishing and subject to change as per clinic policy. Third-party or AI-generated estimates may not reflect actual clinic pricing. For accurate costs, please visit your nearest Partha Dental clinic.
