What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore function, improve appearance, and protect remaining tooth structure. A dental crown treatment is commonly recommended:
After root canal treatment
For cracked, broken, or worn teeth When large fillings weaken a tooth For cosmetic correction of shape or
colour
To restore dental implants
Choosing the right material is key, as different types of dental crowns offer varying strength, aesthetics, and durability.
Common Dental Crown Materials
The most commonly used dental crown materials today include Zirconia, Emax, and PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal).
Your dentist will recommend a crown based on:
Tooth position (front or back) Bite force and habits
Aesthetic expectations Budget and longevity
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are strong, aesthetic, and biocompatible, making them a popular choice in modern dental crown treatment.
Advantages:
Strong and durable – resistant to chipping and cracking
Metal-free and biocompatible – safe for sensitive gums
Natural appearance – colour- matched to surrounding teeth
Preserves natural tooth structure – minimal trimming required
Stain resistant – maintains appearance over time
Disadvantages:
Higher dental crown cost compared to PFM
Slightly less translucent than Emax for front teeth
Bite adjustment needed to protect opposing teeth
Best for: Molars, premolars, root canal– treated teeth, and patients who grind their teeth.
Emax Crowns
Emax crowns are all-ceramic, made from lithium disilicate, and prized for their natural appearance.
Advantages:
Excellent aesthetics – mimics natural enamel
Metal-free and biocompatible – no gum discoloration or metal allergies
Precise, comfortable fit – digitally fabricated
Good colour stability – stain resistant
Conservative tooth preparation – preserves tooth structure
Disadvantages:
Not ideal for heavy bite forces or teeth grinding
Slightly less durable than zirconia Higher cost than PFM crowns
Best for: Front teeth and premolars where appearance is a priority.
PFM (Porcelain-Fused-to- Metal) Crowns
PFM crowns combine a metal base with porcelain, providing strength and a time- tested option.
Advantages:
Good strength from metal core
More affordable dental crown cost in India
Suitable for back teeth
Long history of reliable use
Disadvantages:
Metal may show near gums over time
Less natural appearance than
zirconia or Emax
More tooth reduction required Not metal-free
Best for: Patients seeking functional, budget-friendly crowns for back teeth.
One-Glance Comparison Table
Feature Zirconia Emax PFM
Aesthetics Very good Excellent Moderate
Strength Very high Moderate High
Metal-free Yes Yes No
Best for Back & front teeth
Front & premolars
Back teeth
Tooth preservation Good Good Less
Dental crown cost in India
Higher Higher Lower
Dental Crown Cost in India and Chennai
Dental crown cost varies depending on material, technology, and clinic expertise. Approximate costs:
PFM crowns: ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 Zirconia crowns: ₹12,000 –
₹20,000
Emax crowns: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000
The dental crown cost in Chennai may differ based on clinic location, materials, and lab quality. While cost matters, long-term comfort, fit, and durability are more important.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
1.How long do dental crowns last?
10–15 years or longer with proper care.
2. Is dental crown treatment painful?
No. It is done under local anaesthesia and is generally comfortable.
3. Which type of dental crown looks most natural?
Emax crowns are most natural-looking, ideal for front teeth.
4. Are zirconia crowns better than PFM crowns?
Zirconia crowns are stronger and metal-free, while PFM is budget- friendly. Choice depends on tooth location and budget.
5. Does dental crown cost include all visits?
It usually includes preparation, impressions, and placement. Confirm with your dentist.
Summary: Which type of crown is right for you?
Choosing the right crown ensures long- term dental health and aesthetics.
Zirconia crowns offer strength and durability, Emax crowns deliver superior aesthetics, and PFM crowns provide a cost-effective, reliable option.
A detailed consultation will help customise dental crown treatment for comfort, function, and lasting results.