Metal-ceramic crowns are one of the most commonly used fixed prosthetic restorations in modern dentistry. They consist of a metal base and a ceramic layer that mimics the appearance of a natural tooth. They are used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling, or when one or more missing teeth need to be replaced.
A solution that looks natural, lasts a long time and requires only regular oral hygiene.
What are metal-ceramic crowns
A metal-ceramic crown is an artificial tooth that is placed over a prepared natural tooth or mounted on a dental implant.
Its purpose is to take over the function and appearance of a tooth that is damaged or lost. It is built from two materials that together form a strong restoration:
- Metal base: The interior of the crown is a small metal cap that provides strength. It is made from cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys, titanium or even dental gold, which is extremely biocompatible.
- Ceramic layer: Porcelain is applied over the base and is shaped and colored so that its form and shade match your natural teeth.
How a metal-ceramic crown is placed
Placing a crown is a routine procedure that takes place in several stages:
Tooth preparation
The natural tooth is reduced by about 2 to 3 millimeters around its circumference under local anesthesia so that the crown can fit properly.
Taking an impression
A precise impression of the jaw is taken using classic impression material or an intraoral scanner, based on which the technician fabricates the crown.
Temporary crown
While you wait for the final work, you receive a temporary crown that protects the tooth and allows normal function.
Try-in and cementation
The crown is tried in the mouth, the color and bite are checked, and after final corrections it is permanently cemented.
Advantages and disadvantages of metal-ceramic crowns
Although they have been the most popular choice for decades, it is important to know their good and bad sides before deciding.
Advantages
- Exceptional strength and resistance to chewing pressure
- Longevity (with good hygiene, over 20 years)
- More affordable price compared to metal-free ceramics
- Can be placed on natural teeth and on implants
Disadvantages
- A thin gray line may appear along the gum edge over time
- Slightly weaker aesthetics compared to metal-free crowns
- In a minimal number of people, a metal allergy is possible
Does placement hurt?
Tooth preparation is done under local anesthesia, so you do not feel any pain during the procedure. After the anesthesia wears off, mild sensitivity is possible, which passes within a few days.
Inhalation sedation
For patients with pronounced fear, at Dental Vortex we offer inhalation sedation, i.e. nitrous oxide (laughing gas). You will feel relaxed throughout the entire procedure, and the effect ends immediately after the mask is removed.
Metal-ceramic crowns on an implant
When an entire tooth is missing, the crown is placed on a dental implant. The implant takes over the role of the root, and the crown is most often fixed to it with a small screw. This is an ideal solution for the posterior region where chewing pressure is greatest, and the crown is stable and long-lasting.
Maintenance and hygiene
Crowns do not require special care, but they do require consistency:
- Regular brushing with a soft toothbrush.
- Using dental floss or an oral irrigator around the crown.
- Avoiding biting extremely hard food (ice, nuts).
- Check-ups every 6 months.
Patient experiences
“For years I put off getting it fixed because I had a bad experience before. At Dental Vortex I had four crowns done and the result is incredible. The crowns look completely natural, no one notices the difference, and the process was completely painless. I finally smile without thinking.”
– Milica S. (62)
Price of metal-ceramic crowns
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Metal-ceramic crownPer tooth | 15,000 RSD |
| Metal-ceramic crown on an implantWith suprastructure | 30,000 RSD |
Frequently asked questions
Schedule an appointment in Belgrade
If you are considering metal-ceramic crowns, the first step is an examination. The Dental Vortex clinic is located in Zvezdara, in the East Side complex (Živka Davidovića 96A/14).
Schedule your appointment by phone, email or the online booking form.