Dental crowns come in a variety of materials, each offering different strengths, aesthetics, and suitability depending on your dental needs. If you're wondering which type of dental crown is right for your smile, this guide will help you compare your options clearly.
Whether you're repairing a damaged tooth, completing a root canal treatment, or upgrading an old crown, understanding the types of dental crowns available is essential for making the right decision with your dentist.
In this guide, we"ll cover:
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The most common crown materials used in Australia
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Pros and cons of each crown type
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Which crown suits front or back teeth
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Cost ranges for different materials
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Longevity and durability of each option
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged, weakened, or aesthetically unpleasing tooth. It restores function, appearance, and strength to the tooth. Crowns are often recommended after root canal treatment, to support a cracked tooth, or when there is not enough tooth left to hold a filling.
While this guide focuses on the types of dental crowns, you can learn more about the full procedure and reasons for getting a crown in our comprehensive guide here.
Types of Dental Crowns Explained
1. Porcelain Crowns (All-Ceramic)
Best for: Front teeth / cosmetic cases
Pros:
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Highly aesthetic and natural-looking
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Metal-free (suitable for those with allergies)
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Colour matched to adjacent teeth
Cons:
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Less durable on molars
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Can chip under pressure
Typical cost: $1,500 to $2,500 per tooth
2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Best for: Front and back teeth
Pros:
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Strong metal core with a tooth-coloured exterior
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More durable than all-ceramic in high-pressure areas
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Good balance between strength and appearance
Cons:
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May show a dark line at the gumline over time
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Less aesthetic than all-ceramic options
Typical cost: $1,400 to $2,300 per tooth
3. Zirconia Crowns
Best for: Any tooth, especially molars
Pros:
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Extremely strong and fracture-resistant
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Natural appearance with improved translucency
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Suitable for people who grind their teeth
Cons:
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Less translucent than porcelain
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May cause wear on opposing teeth if not polished properly
Typical cost: $1,500 to $2,500 per tooth
4. Gold Crowns and Metal Alloys
Best for: Back teeth / patients who clench or grind
Pros:
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Extremely durable and long-lasting
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Minimal tooth preparation required
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Less wear on opposing teeth
Cons:
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Metallic colour is not aesthetic
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Higher material cost (especially gold)
Typical cost: $1,600 to $2,800 depending on alloy
5. Composite Resin Crowns
Best for: Temporary use / budget-conscious patients
Pros:
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Lower cost upfront
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Easier and quicker to place
Cons:
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Not as durable or long-lasting
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Prone to staining and wear
Typical cost: $700 to $1,000 per tooth
Which Crown Is Best for Front Teeth?
When restoring visible front teeth, aesthetic appearance matters most. Porcelain or zirconia crowns are usually recommended because they closely mimic natural tooth enamel.
Front tooth crown considerations:
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Colour match and translucency
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Gumline visibility
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Avoiding visible metal edges (choose all-ceramic)
Which Crown Is Best for Molars and Back Teeth?
Back teeth undergo higher bite forces, so durability is key. Zirconia or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are common choices.
Molars need crowns that are:
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Strong enough to handle chewing
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Resistant to cracking or wear
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Comfortable and biocompatible
Gold crowns remain a top-tier option for durability but are less common due to their appearance.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last by Material?
| Crown Type | Average Lifespan |
| Porcelain | 10 to 15 years |
| Zirconia | 15 to 20 years |
| PFM | 10 to 15 years |
| Gold or Metal Alloy | 20+ years |
| Composite Resin | 5 to 8 years |
Lifespan can vary depending on oral hygiene, diet, grinding habits, and regular dental visits.
Cost of Dental Crowns in Australia by Type
| Crown Type | Estimated Cost (AUD) |
| Porcelain | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| Zirconia | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| PFM | $1,400 to $2,300 |
| Gold or Metal Alloy | $1,600 to $2,800 |
| Composite Resin | $700 to $1,000 |
Prices vary by clinic location, technology used, and whether it is a single-visit or multi-visit crown. Check with your private health insurance provider to see what is covered under your extras policy.
Want to Learn More About the Dental Crown Procedure?
Understanding which crown material is right for you is just one part of the bigger picture. If you're also wondering what a dental crown is, when it is needed, how the procedure works, or how much it costs, we�ve got you covered.
👉 Read our full guide on What Is a Dental Crown? Purpose, Procedure, and When You Might Need One to get a complete overview of everything you need to know before starting treatment.
FAQs About Dental Crown Types
1. Which crown lasts the longest?
Gold and zirconia crowns are the most durable, often lasting 15 to 20+ years with proper care.
2. Are zirconia crowns better than porcelain?
Zirconia crowns are stronger, while porcelain crowns offer better aesthetics. Your dentist can help you choose based on the tooth's location.
3. What is the most affordable type of crown?
Composite resin crowns are the least expensive, but they are best suited for temporary use or low-stress areas.
4. Can I choose my crown material?
Yes. Your dentist will guide you, but the final decision often considers cost, location of the tooth, and cosmetic preferences.
5. Are there crown materials suitable for people with allergies?
Yes. All-ceramic and zirconia crowns are metal-free and suitable for patients with metal sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dental crown material involves balancing durability, aesthetics, and budget. At Miners Dental Clinic in Wonthaggi, we tailor every treatment to your individual needs and preferences. Whether you need a front-tooth crown that looks natural or a long-lasting option for molars, our experienced team is here to help.
Book a consultation today to find out which type of dental crown is right for your smile.