What materials are dental crowns and bridges made from?

Dental crowns and bridges are typically made from one of three main materials. The first is gold, which is an excellent choice for posterior teeth due to its strength and biocompatibility. It also requires less removal of the natural tooth structure. However, gold is not suitable for front teeth due to its colour.

The other two options are porcelain-based materials. Zirconia is a very strong, white material and is the most commonly used for crowns and bridges today. For cases requiring very high aesthetic results, such as veneers, a different type of porcelain called lithium disilicate (also known as Emax) may be more appropriate. It is important to note that while lithium disilicate offers superior aesthetics, it is not as strong as zirconia. It is best to discuss with your dentist which material is the most suitable for your specific needs.