Magok-dong Dental Clinic_2. Advantages, Disadvantages, and Costs of Different Types of Dental Crown Restorations

Hello!

We are Seoul Dia Dental Clinic in Magok-dong,

dedicated to extending the lifespan of your teeth.

Last time, under the topic “You definitely need a crown in these cases!”,

we explained why crown treatment is necessary and in what situations it is performed,

focusing on five representative examples.

A deeply decayed tooth, a cracked tooth,

a weakened tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment—

to protect these teeth, a simple resin restoration has its limits!

So you may remember that a “crown restoration that covers the entire tooth” is needed.

But here, one question naturally comes up.

“Aren’t all crowns the same?”

“Why are there so many names, and why do the prices vary so much?”

“So what on earth is the difference between ceramic and zirconia...?”

The success of crown restoration treatment depends on choosing the right material.

It must withstand chewing force properly,

look aesthetically clean when you open your mouth,

and above all, to last a long time in the mouth, the material must suit you.

But crown materials have unfamiliar names,

and it is not easy to decide which one is right for your mouth.

So today, Seoul Dia Dental Clinic in Magok-dong

will neatly organize six representative crown materials, their features, the areas they suit best,

their pros and cons, and even their costs at a glance!

Starting now, let’s carefully go through “how to choose the right crown material.”

Dental crown restoration: advantages, disadvantages, and costs by type

1. Zirconia Crown (Zirconia)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_Zirconia

Zirconia is so hard that few materials can match it,

so it is often called the artificial diamond of dentistry.

It has excellent strength, and its color is subtly beautiful like natural teeth,

with relatively little concern about allergies, so it suits both front teeth and molars well.

However, because it is so hard,

the opposing tooth may have some trouble,

and precise adjustment of the bite requires a dentist’s careful, detailed work.

It may also require a little more reshaping of the tooth than other materials.

Still, for those who want something that “lasts long, looks natural, and is strong,”

zirconia is a very good choice.

The average cost is around 500,000 KRW.

2. Gold Crown (Gold)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_Gold

Gold crowns are restorations made literally from real gold.

They offer excellent durability and fit, with little wear

and less irritation to the gums, making them a practical crown that fits well on molars.

In particular, the solid stability felt while chewing is a major advantage.

However, because of their noticeable golden appearance, they are better for molars than front teeth,

and these days, the price burden has increased quite a bit because gold prices have risen significantly.

So these days, zirconia crowns, which combine both aesthetics and strength,

are widely used as a mainstream material that can replace the practicality of gold.

The average cost is around 600,000 KRW,

and it remains a good choice for those who prioritize long-term use.

3. All-Ceramic Crown (All-Ceramic)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_All-Ceramic

Because this is a “pure ceramic” material with no metal at all,

it allows light to pass through naturally,

creating a translucent look that resembles your original teeth.

Also, since there is no metal, there is no dark line showing through the gums,

and there is almost no concern about allergies.

That is why it is especially well suited for front teeth, which are easily visible.

In terms of natural color and aesthetics, it is definitely top class!

However, because its strength is slightly less impressive than zirconia,

it is recommended more for front teeth or areas visible when you smile rather than molars, which bear stronger biting forces.

The average cost is about 600,000 KRW,

and when you need confidence in your smile, all-ceramic may be the answer.

4. PFM Crown (Porcelain Fused to Metal)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_PFM

PFM is a restoration made with metal on the inside and ceramic on the outside.

The metal inside provides strong support,

while the ceramic on the outside creates a natural tooth color.

So it is often used by people who want both durability and appearance.

It is especially used for areas that bear a lot of force, such as molars.

However, one drawback is that over time, the area near the gums may appear slightly dark,

so it is recommended more for molars than front teeth.

The average cost is around 350,000 to 400,000 KRW!

If you are thinking, “Both function and price matter,”

this is an excellent practical restoration choice.

5. PFZ Crown (Porcelain Fused to Zirconia)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_PFZ

PFZ has zirconia on the inside and ceramic on the outside!

It is a “hybrid-type restoration” finished with strong zirconia on the inside and natural-looking ceramic on the outside.

Perfect for those who want both strength and beauty!

It is especially recommended for molars that are slightly visible when smiling,

or for ambiguous positions between front teeth and molars.

The average cost is around 600,000 KRW,

and its natural tooth-like color expression is better than full zirconia.

However, it requires a slightly greater amount of tooth reduction and precise fabrication.

6. Metal Crown (Metal)

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_Metal

A metal crown is a restoration made entirely of metal.

It may not be pretty, but its strength is undeniable!

It has very high durability and is relatively inexpensive,

so it is often used for the very back molars where chewing forces are strong.

However, its gray metallic color makes it 부담스러운 to use on front teeth or visible areas when smiling.

Also, in rare cases, people with metal allergies need to be careful.

The average cost is around 300,000 KRW,

and it is recommended for those who value practicality over aesthetics.

A quick summary of crown material features

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages	Average Cost
Zirconia	Strength, aesthetics, no allergies	May wear down opposing teeth	About 500,000 KRW
Gold	Good tooth compatibility, strength	Visible appearance	About 600,000 KRW
All-ceramic	Best aesthetics	Weaker strength	500,000–600,000 KRW
PFM	Strong durability	Possible gum discoloration	300,000–400,000 KRW
PFZ	Balance of aesthetics and strength	Requires more tooth reduction	About 600,000 KRW
Metal	Affordable, excellent strength	Poor aesthetics	200,000–300,000 KRW

Crown treatment is not something you choose by saying, “Just make it as strong as possible!”

and it is also not something to decide by saying, “Just give me the cheapest one~”

Considering your tooth condition, usage habits, and sensitivity,

choosing the right material is the smartest decision.

Treatment lasts longer when decisions are made with the long term in mind.

Even for the same treatment, depending on which material is used,

function, appearance, and longevity can all differ.

Magok-dong Dental Clinic_Dia Dental Clinic

At Seoul Dia Dental Clinic,

we carefully examine the location of the tooth, chewing habits, and whether there are any allergies,

and recommend the crown that best fits your mouth.

Next time, we will explain step by step, “How is crown treatment actually performed?”

We’ll walk through the process in detail.

Today as well, Seoul Dia Dental Clinic supports your healthy smile and comfortable daily life.

[ This post was written in accordance with the Medical Service Act for the purpose of providing accurate information about dental surgery and procedures. Infections and side effects may occur after surgery, so you should decide on surgery (procedure) after sufficient consultation with skilled medical professionals. ]

[ Magok-dong Dia Dental Clinic Crown Restoration Series ]

1. Indications for crown restoration

2. Crown restoration materials and costs

3. Crown restoration treatment process

4. Pain after crown treatment

5. Crown restoration detachment

6. Precautions after crown restoration treatment