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What Are Crowns and Bridges Made From?

Posted on 2/16/2026 by Stansell Dentistry Associates

Dentist explaining a same-day crown procedure to a female patient using a digital 3D imaging screen in a modern dental office.

Have you ever wondered about the materials used to create those tooth-shaped caps called crowns or the structures that fill gaps in your smile called bridges? These amazing advancements in restorative dentistry can bring back your smile and improve your oral care. Let's explore the fascinating world of materials used in crafting these dental solutions!

All About Crowns

A dental crown, often called a "cap," fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Because they are designed to withstand chewing forces and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, choosing the right material is very important. Here are some common options:

•	Porcelain: Porcelain crowns are popular because they look very much like natural teeth. They can be color-matched to your existing teeth, making them virtually invisible. Porcelain is a strong and durable material, but it can be more prone to chipping than some other options.
•	Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM): PFM crowns have a metal base covered with a layer of porcelain. The metal provides strength, while the porcelain gives the crown a natural appearance. These are a good option for back teeth that need extra support. However, the metal can sometimes show through as a dark line near the gumline.
•	Zirconia: Zirconia is an incredibly strong and durable ceramic material. Zirconia crowns are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them an excellent choice for patients who grind or clench their teeth. They also have a natural appearance, though some may find them slightly less translucent than porcelain.
•	Gold Alloys: Gold has been used in dentistry for centuries! Gold alloy crowns are extremely durable and biocompatible, meaning they are unlikely to cause allergic reactions. They are often used for molars because of their strength, but they are not tooth-colored.

Understanding Bridges

A dental bridge fills a gap created by one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of a replacement tooth (called a pontic) held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth (called abutment teeth). The materials used for bridges are similar to those used for crowns:

•	Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM): PFM is commonly used for bridges because it provides a good balance of strength and aesthetics. The metal framework supports the bridge, while the porcelain creates a natural-looking tooth.
•	Zirconia: Zirconia bridges are becoming increasingly popular due to their strength and natural appearance. They are a good option for patients who want a metal-free bridge.
•	All-Porcelain: All-porcelain bridges are used primarily in areas where aesthetics are a top concern and the bite forces are not too high.

Making the Right Choice

The best material for your crown or bridge depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the amount of force it will need to withstand, your aesthetic preferences, and your budget. Talk with your dentist about your individual needs and goals to determine the most suitable material for your situation. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose a solution that will give you a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come. Restorative dentistry offers amazing ways to enhance your oral care and improve your overall quality of life!

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

About Our Practice | Stansell Dentistry Associates | Raleigh, NC
Providing family dentistry for adults and children of all ages, utilizing the latest dental technologies to exceed all of your expectations. Call today!
Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879 / 984-477-0177 / stanselldentistry.com / 3/2/2026 / Associated Words: dentist Raleigh NC /