What are Titanium Dental Crowns?
Titanium dental crowns belong to the group of dental crowns with a metal framework. A titanium dental crown consists of two parts:
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Inner framework: Made from an alloy containing titanium, it supports and withstands chewing forces.
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Outer porcelain layer: Applied over the framework to create the shape and color similar to natural teeth.
Because it still has a metal core, titanium dental crowns differ from all-ceramic crowns, which are made entirely of porcelain, including the inner framework.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Titanium Dental Crowns
Advantages
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Lower cost than all-ceramic crowns. This is the most common reason why many people choose titanium dental crowns.
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The metal framework helps the tooth withstand chewing forces. Therefore, titanium dental crowns are often considered for molars, which are less visible when smiling.
Disadvantages
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The tooth color is slightly opaque. The metal core inside makes it difficult for the tooth to achieve the same transparency and light reflection as natural teeth.
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A dark line may be visible at the gum line. After a period of use, the gum line may darken, affecting aesthetics, especially on front teeth.
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Less suitable for teeth requiring high aesthetics. For front teeth or teeth visible when smiling, titanium crowns are less likely to provide a natural result than all-ceramic crowns.
Comparison of Titanium and All-Ceramic Crowns
| Criteria | Titanium Crowns | All-Ceramic Crowns |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Titanium alloy frame, covered with ceramic | Completely ceramic, no metal |
| Color | Slightly opaque, less transparent | Natural, close to natural teeth |
| Gum Line | A dark line may be visible over time | No darkening of the line due to metal |
| Cost | Lower | Higher Price (at Dental Fam from 4,000,000 VND/tooth) |
| Suitable Position | Often considered for molars | Both incisors and molars |
If you prioritize cost and only need a molar crown that is less visible when smiling, titanium crowns are a good option to consider. If the tooth is in an aesthetically sensitive area, or you want to completely avoid the risk of gum discoloration later on, all-ceramic crowns are usually more suitable. The final decision should be based on the tooth's position, gum condition, and budget, after a direct examination by the dentist.
Why does Dental Fam only do all-ceramic crowns?
At Dental Fam, all crowns are all-ceramic. The clinic does not make metal-ceramic or titanium crowns for 3 reasons:
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Aesthetics and no gum discoloration. All-ceramic crowns have no metal core, so the color is natural and you don't have to worry about gum discoloration over time. 2. Long-lasting warranty. Each type of all-ceramic crown at Dental Fam has a clear warranty period, from 7 years (DDBio) to 19 years (Orodent), according to the clinic's warranty policy.
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In-house lab for all-ceramic crown fabrication. The crowns are made in-house at the clinic, so the entire process only requires 2 appointments and is completed within 72 hours.
Types of all-ceramic crowns available at Dental Fam:
| All-ceramic crown type | Warranty |
|---|---|
| DDBio | 7 years |
| Cercon | 10 years |
| Lava (3M) | 15 years |
| Orodent | 19 years |
| Orodent Multi ERA | Contact clinic |
What to do if you have titanium crowns that have dark edges?
If your old titanium crowns have darkened edges or you want to switch to all-ceramic crowns, the dentist will examine your natural teeth and gums before advising on the condition. There are usually two options:
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Keep the old crowns if the crowns fit well, the gums are healthy, and you accept the current color.
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Switch to all-ceramic crowns: the old crowns are removed, the tooth stump is examined, and then a new all-ceramic crown is made.
At Dental Fam, the fee for removing old crowns is 300,000 VND/tooth, plus the price of the all-ceramic crown you choose. The examination fee is waived when you use our services, and the cost is quoted before the procedure; there are no additional charges after the treatment is completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are titanium crowns good?
Titanium crowns are suitable if you need a low-cost option for molars that are less visible when you smile. For front teeth or when long-term aesthetics are needed, all-ceramic crowns usually provide a more natural result and do not darken at the gum line.
Do titanium crowns darken?
The outer ceramic layer does not change color on its own, but the gum line may reveal the dark color of the metal framework after a period of use. This is the biggest difference between titanium crowns and all-ceramic crowns.
Does Dental Fam make titanium crowns?
No. Dental Fam only makes all-ceramic crowns, including DDBio, Cercon, Lava (3M), Orodent, and Orodent Multi ERA.
How much does it cost to replace a titanium crown with an all-ceramic crown?
At Dental Fam, the cost includes the fee for removing the old crown (300,000 VND/tooth) and the price of a new all-ceramic crown, starting from 4,000,000 VND/tooth (DDBio). For example, replacing one tooth with a Cercon porcelain crown: 300,000 VND + 6,000,000 VND = 6,300,000 VND. If an X-ray is needed, the fee is 100,000 VND. The doctor will inform you of the total cost before starting.
How long is the warranty for all-porcelain crowns at Dental Fam?
From 7 years (DDBio) to 19 years (Orodent), depending on the type of porcelain, provided you have regular check-ups and maintain good oral hygiene.
In summary
Titanium porcelain crowns are less expensive but have a slightly opaque color and may show a dark edge at the neck of the tooth over time, so they are usually only considered for molars. All-porcelain crowns contain no metal, offer a natural color, and do not have a dark edge. Dental Fam only makes all-porcelain crowns, with a warranty of 7 to 19 years and completed in 72 hours thanks to our own laboratory.
If you are unsure which type of dental crown to choose, or want to replace your old titanium crowns, please schedule an appointment at Dental Fam or call 0582 582 345. The doctor will examine you, explain the options, and provide a clear price quote before you make a decision.
Dental Fam - Family Clinic: NOTT 28, 29, 30 Phuoc Long A Urban Area, Nam Nha Trang Ward, Khanh Hoa Province.