When it comes to restoring your smile, dental crowns are one of the most effective solutions. They offer long-term support for broken, decayed, or discolored teeth. But what are dental crowns made of, and how does the material influence durability, aesthetics, and cost?

At Medaljon Dent, one of Albania’s top clinics for dental tourism, we understand that each patient deserves custom care. In this guide, you will discover:

  • The main materials used in dental crowns

  • Their advantages and limitations

  • How crown materials impact comfort and longevity

  • Cost differences and expert recommendations

  • Why dental tourists choose Albania for crown treatments

Let’s explore in detail what goes into crafting the perfect dental crown—and how to choose the one that fits your needs best.

What Are Dental Crowns? A Quick Overview

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are also used after root canal treatments, to cover dental implants, or to support dental bridges.

Crowns serve both functional and cosmetic purposes. The materials they are made from determine how natural they look, how long they last, and how well they blend with your smile.

What Are Dental Crowns Made Of? Understanding the Core Materials

Let’s look closely at the most commonly used materials in modern dentistry. Each one has distinct advantages based on your dental needs and location of the tooth.

1. Porcelain Crowns (All-Ceramic)

Porcelain crowns are ideal for front teeth because they provide unmatched aesthetic results. Made from a high-grade ceramic, these crowns closely resemble natural tooth enamel in color and transparency.

Pros:

  • Best cosmetic match to real teeth

  • Metal-free (good for patients with allergies)

  • Ideal for visible front teeth

Cons:

  • Less durable for back molars

  • Can chip if exposed to excessive biting pressure

Expert Insight:

“Porcelain crowns remain a top choice in cosmetic dentistry due to their superior appearance.”
— Dr. Jonathan Levine, cosmetic dentist, NYC

2. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia is a newer, stronger type of ceramic. It is highly resistant to cracking and wear, making it a popular option for both front and back teeth.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable and fracture-resistant

  • Tooth-colored and aesthetic

  • Excellent for high-pressure chewing areas

  • Suitable for metal-allergic patients

Cons:

  • Slightly less translucent than porcelain

  • More expensive than basic materials

Expert Insight:

“Zirconia crowns offer the strength of metal and the appearance of ceramic—making them one of the most versatile options today.”
— Dr. Gordon J. Christensen, Clinicians Report Foundation

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

These crowns have a metal base covered by a porcelain layer. PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain.

Pros:

  • Highly durable for molars

  • Good aesthetics

  • Widely used for decades

Cons:

  • Metal may show at gum line

  • Porcelain may chip over time

  • May cause allergic reactions in sensitive patients

4. Gold and Metal Alloy Crowns

These crowns are made from gold or other high-noble alloys. They are extremely strong and long-lasting but have a noticeable metallic appearance.

Pros:

  • Longest-lasting crown material (20+ years)

  • Requires minimal tooth removal

  • Rarely fractures or chips

  • Excellent fit and comfort

Cons:

  • Metallic color not suitable for visible areas

  • Higher cost

  • Not ideal for cosmetic cases

Source: American Dental Association – Types of Crowns
https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/crowns

Newer Options: E-Max and Hybrid Crowns

E-Max (Lithium Disilicate) Crowns

This is a premium ceramic crown offering superior aesthetics and good durability. It’s ideal for patients seeking a natural-looking smile without sacrificing function.

Hybrid Crowns:
Some modern crowns combine zirconia cores with E-max exteriors, offering the best of both strength and appearance.

How to Choose the Right Crown Material

At Medaljon Dent, we evaluate several factors to determine the ideal crown for you:

  • Location of the tooth (front or back)

  • Bite force and chewing habits

  • Aesthetic goals

  • Allergies or sensitivities

  • Budget and expected longevity

Front Teeth: Porcelain, zirconia, or E-Max
Back Molars: Zirconia, gold, or PFM
Mixed Restorations: Hybrid or custom multi-material crowns

The Dental Crown Procedure Explained Step-by-Step

At Medaljon Dent, our dental crown procedure involves modern digital workflows and patient comfort from start to finish.

1. Initial Consultation

We perform X-rays and 3D scans to evaluate your tooth and surrounding structure.

2. Tooth Preparation

Your dentist shapes the tooth and removes any decay to prepare for the crown. Sometimes a build-up is needed.

3. Digital Impression

We use intraoral scanners to create a perfect 3D model of your mouth. No messy impressions.

4. Temporary Crown Placement

You’ll receive a temporary crown while your permanent one is custom-made in our lab.

5. Crown Placement

After fabrication, the crown is cemented and adjusted for bite and comfort.

Time Frame: The process typically takes 5–7 days, which fits perfectly for dental tourism patients.

Dental Crowns in Albania: Why Choose Medaljon Dent

Medaljon Dent in Tirana is a trusted provider of high-quality dental crowns for international patients. Here’s why people from Italy, Germany, the UK, and Switzerland choose us:

  • Modern CAD/CAM technology

  • Biocompatible, certified materials (Ivoclar Vivadent, 3M ESPE)

  • Affordable pricing compared to Western Europe

  • English-speaking staff and patient support

  • Personalized treatment plans for each case

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Albania?

Here’s a comparison of dental crown prices:

Type of Crown Price in Albania (€) Price in Western Europe (€)
Zirconia Crown 250–350 800–1200
Porcelain Crown 200–300 700–1000
PFM Crown 180–250 600–900
Gold Crown (on request) 400+ 900–1500

Traveling to Albania for dental crowns can save patients up to 70%, even after flight and accommodation costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

Q: How long do dental crowns last?
With good care, crowns can last 10–20 years or more.

Q: Can I get multiple crowns during one visit?
Yes. Many patients choose full mouth restorations using crowns and veneers in one treatment plan.

Q: Will my crown look different from my other teeth?
Not at all. We custom match the color, shape, and translucency to your natural teeth.

What Are Dental Crowns Made Of and How to Choose the Right One

Now that you know what dental crowns are made of, you can make a more informed decision. Choosing the right material impacts your comfort, smile aesthetics, and long-term oral health.

Whether you prefer porcelain, zirconia, PFM, or even gold, our team at Medaljon Dent will guide you every step of the way. If you are planning dental tourism in Albania, we offer transparent pricing, expert dental care, and European-level quality.

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