Question about dental crown

So I chipped my #13 pre molar the other day and the dentist said that a crown is necessary. HE gave me the regular options of Porcelain fused to metal or gold, plus a third option of an all Ceramic/Porcelain crown. I believe I had the latter on a molar that cracked on me 2 years after having it placed (another dentist) after eating a cookie.

My present Dentist says that one of the main advantages of all ceramic\porcelain is that it is bonded to the tooth as opposed to cemented like a PFM. It is also less likely to come loose from sticky foods like caramel. He also said that the data from the 10 year study is coming in for the all Porcelain crowns and that it is favorable.(I am not finding too much info on my own regarding this) The cost difference is $150 more for the all Porcelain over the PFM. I am not so concerned about the price as I am about functionality and longevity

[Gellia]

Just to confuse you more.  

All porcelain has some advantages.  It doesn't wear the opposing teeth surface as much, but I would think if you are a clencher or grinder, it may not be as strong as a regular PFM.  Is that why your other one cracked?  If you do either, esp at night, that should be a consideration.

That's a personal opinion, though.  All porcelain crowns have improved, but if you asked 10 dentists you may get 10 different answers.  

I'm hoping the crowns I have last longer than ten years.

Just a thought.

Best to you,
Gellia

[zman71]

I am pretty sure i do not clench my teeth when I sleep. I would think my mouth would be somewhat achy if that were the case? The chipping is not on the bottom surface of the tooth rather it is on the side top. It chipped while brushing my teeth. The tooth is not bad and no root canal needs to be done. It was just weak spot in the tooth and the best option is the crown. Can a Dentist tell if you grind or clench your teeth by examining them? He has not mentioned or asked me about it. I like the fact that the Porcelain is bonded rather than cemented and is better at handling sticky foods. The price difference is $150. I am not so concerned about that as I am about functionality and longevity.

[zman71]

the Web MD site says that all Porcelain crowns wear down opposing teeth more the pfm's??

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-crowns