When you need a crown, you'll likely hear about different materials—porcelain, zirconia, or combinations of both. Each has strengths. The question many patients ask: Which is stronger? The short answer is that zirconia is generally the stronger material—but strength isn't the only factor. Aesthetics, tooth location, and your bite all play a role. Here's how to compare them and understand your options.
Zirconia Crowns: Strength and Durability
Zirconia is a type of ceramic that's exceptionally strong—stronger than traditional porcelain. It's highly resistant to chipping and cracking, and it can withstand the forces of chewing even on back teeth (molars). Zirconia crowns are often recommended for:
- Back teeth that bear heavy chewing forces
- Patients who grind or clench
- Situations where maximum durability is a priority
Modern zirconia can also be made to look very natural, with good color matching and translucency. It's become one of the most popular crown materials for its combination of strength and aesthetics.
Porcelain Crowns: Aesthetics and Tradition
Traditional porcelain (or porcelain-fused-to-metal) crowns have been used for decades. Porcelain offers excellent aesthetics—it can mimic the translucency and color variation of natural teeth. On front teeth, where appearance matters most, porcelain has long been the gold standard. The trade-off: traditional all-porcelain crowns can be more prone to chipping than zirconia, especially on back teeth where bite forces are highest.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
PFM crowns have a metal substructure with porcelain layered on top. They're strong and have been used successfully for years. The drawback is that the metal can sometimes show through at the gumline, especially if gums recede, and they may not match natural teeth as well as all-ceramic options. Many practices now prefer zirconia or other all-ceramic options for a more natural look.
Which Is Stronger?
Zirconia is stronger than traditional porcelain. It's less likely to chip or crack under normal chewing forces. For back teeth, zirconia is often the preferred choice. For front teeth, both zirconia and porcelain can look excellent—and modern zirconia has closed the aesthetic gap. Your dentist will consider the tooth location, your bite, and your preferences when recommending a material.
The Bottom Line
Zirconia offers superior strength; porcelain (and high-quality zirconia) offer excellent aesthetics. The best choice depends on your specific tooth and goals. Schedule a consultation to discuss which material is right for you.