A metal-free crown has no metal core, so it lets light through the way a natural tooth does and leaves no dark edge at the gum. A metal-ceramic crown has a metal base covered with ceramic; it is very durable and backed by decades of clinical experience. We usually choose metal-free where appearance matters most, and metal-ceramic for large bridges with a longer span and for combined restorations. At our practice a metal-free crown costs 30,000 RSD and a metal-ceramic crown 15,600 RSD per tooth.
What is the difference between a metal-free and a metal-ceramic crown?
The difference is the core, the part beneath the outer layer of ceramic. In a metal-ceramic crown it is a metal cap; in a metal-free crown it is ceramic or zirconia. The core decides how the crown lets light through, how much load it carries and what happens at the gum line over time.
| Metal-free crown | Metal-ceramic crown | |
|---|---|---|
| Core | all-ceramic or zirconia | metal covered with ceramic |
| Look | lets light through like a natural tooth | does not let light through; modern work still looks good |
| Edge at the gum | no dark line | a dark edge may become visible over time |
| Most often for | front teeth, single crowns, shorter bridges | large bridges, combined restorations, bridges on implants |
| Production | digital, usually 2–3 days | agreed at the examination |
| Price per tooth | 30,000 RSD | 15,600 RSD |
What is a metal-free crown made of, and why does that change how the tooth looks?
A metal-free crown is made of all-ceramic or of zirconia. With no metal core, light passes through it as it does through a natural tooth, so the crown blends into the smile even in bright light.
We choose between the two metal-free materials by the position in the mouth. All-ceramic is usually chosen for the front teeth for its looks. Zirconia carries heavier loads, so it is the choice for back teeth and shorter bridges. The ceramic is biocompatible, causes no allergies and does not change colour.
Read more about how we make metal-free crowns, bridges and veneers on the fixed prosthodontics page.
When does a metal-ceramic crown make more sense?
Metal-ceramic is still the first choice for large bridges, especially when the span between the supporting teeth is longer. It is also the first choice for combined restorations, where attachments that hold the denture are built into the crowns, and very often for large bridges on implants.
Metal-ceramic crowns remain the gold standard for a significant share of prosthetic work, thanks to their durability and decades of clinical experience. Modern production has also improved their appearance, so metal-ceramic work can look very natural too.
Which crown is stronger, and what decides how long it lasts?
For most single crowns both types are strong enough. The difference shows in large bridges, where metal-ceramic has the advantage, and on the back teeth, where zirconia is the metal-free choice because it carries heavier loads.
How long a crown lasts depends on hygiene, regular check-ups and whether the material suits its position in the mouth. For metal-free crowns, with good hygiene and regular check-ups, that is as a rule ten years or more.
How much does a metal-free crown cost, and how much a metal-ceramic one?
On our price list a metal-free crown costs 30,000 RSD and a metal-ceramic crown 15,600 RSD per tooth. Other items are added when needed:
- a temporary crown, worn while the permanent one is made: 2,400 RSD, laboratory-made 3,600 RSD;
- removing an old crown: 1,200 RSD;
- a post and core, when too little of the tooth is left to hold a crown: cast post or FRC post, 7,000 RSD each.
The final amount depends on the treatment plan: how many teeth are treated and whether the tooth needs treatment or a post first. We explain what goes into the price in how much a dental crown costs and how long it takes to make.
What is the dark line at the gum, and can an old crown be replaced?
The dark line patients notice on old crowns usually comes from the metal base of a metal-ceramic crown, which over time becomes visible at the edge by the gum. An old crown can be removed and replaced with a new one, for example a metal-free crown. At the examination we assess the tooth under the old crown and whether it needs any preparation first.
How do we choose the crown together?
The choice starts with an examination, not with a material. We look at the X-ray, the condition of the teeth and the bite, and tell you plainly where each option is justified and why. As a rule we propose several treatment plans, with prices and timelines, and the decision is yours.
We take the impression digitally or conventionally, depending on the type of work. With digital production metal-free crowns are usually ready two to three days after the scan. For front-tooth work you can wear a try-in prototype before the final crowns are made and check how it looks in everyday life, before the work becomes permanent.
If you are thinking about a new crown or replacing an old one, get in touch and we will book an examination.