The need for crowns is a common occurrence, especially for middle-aged and older adults. Over time, your teeth will naturally begin to wear down, no matter how well you take care of them. They may also become cracked or decayed. All of these unpleasant tooth-maladies can be corrected with a well-placed white crown or crowns.

If your dentist recommends crowns to replace damaged or worn-down teeth, he or she will likely give you a choice. The lowest cost option is a metal crown. The drawback? It’s easily visible, especially if needed in the front.

Most dental patients prefer white crowns  (or even color-matched versions). For this reason, the more popular types of crowns are porcelain fused metal crowns or all-porcelain crowns. While they are the most aesthetically pleasing option, they can also be a little “pricey.”

Which is best for you? Ask your dentist. He’ll set you up with the type of metal or white crown that fits your preference and your budget.