Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium crowns, crafted from zirconium dioxide are the advanced types of dental solutions known for their durability and compatibility with the human body.

What is Zirconia Crown?

Zirconium crowns are one of the advanced types of dental solutions crafted from zirconium dioxide. This is a material known for its durability and compatibility with the human body. If you have damaged teeth, zirconium crowns might be a good choice for you.

Zirconia offers color-matching and translucency properties, which make it ideal, especially for front teeth. Traditional metal dental crown types do not generally ensure a natural look at the gum line. Unlike metal ones, zirconium crowns for teeth ensure a more natural look at the gum line.

Who is the Best Candidate for Zirconium Crowns?

Zirconium crowns are the best solution for those who face specific dental challenges where other treatments like veneers or orthodontics may not be suitable.

• If you have complex tooth problems,
• If you need front (anterior) and back (posterior) teeth restoration
• If you are allergic to metals,
• If you are over 20 years old,
• If you have a history of gum disease,
• If you have separated or large-filled teeth,

The Treatment Procedure for Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium crowns can be placed by your dentist in several steps, which means you will visit your office multiple times. The process can be summarized as follows:

Initial Consultation: During your first appointment, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. This procedure may include X-rays or making impressions of your existing teeth.

Tooth Preparation: The next step is to prepare your tooth or teeth according to the shape of the crown zirconia. In this appointment, your dentist may reshape your tooth to fit the crown. To protect your tooth while the permanent tooth crown is manufactured, your dentist may place a temporary crown.

Manufacturing Zirconium Crowns:  Your dentist will send the impressions to the dental laboratory so that the technicians can manufacture a custom-made crown.

Placing the Crowns on Teeth: Once the technicians finish manufacturing the zirconia dentist crown, you will visit your dentist once more so that your dentist can remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one.

After making the necessary adjustments, your dentist will permanently cement the crown.

Aftercare of Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium crowns offer a natural look. However, to keep the crowns long-lasting, you need to maintain overall oral health. After the treatment is completed, you need to ensure proper care. You can check below to see what you are recommended to do.

• You should visit your dentist regularly to make sure your crowns are in good condition.
• You should use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Even though crown zirconia is a durable solution, you should avoid biting on hard foods such as ice, hard candy, etc.
• As sticky foods can pull at the crown and lead to dislodgement, you should be careful while eating such foods.
• If you grind your teeth while sleeping, you should consider using a night guard.
• You should avoid consuming too much of such substances as tea, coffee, red wine, or tobacco to prevent staining.
• If you notice any abnormal issues, you should contact your dentist.
• You should follow your dentist’s instructions for the aftercare process.

The Pros and Cons of Zirconia Crowns

Zirconium crown dentistry process, known for its durability and compatibility, is a popular solution among patients who look for natural-looking treatments. To understand this solution deeply, you can check the advantages and disadvantages of zirconia crowns as follows:

Advantages of Zirconia Crowns

• Zirconia is incredibly strong and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
• These crowns have a translucent appearance that closely resembles natural teeth.
• Zirconia is a safe option for most patients as it is biocompatible.
• Since zirconia crowns do not contain any metal, they are an excellent choice for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
• When compared to metals, zirconia does not cause allergic reactions.
• Zirconia crowns do not corrode, and the gum line does not discolor over time.

Disadvantages of Zirconia Crowns

• While zirconia crowns are very aesthetic, they might not have the same level of translucency as some porcelain crowns, which could be a consideration for front tooth restorations.
• The strength of zirconia can be a double-edged sword, as it might cause more wear on the opposing natural teeth compared to softer crown materials.
• Adjusting and repairing zirconia crowns can be more challenging than other types of crowns.
• This solution can be more expensive than other types of crowns.
• Zirconia dental crowns can be brittle and may fracture under extreme force, although this is relatively rare.

Zirconium Crowns vs Veneers

Zirconium crowns vs veneers is a popular topic that almost every patient searches for. You can check the comparison of the two treatments below:

Zirconium crowns offer superior strength and durability, which makes them ideal for damaged or decayed teeth. This solution closely resembles natural teeth in color and translucency. The treatment procedure requires significant reshaping of the tooth. Lastly, it is a more expensive solution because of its material properties and comprehensive coverage.

On the other hand, veneers are generally a cosmetic solution that enhances the overall look and smile of patients. The treatment procedure requires minimal tooth preparation, and the veneers cover only the front surface of the tooth. As the treatment does not offer tooth restoration, it is less durable when compared to crowns.

In conclusion, zirconium crowns are a popular solution as they offer long-lasting, natural-like dental restorations. If you have complex tooth problems, you may consider asking your dentist about this treatment. According to your needs, your dentist will offer the best treatment plan.