Zirconium crowns have become increasingly popular in the field of dentistry due to their numerous benefits and natural-looking appearance. These crowns are made from zirconium oxide, a biocompatible material that is highly durable and resistant to chipping or cracking. Zirconium crowns are an excellent choice for individuals looking to restore the functionality and aesthetics of their teeth. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what zirconium crowns are, their advantages, the step-by-step procedure for getting them, and much more.

What is a Zirconium Crown?

A zirconium crown is a type of dental restoration that covers a damaged or decayed tooth. It is crafted using zirconium oxide, a material known for its strength and natural tooth-like appearance. Zirconium crowns are highly resistant to wear and tear, making them a long-lasting solution for individuals with damaged teeth. These crowns are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of the patient’s existing teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with the natural dentition.

Benefits of Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium crowns offer several advantages over other types of dental crowns. Firstly, their biocompatible nature means that they are less likely to cause any allergic reactions or gum irritation. This makes them a suitable option for individuals with sensitive gums. Additionally, zirconium crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand the forces of biting and chewing without chipping or cracking. They are also resistant to staining, allowing patients to enjoy their favorite foods and beverages without worrying about discoloration. Furthermore, zirconium crowns provide a natural-looking appearance, as they can be customized to match the color and shape of the patient’s existing teeth.

The Zirconium Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step

If you are considering getting zirconium crowns, it is essential to understand the step-by-step procedure involved. The process typically involves several visits to the dentist.

Initial Consultation: During the first visit, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine if zirconium crowns are the right option for you. They will discuss your treatment goals and address any concerns or questions you may have.

Tooth Preparation: Once you have decided to proceed with zirconium crowns, the dentist will begin the tooth preparation process. This involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the affected tooth to create space for the crown. An impression of your teeth will then be taken to ensure accurate fabrication of the crown.

Temporary Crown Placement: While your permanent zirconium crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it and maintain aesthetics.

Crown Fabrication: The dental laboratory will use the impressions taken earlier to create a custom zirconium crown that matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. This process may take a few weeks.

Permanent Crown Placement: Once your zirconium crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for the final placement. The temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be checked for fit and aesthetics. The dentist will then securely bond the crown to your tooth using dental cement.

Final Adjustments: After the crown is placed, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper bite alignment and comfort. They will also provide instructions on how to care for your new zirconium crown.

How to Make a Zirconium Crown

The fabrication of zirconium crowns involves a meticulous process to ensure optimal fit and aesthetics. Here is an overview of how zirconium crowns are made:

Impressions: The first step in making a zirconium crown is taking accurate impressions of the patient’s teeth. This is done using dental putty or digital scanning technology. Impressions capture the shape and size of the prepared tooth, as well as the surrounding teeth for proper alignment.

Digital Design: Once the impressions are obtained, they are scanned into a computer to create a digital 3D model of the patient’s mouth. This digital model is used to design the zirconium crown with precise measurements and specifications.

Milling: The designed crown is then milled from a solid block of zirconium oxide using computer-aided milling machines. This process ensures the crown’s accuracy and allows for intricate detailing to match the patient’s natural teeth.

Sintering: The milled zirconium crown is placed in a high-temperature furnace for sintering. This process strengthens the material, enhancing its durability and ensuring a precise fit.

Staining and Glazing: After sintering, the zirconium crown is stained and glazed to mimic the natural color and translucency of the patient’s teeth. This step adds the final touches to the crown’s aesthetics.

Quality Check: Before the crown is sent to the dentist, it undergoes a thorough quality check to ensure it meets the highest standards of fit, function, and aesthetics.

Things to Consider After Getting Zirconium Crowns

After getting zirconium crowns, it is crucial to take proper care of them to ensure their longevity and maintain oral health. Here are some essential things to consider:

Oral Hygiene: Maintain a regular oral hygiene routine by brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily. This will help prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Avoid Hard Foods: While zirconium crowns are highly durable, it is advisable to avoid biting or chewing on hard foods such as ice, hard candies, or bones. Excessive force can still cause damage to the crown.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. This allows the dentist to monitor the condition of your zirconium crowns and address any issues promptly.

Protective Mouthguard: If you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your zirconium crowns from potential damage.

Avoid Staining Agents: To prevent staining, limit your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining agents. If you do consume these beverages, rinse your mouth with water afterward or brush your teeth to minimize the risk of discoloration.

Differences Between Zirconia Crowns and Porcelain Crowns

Zirconia crowns and porcelain crowns are two popular options for dental restorations. While they both provide excellent aesthetics and durability, there are some notable differences between the two:

Material: Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium oxide, a strong and durable material. Porcelain crowns, on the other hand, are made from a glass-like material that is layered over a metal substructure.

Strength: Zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional strength and resistance to chipping or cracking. Porcelain crowns, although strong, are more prone to fracture under excessive force.

Aesthetics: Zirconia crowns offer excellent aesthetics, as they can be customized to match the color and translucency of natural teeth. Porcelain crowns also provide natural-looking results but may require the use of a metal substructure, which can affect the overall appearance.

Tooth Preparation: Zirconia crowns require less tooth preparation compared to porcelain crowns. This means that less natural tooth structure needs to be removed, preserving the integrity of the tooth.

Zirconium Crowns vs. Other Types of Dental Crowns

When considering zirconium crowns, it is essential to understand how they compare to other types of dental crowns. Here are some key differences:

Metal Crowns: Zirconium crowns offer superior aesthetics compared to metal crowns, as they do not have a metallic appearance. They also eliminate the risk of metal allergies or sensitivities.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: Zirconium crowns are an excellent alternative to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, as they provide comparable strength and aesthetics without the risk of the metal substructure showing through.

All-Ceramic Crowns: Zirconium crowns are a type of all-ceramic crown. Compared to other all-ceramic crowns, such as lithium disilicate or alumina crowns, zirconium crowns offer superior strength and durability.

Cost: Zirconium crowns may be more expensive than some other types of dental crowns due to the high-quality materials and advanced fabrication techniques involved. However, their longevity and natural appearance make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.

For more detailed information about dental crowns, please visit our article “Dental Crowns”.

Are Zirconium Crowns Right for You?

Zirconium crowns offer a multitude of benefits, including strength, durability, aesthetics, and biocompatibility. If you are looking to restore the functionality and appearance of your damaged teeth, zirconium crowns may be the ideal solution for you. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified dentist who can assess your specific needs and guide you through the process. With proper care and maintenance, zirconium crowns can provide you with a beautiful and long-lasting smile for years to come.

Contact Nova Dental for more detailed information about Zirconium Crowns and to make an appointment. wa.me/905441273122