Zirconia Crowns

Treatment Duration

2-6 Days

Stages

Treatment Planning, Preparation of the Tooth, Impression of the Tooth, Crown Placement

Advantages

Aesthetics, Strength and Durability, Precision Fit, Preservation of Tooth Structure

Indications

Damaged or decayed teeth, old or worn-out dental restorations, Protection of weakened teeth

Zirconia crowns are a type of dental crown that is made from zirconium dioxide, a ceramic material known for its strength and durability. Zirconia crowns are becoming increasingly popular in dentistry because of their natural appearance and ability to withstand wear and tear over time.

Zirconia crowns are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth and are an alternative to traditional porcelain or metal crowns. They are particularly suitable for front teeth as they can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, giving a more natural appearance.

Zirconia crowns are also biocompatible, meaning that they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction or irritation in the mouth. Additionally, they do not conduct heat or cold as much as metal crowns, making them more comfortable for the patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process of getting a zirconia crown, and how long does it take?

The process of getting a zirconia crown is similar to that of other types of crowns. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Then, they will take an impression of your teeth to create a custom-fitted zirconia crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready. During the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent zirconia crown is placed and adjusted to ensure a proper fit. The entire process usually takes around 2-3 weeks.

Advantages of Zirconia Crowns:

Aesthetics: Zirconia crowns are known for their natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth. They are also resistant to discoloration and staining, providing a long-lasting solution for a beautiful smile.
Strength and Durability: Zirconia crowns are made of a high-strength ceramic material that is resistant to chipping, cracking, and wear. They are also biocompatible, making them a safe and long-lasting option for dental restorations.
Precision Fit: Zirconia crowns are milled using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, which ensures a precise fit and minimal adjustments needed during placement.
Preservation of Tooth Structure: Zirconia crowns require less removal of natural tooth structure compared to other types of crowns, preserving the tooth’s integrity and reducing the risk of further damage or decay.

Indications for Zirconia Crowns:

Restoration of severely damaged or decayed teeth
Replacement of old or worn-out dental restorations
Correction of cosmetic imperfections, such as misshapen or discolored teeth
Protection of weakened teeth from further damage or decay
Use in cases of bruxism or teeth grinding to prevent damage to natural teeth.

Contraindications for Zirconia Crowns:

Inadequate tooth structure to support a crown
Severe malocclusion or misalignment of teeth
Active periodontal disease or significant decay in remaining teeth
Teeth that require significant reshaping to accommodate the crown
Patients with a history of allergic reactions to ceramic materials.

Stages of Zirconia Crowns Treatment:

Consultation and Treatment Planning: The first stage involves a comprehensive consultation and evaluation with a dental professional to assess the patient’s oral health, determine the suitability for zirconia crowns, and develop a customized treatment plan.
Preparation of the Tooth: The dentist will remove any decay or damage from the tooth and prepare it for the crown. This may involve reshaping the tooth to accommodate the crown or placing a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready.
Impression of the Tooth: The dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth and send it to a dental laboratory, where the zirconia crown will be fabricated.
Crown Placement: Once the crown is ready, the dentist will place it over the prepared tooth and check the fit and bite. Any necessary adjustments will be made before the crown is permanently cemented in place.
Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure the health and stability of the crown. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular check-ups with their dental professional to monitor their oral health and detect any potential issues early.