What are Zirconia Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth colored dental restoration that fits over the entire visible structure of a tooth. Dental crowns can be used to restore a tooth that has extensive decay or has fractured. Crowns are also used to restore teeth that have had a root canal treatment to prevent the tooth from eventually breaking. After a tooth endures root canal treatment, it can become brittle over the years and be more susceptible to fracture. A dental crown can often save a tooth that may otherwise need to be extracted.
There are a number of materials available to fabricate a dental crown including base metals, such as gold, porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia.
Advantages of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia is a highly biocompatible material which means that it works well within our body. Zirconia is a metal oxide derived from zirconium, which is a metal in the titanium family. Even though zirconia is derived from metal, even patients with metal allergies are able to receive zirconia crowns without any adverse reactions.
Zirconia crowns are milled from a solid block of zirconia and can be fabricated to match the size and shape of your natural teeth. They are also able to be tinted to match the shade of the rest of your teeth, just like porcelain and ceramic! Zirconia crowns are cemented in place and are considered a permanent restoration.
Disadvantages of Zirconia Crowns
There are a couple of disadvantages to zirconia crowns, one being opacity. Zirconia is a much more opaque material than other options and is not ideal for anterior teeth. Our teeth are a bit translucent on the cusp so, zirconia is best reserved for back teeth.
Another drawback to zirconia crowns is the durability. Because zirconia is such a strong material, your Dentist may have trouble if you ever need a bite adjustment that will affect your crown. When your Dentist performs a bite adjustment, they take a minute amount of tooth structure off of the occlusal surface, which can be difficult if a zirconia crown needs to be adjusted.
Caring for and Maintaining Zirconia Crowns
Proper oral hygiene is the key to a lasting dental restoration, no matter what type of material it is fabricated from. A healthy oral care routine includes brushing at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing at least once a day with dental floss. Some patients may be tempted to use flossers but they are really only appropriate from time to time, such as after meals. Antimicrobial mouthwash is another step that can be beneficial in removing bacteria and biofilm build-up.
It is important to receive dental restorations as the need arises. A simple filling can quickly turn into a crown or even a root canal and crown when left untreated. If you have a tooth that has fractured or has severe decay, a zirconia dental crown may be a great option for you. Your Dentist will discuss your options with you and help you determine which material will be the best option for you.