Have you ever experienced a severe toothache or a broken tooth? If so, it’s possible that your dentist suggested a crown. When a tooth is damaged, a crown acts as a cap to strengthen and shield it. In terms of crowns, zirconia crowns are considered one of the best.
So, what exactly is a zirconia crown? In what ways does it differ from other kinds of crowns? Come on, let’s dig into the details.
A Zirconia Crown: What Is It?
A Zirconia crown is a kind of dental crown made of extremely durable ceramic material called zirconium dioxide. Zirconium dioxide was used to make other prostheses in the body as well, but its dental application has gained so much popularity. Zirconia crowns are renowned for their toughness, durability, and resemblance to natural teeth colour and translucency.
Zirconia crowns are frequently suggested by dentists due to their ability to tolerate biting forces, which makes them an excellent option for molars (back teeth) that require more strength. They are also used in patients who suffer from bruxism or night clenching. However, because of its smooth, flawless, and translucent appearance, zirconia can also be used for front teeth as well.
Why Are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Crowns are recommended by dentists for a variety of reasons, including:
To Restore a Fractured or Cracked Tooth: A crown can be used to cover and shield a tooth that is severely fractured or cracked.
To Strengthen a Weak Tooth: Large fillings or decay can occasionally cause teeth to become weak. A crown helps prevent tooth fractures.
Following a Root Canal: A tooth may become brittle following a root canal. The tooth is shielded from damage by a crown.
To Improve the Visual Appeal of a Tooth: A crown can improve the appearance of a tooth that is discoloured or has an unusual shape.
To Support a Dental Bridge: If you are missing a tooth, crowns can be utilized to keep a bridge in place.
What Is the Difference Between Zirconia and Other Crowns?
Dental crowns come in a variety of forms, each with unique advantages. Let’s see how zirconia crowns differ from other popular varieties:
| Type of crown | Material | Durability | Best used for |
| Zirconia | Zirconium dioxide | 15-20 years if cared properly. Resistant of chewing forces | Back teeth Fron teeth |
| Porcelain | Porcelain | Prone to chipping | Front teeth |
| Porcelain fused to metal | Porcelain and metal alloy | Can wear down with time, exposing inner metal layer | Front and back teeth |
| Metal | Gold alloy, silver alloy | Very durable but aesthetically compromised | Back teeth |
These were the types of crowns, but do you know Even Zirconia crows are made structurally of two types:
| Type | Importance | uses | Application |
| Solid Zirconia | Made of single block of zirconia | Back teeth | Mainly bruxism |
| Multilayered Zirconia | Different layers of zirconia are fused to get colour gradient effect | Front teeth | Mainly cosmetic cases |
Advantages of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are becoming very popular among dentists and patients mainly because of their appearance. There are other advantages also which should be considered when choosing Zirconia Crown:
Strong – Zirconia crowns are very strong with a strength of more than 1500MPa They can handle the pressure of chewing and grinding. They are also recommended for patients suffering from night grinding.
Long-Lasting – Zirconia crowns can last 10-15 years or more with proper care. Many dental labs offer a warranty also for Zirconia crowns, which in turn increases its popularity even more.
Biocompatible – Zirconium Dioxide is non-reactive to our body tissues. Thus, it is safe for the body and does not cause any kind of harm or allergic reactions.
Less Tooth Preparation – A dentist has to trim your tooth before fixing a crown. With Zirconia crowns the trimming is reduced to a very good extent thus saving the natural structure of the tooth more efficiently. In other words, Dentists don’t have to remove much of the natural tooth to fit a zirconia crown.
Stain-Resistant – Unlike some other materials, zirconia doesn’t easily stain from coffee, tea, or food.
Colour gradient: Zirconia crowns are very good at taking up a perfect colour gradation just like natural teeth and thus appear exactly like natural teeth. They also don’t exhibit a black gumline like in PFMs.
Caring for a Zirconia Crown
Zirconia crowns are very strong, but they still need care to last long. Here are some simple tips:
Brush twice a day
Use fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove food particles around the crown.
Avoid biting hard or very sticky objects
Visit the dentist regularly
In a nutshell
Zirconia crowns are a great choice if you want a perfect looking crown with unmatchable strength. They are not only strong, but they also improve the appearance of your teeth, are multitasking and used for both front and back teeth. Compared to other crowns, zirconia offers the perfect balance of beauty and strength. If you need a crown, talk to your dentist about zirconia crowns to see if they are the right choice for you!
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