When it comes to dental work, many people want something that looks natural, lasts a long time, and is strong. Over the years, one material has become a popular choice for dental crowns, bridges, and other restorations: Zirconia. This blog will explain what zirconia crowns are, how they are used, and why they are such a great option for dental work.
What Are Zirconia Crowns?
A zirconia crown is a tooth-shaped cover made from a material called zirconium dioxide. Zirconia is a strong, durable ceramic that has become a favorite in dental treatments. It is often used to replace old, damaged, or decayed teeth.
Why Are Zirconia Crowns So Popular?
Zirconia crowns are loved by dentists and patients alike because they combine strength and aesthetic appeal. Here are some key reasons why zirconia crowns are so popular:
Strength: Zirconia is very strong and resistant to wear and tear. This makes it a great option for both the back teeth, which are used for chewing, and the front teeth, where appearance matters most.
Aesthetics: Unlike some other materials, zirconia can be made to look very natural. It’s more translucent than other ceramics, which makes it blend in well with the natural colour of your teeth.
Durability: Zirconia is tough. It resists cracks and chips, meaning your crown is likely to last many years with the right care.
Biocompatibility: This means that zirconia is safe for the body and mouth soft tissues. It’s not likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation.
How Are Zirconia Crowns Made?
Zirconia crowns are created using a process called CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing). This process allows for highly precise customization of the crown to fit the exact shape of your tooth.
- Impression – The dentist takes a scan of your tooth, which may involve using a special material like putty or digital scanning.
- Design – Using a computer program, the crown is designed based on the impression.
- Milling – Once the design is complete, the crown is milled from a block of zirconia using a digital machine.
- Firing – After the crown is shaped, it is fired in a chamber to harden the material. The color is also matched to the natural shade of your teeth.
How Does Zirconia Work in Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. When a dentist recommends zirconia crown, they first take an impression of your tooth. Then, a custom crown is made in a dental lab, often using advanced CAD/CAM technology. This allows the crown to fit perfectly and look as natural as possible.
Zirconia crowns are often used because they don’t require as much removal of the tooth structure as other types of crowns. This means the dentist can keep as much of your natural tooth as possible.
The Benefits of Monolithic Zirconia Crowns
Monolithic zirconia crowns are made from a single block of zirconia. This type of crown has become very popular because it offers:
Strength and Durability: Since it’s made from one solid piece, it’s extremely strong and resistant to cracking.
Fewer Breaks: Because there’s no layering of materials (like with some older crown designs), monolithic zirconia crowns are less likely to break or chip.
Natural Appearance: These crowns have better translucency compared to older zirconia materials, which helps them look more like natural teeth.
Long Lifespan: With proper care, these crowns can last for many years without the need for replacement.
Cementing Zirconia Crowns
Putting the crown onto your tooth requires a special bonding process. Normally, zirconia crowns are attached with cement. While older techniques require a special kind of cement for ceramic crowns, newer methods have made this process much easier. With advancements in technology, even zirconia crowns can be cemented more easily, and they stay strong for longer.
Aging and Durability of Zirconia
One thing to keep in mind is that zirconia, like any material, can experience ageing over time. This happens when the zirconia changes its internal structure, especially when it’s exposed to moisture. But don’t worry! Modern zirconia crowns are made to resist this ageing process. In fact, newer versions of zirconia are less likely to degrade over time and can keep their strength and appearance for longer.
Can Zirconia Crowns Be Colored?
Yes! Zirconia crowns can be made in different colors to match your natural teeth. Dentists can use coloring agents to customize the crown’s shade so that it blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile. This can be especially important for crowns used on the front teeth.
Conclusion
Zirconia crowns have revolutionized the world of dental restorations. They offer a great combination of strength, durability, and natural appearance, making them an ideal choice for many dental procedures. Whether you’re getting a crown for a front tooth or a back tooth, zirconia is a material that dentists trust to provide long-lasting, beautiful results.
If you’re thinking about getting a crown, be sure to talk to your dentist about zirconia options. With its many benefits, it just might be the perfect solution for your dental needs!
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