Zirconia crowns are dental crowns made from zirconium dioxide, a high-strength ceramic material. Zirconia is a type of crystal that is known for its durability, strength, and biocompatibility, making it a popular material for dental restorations.
Zirconia crowns are often used to restore damaged, cracked, or broken teeth, and are also a popular choice for replacing old or failing dental restorations such as metal or porcelain crowns. They are highly aesthetic and can be custom shaded to match the color of the surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Zirconia Crowns ?
Zirconia crowns do have some downsides for you to consider. Although this material is a closer resemblance to a real tooth than gold and other metals, it is more opaque (less transparent) than real. If you need to replace a tooth in the front of your mouth, zirconia may have a noticeably different shade than your other teeth. And although strength is one of zirconia’s many benefits – there are times when a tooth can be a little too strong. For instance, if your dental professional wants to adjust your crown to even out your bite or needs to file the crown because it’s starting to damage a real tooth – the strength of zirconia could be considered a disadvantage.
How Can You Practice Good Oral Hygiene With a Zirconia Crown ?
Whatever material you choose for your crown, be sure to practice good oral hygiene as you do with all of your teeth. Brush at least twice a day, floss or clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or water flossers at least once a day, and consider using other helpful products like antimicrobial mouth rinses and tongue scrapers. Be sure to see your dental professional for regular cleanings – not only to keep your teeth pearly white and bacteria-free but also to check the health of your crown.
Compared to other types of dental crowns, zirconia crowns have several advantages. They are highly durable, resistant to chipping and breaking, and can last for many years with proper care. They are also highly biocompatible, meaning they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or other adverse reactions in the body.
If you have a tooth that is wearing down, cracked, or chipped, and you’re trying to decide if zirconia is the right material for your crown, your dental professional will best be able to advise you. Hopefully, with this newfound knowledge, you can have an informed conversation with your dentist about your specific needs, like the location of tooth damage in your mouth, the function of that tooth, the cost, and the aesthetic you hope to achieve. Then, together, you will be able to decide on a crown material that will give you a big toothy grin.
Overall, zirconia crowns are an excellent choice for restoring damaged or missing teeth, and can provide a long-lasting and highly aesthetic solution for many dental patients. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist to determine if zirconia crowns are the right choice for your specific dental needs.