BOOK AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE
BOOK A VIRTUAL CONSULTATION HERE

Zirconia Crowns

HOW ZIRCONIA CROWNS IN LONDON CAN HELP YOU IMPROVE YOUR SMILE

Zirconia crowns are a type of dental crown made from a type of ceramic - or, in more specific terms, a zirconium dioxide, a strong, biocompatible ceramic material. These crowns are known for their durability, natural appearance, and resistance to wear, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth. Getting a zirconia crown won't help grow your natural tooth back to health, but it'll prevent further decay and improve the affected tooth's appearance. Your dentist may use a dental crown to fix many oral problems.

Here are some key aspects of Zirconia Crowns:

Key Features of Zirconia Crowns

  1. Durability and Strength
    • High Strength: Zirconia is an exceptionally strong material, capable of withstanding the significant biting and chewing forces exerted on molars and premolars.
    • Fracture Resistant: Less likely to chip or crack compared to other types of crowns, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal
    • Natural Appearance: Zirconia crowns can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, providing a highly natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    • Translucency Options: Modern zirconia crowns can mimic the translucency of natural teeth, especially those designed for front teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly with your smile.
  3. Biocompatibility
    • Hypoallergenic: Zirconia is biocompatible and unlikely to cause allergic reactions or irritation to the surrounding gum tissue.
    • Reduced Plaque Accumulation: The smooth surface of zirconia crowns minimises plaque buildup, promoting better oral hygiene.

What are the Advantages of Zirconia Crowns

  • Long Lifespan: Given their strength and resistance to wear, zirconia crowns can last many years with proper care.
  • Minimal Tooth Preparation: Less removal of the natural tooth structure is required compared to some other types of crowns.
  • Corrosion Resistant: Zirconia does not corrode, ensuring the crown remains stable and functional over time.
  • Non-Metallic: Ideal for patients who prefer a metal-free restoration.

Disadvantages of Zirconia Crowns

  • Cost: Zirconia crowns can be more expensive than other types of crowns, such as metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
  • Adjustment Period: Some patients may require an adjustment period to get used to the feel of zirconia crowns, especially if the crown is thicker than the natural tooth it replaces.

Applications of Zirconia Crowns

  • Single Tooth Restorations: Used to restore a single damaged or decayed tooth.
  • Dental Bridges: Zirconia can be used for the abutment teeth in a dental bridge, providing strength and aesthetics.
  • Implant Crowns: Commonly used as the visible portion of a dental implant due to their durability and appearance.

Care and Maintenance

  • Regular Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to maintain the health of the surrounding gums and natural teeth.
  • Routine Dental Visits: Regular check-ups and professional cleanings are important to ensure the longevity of the crown.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: While zirconia crowns are durable, avoiding extremely hard foods can help prevent potential damage.

Zirconia crowns offer a combination of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for many dental restorations. Their biocompatibility and resistance to wear further enhance their suitability for both anterior and posterior applications. Proper care and regular dental visits can help ensure that zirconia crowns provide long-lasting and effective dental restorations.

Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a highly durable and biocompatible ceramic material. This material is known for its strength, resistance to wear, and aesthetic qualities.
Yes, zirconia crowns are suitable for both front (anterior) and back (posterior) teeth. Their strength makes them ideal for molars and premolars, while their aesthetic qualities make them suitable for front teeth.
With proper care, zirconia crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for maximizing their lifespan.
  • Strength: Zirconia crowns are generally stronger and more durable than porcelain crowns.
  • Aesthetics: Both can provide a natural look, but modern zirconia crowns have improved in translucency and appearance.
  • Resistance: Zirconia crowns are more resistant to chipping and cracking compared to porcelain crowns.
  1. Consultation: Your dentist will examine the tooth and discuss treatment options.
  2. Preparation: The tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown.
  3. Impression: An impression of the tooth is taken to create a custom-fit crown.
  4. Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed while the permanent crown is being made.
  5. Fitting: The zirconia crown is checked for fit and colour, then permanently cemented in place.
  • Brushing and Flossing: Maintain regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
  • Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: While zirconia crowns are durable, it's best to avoid biting down on very hard objects like ice or hard candies.
No, zirconia crowns cannot be whitened with bleaching agents. It’s important to choose a shade that matches your natural teeth before the crown is made. If you plan to whiten your natural teeth, do so before getting the crown.
Zirconia crowns tend to be more expensive than other types of crowns, such as metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, due to their material costs and the advanced technology used to create them.
Zirconia crowns are highly biocompatible and hypoallergenic, making them suitable for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
  • Cost: Higher cost compared to other types of crowns.
  • Adjustment Period: Some patients may need time to get used to the feel of the crown, especially if it is thicker than the natural tooth.
Contact your dentist immediately if your crown feels uncomfortable, loose, or if you experience any pain. Your dentist will examine the crown and make necessary adjustments or repairs. By understanding these common questions and answers about zirconia crowns, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental restorations.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE
BOOK A VIRTUAL CONSULTATION HERE