What are Zirconia Crowns?
A dental crown is a simple cap for a weakened or damaged tooth. It can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal, composite, or a combination. If you have a tooth that is chipped, cracked, or wearing down, your dentist will most often recommend protecting it with a dental crown. A crown will help maintain the shape, size, strength, and appearance of your tooth and will be made from one of various materials, with zirconia being a popular choice. When choosing the material that will be best for your crown, you will consider some factors like the visibility of the tooth in your smile, the functional strength, the cost, and the appearance.
The History of Dental Crowns
Crowns have been in use for hundreds of years, according to the ADA, or the American Dental Association. Gold alloys and other metals had been common choices historically. These metals are strong and will withstand the pressures of chewing, but they do not look like natural teeth. For you today the closest thing to a natural tooth is your best choice. The dental industry introduced porcelain to closely match the color of your natural teeth, but a drawback of using porcelain is that it is bit more fragile. Sometimes it can crack, chip, or break. Zirconia is stronger and looks like your natural teeth.
The Reasons You Need a Dental Crown
If you have a large cavity that is too big for a dental filling, it might be time for a crown to protect the tooth.
You could also need a crown if your tooth is:
* Chipped cracked, broken, or fractured.
* Has become severely worn down.
* Weakened from decay or disease.
Crowns are also recommended after a root canal on a tooth because the tooth has less structure, is more fragile, and will need protection.
You are also a candidate for a crown if you are missing a tooth, and your dentist fills the gap or space with a dental bridge or a dental implant.
The Benefits and Advantages of a Zirconia Crown
Zirconia is a newer material for dental restorations. It is a type of ceramic, or more specifically, zirconium oxide, which is stronger than porcelain and metal alloys but still has the natural appearance of a porcelain crown.
Some of the benefits of zirconium crowns are:
* They will match the color of your natural teeth.
* Zirconia can even be layered with porcelain for an even more natural appearance.
* They are terrifically durable.
* Zirconia is biocompatible, so it will not cause any adverse reactions with your body accepting it.
* They can be created and formed in the dental office and need less preparation, meaning you might be fitted and have it placed in just one appointment.
* These crowns can be either bonded or cemented to your tooth.
Considerations When Choosing Zirconia for Your Dental Crown
Several factors are relative when choosing a zirconia crown, including:
* The biting and chewing strength, regarding the location in your mouth.
* The durability and projected life expectancy.
* The final cost and your budget.
A natural appearance that can maintain or restore your healthy smile may be your priority. Your dentist will discuss your options and help you determine if a zirconia crown is best to meet your goals.
