zirconia crown

Zirconia Crowns: A great combination of beauty and strength!

  • Sep 10, 2024

Introduction:

The dental world is progressing at a very fast rate and everyday dentists are trying to offer the best possible options to their patients. One such modern day advancement is a metal free Zirconia crown. These crowns are preferred by dentists and patients alike. Their aesthetic and functional appeal set them apart. These crowns are an excellent combination of durability and biocompatibility. People today prefer these crowns over all other types of crowns. In this blog we will try to understand what makes zirconia crowns such a sought-after choice by discussing its various advantages and disadvantages while also shedding light on their cost and maintenance.

What is a Zirconia Crown?

Zirconia crowns are dental crowns which are made from a strong and wear resistant material called zirconium dioxide. They are strong and not prone to fractures, and this makes them long lasting. Traditional crowns prove to be quite unaesthetic due to their metallic appearance. Zirconia crowns are natural looking and match the remaining teeth making them cosmetically very appealing. Their visually appealing nature combined with their toughness makes them an ideal choice for both front and back teeth.

What are the Types of Zirconia Crowns?

Full Zirconia Crowns:

These are made completely of zirconia and not combined with any other material. The Monolithic Zirconia crowns are composed from a single block of zirconia. This makes them extremely strong and resistant to chipping and ideal for the chewing forces experienced by the back teeth while eating food.

Layered Zirconia Crowns:

These are zirconia crowns covered by a layer of either porcelain or ceramic. This makes it easier to match the shade of the adjacent teeth with the new zirconia crown. Due to this property layered zirconia crowns are used frequently to restore the front teeth.

Why do patients choose Zirconia Crowns?

Last for a lifetime:

Zirconium dioxide is a very strong material which is highly wear resistant and also does not result in chipping. Hence zirconia crowns are extremely durable and survive for a lifetime in the oral cavity if maintained properly.

Very good looking:

These crowns match the appearance of natural teeth in every possible way. They look and feel just like natural teeth and are very aesthetic to look at.

Allergy free:

Many times, patients may be allergic to metals. These metal free crowns offer a safe and biocompatible option for these patients with metal allergies.

Preserves tooth structure:

Zirconia crowns are strong even when they are made very thin, and this property ensures that too much tooth structure need not be removed to fit these crowns.

Good investment:

If you are looking for a long-term investment in your oral health these crowns can provide you with a solution that is worth your money.

What are the steps in Zirconia Crown Procedure?

The dentist will first examine the tooth which requires a crown and start preparing it by removing some tooth structure so that space is available to fit the crown.

An impression is made by the dentist of the prepared tooth and sent to the dental lab.

A temporary crown is given to the patient till the time the permanent crown is fabricated.

The zirconia crown then replaces the temporary cap once it is ready, and patients are given instructions to maintain the crown.

What is the difference between Zirconia Crown and other crowns?

Feature Zirconia Crowns Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns Emax Crowns
Appearance Natural appearance, can be color-matched. Translucent, mimics the look of natural teeth. Metal base may show through if the gum recedes. Highly aesthetic with excellent translucency. Mimics natural tooth appearance very closely.
Durability Highly durable and strong. Resistant to chipping and cracking. Suitable for both front and back teeth. Good durability. Metal base adds strength but can be prone to chipping of porcelain layer. Strong and durable. Less durable than zirconia but suitable for most front and back teeth applications.
Costs Generally moderate to high cost. Costs may vary depending on the complexity and lab work involved. Typically, less expensive than zirconia and Emax crowns. Cost-effective for a balance of aesthetics and strength. Usually high cost. Often more expensive due to the high-quality material and fabrication process.

What is the cost of Zirconia Crowns in India?

Zirconia crowns are one of the costlier crowns available in the dental market. The average price for a zirconia crown may range from 6000-15000 INR. The price is variable depending on various factors such as the dental clinic you visit, the popularity of the dentist and the location where you live. The price also changes depending on the type of zirconia crown you choose whether it is monolithic or layered. What is important to remember is that this crown is a worthy investment for your future dental health.

Who are the ideal candidates for Zirconia Crowns?

  • Patients with high aesthetic demand

  • Patients with heavy biting force

  • Patients with metal allergies

  • Patients with less remaining tooth structure

Are Zirconia Crowns easy to take care of?

Zirconia crowns are easy to maintain if you follow the following instructions:

  • Keep your teeth clean by brushing them twice daily and using mouthwash and floss when necessary.

  • Avoid eating extremely sticky food substances which may dislodge the crown.

  • Visit your dentist regularly for a checkup.

  • In case of any issues with the crown make sure to avoid delay and visit your dentist at the earliest.

Conclusion:

Zirconia crowns are aesthetic, strong, allergy-free, and prove to be extremely worth the money you spend on them. You can receive these crowns in a few easy steps. They do not require any special treatment and easily adapt into your daily life. Whenever you visit your dentist for a crown be sure to ask them for the beautiful and long-lasting zirconia crowns.