A dental crown is a prosthesis used for saving teeth in case of extensive damage. Previously we have talked about types of crowns. Here we will talk about zirconium crowns –their types as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
What are zirconia crowns?
Zirconium crowns have become increasingly popular in dentistry in recent years. They ensure strong and long-lasting dental restoration. As zirconia is available in several different chemical compositions, it can be used in a variety of applications where a combination of strength and excellent aesthetics is essential. Zirconium crowns look very similar to natural teeth, which makes them a popular choice among patients.
Types of zirconium crowns
There are several types of zirconia materials. Each has different functions and benefits that affect the outcomes.
Solid or monolithic zirconia is the opaquest of the zirconia styles. Monolithic zirconia is widely recommended for crowns for posterior teeth. Patients who tend to grind their teeth may also benefit from this option, as it will be more durable. Moreover, monolithic zirconium crowns cause less damage to the neighboring teeth.
Multilayer zirconium
The idea of using multi-layered zirconium dioxide in dentistry is to make artificial teeth more like natural ones.
Multi-layered zirconium is covered with a special ceramic where the teeth are visible. However, only visible surfaces are layered; invisible surfaces remain fully zirconia to ensure durability. Such modification provides the long-lasting effect of zirconia crowns.
The ceramic layer makes this type of crown a good option for front teeth. Multi-layered zirconia is more opaque than other materials which makes a smile natural.
Another significant advantage of layered zirconia is that the color of the restored tooth is part of the zirconia itself. In old types of zirconium, a special paint was used to color the outer part of the tooth. However, the colors could wear off in the process of brushing or in case of acidic environment in the mouth. With multi-layered zirconia, even if the added color on the surface wears off, the tooth retains its color because it is embedded in the material.
Yarema Dental uses premium translucent multilayer zirconia from Amann Girrbach, a company with lengthy experience in developing and producing zirconium dioxide.
Highly opulent zirconium dioxide is considered the most natural of all types in its range. Its increased opulence ensures reflecting the color of the surrounding teeth.
Advantages of zirconium crowns
Maximum preservation of the tooth
One of the most important advantages of zirconium crowns is the minimal preparation of the tooth for the procedure, compared to other types of crowns. In many cases, it requires removing less healthy tooth tissue, which ensures better preservation of its natural structure. Such conservative approach helps preserve the overall strength and integrity of the tooth.
Precise fit
Zirconia crowns are precisely manufactured using automated design and manufacturing technology. This ensures individual fit, reducing the risk of gaps or inaccuracies and improves overall comfort and functionality.
Biocompatibility
Due to its qualities, zirconium is easily accepted by the body. It is the same material, which is used in non-metallic prosthetic joints and dental implants.
No metal components
Unlike metal-ceramics, zirconium dioxide does not contain any metal substructure to be strong and stable. Metal-free substances are beneficial for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies.
Strength and durability
Zirconium is an extremely strong material. Its resistance helps avoid breaking or cracking. It is almost indestructible and is suitable for patients with bruxism. Zirconia crowns can last up to 20 years or more, depending on the patient’s regular care and hygiene.
Aesthetics
Translucent zirconium dioxide reflects and perceives the color of the surrounding teeth. Since it is made in a variety of shades, it is easy to match the color exactly to the patient’s natural teeth.
Initially, when zirconia crowns were introduced, only bone-white frameworks could be produced, which caused challenges in achieving an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Because of this disadvantage, zirconia crowns were often used only for the restoration of posterior teeth. Manufacturers soon recognized it and solved the problem. New generations of zirconia materials are suitable for providing highly esthetic, lustrous restorations with translucent, refractive properties that exceed patients’ aesthetic expectations.
At Yarema Dental Clinic, we use multi-layered, translucent zirconium dioxide, offering a palette of 18 different shades.
Stain resistance
Zirconia is highly resistant to stains and discoloration, unlike some other dental materials. This can help maintain the crown’s natural appearance over time and reduce the need for frequent maintenance or replacement.
Disadvantages
While zirconium crowns have numerous advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages that should be considered.
Durability is both an advantage and a disadvantage of these crowns. As zirconium dioxide bonds very well with the tooth structure and is a very hard material, it can be difficult to remove if additional dental treatment is needed. Although such cases are not common, they should be considered when planning treatment.
Thickness
Zirconia crowns have tended to be thicker than other types of crowns, such as metal-ceramics. The increased thickness often resulted in a seemingly larger appearance. However, this is no longer the case as technological advances have ensure much thinner zirconia crowns.
Cost
Dental restoration with zirconia crowns can be more expensive than the alternatives, but the best treatment results usually influence patients’ satisfaction and choices.
Price is primarily caused by the cost of the advanced materials and manufacturing processes involved in creating zirconia restoration.
Wear of opposite teeth
Zirconium is a very strong material; its hardness can lead to increased wear on the teeth that come into contact with it. In some cases, zirconia crowns can cause more wear on opposing teeth over time.
Tooth sensitivity
Some patients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after having zirconia crowns installed. However, this sensitivity is usually slight and decreases over time.
Although there are both advantages and disadvantages of zirconia crowns to consider, zirconia crowns have gained acceptance in dental practice due to their ability to provide superior aesthetics, durability, biocompatibility, and tooth preservation.