What are Zirconia Crowns?
Zirconia Crowns are a very exciting development in the science of capping or crowning degraded teeth. If you have any experience with a Dentist, odds are you have experienced some sort of tooth decay. Fewer and farther between are the “never had a cavity” crew. When teeth decay and break the next step is typically to clean and disinfect the tooth and area, desensitize, and attach a cap. Some say tooth caps date back to early 200 a.d., yes–they even pre-date George Washington’s famous false teeth.
What are crowns?
Crowns or caps are prosthetics attached to damaged teeth that help to strengthen the tooth, and as a bonus provided some aesthetic appeal. Gold and Metal alloys have historically been more affordable than “tooth-like” materials, but now options are growing. Zirconia is a durable, and appealing choice in the catalog.
What is Zirconia?
Though typically associated with a tasteful diamond “knock-off” (i.e. “Cubic Zirconia”) Zirconia is derived from Zirconium as a crystallized oxide. Zirconia has the benefits of a durable metal, like gold, but retains a more tooth-like color and shape. It can also be layered with porcelain to make it less distinguishable from other teeth. Dentists can fit and shape Zirconia in the same appointment. Zirconia is also compatible with the human body, and poses no known health risks. Zirconia is comprised of an all-ceramic material and will not leech into your body or leave unsightly metal lines in your smile.
Are there any problems with Zirconia?
Yes, Zirconia can be too durable, making it difficult to shave down or adjust for your chew. Zirconia is less translucent than real teeth, and can be slightly noticeable for the keen observers in your life. Zirconia, if placed incorrectly or fitted wrong, can actually make compensatory areas of your mouth work harder. This could lead to jaw pain or tooth breakdown in other parts of your mouth. Make sure you consult with your Dentist to find the perfect fit, for any implant or crown.
Zirconia is translucent, but my teeth are white enamel, wont it stick out?
Some wonderful news! Zirconia can be layered with porcelain to present a perfect tooth-like appearance, especially cool if you are replacing a tooth in the front of your mouth. This way you can meld the appeal of a durable and well-bonded cap with the sheen and color of Porcelain. Porcelain itself has often been considered a little too fragile, though very visually appealing, it is prone to chips and cracks.
Whatever your choice of dental crown material, it is beneficial to be an informed consumer. Knowing the benefits of each material will help you have an honest conversation with your dental professional about what you want for your smile. If you choose Zirconia you will gain the benefits of durability, longevity, appearance, and same-day procedure. However the best advantage is no further concern about chemical reactivity in your body or allergic reactions, because Zirconia is completely non-reactive with your body chemistry. Whatever you decide, make sure you are comfortable and talk with your dentist about any concerns. Choosing the right fit and look may make you feel more comfortable and smile broader, with confidence.