Please note we may not offer this service at our office. Call (940) 566-4888 for more information.
Comprehensive Guide to Zirconia Dental Crowns
Dental crowns restore both the appearance and function of damaged teeth, but the type of crown can make a significant difference in results. Zirconia dental crowns are a newer, advanced option that has become popular for their resilience and close match to natural teeth.
If you’re exploring zirconia crowns in Denton, TX, our team is here to help you understand this durable restoration option. Call our Denton dental practice today at (940) 566-4888 to learn more.
What Are Zirconia Dental Crowns?
Zirconia dental crowns are made from zirconium oxide, a high-quality ceramic material. These crowns are known for their strength, longevity, and aesthetics. This material mimics the color and translucency of natural tooth structure, making it an attractive choice for visible areas like front teeth.
Top Benefits of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns offer a range of advantages, particularly for patients seeking both durability and aesthetics. Here’s what makes them unique:
- Long-lasting Durability: Zirconia is remarkably tough and resists daily wear and tear, making it a solid choice for molars or patients who grind their teeth (bruxism).
- Aesthetic Appeal: Their translucent quality blends with natural teeth, which is especially valued for smile restoration.
- Biocompatibility: Zirconia is gentle on gum tissue and is unlikely to cause allergic reactions, making it an option for sensitive patients.
- High Precision: Crafted with computer-aided design (CAD/CAM) technology, zirconia crowns offer a tailored fit, often requiring fewer adjustments.
Considerations and Drawbacks
While zirconia crowns have clear advantages, it’s important to weigh potential downsides:
- Higher Cost: These crowns generally cost more due to the quality of zirconia and the precision technology used in creation.
- Chipping Risk: Although durable, zirconia can be prone to chipping under significant pressure.
- Bonding Challenges: Bonding zirconia to natural tooth material can be tricky, which sometimes increases the chance of loosening.
The Zirconia Dental Crown Process
Consultation and Preparation
The first step in getting a zirconia dental crown is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your tooth and determine whether a crown is necessary. If a crown is deemed necessary, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping the tooth to make room for the crown.
Impressions and Temporary Crown
Once the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take impressions of the tooth and the surrounding area. These impressions will be used to create a custom-fitted zirconia crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. While you wait for the permanent crown to be made, your dentist will place a temporary dental crown over the prepared tooth to protect it.
Crown Placement
Once the zirconia crown has been fabricated, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the new crown over the prepared tooth. Your dentist will check the fit and color of the zirconia crown in the office to ensure that it looks and feels natural. Once the crown is properly fitted, it will be permanently cemented onto the prepared tooth.
Post-Placement Care
After the crown has been placed, we’ll provide you with instructions on how to care for your new restoration. Practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent plaque buildup and decay. Additionally, it’s best to avoid habits that can cause damage to the crown, such as chewing on hard objects or grinding your teeth. With proper care and maintenance, a zirconia dental crown can last for many years.
Cost Factors for Zirconia Crowns
On average, zirconia crowns generally cost between $1,000 and $2,500. Here’s what affects the price:
- Geographic Location: Dental costs vary, often higher in urban centers.
- Dentist’s Experience: Specialists in restorative dentistry may charge more.
- Lab Quality: Higher-end labs often provide better precision and aesthetic matching.
- Insurance Coverage: Many policies partially cover crown costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zirconia crowns are often stronger, ideal for patients with bruxism or who need a crown in high-wear areas. Porcelain may offer more aesthetic choices for some front tooth restorations.
When properly cared for, a zirconia crown can last 10 to 15 years. The lifespan of a zirconia crown can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s oral health and hygiene habits, their bite and chewing patterns, and the quality of the crown itself.
Yes, zirconia crowns can be made to closely resemble natural teeth in terms of color, shape, and texture. Zirconia is a translucent material that allows light to pass through it, which helps to create a natural-looking appearance. Additionally, zirconia crowns can be customized to match the surrounding teeth in terms of shade and translucency, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Zirconia is resistant to staining. However, like natural teeth, lifestyle habits such as smoking or frequent coffee drinking can dull their brightness. To maintain the color and appearance of zirconia crowns, practice good oral hygiene habits and avoid habits that can cause discoloration.
See If Zirconia Restorations Fit Your Needs
Zirconia crowns are a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing type of dental crown that offers several benefits over other types of crowns. Our Denton dentists are happy to discuss options and find the right solution for you. Serving Denton and nearby areas like Robson Ranch, Corinth, Argyle, and Krum, TX, we’re here to help. Call (940) 566-4888 to schedule your consultation today.