Zirconia, also known as zirconium dioxide, is a durable metal related to titanium and categorized as a type of ceramic crown. Dentists and patients prefer Zirconia because it is the strongest, long-lasting, and most natural-looking crown available in restorative dentistry. Zirconia crowns have a natural appearance, and their bio-compatible composition significantly reduces the risk of inflammation or allergic reaction. Nicknamed ‘ceramic steel’, Zirconia has even been used for the fabrication of artificial joints.
Zirconia is an ideal dental material for the fabrication of dental crowns, which are tooth-shaped caps that fit over the top of a decayed or damaged tooth. There are two types of zirconia crowns that can be used: Solid zirconia (Zirconium dioxide) crowns are made exclusively of zirconia, while layered zirconia crowns have a layer of porcelain for cosmetic purposes. There are also Emax ceramic restorations, which is an all-ceramic material made from quartz, lithium dioxide, phosphor oxide, alumina, potassium oxide, and other components, which offer a conservative approach to dental crowns as well as veneers, inlays, onlays, and overlays.
Zirconia crowns are one of the strongest restorations available. Additionally, zirconia crowns have several benefits, including:
- Hypoallergenic
- Good biocompatibility
- Healthy tissue response
- Can be used for bruxers
- Can be chemically bonded to the teeth to create marginal seal
- Long-term and predictable restoration
- Prevents electrical current formations
- Utlization of additional bonding agents, to add antimicrobial, anticaries, and desensitizing properties
Dental crowns are generally recommended when most of the natural tooth structure is damaged or decayed, however, the decayed tissue must first be removed before a crown can be placed. Dental crowns are also used to restore the tooth after a root canal is performed. To determine if a zirconia crown is right for you, schedule an office consultation today.
If you are a candidate for a crown, your teeth will be reduced in size to ensure a proper fit. An impression will then be taken of your bite and used to fabricate a mold for the crown. Its color will be matched to the natural shade of your other teeth. This information will be sent to a dental lab, who will fabricate your customized zirconia crown. You will be fit with a temporary crown to wear until your permanent crown is complete.
For post-procedure instructions and additional information, please visit our “Video” page
