Zirconium Crowns

ZIRCONIUM CROWN

Zirconium; as a natural material that is very resistant, does not cause allergic reactions, is closest to the natural tooth colour and eliminates sensitivity to heat and cold, it has recently been widely used for aesthetic and prosthetic treatments. It is used in many fields, including healthcare and the aerospace industry.

When zirconium, a rare metal, combines with oxygen, the result is zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), which is used in dentistry. This material is white to ivory in colour and transparent; it gives the appearance of natural teeth thanks to its translucency; it has very high hardness and pressure resistance, does not conduct heat, cold or electricity, is biocompatible and reduces the risk of gum irritation or allergic reactions.

Metal-supported porcelain crowns are mostly used for dental veneers. However, dentists also offer more aesthetic treatment methods for patients who expect an aesthetic smile. When aesthetics are important, zirconium-supported porcelain is used as an alternative to other metal-supported porcelain crowns, a white element with high aesthetic properties. In this system, zirconium is used as the framework material instead of metal.

Studies have shown that the best results to date have been achieved in terms of aesthetics, longevity, tissue compatibility and naturalness — the basic requirements of dentistry.

This method combines craftsmanship with computer-aided technology. The preparation process in the mouth at the clinic is the same as for metal-supported porcelain teeth. The difference starts with the laboratory procedures. A zirconium oxide substructure is formed on the prepared tooth preparations (sections) in the laboratory using special procedures. This framework is covered with porcelain.

This creates translucent, highly resilient, aesthetic and tissue-compatible crowns and bridges.

Advantages of Zirconium Crowns

The advantages of zirconium coating are very high. Zirconium crowns are among the materials that come closest to the natural tooth colour, which is why they are aesthetically preferred.

Zirconium is a very resistant material that is particularly suitable for molars. As it contains no metal, it is also suitable for patients with metal allergies. With proper care, zirconium crowns can last for many years.

Zirconium crowns conduct less heat than metal crowns, which can reduce tooth sensitivity.

Disadvantages of Zirconium Crowns

The disadvantages of zirconium crowns are minimal. They are not suitable for cases where the patient’s teeth are missing next to each other and in large numbers. At the same time, considering the cost, it is more expensive than metal-supported crowns.

REASONS FOR THE USE OF ZIRCONIUM CROWNS

• Greying and yellowing of teeth

• Treatment of split teeth

• A crooked tooth structure

• Loss of the aesthetic properties of fillings

• Veneer treatment for molars

• The aesthetic treatment of the smile

APPLICATION OF ANAESTHESIA

The zirconium crown procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia, so that patients do not feel any pain during the procedure.

APPLICATION OF THE ZIRCONIUM CROWN

Zirconium dental crowns are made of zirconium dioxide, a white ceramic material in powder form. Due to its ceramic properties and the fact that it is milled from a single block, it has the characteristic of being a strong dental prosthesis.

Zirconium can be used to produce much thinner dental crowns than those made of strong metals. The production of a strong yet thin crown is considered ideal, as only a small amount of healthy tooth tissue needs to be removed for insertion. The aim is always to preserve natural teeth and a healthy smile for as long as possible.

Tooth restoration with zirconium is carried out in two stages. At the first appointment, the dentist removes the unhealthy tissue. The tooth is shaped so that the crown can be fitted. Depending on how healthy the tooth is, an attempt is made to remove as little healthy tissue as possible.

The patient is then measured and a temporary crown is fitted to protect the moulded tooth. The exact size and shape of the new crown is determined by the measurements taken.

Once the zirconium crown has been made, the temporary crown is removed, the area is cleaned and the tooth is prepared for the procedure. The zirconium crown is bonded to the tooth and minor adjustments are made if necessary.