Please note we may not offer this service at our office. Call (860) 470-3660 to learn more.
Comprehensive Guide to Zirconia Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a trusted solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Among the options, zirconia dental crowns have surged in popularity due to their exceptional strength, natural appearance, and long-lasting durability.
Our Farmington, CT, dentist provides insights into zirconia crowns to help you determine if this advanced restoration is right for you. Contact our Farmington dental practice at (860) 470-3660 to learn more.
What Are Zirconia Dental Crowns?
Zirconia crowns are crafted from zirconium oxide, a ceramic material prized for its durability and biocompatibility. This type of crown is known for its lifelike appearance, as zirconia closely mimics the color and translucency of natural teeth, making it a preferred choice for restoring visible teeth.
Benefits of Zirconia Crowns
There are several benefits to choosing zirconia crowns. Some of the most notable advantages include:
- Superior Durability: Zirconia is exceptionally strong, resisting fractures and wear better than other materials, making it ideal for high-pressure chewing areas.
- Natural Aesthetics: With a translucent, enamel-like finish, zirconia crowns blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
- Biocompatibility: As a non-metal option, zirconia is unlikely to cause allergic reactions, making it safe for those with sensitivities.
- Precision Fit: Advanced CAD/CAM technology enables precise customization, ensuring a comfortable, secure fit for long-term success.
Potential Drawbacks
Though zirconia crowns are a top choice for many, consider these potential drawbacks:
- Higher Cost: The material and technology involved in crafting zirconia crowns can make them more expensive than other options.
- Adjustment Difficulty: Zirconia’s strength can make it harder to adjust after placement.
- Bonding Challenges: Bonding zirconia to natural teeth may require additional steps to ensure secure adhesion.
The Zirconia Dental Crown Process
Consultation and Tooth Preparation
Your dentist will begin with a detailed consultation, evaluating your oral health and specific needs and explaining if a zirconia crown is the best choice. If approved, they’ll prepare the tooth by clearing any decay or damage and shaping it for the crown.
Impressions and Temporary Crown
After tooth preparation, impressions are taken to create a custom-fitted crown that matches your natural teeth in shape and color. A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth until the zirconia crown is ready.
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.
Zirconia Dental Crown Cost
Zirconia crowns typically cost between $1,000 to $2,500. The total cost will vary based on the following factors:
- Location: Urban settings like Farmington may have higher dental care costs than rural areas.
- Dentist’s Experience: Established practitioners may charge more due to their expertise.
- Lab Quality: Crown cost also depends on the dental lab’s craftsmanship and materials used.
- Additional Procedures: Additional treatments (e.g., root canals, dental implants, bridges, or gum disease treatments) can raise the overall cost.
- Insurance Coverage: Your dental insurance may cover part of the crown’s cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both zirconia and porcelain crowns have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Zirconia crowns are generally stronger and more resistant to damage than porcelain, making them an ideal choice for patients who grind their teeth or require restorations on back teeth.
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.
Absolutely. Zirconia’s translucency and customizable shade make it nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth, providing a realistic and attractive appearance.
Zirconia crowns are made of a durable material highly resistant to discoloration and staining, which is one of their advantages over other types of crowns. Like natural teeth, zirconia crowns can be affected by smoking, excessive consumption of coffee or red wine, or poor oral hygiene. 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 offer a blend of strength, aesthetics, and durability unmatched by many other materials. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our Farmington office at (860) 470-3660. We proudly serve Farmington, Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, Newington, and surrounding Connecticut communities.