Zirconium crowns have become a popular choice for many people because of their strength and their appearance. In this article we explain what you need to know about them: their advantages, the types available, and how they are fitted.
The advantages of zirconium crowns
Zirconium crowns offer a number of advantages over traditional crowns.
Durability and strength
Zirconium is known for its high resistance to wear, which makes it well suited to dental crowns. Metal-free crowns are particularly suitable for long-term use. They resist cracking and fracture, which makes them a reliable choice for everyday wear.
Appearance
Unlike metal crowns, zirconium crowns have a natural look that blends with your own teeth. Metal-free crowns are translucent and light, which is what gives them that natural appearance. This matters most on front teeth, where appearance is the point.
Biocompatibility
Zirconium is a biocompatible material, which means it is safe to use in the human body. It does not cause allergic reactions or irritation, which is essential for anyone sensitive to metal. Metal-free crowns are a good choice for anyone looking for a biocompatible solution.
Types of dental crown
There are several different types of crown in use:
1. Metal-free crowns
2. Metal-ceramic crowns
3. Zirconium crowns
Each type has its advantages and drawbacks, but metal-free crowns are becoming more popular because of how they look.
Metal-free crowns
Metal-free crowns are made entirely of ceramic, which gives them an excellent appearance. They suit front teeth particularly well because they look natural.
Metal-ceramic crowns
Metal-ceramic crowns combine metal and ceramic. They have a metal core that provides strength, while the ceramic part provides the appearance. They are durable, but the metal part can sometimes show, particularly at the gum.
Zirconium crowns
Zirconium crowns combine the appearance of ceramic with the strength of metal, without any metal present. They suit every kind of tooth, offering both durability and a natural look.
How a crown is fitted
Fitting a crown is a detailed process with several steps:
1. Preparing the tooth: the dentist removes part of the tooth to make room for the crown.
2. Taking impressions: precise impressions of your teeth are taken so that the crown fits exactly.
3. Fitting a temporary crown: while the permanent crown is being made, you wear a temporary one.
4. Fitting the permanent crown: once it is ready, the dentist checks the fit and cements it in place.
This process makes sure your new crown fits properly, works properly and looks right.
Looking after a crown
Looking after a crown is what keeps it working and lasting.
Brushing regularly
Brushing twice a day is the basic step in keeping a crown healthy. Use a toothpaste that is not abrasive, so the surface of the crown is not damaged.
Regular check-ups
Regular check-ups let the dentist follow the state of your crowns and catch any problem early. The dentist can clean them professionally and adjust them if needed.
Avoiding hard food
Avoid chewing hard things such as nuts and ice. That reduces the risk of damaging a crown.
Types of crown compared
| Type of crown | Material | Advantages | Drawbacks |
| Metal-free | Ceramic | Natural look, no allergic reactions | Higher price |
| Metal-ceramic | Metal + ceramic | Durability, lower price | Less attractive appearance |
| Zirconium | Zirconium | High durability, natural look | Higher price |
Questions and answers
Does fitting a zirconium crown hurt?
No. Fitting a crown is painless, because it is done under local anaesthetic.
How long do zirconium crowns last?
With proper care, zirconium crowns can last more than ten years.
What are the advantages of metal-free crowns?
Metal-free crowns look natural and do not cause allergic reactions, which makes them a good choice for anyone allergic to metal.
How are crowns looked after?
Brush twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste, clean between the teeth, avoid hard food, and come for a check-up once a year.
Book an examination
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