Please note we may not provide this service at our Tacoma location. Call (253) 761-5422 to learn more.
Your Comprehensive Guide to Zirconia Dental Crowns
If you’re looking for a durable and natural-looking solution for damaged or decayed teeth, zirconia dental crowns may be the perfect option. These crowns are becoming increasingly popular than traditional dental crowns and beyond due to their strength, aesthetic appeal, and biocompatibility.
At our Tacoma, WA, dental office, we provide insights into zirconia crowns, helping you determine if they’re right for your smile. Call us today at (253) 761-5422 to learn more.
What Are Zirconia Dental Crowns?
Zirconia dental crowns are crafted from zirconium dioxide, a high-quality ceramic material known for its remarkable strength and resilience. Zirconia crowns closely resemble the appearance of natural teeth, thanks to their translucent, tooth-like color and durability, making them a top choice for restoring front and back teeth.
Key Benefits of Zirconia Crowns
There are several benefits to choosing zirconia crowns. Some of the most notable advantages include:
- Exceptional Durability: Zirconia crowns are highly resistant to chipping, cracking, and wear, even for those who grind their teeth or experience bruxism.
- Natural Aesthetics: With their tooth-like translucency, zirconia crowns blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a great option for both functional and cosmetic dental treatments.
- Biocompatibility: Zirconia is less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation, making it ideal for patients with metal sensitivities.
- Precise Fit: Using advanced CAD/CAM technology, zirconia crowns are custom-designed for a precise fit, ensuring better comfort and functionality.
Drawbacks
While zirconia crowns offer numerous advantages, it’s important to weigh the following drawbacks:
- Higher Cost: Zirconia crowns can be more expensive compared to other materials, such as porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, due to the material cost and the specialized equipment required for fabrication.
- Potential Difficulty in Adjustments: Although extremely durable, adjusting zirconia crowns can be challenging due to their hardness.
- Bonding Challenges: Zirconia crowns can be more difficult to bond to teeth, though modern dental adhesives have minimized these concerns.
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 Tacoma 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.
Zirconia Dental Crown Cost
The cost of zirconia dental crowns typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth. Several factors can influence the price, including:
- Geographic location: Dental services in urban areas like Tacoma tend to be slightly higher than in rural regions.
- Dentist’s experience: More experienced or specialized dentists may charge higher fees for their expertise.
- Dental lab quality: Premium zirconia materials and advanced technology from high-quality dental labs can increase the cost.
- Insurance coverage: Many dental insurance plans may cover part of the crown cost, so check with your provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are zirconia crowns better than porcelain?
Both zirconia and porcelain crowns have their own benefits. Zirconia crowns are generally more durable and better suited for patients who grind their teeth, while porcelain crowns offer excellent aesthetics but may not be as strong for heavy bite forces.
How long do zirconia crowns last?
With proper care, zirconia crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding damaging habits like chewing on hard objects can extend their lifespan.
Do zirconia crowns look like real teeth?
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.
Can zirconia crowns discolor or turn yellow?
Unlike natural teeth or porcelain, zirconia crowns are highly resistant to discoloration. However, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and the consumption of stain-causing foods and beverages (like coffee or red wine) can affect the appearance over time. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.
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. If you’re considering zirconia crowns for your dental restoration, be sure to talk to our dentists about the pros and cons of this type of crown and whether it is the right choice for your individual needs and circumstances.
Call our Tacoma office today at (253) 761-5422 to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Lakewood, Federal Way, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and University Place.
