The importance of aesthetic dentistry is increasing day by day. Technological advances every day surpass the previous routine materials and practices. Zirconia crown is one of the methods applied in aesthetic teeth in recent years. Teeth with zirconium substructure, used for a more aesthetic smile, give more natural and aesthetic results than porcelain teeth.
Dental crowns are divided into two groups those containing metal and those without. Zirconium dental crown is from the metal-free group. Zirconium is combined with oxygen, converted into zirconia ceramics, and used as a dental crown material.
It is generally preferred by those who want decayed teeth or a more aesthetic appearance. The reason why it is preferred in anterior teeth is due to its high aesthetic feature.
Zirconium is a white alloy applied instead of metal, the infrastructure of classical porcelain bridges and prostheses. Zirconia crowns provide a more lively and radiant appearance, in contrast to the lifeless appearance created by the metal, which is the substructure in porcelain crowns.
Zirconium has a light transmittance structure. Tooth enamel has a structure that allows light to pass completely. Thanks to the light transmittance of zirconium, an appearance suitable for the natural structure of the teeth is obtained.
What is Zirconia Crown?
Zirconium is a non-metallic, non-allergenic, natural white color aesthetic alloy that eliminates the negative effects of metal-based crowns. Gingival compatibility applied to the tooth surface, and missing tooth areas is a good crown material.
Porcelain crowns are crowns with the closest hardness to natural teeth. Due to their fragile structure, their resistance to chewing force is insufficient. Due to this inadequacy, metal-supported crowns were used instead. Metal crowns are durable, but because their light transmittance is not at the desired level, the natural appearance of the teeth cannot be achieved completely and may cause allergic reactions. Zirconia crown offers a more natural appearance compared to metal-supported crowns. Living tissue compatibility, light transmittance, and durability have made zirconium advantageous. In crown or bridge prostheses, zirconium alloy, whose resistance is close to the metal, is used instead of metal infrastructure.
Zirconia crown is more durable than other crowns. It does not leave a metallic taste in the mouth. It is non-corrosive, white, and has a light-permeable feature. It does not have any allergic properties. Zirconia crown is a method used by dentists to obtain an aesthetic appearance and make mouth-tooth functions more functional. In cases where tooth whitening is insufficient, zirconium comes into play and ensures the desired appearance of the teeth.
Zirconium is also used as a substructure material in zirconia crown. Since the infrastructure material is white, the black-gray shadows on the gums encountered in metal-supported crowns do not occur. Zirconium is among the biocompatible materials. Gingival compatibility and light transmittance are superior to metal-supported crowns. In addition to these, zirconia crown has many other advantages.
What is Zirconia?
Zirconia is a high-performance ceramic. It is used in many fields, especially in the aerospace industry. When zirconium combines with oxygen, It consists of zirconia (zirconium dioxide-ZrO2) as it is used in dentistry. Zirconia; It is white-ivory colored and transparent, gives a natural appearance to the teeth thanks to its light transmittance, is very durable, does not conduct heat, cold, and electricity, is biocompatible, and does not corrode (rust). Clinical studies have revealed that zirconia can last for many years. These features have made it a reliable and highly preferred infrastructure material in dentistry.
What are the properties of zirconium?
Zirconium is a grayish-white material with the symbol "Zr," resistant to heat and corrosion and highly resistant to rusting and calcification. It is generally used in nuclear energy, jewelry making, the steel industry, heat-resistant military equipment production, the perfume industry, and surgical and dental materials.
Reasons for preference in dentistry; It is durable, does not cause an allergic reaction, can be applied to any color of teeth, is natural, harder than titanium or steel, lighter, and has full light transmittance. Because of the ivory color, it isn't easy to distinguish zirconia teeth from natural teeth. Thanks to its light permeability, it does not cause vitamin D deficiency.
Zirconium teeth are a non-metallic durable alternative to traditional dental materials. They are more durable and longer lasting than porcelain and ceramics. Does not interact with any food or drink. The bruises on the gums seen in porcelain crowns are not seen in zirconia crowns.
What are the advantages of having Zirconium Crown in Antalya?
We can list the advantages of zirconia crown as follows;
- The colors of the zirconia crown add an aesthetic appearance.
- There is no age restriction for its procedure.
- They are easily shaped and can be easily turned into white color.
- Since the filing is less, the natural structure of the teeth does not deteriorate.
- It does not cause gingival bruises and irritations.
- It has high resistance and a very solid structure.
- It does not cause a recession or any other problem in the gums.
- It has high light transmittance.
- Since the zirconia crown can be applied to any color of teeth, it allows you to achieve the desired result even on darkened teeth.
- Since it does not cause metal allergies, it can be used easily by those with metal allergies.
- It can be used on all teeth.
- It does not require replacement or repair for an average of 12 years if its conditions use it.
- It is lighter than metal substructure crowns.
- Graying in metal-supported crowns does not occur.
- There is no unnatural metal appearance.
- Since it provides a 100% color match with the original teeth, it is impossible to notice even when a few teeth are covered.
- It is compatible with tooth tissue.
- It does not leave a metallic taste in the mouth.
- It has low thermal conductivity and no sensitization.
- Microorganism uptake on the surface of zirconia crowns is minimal.
- It gives the closest image of the natural tooth.
- Teeth can be covered in a less noticeable way than natural teeth.
- Since it has a smooth surface, cigarette stains, plaque, and tartar formation are not seen.
- There is no matte zirconium formed due to the metal color reflection of metal-supported crowns.
- It does not rust, so there is no bad breath.
What are the disadvantages of Zirconia Crown?
- There is a possibility of breakage due to use on very long bridges.
- Its cost is higher than metal-supported porcelain.
- The life of the crown tooth varies.
Which teeth are Zirconia Crown applied to?
Zirconia crown is applied in the following cases:
- In facing teeth,
- In excessive material losses in the teeth,
- To have an aesthetically beautiful appearance,
- In split or crooked teeth,
- Teeth that cannot get results from teeth whitening,
- In case of advanced discoloration,
- In old fillings with damaged color and structure,
- As a crown or bridge on posterior group teeth,
- In the anterior group of implant prostheses,
- In smile aesthetics,
- Decayed teeth,
- Trauma-broken teeth,
- In hereditary structure colorations,
- Missing teeth,
- Teeth with impaired aesthetics due to gingival recession,
- Teeth with crowns and bridges.
- In people whose teeth have been cut before,
- Zirconia crown is applied on teeth that have lost too much material to the degree that filling is impossible.
In which situations is Zirconia Crown preferred?
- For aesthetic purposes,
- When the teeth whitening process cannot get enough efficiency,
- In teeth with shape and posture disorders
- People who want to have a smile design
- People with dark teeth
- In hereditary dark-colored teeth,
- In the restoration of teeth with excessive substance loss,
- In making bridges or crowns on the teeth on the back,
- It is preferred to veneer prostheses on implants in the teeth in the anterior group.
Who needs help applying Zirconia Crown?
Zirconia crown is a method that helps improve the teeth' aesthetic appearance and functionality. However, zirconia crown may not apply to some people. These people are:
People with zirconium allergy:
People with zirconium allergy should not apply this treatment method.
People with tooth decay or gum disease:
People with tooth decay or gum disease should treat these problems first. Zirconia crown should not be applied before these problems are treated.
People with excessive clenching or grinding problems:
People with this condition should be treated before having a zirconia crown.
People with excessive tooth enamel loss:
Tooth enamel is the protective layer of the teeth. Zirconia crown procedure may not be successful in people with excessive tooth enamel loss.
Young people with incomplete tooth development:
Zirconia crown should only be applied after tooth development is completed. Since the development of jaw bones continues, it is recommended to apply at the age of 18.
For this reason, it is important to talk to your dentist about your medical condition before applying zirconia crowns.
What are the features of Zirconia Crown?
- It looks natural and does not look artificial.
- Reduces bad breath thanks to gingival compatibility.
- It is robust and resistant to oxidation.
- It does not leave a metallic taste in the mouth.
- They are the most compatible teeth with natural teeth.
- It does not leave a dark color on the gums.
- Its color remains as it was on the first day.
- Metal-induced allergic reactions are prevented.
- It will have a long life when it is checked regularly.
- Since they are subjected to a special firing process, their structures are quite robust.
- It does not contain metal.
- Resistant to breakage, cracking, and abrasion.
- It has a light-permeable structure like natural tooth enamel.
- Gum is compatible and contributes to gum health.
- It is long-lasting.
- It has a natural white appearance due to its light-transmitting feature.
- It has high corrosion resistance.
- Since it has low heat permeability, it does not create sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Coloration caused by coffee, tea, and cigarettes is not observed.
- The color change is very rare.
- Since its surface is shiny and smooth, it does not cause plaque accumulation.
What are the types of Zirconia Crowns?
The types of zirconium dental crowns are:
Zirconia crowns are produced in different varieties for different purposes. The most common types of zirconia crowns are as follows:
Full zirconia crown:
This crown is made entirely of zirconium and covers the entire tooth. It is produced in tooth color, preserves the natural appearance, and is more durable than other crowns.
The zirconium-porcelain:
Crown is produced by combining the lower layer of zirconium and the upper layer of porcelain. The durability of zirconium and the aesthetic properties of porcelain are combined.
Zirconium inlay/onlay crown:
This crown is produced by cutting the zirconium block and covering only the tooth's damaged part. It is less invasive than other types of crowns and preserves the tooth's natural structure.
Zirconium implant crown:
This crown is specially designed to cover dental implants. The biocompatible properties of zirconium help the implant to integrate successfully.
Zirconium bridge crown:
This crown covers more than one tooth and is called a bridge. The durability of zirconium helps it bear the weight of multiple teeth.
Zirconium laminate crown:
This crown covers the front surfaces of the teeth and provides a natural appearance. The durability of zirconium ensures the longevity of the crown.
The most widely applied dental crown procedures are zirconia crown. Zirconia crown can be applied to all teeth and is recommended for a single tooth. When choosing between these varieties, the dentist's recommendations, the patient's needs, and the nature of the dental problem should be considered.
What should be considered before Zirconium Crown?
There are some points to be considered before making zirconia crown. These are as follows:
The health of teeth:
The teeth covered with zirconium must be healthy. Tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems should be treated first.
Gum condition:
Gum health is also important before zirconia crown is applied. It should be treated first if bleeding, swelling, or infection in the gums.
Color selection:
Color selection should be made for the teeth to be covered with zirconium. This selection should be by the natural color of the teeth and facial features.
Tooth structure:
The shape and size of the teeth are also important before the zirconia crown is made. The tooth structure is an important factor for correctly applying the crown.
Determination of requirements:
The dentist should determine the patient's needs before applying the zirconia crown. These requirements may include the number of teeth crowned, treatments performed, and expectations.
Appropriate preparation before the procedure:
The dentist should clean and prepare the patient's teeth before the zirconia crown is applied. This preparation will help to apply the crown correctly.
Knowing:
Before applying zirconia crown, the patient should know the procedure. Learning about the procedure process, results, and care needs will help the patient be more comfortable and satisfied.
Paying attention to these important factors will help the process succeed before applying zirconia crown.
How is Zirconia crown done in Antalya?
Production stages of zirconia crown with its main lines:
- Clinical examination, elimination of the problems seen.
- Taking mouth and tooth measurements and making crown planning.
- Pre-crown thinning of teeth and installation of temporary crowns.
- Sending the measurements to the laboratory for the production of crowns.
- Bonding of permanent crowns.
Peak:
The first thing to be done is our dentists' oral and dental examination of our patients. This examination determines the fracture, caries, missing and gingival problems in the patient's mouth. Detected problems are treated and resolved as soon as possible. After these problems are resolved, measurements are taken.
Measuring and planning:
Photographs of the inside of the mouth and teeth of our patient are taken. Mouth and tooth measurements are taken. In the light of photographs and measurements, which teeth will be crown, the color and dimensions of the crown are decided.
Preparation of teeth for crown:
After the measurements are taken, abrading removes a very thin layer of enamel from the patient's teeth. These operations are done with the help of a special device. Temporary crowns are placed on your abraded teeth to both protect your teeth and continue your daily life. Your teeth are molded so that the crowns will fit perfectly. The tooth mold is taken, and the color of the crowns and the measurements are sent to the dental laboratory.
Production of crowns:
Lab technicians use advanced computer technology (CAD/CAM technology) to create crowns by mixing zirconium oxide or titanium dioxide grains with porcelain powder. The prepared crowns are fired at high temperatures to harden sufficiently. It takes 3-5 days to produce the crowns.
Bonding of crowns:
The crowns produced in the laboratory are tried on the patient for the last time. In case of deficiencies and problems, they are corrected. After satisfaction is achieved, the bonding process begins. Crowns are bonded with extremely strong adhesives produced for this job. This stage is very important. Because the slightest mistake to be made at this stage may cause problems with the crowns in the future. The process ends with the bonding of the crowns.
How are Zirconia crowns produced with CAD/CAM technology?
Zirconia crowns are usually produced using CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Aided Manufacturing) technology. This technology provides dentists with high-quality, accurate, durable crowns by integrating mechanical design and manufacturing processes. The compatibility of these plates with teeth or implants is five times better than those produced by hand.
The manufacturing process of zirconia crowns consists of the following steps:
The first stage is the digital scanning of the patient's teeth. This scan creates a digital model.
Next, the dentist or dental technician processes the digital model using special CAD software. This processing includes the crown's dimensions, shape, and other properties.
CAD software converts the tooth model into a 3D design. The design is transferred to CAM software that will be used for cutting zirconium blocks.
CAM software processes the design, allowing a robot or CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling cutter to cut the zirconium block. This cut is made to the dimensions and shape approved by the dentist.
After the zirconium block is cut, it is subjected to high temperature processing called sintering in different stages. This process makes the zirconium harder and more durable. Finally, the zirconia crown is colored with porcelain and the porcelain is bonded to the surface of the crown.
These steps ensure that zirconia crowns are produced with the correct size, shape and properties. After all, zirconia crowns are a durable and long-lasting dental crown used to provide high-quality and natural-looking dental aesthetics.
What should be considered after Zirconia Crown?
After the zirconia crown is done, you should pay attention to the following points:
- Avoid hard and sticky foods.
- Avoid hot and cold foods.
- If the procedure was performed under anesthesia, nothing should be eaten until the numbness subsides.
- The mouth area should be protected as much as possible from possible impacts.
- Avoid movements and situations that force your mouth.
- Acidic foods should not be consumed.
- Appointments should not be delayed.
- Some patients may have adaptation problems, they get used to it in a short time.
- Pain relievers recommended by your dentist can be used for possible pain.
At the end of the treatment process, the patient can consume the foods he wants, provided that he pays attention to the above-mentioned issues.