Improving the damaged tooth’s functionality and strength is as important as restoring its appearance. That’s exactly what a dental crown offers. Dental crowns, also known as caps, are cemented on damaged or broken teeth for strengthening them and restoring their chewing ability. These prosthetic devices help in saving and protecting the natural tooth structure. In addition, such caps act as a cover for dental implants and root canals.
Dentists worldwide offer porcelain, stainless steel, resin, ceramic, Zirconia, and gold crowns. But, porcelain and Zirconia are two of the most preferred options.
Zirconia crowns
Dentistry has continuously evolved over the last fifty years. Dental care experts regularly work towards introducing new materials that can help in improving the restoration’s effectiveness and functionality. When it comes to the list of some of the most crucial practices introduced during this period, the use of metal zirconium-based, zirconia dental crowns deserve a special mention.
German scientist Martin Heinrich Klaproth discovered zirconium in 1789. The metal’s ability to resist corrosion, and of course, the incredible strength attracted researchers for further testing its biocompatibility. As a result, dental crowns made from zirconium dioxide (chemically unreactive ceramic) are among the most used restoration options since early 2000.
In the white powder form, Zirconia can be easily shaped, pressed to appear like a natural tooth. Thus, it is used as a crucial component in dental bridges, veneers, and crowns. The material is also used in electrical fixtures and dinnerware.
Dentists appreciate Zirconia as it offers the combination of aesthetic appeal and metal-like strength necessary for restorations. In addition, advancements in technology and dental care tools help dentists get the best out of Zirconia.
Restorations made from this all-ceramic material provide real teeth like texture, coloring, and translucency. The material’s only drawback is the lack of support for color customization.
Dental offices that use CAD/CAM can create a zirconia crown and fit it on the patient’s affected tooth within minutes. The restoration procedure can be completed within a single appointment.
Patients feel comfortable with all-ceramic zirconia crowns as these devices do not transfer temperature fluctuations. There is no need to worry about tartar and plaque accumulation as the crown would have a smooth and slick surface.
Porcelain crowns
Porcelain crowns offer an exceptional level of color customization. Dentists can ensure the crown’s color precisely matches the surrounding teeth. The material is robust, durable, and thus the cap can last for as many as 15 years.
Porcelain does not trigger any long-lasting side effects. It is resistant to discoloration and staining as well.
Porcelain crowns have been around since 1903 in the form of an all-porcelain jacket crown. The cap can offer such a fantastic precision that the patient does not feel any difference between the cover and the natural tooth. It is also suitable for individuals who suffer from metal sensitivities. However, porcelain is not recommended for individuals who have teeth grinding and clenching habits. At times, a considerable portion of the healthy tooth needs to be removed to make sufficient space to fit the porcelain crown.
What to expect during crown procedure?
The installation procedure for both types of crowns is almost similar. The dentist examines the affected tooth, cleans the decay, and fills up the cavity as a part of the preparation for the crown. The dentist may also recommend a root canal in case the decay has reached the tooth pulp.
Once the tooth is filled and shaped up, the practitioner would take impressions of the tooth, either with a digital scanner or with a dental tray/putty. Measurements are sent to a dental lab for creating a permanent cap. The surgeon covers the prepared tooth with a composite resin temporary crown until the permanent one arrives after a week or so.
Dental offices equipped with CEREC/CAD/CAM can complete the entire procedure in a single visit.
The price factor
Most of the insurance policies cover 50 percent of the cost incurred for crown restorations only if the treatment was performed for non-cosmetic purposes. An all-porcelain crown cost can vary, depending on the material and procedures performed during the treatment. Roughly, the cost per cap can be between $800 and $2,000. The price for a zirconia crown is also in a similar range or a little bit higher.
Undoubtedly, choosing the material for the new restoration happens to be one of the most crucial decisions. But, rather than focusing on the cost and appearance, it is advisable to consider the affected tooth and oral care needs while making the decision. Let your dentist choose the appropriate material for you.
Dental Crown and Dental Bridges at TruCare Dentistry can help in improving the patient’s self-confidence and quality of life. Request an appointment at TruCare Dentistry, and let Dr. Toral Ardeshna offer the best suitable crown options for you.
FAQs
1.Are zirconia crowns safe?
Zirconia crowns are safe, long-lasting, and indestructible. Plus, a person would not need to worry about having an allergic reaction to the zirconia crown. In fact, it is best suitable for anterior crowns.
2. Can a zirconia crown crack?
Zirconia crown has transformation and toughening makes it indestructible. This type of crown usually does not get cracks.
3. Can you be allergic to zirconia crowns?
No. the chances of allergic reaction to zirconia crowns are almost zero. But, to be on the safer side, discuss with your dentist about your concerns of allergic reaction to zirconia crowns and get tested for it.
4. Can a zirconia crown be removed?
It is almost impossible to remove zirconia crowns without some mutilation of the tooth preparations. You are getting zirconia to improve oral health so why would you need to remove those.
5. Are zirconia crowns more expensive than porcelain?
Zirconia crowns might be more expensive than porcelain crowns because of the material and preparation and dental clinic. Generally, porcelain crowns cost anywhere from $800-$1700, while zirconia crowns cost from $1000-$3000.
6. How do you whiten porcelain crowns?
Maintain proper oral hygiene and brush your teeth twice a day to whiten porcelain crowns. It is advisable to consult your dentist before using teeth whiteners while having porcelain crowns.
7. What is the best toothpaste for porcelain crowns?
Non-abrasive toothpaste with fluoride is suitable for porcelain crowns.
8. Can you polish porcelain crowns?
Frequent polishing of crown surfaces can shed fluoride-rich enamel layers. The porcelain crowns are fixed by matching the color of your natural teeth, and polishing exposed dentin may increase sensitivity. So it is not advisable to polish porcelain crowns.
9. Do porcelain crowns stain?
If you are maintaining proper oral hygiene, porcelain crowns should not change color at all. Nevertheless, if the glaze on the porcelain is damaged, the crowns can get stains over time.