The Benefits of Zirconia Crowns for Long-Lasting Dental Restorations

Zirconia crowns offer numerous advantages, making them a top choice for dental restorations. One of their main benefits is exceptional durability. Zirconia is one of the hardest materials available in dentistry, making it highly resistant to fractures, chipping, and wear. This is especially beneficial for patients who need crowns on their molars, where chewing forces are more intense. Zirconia crowns are five times stronger than traditional porcelain, ensuring longevity even under heavy biting pressures.

In addition to their strength, zirconia crowns are known for their aesthetic quality. Modern zirconia is designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth, with a multi-layered construction that closely resembles the translucency and texture of natural tooth enamel. This makes zirconia crowns an ideal solution for both front and back teeth, providing a natural look.

Zirconia is also biocompatible, meaning it is well accepted by the body and poses little risk of allergic reactions. For patients with sensitive gums, this is an important factor. Moreover, zirconia crowns are stain-resistant and require very little maintenance. As long as regular oral hygiene is maintained, zirconia crowns will retain their strength and appearance for many years, making them a cost-effective and low maintenance option for dental restoration.

The process of making zirconia crowns begins with advanced CAD/CAM technology. First, the dentist uses a digital scanner to take an accurate 3D image of the tooth that needs restoration. This scan eliminates the need for traditional impressions and helps to ensure a precise and comfortable fit. The scanned data is then used to design the crown with computer software, allowing for customized results based on the patient’s individual needs.

Once the design is finalized, a solid block of zirconia is placed into a milling machine, where the crown is crafted to match the exact specifications. Zirconia is a dense and durable material, and after the crown is milled, it is placed in a high temperature furnace for sintering. This process hardens the zirconia, making it strong enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.

Once the crown has cooled and hardened, it is polished and glazed to match the natural color and translucency of the patient’s existing teeth. In some cases, adjustments may be made to improve the fit or color before the crown is placed. The whole process can often be completed in a single visit, making zirconia crowns an excellent option for patients seeking a fast and efficient restoration solution.

Zirconia crowns are extremely durable, but like all dental restorations, they still require basic oral care to ensure their longevity. Maintaining good oral hygiene is key, so brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily will help keep both your zirconia crowns and your natural teeth in optimal condition. It is recommended to use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the crown.

Zirconia crowns are known for their resistance to staining, but it’s still important to avoid staining agents like coffee, tea, or tobacco if possible. While zirconia is strong, it’s still advisable to refrain from biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, which could cause the crown to crack or chip.

In some cases, if you suffer from teeth grinding or jaw clenching, especially at night, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your zirconia crown and other teeth. Regular dental check-ups are essential for ensuring that your crown remains in good condition, and your dentist will monitor the fit and integrity of the crown over time.

The coverage for zirconia crowns varies depending on your dental insurance plan. Many restorative procedures, including crowns, are covered by dental insurance, particularly if the crown is required to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. However, the extent of coverage will depend on the specific terms of your plan.

Insurance typically covers medically necessary procedures, but if zirconia crowns are being used for purely cosmetic purposes, such as for aesthetic enhancement of a front tooth, your plan may not cover the full cost. Additionally, some plans have limitations on the types of materials they will cover, and zirconia may be considered a higher-end option compared to other crown materials like porcelain or metal alloys.

To determine if your insurance will cover a zirconia crown, it’s important to check the details of your plan. Many dental offices are happy to assist with insurance verification, and they can help you understand what your plan covers and what your out-of-pocket costs may be. If your insurance doesn’t cover the full cost of the crown, some dental offices offer financing options to help spread the cost over time, making the procedure more accessible. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Norwalk CA, Artesia CA, Cerritos CA, Santa Fe Springs CA, Downey CA, Bellflower CA, La Mirada CA, Los Alamitos CA, Stanton CA, and surrounding areas.