Dental crowns – zirconium, ceramic, metal-ceramic and metal crown

Dental crowns are used to restore the integrity and shape of the tooth so that the latter does not differ in appearance and function from natural teeth. Modern dental crowns are extremely aesthetic, for example, zirconia crowns are indistinguishable from neighboring teeth. Dental crowns are used in cases where the destruction is so great that it is necessary to protect the tooth from breaking. A timely crown can extend the life of the tooth for decades and protect the patient from future problems and costs.

In our dental clinic, we use an intraoral scanner to take a digital impression. Using digital technology, patients’ teeth can be scanned in just a few minutes. The biggest advantage is that the dentist captures precisely the exact shape of the teeth, and the impression is not compromised during transport from the dentist’s office to the laboratory. It is very important to us that this saves patients the unpleasant feeling of taking impressions with a spoon and impression silicone. The intraoral scanner works with state-of-the-art 3D technology, which allows the dentist and dental technician to obtain accurate and precise data about the tooth prepared for a dental crown.

When is a dental crown placed?

In a severely damaged tooth that has been built up and needs to be protected from breaking.
When we need to change the shape, color or size of the tooth.
In case of harmful habits that can lead to enamel wear, such as bruxism, etc.

Types of dental crowns

1. Zirconium crown – very aesthetic and strong. The color of the zirconia crown perfectly matches the shade of the natural tooth enamel. Their natural look comes from being transparent to light. Zirconia is a very strong material that is biocompatible with the tissues of the human body and does not cause allergies. The advantage of zirconia dental crown is that they look natural and beautiful, as well as being light and comfortable. Since the material is characterized by increased hardness and strength, zirconium crowns are placed not only on front teeth, but also on teeth with a chewing function, for us they are a preferred choice for placement on implants. Zirconia crowns are suitable for people with allergies who find it difficult to fit a metal crown.
2. Ceramic crown – excellent aesthetics, suitable for restoration of front teeth. They are transparent to light, which makes them look extremely natural. In terms of color, the ceramic crown can completely imitate the appearance of the natural tooth. They are placed only on front teeth, as they are more fragile than zirconium and metal-ceramic crowns.
3. Metal-ceramic crown – have high aesthetics and can be used to restore front and back teeth. They have an opaque layer of metal that is not permeable to light and appear denser compared to a natural tooth. A metal-ceramic crown is an excellent solution when aesthetics are needed at an affordable price. The modern metal-ceramic crown is made of metal that is covered with several ceramic layers, but must be hypoallergenic to be safe for health. Metal-ceramic crowns are strong and durable, so they can perform their function for more than ten years. In addition, they restore the functions of the teeth perfectly, because they absolutely exactly repeat their shape. However, metal-ceramic crowns also have disadvantages, one of which is that they need to improve aesthetics. When the crown is pulled back over time, a dark metallic streak is noticed, and blueing of the crown is also possible. There is a risk of developing an allergy to the metal. However, they remain one of the most popular and preferred options.
4. Blend crown – a crown made of a biocompatible metal alloy, covered with plastic only on the visible side of the tooth.
5. Metal crown – are made of a metal alloy. They require minimal filing of the tooth and last a long time.

How to take care of our dental crowns?

The care completely coincides with the usual daily maintenance of oral hygiene: proper brushing of the teeth 2 times a day, use of mouthwash and dental floss. Mandatory visit to the dentist’s office for a dental examination and professional teeth cleaning every 6 months. These measures protect the gums from inflammation and other infections and prolong the life of your crowns.

Give us a call and we’ll explain everything you want to know about crowns and their placement protocol, or read more on our “website”.