Zirconia Dental Crowns
Zirconia crowns are dental caps that are used to cover a tooth or fill in for a missing one. They are made of a ceramic material called zirconium dioxide.
The material is biocompatible, which means that it does not trigger the immune system which can otherwise cause allergies, redness, inflammation, etc.
The material is so strong that it can even be used as a molar-replacement which you use for heavy-duty chewing. However, Dr.Chandrakanth Majeti from Trident Dental Clinic suggests, “Avoid eating hard and sticky foods like candies, gums, ice, etc. and your Zirconia crowns will last you for years. Take good care of it just like you would do for any other teeth, and it may even last you for decades!”
Zirconia mimics the natural color of your teeth and it is also affected by food colors just like your natural teeth. So, they blend with your teeth set seamlessly and look aesthetic.
Who Can Benefit From Zirconia Crowns?
You might need a zirconia dental crown for the following dental issues:
- As a placeholder for a missing tooth
- As a protector of a chipped or cracked tooth
- As a cover for a heavily worn out teeth
- As an aesthetic cover for a severely discolored tooth
- As a support for a weak tooth
- As an extension for a naturally small tooth
- As a aligner for bite improvement
How Are Zirconia Crowns Installed?
Installing a zirconia crown is a completely non-invasive and painless procedure. But it does involve two sittings.
First, the doctor might need to file down your existing tooth a little bit so that the crown fits right. This procedure might be done under local anesthesia.
Your doctor will use a putty to take the exact impression of your tooth, the gap, and your bite. This impression is sent to the lab where they will custom-make your zirconia crown.
A temporary crown will be placed over the tooth to keep it protected.
During the second visit, which is usually around 3 weeks after the first visit, the doctor will remove the temporary crown and replace it with the zirconia crown. The zirconia crown is attached using a special dental adhesive.
What To Do If Your Zirconia Crown Comes Off
Zirconia Crowns are attached with a strong adhesive. So, the chances of it coming off are rare. However, the mouth is a naturally wet environment and it is not unheard of that the adhesive gets dissolved over time and the crown detaches itself.
If that happens to you, there is nothing to worry about. First of all, store your crown safely in a clean dry place. Visit a dentist as soon as possible, preferably with 2-3 days of the crown coming off. Meanwhile, keep your mouth thoroughly cleansed.
If the crown is intact, the dentist will simply reattach it to the same place using more adhesive. However, if you have chewed on the crown or if the crown is somehow cracked or chipped, you will have to get a new crown made.