Crowns and Bridges

Material

Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is made from zirconium dioxide, a white powder. It is known for its high strength and resistance to chipping, cracking, and wear. Zirconia has a translucent quality that closely resembles the natural color of teeth, making it a desirable option for dental restorations.

Preparation

To place zirconia crowns or bridges, the affected teeth first need to be prepared. Our dentist will remove any decay or damaged portions of the tooth and reshape it to create space for the restoration. An impression of the prepared tooth or teeth is then taken to create a custom-fitted zirconia crown or bridge.

Fabrication

The impression is sent to our own dental laboratory where skilled technicians use computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to create the zirconia restoration. The zirconia block is milled or digitally sculpted to mimic the shape and color of the natural teeth.

Placement

Once the zirconia crown or bridge is ready, it is checked by our dentist for fit and aesthetics. The restoration is then permanently cemented onto the prepared tooth or teeth using dental adhesive or cement. We will ensure that the restoration blends seamlessly with the adjacent teeth and provides a proper bite alignment.

Benefits of zirconia crowns and bridges:

Strength and Durability

Zirconia is one of the strongest dental materials available, offering excellent resistance to fractures and wear. It can withstand biting and chewing forces, making it a reliable choice for restoring damaged or missing teeth.

Aesthetics

Zirconia closely mimics the natural appearance of teeth due to its translucency and color-matching capabilities. It can be customized to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, creating a natural and attractive smile.

Biocompatibility

Zirconia is biocompatible, meaning it is well-tolerated by the gums and surrounding tissues. It is hypoallergenic and rarely causes any adverse reactions in the mouth.

Versatility

Zirconia crowns and bridges can be used to restore single teeth (crowns) or multiple missing teeth (bridges). They can be an excellent option for both anterior (front) and posterior (back) teeth.

While zirconia restorations offer numerous advantages, it's essential to note that they may require more tooth reduction compared to other materials. Additionally, the cost of zirconia crowns and bridges is usually higher than those made from other materials. Our dentist will explain the pros and cons of zirconia restorations and help you decide if they are suitable for your specific dental needs.