Zirconia Crowns

Is Every Patient a Suitable Candidate for Zirconia Crowns?

This procedure is preferred when a tooth is severely weakened or requires structural support. However, it may not be suitable for every patient, and the treatment plan must be tailored to the individual. Here are the ideal candidates for zirconia crowns in Turkey:

• Posterior tooth restorations: Posterior teeth are exposed to high chewing pressure. Zirconia’s durable structure easily withstands this pressure. It offers both a durable and aesthetic solution.
• Replacement of old metal crown: Old-style metal-supported porcelain creates a gray line at the gum line. Zirconia has a white substructure. This ensures a natural, pink appearance along the gum line.
• Significant tooth structure loss: Large cavities or root canal treatment can weaken a tooth. Teeth that cannot be saved with a filling are fully covered with zirconia. This prevents the tooth from breaking and extends its lifespan. [2]
• High aesthetic expectations: For front teeth, both strength and natural translucency are desired. Zirconia reflects light just like natural tooth enamel. It creates a natural-looking, vibrant smile design.
• Metal allergies: Some patients may be sensitive to metal alloys. Zirconia is completely biocompatible. It integrates perfectly with gum and oral tissues, posing no risk of allergy.

Although zirconia crowns are durable and aesthetic, they may not be suitable in all cases. The experts at Diş 212 may postpone treatment or recommend alternative methods in the following cases:

• Active gum infection: The procedure isn’t performed if there is bleeding, inflammation, or severe gum recession. Gum health must be improved first. A restoration placed on unhealthy tissue will have a short lifespan.
• Severe bruxism: In patients with uncontrolled, very severe teeth-grinding habits, the outer layer of the teeth may crack. For these patients, protective treatments such as a night guard or Botox should be planned first.
• Insufficient tooth spacing: If the space between the upper and lower jaws is too narrow, there may not be enough room for a crown. In such cases, excessive tooth reduction may be necessary. In such cases, alternative aesthetic solutions are considered.
• Severe malocclusion: If the teeth are severely crooked or misaligned, a crown alone may not be sufficient. In these cases, aligning the teeth through orthodontic treatment first is a healthier approach.

Zirconia Crown Application Process

This procedure is managed with digital precision at both the clinical and laboratory stages. It consists of several stages, each requiring careful planning. Take a closer look at the steps for zirconia crowns:

• Tooth preparation and impression

In the first stage, the tooth is gently prepared from all surfaces to the volume of the crown that will be placed on it. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Thus, the patient feels no pain or discomfort. An intraoral scanner is used instead of a traditional impression. A 3D digital model of the teeth is transferred to the computer in seconds. This method eliminates measurement error.

• Placement of the temporary crown and production of the permanent crown

While zirconia crowns are being prepared in the laboratory, it is essential to ensure the teeth remain comfortable. For this purpose, the prepared temporary crowns are immediately placed on the tooth.

During this process, both aesthetics and chewing function are preserved. Digital measurements are sent to the laboratory. Zirconia blocks are milled to a custom shape with millimeter precision using computer-controlled machines. They are then heat-treated at high temperatures to achieve maximum durability. [3]

• Try and cementation

The prepared crowns are tried in the mouth. Color, shape, and bite alignment are checked. After your approval, they are permanently secured to the tooth using special bonding agents.