Zirconia Crowns: Maintenance tips for longevity

Zirconia crowns, also known as zirconium crowns, are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth, improve their appearances, and enhance overall oral function. The dental crown material from which they are made is a white, ceramic-like substance known for its strength and durability. Zirconia crown fabrication is used to create tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or weakened teeth, restoring their strength, function, and appearance.

Caring for zirconia crowns is essential to ensuring their longevity and maintaining your oral health. When crowns have durability and resistance to staining, proper care can help them last even longer. Here are some zirconia crown maintenance tips:

• Regular Oral Hygiene: Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. Pay extra attention to the gumline and the area around the crowns.
•  Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the crowns or causing gum irritation.
•  Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Choose a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching the surface of the zirconia crowns. Avoid using harsh or abrasive products.
•  Gentle Flossing: When flossing around the crowns, be gentle to prevent pulling on the crown edges. Use a floss threader if necessary.
•  Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. They can identify any issues with your crowns early on and provide professional cleaning to maintain their appearance.
•  Avoid Excessive Force: Be cautious when biting into hard or crunchy foods. Excessive force can chip or crack the crowns. Consider cutting hard foods into smaller, manageable pieces.
•  Avoid Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your zirconia crowns from damage due to grinding.
•  Limit Staining Substances: Reduce your consumption of staining substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth or brush your teeth shortly afterward to minimize staining.
• Watch for Changes: Keep an eye on your zirconia crowns for any changes in color, fit, or sensitivity. If you notice anything unusual, contact your dentist promptly.
• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting smoking as it can increase the risk of staining and gum problems.
•  Follow Dentist’s Advice: Always follow your dentist’s instructions and recommendations for caring for your zirconia crowns. They may have specific advice tailored to your dental health.

Advantages of zirconia crowns

Zirconia crowns have become increasingly popular in dentistry due to their aesthetic and functional benefits. Here are some advantages of zirconia crowns :

•  Strength and Durability: Zirconia is a very strong material, making it suitable for use in dental crowns. Crown durability can withstand the forces of chewing and biting, making it a long-lasting option.
•  Aesthetics: They are known for their natural-looking appearance and can be color-matched to your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless and attractive smile. The translucent properties of zirconia also mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
•  Biocompatibility: Zirconia is biocompatible, which means it is generally well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or other adverse effects. 
• Minimal Tooth Reduction: Compared to some other crown materials like metal, zirconia allows for minimal removal of tooth structure during the preparation process. This is because zirconia crowns can be made thinner while still maintaining their strength.
•  Corrosion Resistance: Zirconia is resistant to corrosion, which helps maintain the integrity of the crown over time.
•  Good for Allergic Patients: Zirconia is an excellent option for patients who may have metal allergies or sensitivities, as it is a metal-free dental restoration.
•  Precision Fit: Zirconia crowns can be precisely milled using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, ensuring a snug fit on the prepared tooth.