What are Metal-free Crowns and Bridges?
Tooth crowns are restorations that are permanently glued to existing teeth and change their appearance. Bridges consist of several connected crowns that can replace one or more extracted teeth.
As the name suggests, metal-free crowns and bridges are made without a metal base. The material most commonly used as a substitute for metal is zirconium. Due to its physical characteristics and color, it has high aesthetic qualities and gives teeth a completely natural appearance, without the characteristic gray tone of metal.
When is the Installation of Zirconium Crowns Recommended?
Zirconium crowns have very good aesthetic characteristics and blend completely with the natural appearance of the teeth. Therefore, we most often use them on the front teeth when patients are not satisfied with the appearance of their natural teeth. This type of dental cap allows us to achieve excellent aesthetic results.
We recommend bridges made from a combination of zirconium and ceramic only in cases where one, possibly two teeth are missing. For larger restorations, we advise patients to opt for metal-ceramic bridges due to their better physical durability.
By examining and analyzing X-ray images, we determine whether the installation of zirconium crowns or bridges is possible in your case, so that all aesthetic and functional requirements are met. If the teeth are healthy and the changes you want to make can be achieved with metal-free crowns, we then proceed with the further fabrication of dental caps.
What Does the Procedure for Installing Zirconium Crowns Look Like?
The procedure for installing metal-free crowns and bridges takes several standard steps. In the Bede dental office, this procedure is routine, the process is quick and completely painless with the application of anesthesia.
Tooth drilling
By grinding the teeth, we shape them so that it is possible to place a metal-free cap on them later. This procedure is carried out under anesthesia.
Taking impressions
After tooth grinding, impressions of the upper and lower teeth are taken in their entirety. The impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory, where the future appearance of the teeth is designed using digital technology.
Installation
After trying the teeth, we proceed with their cementing, i.e., permanent gluing to the teeth. We then check once more to see if the bite is correct and the patient is ready for their new smile.
Metal-free Crowns: before and after
Differences Between Metal and Metal-free crowns
The main difference between these two types of materials is that zirconium crowns do not contain metal. This feature allows us to achieve better aesthetic results and a more natural appearance of the teeth by placing crowns or bridges.
On the other hand, for individuals who need bridges to replace a larger number of extracted teeth, we recommend restorations with a metal base due to their better strength.
Maintenance of Metal-free Crowns
The maintenance of metal-free crowns is like maintaining any other type of dental cap. Regular oral hygiene, the use of dental floss or interdental brushes, and an oral irrigator are ways to properly maintain crowns, along with regular annual or semi-annual check-ups with the dentist.
Experiences With Zirconium Crowns
Our patient Marko K., after getting 3 zirconium crowns, says:
“I got used to the zirconium crowns placed at the Bede dental office very quickly, in just a few days. Aesthetically, the crowns look completely natural and blend perfectly with my smile.”
Patients Installing Crowns in the Dental Office
At Dr. Bede’s dental office, we place the greatest importance on the individual approach to the patient, meeting all aesthetic and functional requirements, and above all, the health of the teeth on which we want to place crowns. This is what determines the longevity of any type of dental restoration.
The process of making dental caps depends on the number of teeth, but on average, it takes 7-10 days. During this time, the patient can wear temporary teeth to make the waiting period for crowns or bridges easier.
If you are not sure which type of caps to choose, call us and schedule your free examination and consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do zirconium crowns last?
They can last for many years, just like metal-ceramic crowns. What you need to pay attention to is whether the gums recede over the years. If gum recession occurs in later years, it will be necessary to replace the crown.
What affects the lifespan of a crown?
Lifespan is affected by hygiene maintenance, regular cleaning of tartar and soft deposits, and susceptibility to gum recession or periodontitis. Bad habits such as teeth grinding, nail-biting, or chewing on objects can significantly damage any type of dental restoration.
What type of zirconium crown is the best?
They can be made entirely of zirconia (full zirconia) or a combination of zirconia and ceramic. Both materials provide excellent aesthetic results, and the dentist will determine which type of crown is best for patients based on the results you want to achieve.
Disadvantages of zirconium crowns
The main disadvantage of this type of material is that it has not proven to be sufficiently resistant in cases where we want to replace a larger number of missing teeth (3 or more) with a single bridge.
How long do metal-free crowns last?
Metal-free crowns and bridges can last for many years, but it is never possible to say exactly how long. It depends on the patient’s habits and susceptibility to periodontitis.
Which crowns last the longest?
When placing crowns on teeth, the most important thing is the future health of the teeth and gums, whether the crown is properly made and aligned with the bite. This is what affects the lifespan of the crowns, not the material from which the crown is made.
What happens to crowns after 10 years?
If the teeth and gums are healthy, the crown can last even longer than 10 years. If gum recession and consequent tooth decay occur, it will be necessary to remove the old crown, treat everything necessary, and then make a new one.
Can I eat normally with zirconium crowns?
Yes. If the bite is properly aligned with zirconium crowns or bridges, you can eat normally.
Can zirconium crowns fade?
No. Once permanently placed on the teeth, they cannot bleach or darken.
Are the materials used for making crowns toxic?
The materials used for making any dental restoration are tested, approved for use in the human body, and are not toxic to human health.
Allergy to zirconium crowns
This material is biocompatible and does not cause allergies.
