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Zirconium crowns are a modern type of dental crown used to replace conventional metal-supported crowns and bridges. Instead of the gray metal used in traditional metal-supported crowns, zirconium alloys are preferred. Zirconium has a wide range of uses in dentistry due to its durability and resistance to corrosion unlike metals.
Zirconium crowns are used not only in dental crowns and bridges, but also in implant prostheses and as spacers (abutments). It is also used in composite fillings in certain proportions to increase the durability of the filling. Zirconium veneers provide an aesthetically similar appearance to natural teeth thanks to their high light transmittance and offer a comfortable use with their tissue-friendly properties.
Advantages of zirconium
Zirconium coating has many advantages:
Natural Appearance: Zirconium crowns provide the closest appearance to your natural teeth, which allows you to achieve aesthetically satisfying results.
Allergy Risk: It is an ideal treatment option for individuals with metal allergies because zirconium does not contain metal.
Fewer Tooth Cuts: Since it is a treatment method where fewer parts of the teeth need to be reduced, it prevents tooth loss and helps to preserve teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity: Since zirconium crowns do not require intensive tooth cutting, the risk of tooth sensitivity to cold and hot foods is low.
Gum Compatibility: Zirconium veneers blend better with the gums than metal-supported veneers and there is no gray discoloration at the gingival margin caused by metal.
Risk of Gum Recession: Since it is compatible with the gums, it is unlikely to experience gum recession in the future.
Color Stability: Consumption of color-changing beverages such as tea and coffee is unlikely to cause discoloration of zirconium coatings.
These advantages make zirconium veneers a preferred option both aesthetically and functionally.
Why Zirconium Dental Veneers?
Zirconium veneers are frequently preferred for their aesthetic and functional advantages. Compared to metal-supported veneers, it provides perfect gingival harmony and eliminates gray discoloration at the gingival margin. This provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance and reduces the risk of future problems such as gingival recession. Zirconium veneers do not discolor with the consumption of coloring foods such as tea and coffee, and their polished surface keeps tartar accumulation to a minimum. They also reduce the risk of sensitivity to cold and hot foods, as veneers require less tooth reduction. For these reasons, zirconium veneers are preferred both aesthetically and functionally.
Which Teeth Can Have Zirconium Veneers?
Zirconium veneers have a wide range of applications to solve various dental problems. It can be used as an alternative to laminates, especially in smile design. It offers an effective solution for teeth with intrinsic coloration that cannot be whitened with whitening methods, such as fluorosis caused by antibiotics used at a young age or excessive fluorine consumption. It can also be applied to teeth with crowding problems, if orthodontic treatment is not preferred, split teeth and teeth with large fillings with excessive loss of material. Zirconium crown treatment is generally suitable for individuals who have completed their developmental period and have all their permanent teeth; therefore, it is not recommended for people under the age of 18. Zirconium veneers can also be applied to people with gum disease, but in this case, gum disease must first be treated.
What is the Zirconium Dental Veneer Treatment Process?
The zirconium dental crown treatment process begins with the correct preparation of the teeth. In the first stage, the surface of the teeth to be veneered is abraded by about 1-1.5 mm. This process means that the teeth are reduced on all four sides to ensure that the veneers fit properly. Compared to metal-backed veneers, zirconium veneers require less abrasion on the teeth.
After the etching process, impressions of the teeth are taken with sensitive impression materials. These impressions are used in the laboratory to produce zirconium veneers. The success of the laboratory and the physician’s process of preparing the teeth are very important for the quality of the veneers and the success of the treatment process.
During the treatment process, local anesthesia is applied to avoid pain or soreness. Afterwards, rehearsal sessions are held to evaluate the harmony of the veneers. In this session, the facial shape, skin color and aesthetic and bite harmony with other teeth are examined together with the patient. When the patient and the dentist reach a consensus, the bonding of the veneers is performed. In the interim sessions, the temporary teeth are made of plastic or acrylic-based materials and may experience sensitivity, chips or fractures, but these are temporary and do not occur after the permanent veneers are placed.
The treatment process usually takes 7-10 days. Fractures or cracks in zirconium veneers are similar to those that can occur in natural teeth. Anything that can break or crack a natural tooth can also affect zirconium veneers. However, in such cases, repair is possible in a clinical setting.
How to Care for Zirconium Teeth?
The care of zirconium dental veneers should be similar to the care of natural teeth. It is important to brush and floss regularly to ensure that the veneers are long-lasting and can be used without disrupting gum health. Zirconium veneers cover the gums and normally do not cause negative effects such as odor in the mouth or decaying the tooth underneath. However, over time, abrasions or gingival recession may occur. In these cases, although there is no change in zirconium veneers, it may be necessary to adapt to tissue changes in the teeth. If necessary, the veneers can be removed without damaging them and temporary teeth can be inserted so that the person can get used to their new appearance and functions.
Regular brushing and flossing are necessary to maintain the veneers. Also important are professional cleanings every 6 months and regular dental check-ups. These professional cleanings and check-ups improve oral hygiene, maintain the body’s overall internal balance and help to detect any unnoticed negative changes in the mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zirconium Veneers
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What is zirconium veneer?
Zirconium veneers are veneers applied on the teeth and produced from zirconium oxide ceramic. These veneers are used to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth and increase the durability of teeth. Zirconium veneers mimic the natural tooth color and transparency, providing an aesthetic appearance and offering high durability.
What are the advantages of zirconium veneers?
High Durability: Zirconium veneers offer high durability and force resistance, making them long-lasting and robust.
Aesthetic Appearance: Zirconium perfectly mimics natural tooth color and transparency, resulting in aesthetically pleasing results.
Low Allergy Risk: Zirconium is well tolerated by the body and does not usually cause allergies.
Minimal Abrasion: Zirconium veneers require minimal abrasion on the teeth, which ensures that the teeth are protected.
How long does the zirconium veneer application process take?
The zirconium crown application process usually consists of two stages and can take several weeks in total. In the first stage, the teeth need to be prepared and impressions taken. This process usually takes 1-2 hours. Then, customized zirconium veneers are prepared in the laboratory. Finally, the veneers are placed on your teeth and this process can take 1-2 hours.
Are zirconium veneers painful?
The process of applying zirconium veneers is usually painless. Local anesthesia is used during the preparation of the teeth and placement of the veneers, which makes the procedure more comfortable. Some patients may experience slight sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, but this is usually short-lived and temporary.
How long do zirconium crowns last?
Zirconium veneers usually last between 10-15 years, but this can vary depending on your personal care and oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups can prolong the life of the veneers. Also, avoiding hard foods and protecting your teeth can help zirconium veneers last longer.