What Is a Zirconia Dental Crown? Cost, Alternatives, Pros and Cons

Dental crowns are fixed devices that are cemented on to existing weak, damaged or broken teeth to support and preserve functionality. These restorations are also used to enhance the shape, alignment or aesthetic appearance of teeth.

 

Some crowns are comprised of materials such as ceramic, porcelain or gold, while zirconia dental crowns are made up of a naturally light-colored ceramic known as zirconium oxide.

 

The benefits of zirconia

Zirconia, a white crystalline oxide form of zirconium, is considered a Group 4 element. This designation on the periodic table means zirconium is part of the titanium family. Its chemical composition makes it exceptionally durable.

 

How strong is this material? Dr. Stirneman explains that, "In addition to being used on the teeth, zirconium is also popular for various prostheses in the surgeries of knees, hips, fingers, and ears." And since this type of metal does not produce a toxic response to living tissue, patients will not experience allergic reactions or complications resulting from their body rejecting the material.

 

Zirconia appears translucent, resulting in a more natural-looking appearance. This material is also manufactured in a wide variety of shades, making it easy to accurately match the color of surrounding natural teeth. And as a bonus, it provides better stain resistance than acrylic or composite (porcelain and other ceramic material fused to a metal base).

 

Zirconia dental crowns have another unique advantage over other types of crowns: dental professionals can make them in their own office, thus reducing wait times and avoiding the need for temporary crowns.

 

With the help of CAD/CAM technology, dental milling machines are available at most dental laboratories and in some dental offices. The crowns are milled directly from solid blocks of zirconia. As such, they require less equipment, time, and materials to produce than other types of crowns. After they are milled, they can be adjusted to the exact fit of the patient's tooth and cemented the same day - patients do not have to return for more than one appointment.

 

Disadvantages of zirconia crowns

There are several possible disadvantages to zirconia dental crowns. Even with recent dental advancements, the color of zirconium may not exactly match the hue of a patient's natural tooth. If a patient is receiving the crown on a front tooth, they may prefer a lithium disilicate ceramic or a porcelain crown instead.

 

In addition, after this type of cap is placed, it may be difficult for dental professionals to detect decay underneath. If cavities form, the crown will need to be removed in order to treat the tooth.

In addition, while the crown itself is almost indestructible, the crowns' hard material may rub against and damage the surrounding teeth.

 

Zirconia crowns, in general, are one of the most expensive types of crowns. However, if you properly maintain the crown, it will be worth the long-term investment. Low-cost crowns are more likely to chip and involve additional expense in the long run.

How much do zirconia crowns cost?

Costs vary widely, depending on region and the experience of your dentist. The cost may also vary depending on your dental insurance coverage - you may pay less if your insurer decides your crown is medically necessary instead of purely cosmetic.

 

In general, patients can expect to pay more for zirconia crowns than for porcelain and gold caps. Call your dental office and insurance company for payment plan options and price comparisons