The Truth Behind Metal Free Crowns: Zirconia
The truth is metal free crowns are actually metal only, what is known as zirconia, is not really metal free, Zirconia crowns are made up of a metal alloy called zirconium oxide.
Zirconia crowns are popular teeth cap option that is commonly considered as “metal-free” due to their white color and the absence of traditional metal alloys like nickel or chromium.
However, it is important to note that zirconia crowns are not entirely free of metal. Zirconia itself is a form of zirconium oxide, which is a ceramic material.
Zirconium is a shiny silver-grey metal It is highly ductile and extremely resistant to corrosion and heat. Its symbol in the periodic table is Zr, and its atomic number is 40. It melts at 1855 degrees Celsius (°C) and boils at 4409 °C, and it is not corroded by acids, alkalis or seawater
What Are Metal Free Crowns?
Metal free crowns, also known as ceramic or all-ceramic crowns, are teeth caps used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Unlike traditional crowns that contain metal alloys, metal free crowns are made zirconium oxide also know as zirconia.
They are an excellent choice for individuals with metal allergies or sensitivities. Zirconia crowns are highly durable and offer a natural-looking appearance, making them a popular option for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia crowns are crafted using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. This allows for precise customization and ensures a perfect fit for each patient.
The zirconia material used in these crowns is known for its strength and durability, making it an ideal choice for long-term dental restorations. Additionally, zirconia crowns have a high resistance to fracture and chipping, providing patients with a restoration that will withstand the test of time.
What Are Other Types of Teeth Caps?
In addition to zirconia crowns, there are several other types of dental crowns available. These include:
1. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: These crowns consist of a metal base with a layer of porcelain fused to the outside. PFM crowns offer a good balance between strength and aesthetics, as the metal base provides durability while the porcelain layer provides a natural-looking appearance. However, the metal base can sometimes cause a dark line to appear at the gumline, which may be visible when smiling.
2. All-metal crowns: These crowns are made entirely of metal, typically gold or silver alloys. All-metal crowns are known for their strength and durability, making them ideal for back teeth that require extra support. However, their metallic appearance can be less aesthetically pleasing, particularly for front teeth.
3. All-resin crowns: These crowns are made entirely of dental resin materials. While they are more affordable compared to other types of crowns, they are not as durable and may wear down over time. All-resin crowns are often used as temporary restorations or for individuals with budget constraints.
4. All-ceramic crowns: These crowns, including zirconia crowns, are made entirely of ceramic materials. They offer excellent esthetics and are often indistinguishable from natural teeth. All-ceramic crowns are a popular choice for individuals with metal allergies or sensitivities, as they do not contain any metal alloys.
Why Metal Free Crowns Are Best?
Metal free crowns, such as zirconia crowns, offer several advantages over traditional metal-based crowns. Here are some reasons why metal free crowns are considered the best option for many patients:
1. Esthetics: Zirconia crowns are known for their natural-looking appearance. The ceramic material used in these crowns can be color-matched to the patient’s existing teeth, resulting in a seamless blend. This makes zirconia crowns an excellent choice for front teeth restorations, where aesthetics are of utmost importance.
2. Biocompatibility: Metal allergies and sensitivities are not uncommon, and traditional metal-based crowns can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. Zirconia crowns, being metal-free in terms of traditional metal alloys, are highly biocompatible and suitable for patients with sensitivities to metals.
3. Durability: Zirconia crowns are extremely durable and resistant to fracture and chipping. The zirconium oxide alloy used in these crowns provides excellent strength, making them a long-lasting restoration option. This durability ensures that patients can enjoy their restored smile for years to come.
4. Less tooth preparation: Compared to traditional metal-based crowns, zirconia crowns require less tooth preparation. This means that less of the natural tooth structure needs to be removed, resulting in a more conservative restoration. With zirconia crowns, more of the patient’s natural tooth can be preserved, which is beneficial for long-term dental health.
Cost of Zirconia Metal Free Crowns
When it comes to the cost of zirconia crowns, it is important to consider several factors. The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the location, the dentist’s expertise, and the complexity of the case. Generally, zirconia crowns tend to be more expensive compared to other types of dental crowns.
The higher cost of zirconia crowns can be attributed to the advanced technology and materials used in their fabrication. The precision and customization offered by CAD/CAM technology contribute to the overall cost.
Additionally, zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability, which adds to their price tag.
While zirconia crowns may have a higher upfront cost, it is important to consider their long-term value. These crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear, meaning they are less likely to require frequent replacements or repairs.
Investing in zirconia crowns can provide patients with a restoration that will last for many years, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Warranty on Zirconia Crowns?
The warranty on zirconia crowns can vary depending on the dental practice and the specific manufacturer of the crowns At Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics – we offer zirconia caps with warranty starting from 5 years upto life time warranty on zirconia dental crowns.
It is important to consult with your dentist to understand the warranty terms and conditions before proceeding with the treatment. Typically, zirconia crowns come with a warranty that covers manufacturing defects or failures. This means that if the teeth cap breaks or fails due to a defect in the materials or craftsmanship, it can be replaced free of charge within the warranty period.
Finally – Metal Free Crowns
In conclusion, zirconia crowns, although referred to as “metal-free,” do contain a form of metal in the zirconium oxide alloy. However, they are considered metal free in terms of traditional metal alloys like nickel or chromium.
Zirconia crowns offer excellent esthetics, durability, biocompatibility, and require less tooth preparation compared to traditional metal-based crowns.
While they may have a higher upfront cost, their long-term value and natural-looking appearance make them a popular choice for individuals seeking high-quality dental restorations.
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Dr. Jyoti Singh (MDS), Diplomate WICO (Japan region) stands as a beacon of excellence in implantology within Delhi NCR region. She is a BDS and MDS(Prostho) both from Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, where she secured top honors with all India rank 1 in PG entrance examination. Her extensive experience at esteemed institutions like Clove Dental and her own Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics since 2016, Dr. Singh embodies unparalleled expertise in dental implants. Boasting a wealth of 16 years in dentistry and backed by 18 groundbreaking research papers in leading international journals (Google Scholar) and her ResearchGate profile, she epitomizes the pinnacle of proficiency and innovation in her field. She practices in Gurugram as your friendly dentist near me.