Zirconia-based metal-free crowns and bridges
Zirconia all-ceramic crowns and bridges are used to replace missing teeth, strengthen endodontically treated teeth, or restore the function of broken teeth. These restorations can significantly enhance the aesthetics of a smile. Irregular tooth alignment, tooth discoloration, or shape imperfections can be corrected with zirconia, commonly referred to as “metal-free crowns.”
The restoration of teeth with traditional materials, such as various metal-ceramic systems used until recently, has been replaced by superior and technologically advanced materials like zirconia and lithium disilicate.
This superiority can be observed from multiple aspects. The continuous pursuit of perfect aesthetics, functionality, durability, and biocompatibility, ensuring that materials used do not negatively impact surrounding tissues or the body, drives the constant advancement of dental materials.
Advantages of Zirconia All-Ceramic Crowns and Bridges
The characteristics of zirconia crowns and bridges offer significant advantages over traditional metal-ceramic crowns:
- Zirconia crowns provide flawless aesthetics.
- The use of digital protocols and intraoral scanners has enabled precise restorations with perfect fitting and coverage of the tooth. This is crucial because an underlying layer of cement, if too thick, can absorb saliva containing microorganisms that cause cavities and gingivitis. Poorly fitted crowns are prone to decementation and negatively impact surrounding soft tissues. Redness around the crowns is an inflammatory response that, if chronic, can lead to periodontitis.
- Durability of zirconia crowns is comparable to that of traditional crowns. These crowns are highly resistant to wear and fracture.
- Reduced fabrication time is another advantage of zirconia crowns and bridges.
- Biocompatibility is the most important feature of zirconia crowns. They do not cause adverse reactions in surrounding tissues and blend seamlessly with the oral environment. Unlike metal-ceramic crowns, there is no dark contour around the crowns, and the gums do not recede due to material intolerance. From an aesthetic perspective, this means achieving “pink aesthetics”, a harmonious balance between the appearance of the teeth and the soft tissue surrounding the zirconia crown.
- Zirconia crowns and bridges are cost-effective. Comparing the cost of metal-ceramic crowns and bridges with zirconia restorations reveals that the price difference is not drastic, while the benefits of zirconia crowns are undeniable.
Due to these advantages, zirconia all-ceramic crowns and bridges have become synonymous with modern dentistry.
Metal-Free Crowns and Bridges and the Manufacturing Process
The process of creating prosthetic restorations begins with an examination, imaging analysis, and bite evaluation. Since the digital protocol includes photographs and bite analysis, a few photos of your smile will be taken during your first visit, and a digital scan of your current oral condition will be performed.
Tooth Preparation and Temporary Crowns
Tooth preparation and temporary crowns can be done in multiple ways. What is important to note is that after tooth preparation, you will receive temporary teeth on the same day. This means you do not have to take time off or avoid social activities, as you will have temporary teeth until the permanent metal-free crowns are ready.
Tooth Design and Fabrication of Metal-Free Crowns
Tooth design is carried out in a specialized dental laboratory. Before proceeding with the final restorations, we can test the digital design of the teeth, allowing the patient to express their preferences regarding color and aesthetics. Once the design is agreed upon, the next step is a trial fitting of permanent zirconia crowns. This step is crucial—even though digital precision is excellent, it is important to check the contacts and fit of the crowns.
The final stage is the placement and cementation of the metal-free crowns. In terms of aesthetics, zirconia crowns come in different types:
- Monolithic Zirconia Crowns – These are made entirely of zirconia and are recommended for the posterior region due to their high durability.
- Cut-Back Zirconia Crowns – This technique enhances aesthetics by layering ceramic over a zirconia base to achieve translucency similar to natural teeth. Our recommendation for this type of zirconia crown is for the front teeth (from canine to canine).
- Fully Layered Zirconia Crowns – These provide the highest level of aesthetics, depending on the skill of the dental technician.
The Importance of Expertise and Digital Technology
The fabrication of metal-free crowns, while seemingly simple, is actually a complex process. To achieve perfect results, several factors must align:
- The dentist must properly prepare the tooth for supporting metal-free crowns and bridges.
- The dental laboratory must be well-equipped with the latest technology and use high-quality materials.
- The skills of both the dentist and the technician must be exceptional.
These factors influence the cost, which varies between dental clinics.
At our clinic, prosthetic work is performed by a specialist in dental prosthetics. This means that, in addition to completing six years of dental school, the dentist has undergone an additional three years of specialized training, acquiring the theoretical and practical expertise needed to plan and execute prosthetic restorations safely and effectively.
The Benefits of Digital Impressions
Our clinic follows a modern digital workflow, eliminating the need for traditional impression materials. Instead of analog impressions, we use an intraoral scanner, ensuring unmatched precision in metal-free crown and bridge fabrication. Traditional impressions can be uncomfortable for the patient and may deform over time, leading to inaccuracies. Digital scanning overcomes these issues, providing a more efficient and accurate method.
Why Choose Zirconia Crowns?
Zirconia crowns and bridges are the most advanced solution in modern dentistry. They offer:
- A natural-looking smile that enhances confidence.
- Aesthetic improvements—correcting misalignment, discoloration, or tooth shape.
- Health benefits—protecting fragile, endodontically treated teeth and restoring function.
- Compatibility with dental implants—zirconia crowns can be attached to metal-free implant abutments, ensuring seamless integration.
Night Guards for Long-Term Protection
To ensure the longevity of your new restorations, soft night guards should be used, especially if you clench or grind your teeth at night. Bruxism can lead to crown fractures and joint issues. A custom-made, comfortable guard prevents excessive forces on both natural and restored teeth, as well as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Many patients are unaware they grind their teeth at night, and addressing this issue can prevent future damage.
We strive to provide the best advice and solutions for your dental health. If you have any questions, our team of experienced dentists is always available to assist you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.