Zirconium dental crowns have become one of the most preferred options in dental treatments due to their aesthetic and durability features. These crowns give your teeth a natural appearance while providing excellent durability during chewing and other daily functions. However, to ensure the long life of zirconium crowns, proper care is essential. In this article, we will delve into the durability of zirconium dental crowns and provide detailed care tips.
Durability of Zirconium Dental Crowns
Zirconium is one of the strongest and most durable materials used in dentistry. Compared to metal-supported porcelain crowns, zirconium offers greater durability and aesthetic superiority. These crowns are highly resistant to chewing forces and can be used for many years without breaking or cracking.
1. Chewing Resistance
Zirconium crowns show high resistance to chewing forces, especially for back teeth. Even when chewing hard foods, the risk of cracking or breaking is minimal. This is a great advantage for patients who regularly consume hard foods.
2. Wear Resistance
Zirconium is highly resistant to wear, preventing the crowns from thinning or wearing down over time. Thanks to this feature, zirconium crowns can preserve the natural functions of the teeth for many years. While traditional porcelain crowns may wear down over time, zirconium crowns are highly resistant to this issue.
3. Color and Aesthetic Durability
Another important advantage of zirconium crowns is that they retain their color over time. Zirconium is resistant to substances like tea, coffee, and cigarettes, which can cause discoloration in teeth. It maintains its white and natural appearance for a long time, making it an excellent choice for patients concerned with aesthetics.
Care for Zirconium Dental Crowns
Just as important as the durability of zirconium crowns is their maintenance. Without proper care, the lifespan of the crowns may be shortened, or unwanted dental problems may arise. Here are some care tips to extend the life of your zirconium dental crowns:
1. Regular Brushing
Zirconium crowns should be brushed regularly, just like natural teeth. Brushing helps maintain gum health and prevents plaque and tartar buildup on the crowns. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush will ensure that your zirconium crowns last longer.
2. Flossing
In addition to brushing, flossing is important for cleaning the spaces between the crowns. Flossing removes food debris and plaque between the teeth, preventing gum disease. Flossing should not be neglected to keep the tooth structure beneath the zirconium crowns healthy.
3. Regular Dental Checkups
To ensure the longevity of zirconium dental crowns, you should visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of the crowns and perform the necessary maintenance. For gum health and the durability of the crowns, it’s important to see your dentist at least twice a year.
4. Avoid Hard Foods
Although zirconium crowns are very durable, consuming excessively hard foods regularly can damage the crowns. Activities like cracking nuts or chewing ice may cause the crowns to crack or break. Therefore, it's important to avoid hard foods and limit habits that could damage the crowns.
5. Using a Mouthguard
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night (bruxism), it is recommended to use a mouthguard to prevent damage to your zirconium crowns. Grinding your teeth can damage the crowns and shorten their lifespan. Your dentist can recommend a suitable mouthguard for you.
How Long Do Zirconium Crowns Last?
With proper care, zirconium dental crowns can be used without problems for 10 to 15 years. In some cases, this period can be even longer with regular dental care and checkups. However, the lifespan of the crowns depends on the patient's dental care habits, the health of the tooth where the crown is placed, and the individual's dental structure.
Zirconium dental crowns are a durable and long-lasting solution that provides excellent results in both aesthetics and functionality. However, regular care is essential for the crowns to be used without any issues for a long time. Basic care practices such as brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are crucial for extending the life of zirconium crowns. If you want to keep your zirconium dental crowns healthy and durable, you should not neglect these care tips.
