Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns are a strong and natural-looking way to fix damaged teeth. These crowns cover the entire tooth above the gum and work just like a real tooth. They are often used after root canal treatment or to complete a dental implant. Crowns help repair cracks, chips, and deep decay.
Want to know more about zirconia porcelain crowns? Read below or contact us to book a visit with one of our experienced cosmetic dentists.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns strengthen your tooth and improve its appearance. You might need a crown for several reasons:
- To hold a filling in place when the tooth structure is weak
- To anchor a dental bridge to nearby teeth
- To protect a tooth at risk of breaking
- To fix a tooth that’s cracked, chipped, or decayed
- To cover a tooth properly after a root canal
- To restore teeth worn down by grinding
- To top a dental implant for missing teeth
A porcelain zirconia crown can also help correct bite problems caused by damaged or missing teeth. Custom crowns can boost your confidence and create a more even, healthy smile.
Many patients ask about zirconia vs. porcelain crown choices. Both are durable and look natural, but they have slight differences. If you’re wondering if zirconia is porcelain or want help comparing zirconia crowns vs. porcelain crowns, we’re here to guide you.
Whether you choose zirconium porcelain crowns or traditional materials, we’ll help you find the best fit for your smile.
Types of Dental Crowns
At Imagine Advanced Dental Arts, we offer Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns using the latest tools and materials.
Porcelain crowns are made from all ceramic material. They look just like real teeth and can be tinted to match your natural tooth color. These crowns are strong, reliable, and blend in well with your smile.
Zirconia crowns are made from solid crystal blocks. They are tough, long-lasting, and completely metal-free. Zirconia porcelain crowns have a translucent look that makes them appear very natural. Many patients prefer zirconium porcelain crowns because they are strong and look great.
If you’re wondering about zirconia vs. porcelain crown options, we’ll help you decide. Both are great choices, and our team will discuss the pros and cons to find what best suits you.
The Dental Crown Procedure
First, your dentist removes a small part of the tooth’s surface to make space for the crown. Then, a mold or scan is taken to create a perfect fit. This impression goes to a lab where your porcelain zirconia crown is made using advanced milling tools.
When it’s ready, the crown is placed on your tooth and matched to the color of your nearby teeth. The result looks and feels natural.
Most zirconia porcelain crowns or porcelain crowns are completed in just two visits. Whether you’re leaning toward a zirconia crown or a porcelain crown, we’re here to guide you to the best fit for your smile and lifestyle.
Porcelain Crowns: A Classic Choice
Porcelain crowns, often called porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, have been used in dentistry for many years. These crowns combine a metal core (usually gold or another metal alloy) with a porcelain layer on top. This design gives the crown both strength and a tooth-like look.
Benefits of Porcelain Crowns
- Natural Look: Porcelain crowns match the color and shine of real teeth, making them a great option for front teeth.
- Durability: The metal base adds strength, so they handle chewing and biting well.
- Custom Fit: Each crown is made to fit your tooth perfectly, offering comfort and support.
- Cost-Effective: Porcelain crowns are often more affordable than other materials while still looking good and lasting.
Zirconia Crowns: The Modern Alternative
Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns have evolved, and zirconia is now a top pick for many patients. These crowns are made from zirconium dioxide and are known for their strength and safety.
Benefits of Zirconia Crowns
- Very Strong: Zirconia is tougher than porcelain crowns, making it great for both front and back teeth. These crowns resist chips, cracks, and wear.
- Great Aesthetics: Zirconia porcelain crowns look like natural teeth with a clean and clear finish.
- Safe for Most People: Zirconia is biocompatible, meaning it’s safe for the body and less likely to cause allergies or gum issues.
- Tooth-Friendly: These crowns often need less tooth removal, helping to keep more of your natural tooth.
When comparing zirconia vs. porcelain crowns, both have their place. Your choice comes down to your needs—strength, look, or budget. If you’re unsure, your dentist can help guide you to the best option, whether it’s a porcelain zirconia crown or one of the other trusted materials.
Difference Between Porcelain and Zirconia Crowns
If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely deciding which crown is best for your smile. Both Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns are great for restoring teeth with large cavities that can’t be filled.
Traditional porcelain crowns are often a more affordable choice. However, they can have some downsides, like possible gumline discoloration, metal allergies, and the need for a metal base.
Zirconia porcelain crowns, on the other hand, offer similar benefits but with added strength and fewer risks. When choosing a dental crown, the material matters. Two top choices are Porcelain and zirconia Crowns. Each has its own strengths, and knowing the difference can help you decide what’s best for your smile.
Zirconia crowns are known for their strength. They can handle heavy pressure, making them perfect for grinding or clashing their teeth. Made from zirconium dioxide, they’re also a great option if you have metal allergies. This material is safe, durable, and long-lasting.
Zirconia porcelain crowns are tough and biocompatible, meaning they work well with your body. Many patients prefer them for their strength and clean look.
On the other hand, porcelain crowns have been trusted for years. Their biggest benefit is their natural appearance. They’re carefully colored to match your real teeth, which makes them a top choice for front teeth.
Porcelain is a ceramic baked at high heat to give it a smooth, lifelike finish. However, it’s not as strong as zirconia and may chip more easily over time.
Still unsure about zirconia crown vs porcelain crown? If you want strength and durability, go with zirconia. If your goal is the most natural look, porcelain may be right for you. Either way, porcelain zirconia crown options offer a great mix of beauty and function.
Zirconium Crowns vs Porcelain Crowns
Zirconia vs. porcelain crown decisions often come down to durability. Zirconia is stronger than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns (PFMs) and is non-porous, which means it’s highly resistant to cracks, chips, and stains.
Zirconia porcelain is also smoother, so it’s less likely to wear down nearby teeth. You won’t see the gray lines that can appear with metal-backed crowns. These crowns are highly translucent, helping them mimic the look of natural teeth.
Zirconia Crown vs. Porcelain for Front Teeth
If you’re considering a crown for a front tooth, appearance matters. A porcelain zirconia crown can give you strength and a natural look. Because they reflect light like real enamel, zirconium porcelain crowns are a top choice for visible teeth.
When comparing zirconia crowns to porcelain crowns, zirconia often wins for both beauty and durability. Still, each case is unique, and we can help guide you to the best option for your needs.
Selecting the Right Crown for Your Needs
Picking the right crown takes thought. Now that you know the pros and cons of each type, you can choose what best fits your smile and lifestyle.
If you’re active or play sports, zirconia porcelain crowns are a strong choice. They hold up well under pressure. If your main goal is a flawless look and you’re careful with your teeth, porcelain might be the better option.
Think about where the crown will go. For back teeth, which handle heavy chewing, zirconium porcelain crowns offer the strength you need. Thanks to its natural appearance, porcelain is a popular pick for front teeth.
Your dentist will help you weigh your options based on your mouth, habits, and dental history. Together, you’ll decide if a porcelain zirconia crown or another type best fits you.
Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns Installation Process
Getting Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns is simple and usually takes two visits.
First, your dentist will numb the area and gently file down the tooth, making room for the crown. Then, they’ll take a mold or digital scan of your tooth. You may get a temporary crown while your permanent one is made in the lab.
The dentist inspects the fit, bite, and color on your second visit. Small changes can be made right there. Once it’s perfect, the crown is cemented in place. Your smile is restored.
Longevity and Maintenance of Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns
Crowns are built to last. Zirconia porcelain crowns are very tough and can last over 15 years with good care.
Porcelain crowns are also long-lasting, usually around 10 to 15 years. They look very natural, but they may show some wear or discoloration over time.
To make them last, brush and floss daily. Avoid biting hard items or using your teeth to open things—especially with porcelain.
Regular dental visits are also key. Your dentist can easily spot any issues early and help keep your crown in top shape. Whether you choose zirconia or porcelain crown, both will serve you well with proper care.
Why Choose Zirconia Over Porcelain?
Zirconia is stronger than porcelain. If you grind, clench, or have a strong bite, you’ll want something that can handle the pressure. Some zirconia porcelain crowns are made from a single zirconia block, making them extra tough. These crowns hold up well to daily use.
Zirconia is also biocompatible, which means your body is unlikely to react badly to it. Like titanium used in medical implants, zirconia works well with the body but is metal-free. Zirconium porcelain crowns are a safer option if you’re sensitive or have allergies.
Another plus? Zirconia looks more natural along the gumline. Porcelain crowns often show a dark metal line near the gums, but zirconia porcelain crowns don’t. They blend in better and look more like real teeth.
Zirconia crowns can also be made thinner without losing strength. Compared to a porcelain crown, your dentist won’t need to remove as much of your natural tooth.
When deciding between a zirconia crown and a porcelain crown, consider strength, safety, and appearance. Many people choose Porcelain and zirconia Dental Crowns for both beauty and function. If you want a strong, natural-looking crown, zirconia is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns?
Porcelain and zirconia crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged teeth. They restore strength, function, and appearance. Both materials look natural and are custom-made to fit your smile.
2. What is the difference between porcelain and zirconia crowns?
Porcelain crowns look very natural but can be less durable. Zirconia crowns are more resistant to chips and cracks. Depending on your needs, both have advantages.
3. Are zirconia crowns better than porcelain crowns?
Zirconia crowns are stronger and last longer, especially for back teeth. Porcelain crowns look great and are often used for front teeth. The right choice depends on the tooth’s location and your preferences.
4. How long do Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns last?
With proper care, zirconia crowns can last 15 years or more. Porcelain crowns usually last 10–15 years. Regular dental visits and good hygiene help them last longer.
5. Do zirconia crowns look natural?
Yes, zirconia crowns are very natural-looking. They’re translucent and blend well with nearby teeth. Dentists can also adjust their color to match your smile.
6. Is zirconia porcelain?
No, zirconia is not traditional porcelain. It’s a type of ceramic made from zirconium dioxide. It’s metal-free, strong, and safe for most people.
7. Can I get Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns if I have metal allergies?
Yes, especially zirconia crowns. They are metal-free and biocompatible. That means they’re very unlikely to cause allergic reactions.
8. Do zirconia crowns require more tooth removal than porcelain crowns?
No, usually the opposite. Zirconia crowns can be made thinner, so less tooth structure is removed.
9. Are Porcelain & Zirconia Dental Crowns expensive?
They can be more costly than basic crowns, but they’re long-lasting. The price also depends on the tooth location, dentist, and insurance coverage.
10. How do I care for my dental crown?
Brush and floss daily, just like your natural teeth. Avoid hard foods, and don’t use your teeth to open things. Visit your dentist regularly to keep the crown in good shape.
