CAN ZIRCONIA CROWNS CRACK

Can Zirconia Crowns crack?

Zirconia ranks high on the mohs scale, but like anything, it can certainly break. Zirconia crowns tend to cost more because of their high durability and strength. Zirconia is a very sturdy and dependable material for Crowns or Implants, but it can crack. When materials fail it is usually because of handling, fitting, or poor maintenance. While it is possible for your Zirconia crown to crack, it is far more likely that the damage is due to another factor, like the bonding agent.

What makes Zirconia so strong?

Zirconia is an oxide derived from Zirconium. It is naturally occurring in the mineral baddeleyite. It is biocompatible and ideal for holistic dentistry. It contains no metal and will not interact with allergies or sensitivities of the patient. It is dependable and derives its strength from a tetragonal crystalline structure. its Monolithic Zirconia single crowns at 1.5mm thickness are almost 2 times as strong as porcelain fused to metal (PFM) single crowns at the same thickness. However, your implant or crown may vary in its strength based on what kind of Zirconia is used. Typically monolithic zirconia is the strongest, as it comes from a single piece (monolithic). Your crown may be layered Zirconia, or Zirconia layered with porcelain, this may make the crown ideal for front facing teeth, but can compromise the strength of biting and chewing ability.

Types of Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia can be used in a multitude of aesthetically pleasing and durable crowns.

• Full Contour Crowns- Full contour Zirconia crowns offer great strength and coverage of the tooth area. They are ideal for people with chewing issues, like bruxism.
• Translucent Full Contour crowns- These are ideal for areas of your mouth where chewing strength is important, but teeth are more visible.
• Porcelain Fused to Zirconia- These are ideal for front facing teeth, like incisors and canines. You compromise the integrity of the Zirconia slightly, but you gain an indistinguishable tooth covering.

How to identify problems with your crown

In order to know whether your crown has cracked, it is helpful to identify signs of a failing implant. When you receive a crown, you will probably have a dentist or implant team that you trust. This is your opportunity to use them as a resource. Reach out to your dental health team if you have any of the following problems.

• Looseness in your crown- If your crown wiggles, or does not feel right when chewing, schedule and appointment. It could be the bonding, a crack, or an issue with the fitting for your jaw.
• Color and Appearance- If you notice any color changes, or breaking or chipping of your crown, obviously reach out to your implant team. This would be an indication of some failure, whether in bonding or material.
• Pain- No matter what, pain should not be a prolonged outcome. If you are noticing discomfort while chewing or any other time, consult with your dentist. A malformed crown, a wearing of the material, or any other issue could lead to problems with your jaw or teeth in the long term.

What are Zirconia Crowns?

If you have opted for a Zirconia crown, you can expect to have a long lasting and sturdy replacement tooth. While it is uncommon for cracks in that material, it is always a possibility. If you have any concerns at all reach out to your dental health care professionals. They are dedicated to your dental health and comfort.