Zirconium is a white colored alloy that can be used as an alternative to the metal in the substructure of porcelain in classical crown-bridge prostheses. Its usage areas are quite wide. In restorations of teeth with a lot of material loss, in cases of diastema (gap between two teeth), if the patient does not want orthodontic treatment, in cases where there is severe discoloration, if adequate results cannot be obtained with tooth whitening, in eliminating slight crookedness (if orthodontics are not desired), in cases where lengthening procedures will be performed regarding the crown lengths of the teeth. It can be used in old filled teeth whose color and structure are damaged, as a bridge in cases where there are missing teeth in the rear teeth (if implants are not preferred), in front group implant-supported prostheses and in improving smile aesthetics.
Why is zirconium preferred?
Due to the very good light transmittance of zirconium, an aesthetic appearance close to natural teeth can be achieved. Due to the metal used in the substructure of classical porcelains, this transparent and aesthetic appearance cannot be fully achieved and the teeth appear more opaque. All of this is prevented with zirconium. In addition, since zirconium is a tissue-friendly material, its compatibility with the gums is very good. The purplish appearance seen on the gums in the neck area of the tooth in metal porcelains never occurs in zirconium. It does not cause gum recession.
Is there any discoloration in zirconium teeth over time?
The porcelain on the outer surface of zirconium teeth is smooth and Since it is slippery, it is not affected by colorants such as cigarettes, tea and coffee. Therefore, there will be no color change.
How are zirconium teeth prepared?
After the necessary planning is made in the mouth, the tooth cutting process is carried out on the selected teeth. (The teeth are made slightly smaller). Then, a precise measurement of the mouth is taken and sent to the laboratory. In a laboratory environment, a zirconium substructure in a color suitable for the tooth and porcelain suitable for it are processed. And the zirconiums prepared in the clinical environment are applied (glued) to the patient's mouth. These are fixed type prostheses. Installation and removal is not possible. These are dentures that we can easily use without distinguishing them from our natural teeth.
Is pain felt during the making of the zirconium process?
The preparation (tooth cutting) applied to the teeth to make zirconium is a procedure performed under local anesthesia. Therefore, no pain is felt during the procedure. After the procedure, a temporary coating is applied to the teeth to prevent any sensitivity that may occur in the cut teeth. Some hypersensitive people may feel a slight tingling despite the temporary teeth being placed, but this rate is very low. The procedure is usually completed painlessly.
Is root canal treatment necessary for every tooth to be made of zirconium?
Canal treatment of every tooth to be made of zirconium. not necessary. If there is a deep decay or fracture in the tooth to be prepared, these are treated first. Meanwhile, if necessary, root canal treatment is applied to the tooth, then the tooth is cut and the coating is prepared with zirconium material. Or sometimes, the vascular nerve package of the tooth may be opened during tooth cutting, and in such a case, root canal treatment should be performed on the tooth. However, in any other case, the tooth is tried to be preserved alive. Root canal treatment is not performed on every cut tooth.
How long does it take to complete the zirconium procedure?
If the patient does not have any gum problems, the procedure is average. It is completed in a week. If there are already gum problems, the gums need to be treated before zirconia is applied. After the end of the treatment, a period of 4-6 weeks is given for the gums to heal (after the flap operation). Then, as the gingival levels stabilize, the zirconium coating process can be started.
At what age can zirconium be applied to individuals?
Zirconium teeth can be applied to almost everyone. Applicable to age group. However, zirconium coatings applied until the age of 18 may require frequent renewal as gaps will occur between the teeth in direct proportion to the growth and development of the jaw. For this reason, it is not recommended for those aged 18-20.
Are zirconium teeth durable?
Zirconium substructured crowns Bridges are as durable as metal-based crown-bridges. It is less brittle than porcelain. �r. Since porcelain adapts better to zirconium, porcelain fractures are less common in zirconium-based prostheses.
In which case is zirconium not preferred?
If there are long, toothless areas in the posterior regions, zirconium is not preferred due to increased fragility.
How much material needs to be removed from the teeth to make zirconium?
The material loss is higher in zirconium than in porcelain laminates, and is almost the same as in metal-based porcelains. (1-2 mm)
How long is the lifespan of zirconium teeth?
Normally, the average lifespan of each crown-bridge restoration is 5- 7 years. However, if there is no tissue change (gingival recession), the patient's oral hygiene is good, and there is no damage to the zirconiums, it can be used for many years. Regular dentist check-ups are required for all of these. It is recommended to visit your dentist regularly every 6 months and have the necessary checks.
How to maintain zirconium?
Zirconium coated teeth They should be brushed regularly, just like natural teeth. Dental floss should be used, and special dental floss called Superflos (for cleaning under the bridge) should be preferred under the body. Even if all the teeth in the mouth are veneered, regular dental scaling (Scaling) should be applied. For this reason, a dentist check-up is recommended every 6 months.
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