Tooth crowns are an orthopedic design that is made in the laboratory. They cover the teeth from all sides, then are fixed with special cement. Ceramic crowns are one of their varieties, it is widely used today in dentistry.
Prescribing anterior crowns
The front teeth are a visiting card of a person, the impression made on other people depends on their appearance. Therefore, many attach great importance to the aesthetic side of the issue in their treatment.
The crown in this case plays the role of a new tooth surface, with its help, destroyed areas are restored, shape and appearance are given. They are installed when it is impossible to reconstruct the tooth with fillings or inlays. They are also needed in cases where therapeutic treatment has been ineffective.
Classification
Crowns based on ceramics, metal or ceramic-metal are placed on the front teeth. We will focus on describing the first group and the benefits of this kind.
So, the metal-free ceramic crown, compared to the other two, has a more attractive appearancelook and is a worthy alternative.
The frame for it is chosen strictly by color, and only then a special mass is applied. Ceramic crowns are placed on the front teeth much more often than on the side teeth.
Varieties
There are different types of ceramic crowns. You can see photos of samples in this article. In particular, from a material based on zirconium. Such products are very durable, aesthetic and well compatible with the oral cavity. Zirconium oxide has a white matte finish. Ceramic crowns of this type are made by computer milling, and this guarantees maximum accuracy and duration of use. They are also good because the metal edge is not visible in the gum area.
In addition, there is such a variety as Ips Empress. These ceramic crowns are pressed glass based. In this system, there is an increased percentage of leucite (crystalline substance), which increases the strength of the structure.
They are used as onlays and inlays for posterior teeth and single designs for anterior teeth.
Also, all kinds have an attractive appearance. This is a characteristic feature of such a design as a ceramic crown. The photo before and after their installation clearly shows what aesthetic role they play. Below we will consider what they are depending on the application.
Veneers and inlays
A different ceramic crown can be used for the intended purpose. Sample photos cannot reflect this externally, buttabs will be different from veneers.
What are their features?
Veneers are ceramic overlays that are used to correct front teeth. They improve their appearance and eliminate defects, such as a gap between the teeth.
Inlays are mini prostheses that are designed to level minor damage. In particular, they are suitable if a third of the tooth has collapsed. They are quite strong and denser than conventional filling material. They also do not shrink and do not have micropores that can allow the recurrence of caries. They are made in a special laboratory for blanks-casts. Then they are fixed with dental glue.
Advantages of ceramic constructions
First of all, it's aesthetic. Ceramic crowns on the front teeth, the photo of which is attached to this material, are not equipped with a metal frame. Therefore, light passes through the material, and due to this they look as natural as possible.
Ceramic is applied in layers, this increases the depth of light absorption of the structure, it does not stand out against the background of he althy teeth.
The gum retains its appearance, while it does not become inflamed and darkens. And the crowns themselves do not darken due to the use of tea, coffee or nutritional supplements. Also, the material is able to protect the oral cavity from allergies, there are no characteristic unpleasant sensations, tastes and irritations.
Another advantage is the possibilitypreservation of the pulp under the crown, its ease and ease of manufacture and installation.
Cons of ceramic crowns
Of course, they have much more positive sides. But before installing ceramic crowns, you should also familiarize yourself with their disadvantages. They are recommended for front teeth and have a limited lifespan of approximately 10 years.
Some types take a long time to make, but usually the result is worth it. Also, if the structure breaks, complex repairs are required.
Can crowns be placed in one go?
In some cases, in some clinics, it is possible to quickly fabricate and install a ceramic-based structure. All this is possible through the use of special grinding machines.
First, the bad tooth is prepared. The crown is made within half an hour, then it is placed. Under normal circumstances, this is done in two visits. In this case, the crown is made using the standard technique within two weeks.
Production technologies
Ceramic crowns for teeth are made in different ways. It all depends on the clinic and the financial capabilities of its visitors. The four most common technologies are:
- fired (refractory model, or platinum foil);
- whitening and carcass veneer;
- pressing with patented technology;
- computer milling.
Steps of pressing
Pressing ceramic structures,according to EMPRESS technology, is one of the most progressive ways of their production. It includes the following stages of work:
- an appointment with a dentist followed by a consultation regarding the methods of getting rid of defects and prosthetics, agreeing on the timing and cost of work;
- preparation of the oral cavity, treatment of supporting teeth (if necessary) and their grinding;
- Dental impression production;
- sending it to a special laboratory, where it serves as the basis for making a wax model for a future crown;
- formation of a ceramic structure with its help. The mass is first heated to a temperature above 1000 degrees. Then it is pressed into a mold so that the crystals fit more tightly. This provides better durability;
- firing and adjustment stage - the structure is covered with several ceramic layers;
- installation of the prosthesis, taking into account minor adjustments (if necessary);
- fixation with cementitious adhesive.
Installation cost
A logical question of a potential patient will be: how much does a ceramic prosthesis for the front teeth cost? It is worth saying that he will not be able to do cheaply, like a conventional metal-based one. The material is of high quality, which can not cost little.
The cost quoted by the clinic usually includes the following:
- complexity of work;
- consumables;
- depreciation of used equipment;
- qualification of specialists.
Depending on the type of construction based on ceramics, its cost will be from 10 to 50 thousand rubles. At the same time, it is highly desirable to focus on the available reviews before choosing a particular clinic or doctor. This will allow you to find a good specialist who will do a quality job.
Patients about ceramic prostheses
Ceramic crowns may not be suitable for everyone. Reviews about them are mostly positive, but it is better to talk with a specialist before installation.
Many patients are very pleased that in this way they solved the aesthetic problem when the mouth was full of fillings and the front did not look very nice. This option allows you to brighten up the problem and disguise everything as he althy and beautiful teeth.
Basically, patients note the naturalness and shade of the design, the absence of discomfort and side effects. However, the installation of prostheses requires proper care. In particular, this applies to the consumption of solid foods. If you do not subject them to strong loads, then the crowns will last for quite a long time.
One of the significant drawbacks of such a solution is the high cost. But given the work, materials and results, even it is fully justified.
How to care for ceramics
If you want your new ceramic crowns to last as long as possible, you need to take good care of them. At the same time, hygiene methods do not differ from those that relate to natur alteeth.
As already mentioned, it is necessary to prevent particles of solid food from getting into the places where crowns or inlays are placed. In addition, it is required to thoroughly clean the interdental spaces with the use of dental floss. All this is not so difficult, but thanks to this, your next visit to the dentist for a crown will not happen soon.
Despite the fact that they have a relatively short service life, with proper care it can be extended up to 10 years. And this is taking into account the fact that we are talking about the front teeth.
Ceramic crowns are the best option for anyone. They look beautiful and will help to hide the imperfections of the teeth. It is possible that their installation may seem like an expensive pleasure, but if you compare all the advantages, then such a cost will be justified.
