The metal-free porcelain crown provides aesthetics combined with strength and durability
What is a porcelain crown?
A porcelain crown is an artificial tooth – a dental prosthesis – that resembles in form and function a natural tooth that has been damaged. Porcelain crowns can also be grouped together to make fixed bridges or fixed porcelain prostheses. Here at the ImplArt Dental Clinic in Brazil, we make metal-free crowns using completely computerized systems. We therefore offer our patients the most modern systems and the most advanced results.
What is dental porcelain?
Porcelain is a material that resembles glass and is used to reconstruct teeth. It has a natural color and high resistance. It is also called dental ceramic.
Types and materials of porcelain crowns
In short, there are different types of materials used to make porcelain crowns: the older materials use metal and the more modern ones are metal-free. Porcelain crowns with metal internal structures are called metal-ceramic and crowns with a white structure such as zirconia are called metal-free.
There are also crowns that do not use internal structures and are made using computerized methods. In addition, covering a destroyed natural tooth with a ceramic crown is essential for oral health, as it will restore the patient’s chewing ability and even allow them to eat hard foods.
The advantage of the metal-free porcelain crown is that it is more aesthetic, since pure porcelain is a white material. As a result, the structure is not visible inside the crown even in brightly lit environments. The new generations of porcelain crowns are made using cad/cam methods according to computerized designs and don’t even require layers of internal reinforcement like metal and zirconia. They are made from a single (monolithic) material. These are digital, metal-free porcelain crowns whose main advantages are aesthetics and speed of production.
Another innovative material for making a new porcelain crown is translucent zirconia, a material that is up to 10 x stronger than ordinary porcelain crowns. For this reason, they are highly recommended for the oral rehabilitation of back teeth and in patients with bruxism. Oral rehabilitation with crowns can be carried out on implants, on roots with root canal treatment and on natural teeth without root canal treatment.
Fitting dental crowns requires preparation (tooth wear) so that the crown fits correctly. The main digital technique we use is Cerec 3D, an intraoral molding system with scanners and robotic tooth production.
Before a permanent prosthesis is made, we will make a temporary prosthesis so that you don’t lose your tooth. After the rehabilitation treatment, you will be able to lead a normal life, eat hard food and clean your teeth every day with a toothbrush and dental floss. The ImplArt Clinic specializes in dental prostheses and can offer you a porcelain crown with state-of-the-art technology.
Porcelain crown: advantages and indications
Porcelain crowns are fixed dental prostheses that mimic the shape and appearance of natural teeth. When a tooth is badly damaged, it may be necessary to have root canal treatment and a porcelain crown. By Dr. Roberto Markarian, graduated dentist and specialist in dental prostheses and dental implants in São Paulo, Brazil.
What is dental porcelain?
Choosing the ideal dental prosthesis can lead to confusion when faced with a number of options. Fixed dental prostheses must meet both functional and aesthetic needs. These are the main objectives that determine the choice of the ideal material. Before choosing the material, it is first necessary to understand the differences between the types of porcelain dental crowns. The main one is the reinforcement technique, which is the part required for masticatory efforts. Understand the differences better:
Metal-ceramic crown
The porcelain dental crown is built on a metal structure. It is durable and aesthetic, and can be used on both anterior and posterior teeth. However, in some cases, it may not achieve the best aesthetic result on anterior teeth, because the dark metal inside the prosthesis can leave the crown looking darkened when subjected to intense lighting.
Porcelain crown with metal-free zirconia
This is a porcelain crown mounted on a white zirconia structure, which is therefore metal-free. It is highly durable and has excellent aesthetic results, as the white zirconia of the internal structure leaves the crown with a natural appearance very similar to the natural tooth. The porcelain crown with zirconia can also be fixed on dental implants and is completely computer-engineered and made on a 3D tooth printer. It is also an indication for people with metal allergies.
Pure porcelain crown
It has excellent aesthetic results and great resistance. The material used is lithium disilicate or feldspathic ceramic. Because this ceramic is very translucent, it is not normally suitable for use on darkened teeth or on metal posts.
Porcelain crown for natural teeth with excellent anatomy and aesthetics
How much does a porcelain crown cost?
Treatment prices can only be given after a face-to-face dental consultation. This is because the patient needs to be thoroughly assessed so that our team can understand their functional and aesthetic needs. Only then can we recommend the most appropriate treatment. In many cases, our team will offer a number of treatment options and respective outcome expectations, and the patient is free to choose.
Porcelain crowns can be made quickly in our clinic using our Day Clinic method for porcelain crowns. At the end of the porcelain crown treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by flossing daily and brushing regularly.
If you are far away, it is possible to have an online consultation, also known as a teleconsultation. This preliminary consultation takes place with our clinical director, Dr. Roberto Markarian, who will be able to make a preliminary assessment of your case and make recommendations for your treatment. This also applies to those who need dental implants, as we can plan your dental implant surgery remotely.
Pure zirconia is also known as cubic zirconia, translucent zirconia, monolithic zirconia and black zirconia. It is currently considered the most modern and resistant material for making dental crowns.
Dental prostheses made from this material are fixed onto dental implants previously placed in the upper or lower jaw.
In order to offer patients the most modern treatments, the ImplArt dental clinic has once again innovated by pioneering the best European technology (Austria) to manufacture 3D zirconia dental prostheses in its own laboratory.
Its modern manufacturing allows treatment to be carried out using 100% computerized techniques, with complete digital planning of the case. This means more comfortable treatment for the patient, much more predictable, and above all, faster.
The translucent zirconia protocol prosthesis is completely white and contains no metal inside. As a result, the colors and shapes are more beautiful and natural.
Planning 3D zirconia implant/prosthesis treatment
For a complete treatment with dental implants, there must first be an extensive conversation between the dental surgeon and the patient. The definition of the total treatment takes place in 3 stages:
1- Firstly: Planning the surgical and prosthetic aspects of the all-tooth or partial implant case. First of all, the patient’s needs are studied, with a clinical assessment and radiological examinations, so that the case can be planned precisely before it is carried out.
3- Thirdly: Preparation of the final dental prosthesis. Once the implants have healed, the long-awaited making of the complete prosthesis begins, according to the material chosen by the patient at the start of their treatment.
Zirconia dental prosthesis without gums. In some cases it is possible to make a zirconia dental prosthesis without the pink gum layer. In an acrylic dental protocol this would not be possible.
Not all protocol prostheses are the same and made of acrylic!
The choice of implant prosthesis material
Nowadays, you can choose from a variety of materials for fixed prostheses on implants (dental protocols). In the past, there were only metal-ceramics (metal structure and porcelain exterior) and acrylic (resin), made by hand.
Today, ImplArt is able to offer patients options with extreme resistance and superior aesthetics, such as computer-engineered translucent zirconia. In this sense, each type of prosthetic material can have an impact on the patient’s treatment in terms of price, preparation time and the final aesthetics of the total implant.
Therefore, in this article, we will explain the most modern model of fixed prosthesis on implants: the computerized translucent zirconia prosthesis, as well as its advantages and characteristics.
What is 3D dental zirconia? Zirconia is a white material that has the strength of a metal
Zirconia dental prosthesis being designed on a computer, with a photo of the face superimposed. This gives us additional information about the lips, skin and gum colors, the shape of the teeth and the final appearance of the smile.
Types of zirconia prosthesis for dental protocols
Today there are three types of dental zirconia to better perform protocol prostheses on implants (fixed dental prostheses), namely :
1. milky whitezirconia structure (lower volume), together with applied porcelain overlay (higher volume)
2. 3Dtranslucent zirconia prosthesis (larger volume), i.e. with a small application of porcelain on the outside of the teeth (smaller volume)
3.3D monolithic pure zirconia prosthesis (full volume) with make-up, so no additional porcelain applied
The aesthetics of aesthetic zirconia fixed prostheses are unbeatable. Notice how translucent the material is and how beautiful and natural it looks.
What does the 3D translucent pure zirconia implant prosthesis look like?
In this type of zirconia prosthesis, there is only a small porcelain overlay on the structural part of the prosthesis. In short, the entire final process of making the monolithic zirconia prosthesis is done by computer programs and robotic machines( Digital Dentistry).
Therefore, we are sure that the fittings will be perfect, the anatomy will be that of natural teeth, and the colors will be realistic.
Dental zirconia protocol. Note that there is a small layer of translucent porcelain on the outside of the tooth to give it more shine, better color and more translucency. The rest of the prosthesis is solid and made of pure zirconia that has been tinted to match the natural color of the tooth and gums. The holes will be closed after the fixed prosthesis has been installed.
Advantages of the 3D zirconia protocol prosthesis
In contrast to metal as a structure, the main advantages of translucent zirconia are its biocompatibility, excellent aesthetics and extreme resistance. Zirconia, with the white structural part of the dental prosthesis, undeniably enhances the natural cosmetic characteristics of porcelain.
In fact, dental zirconia is exceptionally strong and durable as a base. So much so that the use of small portions of porcelain over this translucent zirconia structure provides complementary aesthetics for the complete implant.
The structure of the zirconia dental prosthesis is white and, at this stage, not yet colored or shiny. In the next phase of the prosthetic work in our dental laboratory, the piece will come to life with the pigmentation of teeth and gums. The final colors depend on the consensus between the person’s taste and the dentist’s opinion. However, you can virtually choose any color from the available range. The most commonly used shades for porcelain zirconia teeth are B1, A1, BL4, A2, B2. For the gums, we try to follow the color of the patient’s natural gums, with the most common colors being STG4, STG5 and STG8.
Work on applying layers of ceramic. In the end, all the natural aspects of the teeth and gums will be reproduced, imitating their tones, textures and translucency.
Zirconia prosthesis with aesthetic ceramic application, ready to be installed on the implants
Superior aesthetics of 3DZirconia
Dental zirconia can be custom-made in such a way that it resembles the enamel and gum tissues, thus optimizing the aesthetic result.
Translucent dental zirconia is undeniably the best material for fixed prostheses on implants, as it offers translucency, naturalness and strength as a result.
First of all, it should be noted that the zirconia protocol prosthesis makes no noise when chewed, is not heavy, nor does it damage dental implants, and certainly not opposing teeth.
Translucent dental zirconia is a material that above all does not change color, does not stain and therefore does not wear out with use.
Observe the natural anatomical details of the finished porcelain and zirconia fixed dental prosthesis. This work is done in our in-house digital dental laboratory.
How are 3D translucent zirconia dentures made?
The ImplArt Clinic has all the infrastructure to make your zirconia fixed prosthesis in its own laboratory. Here’s how it works: a zirconia dental prosthesis is manufactured using computerized processes, starting with the milling of a solid block of zirconia.
Above all, because it is a CAD-CAM (computerized) job, your dental project is stored in our laboratory, so the original project can be printed again quickly, should the need arise.
Dental prostheses: versions with or without artificial gum are possible (but it depends on an examination to check feasibility).1-Without gum layer; 2-Light gum layer; 3-With gum layer.
Maintenance of fixed 3D translucent zirconia dental implants
First and foremost, zirconia is extremely resistant and is certainly the strongest material for dental use. As such, its resistance is superior to porcelain and, of course, resin.
Maintenance for a zirconia prosthesis involves a visit to the dentist every 6 months for prophylaxis, in order to monitor oral health in the same way as recommended for all other patients.
The risk of the prosthesis fracturing is, above all, very rare, due to a characteristic of the material.
With regard to the color and shape of the teeth, these remain unchanged over time, making the material an excellent choice for its durability and, above all, long-term aesthetics.
It is always important to remember that, once treatment is complete, you should visit your dentist every 6 months for prophylaxis and to monitor the results of your treatment.
The realization of digital dental prosthesis design is possible thanks to advances in technology in recent years. These technologies are certainly making treatments faster, more precise and with better predictability of results. This applies to both fixed prostheses on dental implants and prostheses on teeth.
Index
It is now possible to see and perfect the result of the treatment on the computer screen before it is finished
ImplArt is continually investing in acquiring the main technologies developed in this sector. They allow us to carry out what we call a digital smile project, i.e. we use a computer to design one or more teeth (choosing their shape and shade) and to plan implant surgeries.
The latest addition is the Cerec Primemill milling machine, which allows crowns to be made with even more detail and even more precise results.
Modern technologies are constantly advancing, always seeking to combine greater patient comfort, speedy treatment and superior aesthetic results. In addition, there is a variety of work available such as crowns, blocks, fixed prostheses with pontics, dental lenses, prostheses on implants.
Photographs of the patient and software are used to plan and make functional and aesthetic changes to the smile, such as adjusting occlusion, the shape and shade of the teeth.
According to scientific research carried out by Dr. Roberto Markarian, Clinical Director of ImplArt, the use of digital prostheses speeds up the delivery time of the work by up to 5x, and increases the degree of patient satisfaction by 80%.
Example of a digital dental contact lens project
Cerec 3D and Ceramill Motion II
Systems developed for dental laboratories in which we can make the digital design of prostheses, plan and execute teeth using 3D printers. The technique used in digital smile design is called CAD/CAM (computer-aided design). It consists of 4 phases:
Intraoral Scanner – This is a high-precision camera used to capture images inside the patient’s mouth. The images are so lifelike that they show minute details such as the tone and texture of the gums and teeth.
Processing software – The images captured by the camera are sent to specialized software that creates a three-dimensional digital mould. In this processing phase, our team has the freedom to make adjustments, such as altering the shape and tone, in order to leave the piece with the characteristics that best match the patient’s needs. The computerized design can be superimposed on photographs of the patient to make it easier to understand the proposed treatment.
Milling – Equipment that works in a similar way to 3D printers. It receives information from the project and executes it accordingly. This compartment has robotic arms that mill raw ceramic blocks until they reach the shape of the designed part.
Ceramic kiln – The designed piece is taken to a high-temperature kiln to undergo a process called ceramic sintering. This phase is what gives the piece strength, shine and shade so that it has characteristics very close to natural teeth.
The main advantages of digital prosthesis design are:
Precision – the design of each tooth is made according to the patient’s needs. Once finished, they are the same size and shade as the original design. The fit is usually excellent.
Predictability – the software we use is sensitive enough for us to create a three-dimensional mold of the patient in great detail. Both our professionals and the patient can visualize the project on the computer screen, thus being able to predict the outcome of the treatment very accurately.
Speed – this system allows us to skip steps that could previously only be done manually, meaning that prosthetic work has become faster. We can perform teeth in a few days or even a few hours through the Day Clinic*.
Repeatability – The system allows you to repeat jobs and even make an identical copy of a prosthesis or tooth.
The installation of a provisional made with digital smile planning allows the patient to concretely visualize how their treatment will look before they begin the more invasive procedures in the mouth. This is known as a smile test drive or digital mockup.Treatments that can be planned on a computer:
The zirconia prosthesis is a white ceramic used to make the internal structure of a dental implant prosthesis. It is currently considered the most aesthetic material for this purpose, as its shade is very similar to natural dentin and it also allows more light to pass through (translucency).
Conteúdo deste Artigo sobre Prótese em zircônia para implante dentário
Zirconia provides a metal-free crown with high strength and aesthetics
A crown with a zirconia structure is an aesthetic alternative to a metal structure (metal-free crown). Although very resistant, the metal structure can leave the crown looking darkened when exposed to light.
In addition, if the patient has remodeling of the gums over time, a grayish line can appear at the gingival level and cause aesthetic compromise in the smile. For this reason, metal frameworks are often recommended for posterior crowns (which require a lot of strength, but not much aesthetics).
When you lose a tooth, you can have a zirconia implant placed, which is a piece of white ceramic that sits in place of the tooth root. After healing, you can place a zirconia prosthesis, which is a ceramic cap that sits on top of the implant and looks like a real tooth. This combination has some benefits, such as
Beauty: zirconia is as white as teeth and doesn’t turn the gums gray like metal. What’s more, zirconia is transparent and shines like teeth, making your smile look more beautiful and natural.
Health: zirconia is a material that adapts well to bone and gums without causing allergies or inflammation. This helps with the healing and firmness of the implant.
Resistance: zirconia is a very strong material that can withstand the forces of chewing and does not wear out easily. This makes the implant and prosthesis last longer.
Therefore, the zirconia implant together with the zirconia prosthesis is a good option to recover the function and beauty of lost teeth, with a safe, comfortable and durable material.
Initially, the teeth are scanned using intraoral scanners to generate a 3D digital mold. The design of the crown is made on a computer and executed on 3D tooth printers.
Finally, the crown receives a layer of porcelain that makes it look very similar to a natural tooth and can be fixed onto the dental implant. Among the indications for zirconia crowns on implants are single crowns, bridges and complete fixed prostheses.
Zirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsimage of a fixed zirconia prosthesisZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsimage of a zirconia prosthesis – protocolZirconia prosthesis for dental implantsZirconia prosthesis for dental implants
Zirconia implant prosthesis with porcelain applied. Above: bare zirconia framework ready for application. Below: porcelain applied to achieve proper form, color and function.
Thezirconiaprotocol prosthesis for the complete upper jaw is a fixed aesthetic prosthesis on a titanium dental implant for oral rehabilitation. It involves computerized design methods, and has become the most requested option among patients looking to combine the strength of the material with its superior aesthetic result in a total dental implant and protocol prosthesis treatment.
Designed using computerized technology and a 3D scanner, zirconia protocol prostheses with full dental implants are the most modern option for replacing completely lost teeth. Combined with fast-healing implant types, such as the Straumann implant, they allow for complete rehabilitation in a short space of time.
Why is the zirconia protocol the best material today?
Zirconia protocol prosthesis treatment is fully computerized. In addition, it allows for faster results, much more predictability in treatment, as it relies on computer graphics. It also allows for an aesthetically impeccable result and a lot of resistance. In addition, the treatment is carried out using only 3D scanners, without the need for the old conventional molds.
The absence of teeth certainly compromises aesthetics and the patient’s quality of life, which is why the placement of implants with prostheses is able to give the person peace of mind when chewing, speaking and smiling.
The zirconia protocol has many advantages over the conventional resin protocol with a metal structure. Its main qualities are aesthetics and high resistance.
Dental zirconia (pre-sintered zirconium oxide) is a translucent, light-colored material that allows light to pass through, just like natural teeth, and therefore offers an aesthetic result. In this sense, the structure of the Zirconia protocol prosthesis looks discreet inside the prosthesis, even if exposed in brightly lit environments. Certainly the most modern materials are the Zirconia protocol and the porcelain protocol on a total implant.
Zirconia is made using a computerized 3D method and is not a manual job
The structure of the zirconia prosthesis is a single piece, obtained by milling a rough block on a machine that works like a 3D printer. In other words, the treatment is planned on a computer using CAD/CAM technology. The milling machine then wears away the zirconia block until it reaches the shape of the structure of the prosthesis designed to be installed on a dental implant.
Finally, the zirconia structure is characterized with porcelain and the shade is obtained by brushing on specific coloring liquids for this purpose. It is possible to reproduce various shades that make up the same tooth, leaving the prosthesis looking very natural.
Protocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantimage of a complete oral rehabilitation in zirconiaProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implantProtocol zirconia prosthesis for complete upper jaw full dental implant
The zirconia prosthesis is then screwed onto the dental implants, which are strategically placed in the jaw. The fixed zirconia protocol on implants can bring great relief, especially for patients who wear dentures. What’s more, this model of prosthesis leaves the roof of the mouth free and the patient feels more comfortable chewing and speaking.
Another great advantage of the zirconia protocol prosthesis over the resin protocol is its resistance to staining. In principle, resin is a material that can stain or yellow over time and with pigmented foods.
Materials that are biocompatible with the human body
Indications for fixed zirconia dental prostheses – Zirconia Protocol
In principle, the patient needs to go for a consultation with an implant dentist at the ImplArt Dental Clinic, so that clinical criteria such as bone volume and general oral conditions can be assessed.
Maxillary rehabilitation with a zirconia protocol can be indicated for people with total upper edentulism, even those who have been wearing removable prostheses for a long time.
If you have any questions, please contact our team through one of the channels below. We, at the ImplArt dental clinic, are a reference in the field of modern dentistry, and we have a team ready to serve you with high technology and knowledge. We’ll be happy to help you!
Metal-ceramic prostheses, also known as porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) prostheses, offer a reliable and durable solution for patients seeking tooth replacement with both aesthetic appeal and structural strength. These prostheses consist of a metal framework covered with layers of porcelain, ensuring a natural look while providing long-lasting stability. Widely used in dental rehabilitation, PFM prostheses are ideal for patients who need durable solutions, particularly in areas of the mouth where the force of chewing is greater.
At Clínica ImplArt, the application of metal-porcelain prostheses combines advanced dental technology with expert craftsmanship, ensuring optimal results for each patient. The clinic’s dental specialists are well-versed in modern techniques that improve both the functionality and the aesthetics of these prostheses, delivering a solution that blends seamlessly with natural teeth while maintaining high resistance to wear and tear over time.
The metal-ceramic prosthesis is a traditional material for making crowns on implants
How do the prostheses work with this building materials?
Metal acts as a structural reinforcement, while porcelain offers aesthetics. Therefore, the positive points of this material are: resistance, great durability and aesthetics, characteristics that are very similar to natural teeth.
Metal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implants1 – Metal-ceramicprosthesisfor single implants 2 – Metal-ceramic prosthesis for individual implants 3 – Metal-ceramic prosthesis for implants – several teeth.
Among the indications for metal-ceramic crowns on implants are also crowns, bridges and complete fixed prostheses. One of the great difficulties in working with metal ceramics is the need to completely hide the metal.
Metal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implantsMetal-ceramic prosthesis for implants
Example of metal-ceramic prostheses made at the ImplArt Clinic
We can do your metal-ceramic bridge in Brazil
How are the aesthetics of metal-ceramic dental crowns? Does the metal not show?
This model of crown can change over the years. Sometimes the gums can recede over time and expose a metal line, compromising the aesthetics of the smile.
Especially in areas where aesthetics are essential, we recommend zirconia crowns. These are prostheses with an internal structure made of zirconia, a white ceramic material with a shade and translucency very similar to human dentin.
In addition, the application of porcelain in metal-ceramic prostheses is completely handmade and the final aesthetic depends a lot on the skill of the ceramist (technician who works with ceramics).
If you have any questions about techniques, prices or treatments, please contact us or make an appointment. We’ll be happy to welcome you!
Fixed zirconia prostheses with individualteeth (one by one) is the technique that fixes the crowns on each tooth individually, i.e. the crowns are separate and not joined together.Discover our new model of fixed dental prosthesis with teeth separated one by one, made using computerized techniques. It’s our best dental prosthesis on a total implant, made with the best materials and techniques, check it out!
Dentures with fixed crowns allow flossing. With other types of fixed prosthesis, it is not possible to use dental floss for cleaning, as the teeth are made together.
New fixed zirconia prosthesis with individual teeth brings great satisfaction due to its naturalness
However, fixed prostheses with individual teeth are not suitable for those who have lost only one tooth, or teeth in alternating positions.
The procedure to further individualize teeth with a fixed dental prosthesis consists of inserting dental implant pins into the bone. The zirconia crown is then fixed onto a framework, which in turn is attached to the dental implants.
However, the indication for a fixed prosthesis with individual teeth needs to be examined by the implant dentist. In this way, the indication for a dental implant must be made and the feasibility of making this modern type of prosthesis with individualized teeth verified.
In fixed prosthetics with one tooth at a time, there is a reinforcing structure, and then each individualized zirconia crown of just one tooth is cemented onto this structure.
Can I make a more individualized fixed prosthesis in which the teeth look more natural?
In principle, the basic requirements for making fixed zirconia prostheses with individualized teeth are:
Possibility of dental implants: The bone should allow the necessary implant pins to be made. However, if the bone is not sufficient, bone grafting can be carried out in the area.
Small bone volume: Fixed prostheses with more separated teeth require a large volume of components. This is why in cases of severe bone loss or when the patient has lost their teeth a long time ago, it becomes easier.
Fixed dental prosthesis with individualized zirconia crowns of several teeth (the teeth are separated) disassembled. A layer of gum of the same color as the patient’s original gum is applied to the structural part. Each tooth needs to be installed separately during the fixing of the prosthesis.
The main advantages of a fixed prosthesis with one tooth at a time:
It makes flossing possible. This is very pleasing to patients, as they feel they have a natural set of teeth
Fixed dentures with separated teeth offer an extremely natural and comfortable result.
Which materials can be used for prosthetic work on separated teeth?
For the structure: the main material used today for the structure of this type of fixed dental prosthesis is translucent dental zirconia. However, we can also use a very resistant metal as a reinforcing material (hybrid prosthesis), and there are now more technological resins (PEEK) that make it possible to make fixed prostheses.
For dental crowns: to make individual crowns (one by one), we can use any material that is used for this purpose, such as ordinary porcelain crowns. However, we prefer to use translucent dental zirconia, an extremely resistant and aesthetic material.
During the provisional phase, the crowns are made of resin so that we can check the aesthetics and symmetry of the smile together with the patient and make the necessary corrections before finalizing the individualized and customized dental prosthesis.
If you have any questions about pure zirconia fixed prostheses with individual teeth, about the value, price or step-by-step, please contact our team or make an appointment. We’ll be delighted to hear from you!
Many patients have doubts about the types of dental crowns that exist and their differences. This article has been prepared to educate you. This way, you’ll know the characteristics of all the types of dental crowns available here at the ImplArt Dental Clinic, located at São Paulo-Brazil, always knowing that the most up-to-date technology in the world is here!
Did you know that there are different types of dental crowns?
They differ from the point of view of execution, whether computerized or traditional, as well as the aesthetic refinement they achieve. They can be used both on dental implants and on tooth roots. Some are made using exclusively digital molding, while others still use the old mass molding.
A good indication for people who need to rebuild their teeth and make their aesthetics uniform are porcelain dental crowns or zirconia crowns, which restore the natural appearance and make the smile complete.
Follow us in this article to learn how to differentiate between the types of crowns and choose the one that best suits what you’re looking for as a final result.
What are dental crowns for and what are their types and indications?
The purpose of a dental crown is above all torestore the shape and functionality of the tooth. In short, it is a prosthetic piece (artificial tooth) with the shape and function of a natural tooth. There are a few types of dental crowns that can be selected for your treatment.
The choice of material will depend on a conversation between the dental specialist (prosthodontist) and the patient, which mainly aims to clarify the purpose of the dental crown (aesthetics vs. strength), andthe expected durability (temporary vs. permanent).
What are the types of materials for porcelain dental crowns and what are their differences?
In the past there were other types of dental crowns that we now consider outdated, such as all-metal crowns, gold crowns, resin veneer crowns or porcelain veneer crowns with metal, as well as procera crowns, alumina crowns, inceram crowns, empress crowns, pivots and jackets.
We will therefore present the 4 most modern materials with which we currently make dental crowns in our clinic. In other words, we classify Pure Zirconia as the most modern, followed by Pure Porcelain, both made using computerized systems. In second place are the handmade crowns, called applied zirconia and metal-ceramic.
Types of dental crown and their technical differences. All these types of dental crowns are available at our dental clinic and laboratory. * The technical name refers to the type of porcelain used in the dental crown. ** The strength of porcelain crowns is measured according to the ISO technical standard for flexural strength, measured in MPa. Estimate of aesthetics and durability express the opinion of the author of this article. In the case of MC and ZC crowns, the strength of the structure is high, around 1000 MPa, but problems occur because the thin layer of more fragile porcelain stands out.
Classification of different types of crown based on manufacturing technique:
Below you’ll find different types of dental crowns, classified according to the material they’re made from and how they’re made.
These new composite materials have lower strength than traditional porcelain crowns. However, they look good and can be used in some cases as long-term provisionals or even as permanent crowns.
Dental crowns made by 3D printing of composite materials, resins with a quantity of porcelain reinforcement in the composition. Our in-house dental laboratory is capable of producing such work with great speed and quality.
The porcelain crown remains the best material and can be made using different techniques
Please note that the term porcelain crown is a generic term but can have subtypes. The correct selection of the crown material has a major impact on the final result, how it is made and even on the budget
Learn more about the types of dental crowns and choose the best one for you
Dental materials differ in the way they are prepared clinically and in the laboratory, as well as in their aesthetic results and degrees of resistance.
The appearance of some types of dental crowns. The construction methods in the clinic and in the dental laboratory are different. MC = metal ceramic (fabricated by hand), ZC = zirconia and ceramic (fabricated by hand), P = pure porcelain (fabricated by computerized methods), ZP = pure translucent zirconia (fabricated by computerized methods).
Porcelain + metal dental crown (metal ceramic is porcelain applied by hand to metal) – MC
Porcelain applied over metal (metal-ceramic) is an old technique for making dental crowns, and it’s also the one that ends up having the lowest final value for the patient and the lowest manufacturing cost for the dentist (see photos of the MC crown). Even though they are not as aesthetic as porcelain crowns without metal, metal-ceramic crowns are still used to restore teeth in the back of the mouth.
All metal-ceramic crowns have a structural underlying metal layer and then the porcelain/ceramic on top of it. The metal structure is thin, strong and fits perfectly on the prepared teeth. A layer of porcelain is applied over the metal structure (called a coping). The porcelain layer is 1.5 mm to 2 mm thick, depending on the area of your tooth.
The porcelain layer is resistant, withstands chewing forces very well and resembles natural teeth. However, metal-free porcelain crowns are the most widely used today, as they easily match the color of adjacent teeth better than metal-ceramic crowns. Metal-ceramic crowns are more opaque and not as natural-looking as today’s best dental crowns.
In some cases, porcelain on metal wears, chips, cracks or breaks over time, exposing the metal and making the work unsightly and non-functional. In addition, in cases of gum recession, dark lines may appear near the gums or parts of the metal.
Because of these limitations, metal-ceramic crowns are more suitable for back teeth and should not be used on front teeth. Other disadvantages of metal-ceramic crowns include the possibility of causing allergies and gum irritation.
A zirconia crown with porcelain applied is similar to a metal-ceramic crown in the way it is made. A crown with a zirconia structure also has 2 layers, but instead of metal, we have dental zirconia, a very resistant white material. You can see the two layers of material in the dental crown in the photo below.
Zirconia + porcelain dental crown cut in half. Note the structural layer of white zirconia, and the yellowish part is the porcelain that gives the tooth its aesthetics and final color.
Zirconia is considered to be an artificial diamond and is as resistant as a metal. In fact, dental zirconia has properties similar to metals, with the advantage of being white and therefore more aesthetic. The composition of zirconia crowns + applied porcelain does not include metal, improving the aesthetic results.
The zirconia dental crown with porcelain is also suitable for replacing a large restoration when the tooth structure has deteriorated.
Type of Dental Crown
Materials
Indications
Main Features
Emax Computerized Porcelain Crown
Lithium disilicate
Anterior and Posterior Teeth
Superior aesthetics, similar to the natural color of the teeth – Fast preparation
Porcelain crown with metal base (Metaloceramic)
Porcelain, Metal
Posterior Teeth
Functional and sturdy but poor aesthetics – Slow to produce
Zirconia crown with ceramic application
Ceramic, Zirconia
Anterior and Posterior Teeth
High resistance, aesthetics and biocompatibility – Slow production
Translucent 3D Pure Zirconia Crown
Zirconia
Anterior and Posterior Teeth
High resistance, aesthetics and biocompatibility – Rapid production
Resin crown
Acrylic resin
Anterior Teeth
More economical alternative, but less resistant than other materials.
Metal crown
Metal (Precious Metal Alloy/Gold)
Posterior Teeth
Good resistance, especially in areas of high masticatory load. poor aesthetics.
Temporary crown
Acrylic or Temporary Resin
Provisional phase before Permanent
Temporary use during treatment or until the permanent crown is made.
This table provides an overview of the different types of dental crowns, including the materials used, clinical indications and the main characteristics associated with each type. Remember that the choices between these types of crowns may vary depending on the specific needs of each patient
CAD-CAM pure porcelain dental crown (Emax – lithium disilicate) – P
Pure porcelain crowns – the EMAX system – are made using the CAD-CAM (Computer Assisted Design) technique for the computerized production of special porcelain crowns and restorations. They are therefore highly translucent and resistant. Their long-lasting and highly aesthetic results enable excellent results to be achieved quickly. These are the main properties of an Emax crown, which make them one of the best options for restoring front teeth.
Dental crowns of different types seen from the inside, which is usually hidden. Aesthetics differ between crown types, as does the method used to make them. MC = metal ceramic, ZC Zirconia and ceramic, P = emax pure porcelain, ZP = translucent pure zirconia
Emax all-ceramic dental prostheses and crowns are rapidly gaining popularity in aesthetic dentistry due to their excellent aesthetics, durability and strength. The Emax system is mainly suitable for the fabrication of crowns and dental contact lenses in the anterior region. After preparing the final tooth shape, a digital mold of your teeth will be made with an intraoral camera.
This mold is then transmitted via the internet to the computer in our dental laboratory, which controls the design and milling procedure. The color of the dental crown needs to be chosen in advance to resemble natural teeth. With the design approved, a milling machine cuts the monolithic block of lithium disilicate to produce the required shape of the prosthesis, already with the right color.
As the crown is made from a single block of material and has a single layer, we can call it a monolithic crown. The dentist then tests the fit of the crown to the tooth, makes any necessary adjustments and fixes it to the tooth with a special adhesive.
Crowns made from cubic zirconia are becoming increasingly common and offer a number of advantages. They are made using CADCAM computerized methods, from the digital mould to manufacturing.
The power of pure zirconia
First andforemost, one of the greatest advantages of pure zirconia for dental crowns is its strength and durability. Imagine how much force your back teeth exert on the food you chew. Your crowns need to be made of a strong material , so translucent pure zirconia can be a good option for crowns at the back of the mouth. In addition, they show little wear, which can be interesting for patients with bruxism, as it doesn’t allow for the destruction of the tooth that bruxism often causes.
Super realistic multilayer translucent dental zirconia
Durability of dental cubic zirconia
Dental zirconia-based crowns have performed just as well over 5 years as metal-based crowns, according to a scientific study. Those made of zirconia, called monolithic zirconia crowns, are especially durable.
Zirconia is the choice of many dentists because of its biocompatibility, which means that the body is less likely to provoke a reaction or immune response such as inflammation. Zirconia is such a biocompatible material that there are white zirconia dental implants. There is a current today of more natural biological dentistry, which advocates the use of more biocompatible and metal-free materials, and the pure zirconia dental crown fits the bill perfectly. It is therefore important for you to know that there is currently the possibility of carrying out a ceramic dental implant treatment, without metal, and combining it with a Pure Zirconia or Pure Porcelain dental crown, thus obtaining a metal-free treatment!
Types of dental crowns: here are the 5 main modelsTypes of dental crowns: here are the 5 main modelsTypes of dental crowns: here are the 5 main modelsTypes of dental crowns: here are the 5 main modelsTypes of dental crowns: here are the 5 main models
Discover our complete structure – in the Avenida Paulista area/ Downtown São Paulo-Brazil
Here at the ImplArt Dental Clinic, all prostheses, crowns and restorations are made in our own prosthetics laboratory using computerized systems.With computerized dental crowns, which can be used in any area of the mouth, the appearance, shape and alignment of the teeth are improved, as well as their strength, which also benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact us, visit our photo gallery or book an appointment with our team📲WhatsApp(11) 3262-4750. We’d be delighted to hear from you!
Dr. Roberto Markarian is one of the leading specialists in dental implants and computerized prostheses in Brazil, with more than 10,000 implants performed. In addition to his vast clinical experience, he is a renowned researcher, contributing to dentistry with publications in international scientific journals. At the ImplArt Clinic, Dr. Roberto applies high technology to all his treatments, offering patients innovative solutions and superior quality.
Types of dental crowns: here are the 5 main models
The post and core is an important part for installing a prosthetic crown to replace a tooth that has been badly destroyed, usually as a result of decay or fractures. In cases where it is possible to preserve the root with root canal treatment, the core is installed inside the root to support the prosthetic crown.
The core is the internal reinforcement part of a dental crown
This is an important stage in providing support and strength to the porcelain dental crown. See more about dental core materials. If the crown were installed without a core, the prosthesis would probably not be able to withstand the masticatory effort and consequently its duration would be shorter.
See also this article on our blog which talks a little more about root canal treatment, core and porcelain crown. Today, the reinforcement core (dental post) can be made from various types of materials: from metal to zirconia, fiberglass and carbon fiber.
The choice of material depends on a number of factors, such as the location in the dental arch and the masticatory load that the crown will be subjected to.
The metal core is considered more resistant (especially suitable for the most hidden and used area of the arch), while zirconia is considered more aesthetic because it is white (suitable for the most visible area, i.e. the front of the arch).
The prosthetic crown can be made from two different materials: resin (plastic with a metal core) or porcelain (with a metal or aesthetic core). Porcelain is more resistant and aesthetic than resin.
In some cases, root canal treatment is performed to preserve the root;
The root and tooth are prepared to receive the core;
When made of metal, the impression is taken directly inside the root;
When in zirconia, the post is cemented into the root;
A core mold is taken to prepare the prosthetic crown. At ImplArt, this mold can be made conventionally (with putty) or digitally using intraoral scanners;
The crown is installed on the core;
The duration of the procedure varies, as it depends on the complexity of each case. For some people it can be carried out in a Day Clinic.
Advantages of the technique:
The dental crown restores chewing ability as well as the aesthetics of the smile;
The appearance of this type of prosthesis is very similar to natural teeth, so it is indistinguishable when fitted;
Your smile will be beautiful and complete again, free of unsightly spots such as cavities, metal restorations, absences, etc;
The roots are protected and healthy;
Why is it necessary to place a post and core to make a dental crown?
Dentures are very durable, but they may need to be replaced after a few years. This need is verified during regular visits to the dentist’s office.
In cases where teeth are weakened and it is no longer possible to rebuild the tooth with a crown, dental implants are recommended. If you have any questions, please make an appointment or contact us. We’ll be happy to help you.
There’s a lot of talk about zirconia dental crowns these days, but did you know that there’s more than one type of pure zirconia crown ? There are actually two types, which are not the same! Let’s follow the differences between Pure Zirconia Crowns and ceramic layered Crowns. In addition, we will present the benefits of the most modern crown, which uses computer graphics, the Pure Zirconia Crown, also called Translucent Zirconia.
First of all, in order to differentiate between the two types, let’s highlight the method used to make each one. While one relies on a super-modern method with computer graphics for its preparation, the other still has an artisanal stage with manual application of porcelain by a prosthodontist. They can be used for single crowns, crowns on individual dental implants, fixed prostheses and even total implants, with the modern zirconia protocol prosthesis.
This way, by the end of the text it will be clear that even though both options have zirconia, not all zirconia crowns are the same! Let’s get to know the important differences below:
Zirconia crowns combine strength and superior aesthetics for more natural results
Therefore, in order to restore the aesthetics and function of the smile, it is natural to look for options that restore or make up for a missing tooth in a way that achieves the most natural and harmonious result possible. Whether for a crown on a tooth root or on a dental implant, zirconia is the material that offers this excellence. We can highlight the main advantages of zirconia:
Range of shades very similar to human tooth enamel.
Unlike metal-ceramic crowns, zirconia crowns have no metal parts in their construction. Therefore, there are no dark shadows when subjected to a beam of light, and there is no risk of a metal line appearing if the gums recede.
Fracture and stain resistant material
A fully or partially computerized manufacturing method, which makes treatment faster and more precise. The speed of digital zirconia crown production
CAD/CAM zirconia dental crowns
Zirconia oxide dental crowns are considered the most modern crowns thanks to their advanced technical and aesthetic properties. The shade and translucency of this high-performance ceramic are very similar to natural teeth.
The construction of dental crowns made from pure zirconia is totally unique and innovative, as these crowns are digitally designed using computer graphics and the CAD/CAM system, resulting in more precise pieces and much faster. The equipment has robotic arms that mill a block of zirconia until it reaches the designed shape. This type of crown has the highest resistance of all the dental crown options available. In addition, it allows for greater patient comfort throughout the treatment because it only uses digital readings, with a 3D scanner, without the need for the old mass moldings.
The CAD/CAM pure zirconia crown manufacturing method is 100% digital, while the ceramic layered zirconia crown, which we’ll see below, has a handmade interface, with mass molding and manual application of porcelain on the outside.
Zirconia crown with porcelain ceramic layered (zirconia + porcelain)
It is a crown in which the inner part is made of zirconia and the outer layer is made of ceramic layered material. Only the inner part of the tooth structure is made of zirconia, while the outer part is made of porcelain. The layered zirconia crown is more artisanal, as it requires a prosthetist to manually apply the outer porcelain layer.
What are the differences between pure zirconia and ceramic layered crowns?
After the ceramic is applied to the zirconia structure, the crown undergoes a sintering phase in a kiln. In this way, each layer of ceramic applied takes on a spectrum of color, translucency and opacity in the crown, seeking to reproduce the color variation of natural teeth.
Zirconia frame x crown with ceramic applied
Applied zirconia crowns, top and inside view
Crown cut in half showing internal zirconia structure and porcelain/ceramic layer.
Zirconia full denture with ceramic applied. Note that in addition to characterizing the teeth, the ceramic gingiva has also been characterized. Both the crown and the applied zirconia prosthesis have no shadows or dark spots, even in very bright environments. The zirconia of the internal structure has a shade very similar to that of human dentin, which is the inner part of natural teeth. The ceramic, on the other hand, has resistance, color, translucency and texture very similar to tooth enamel. This type of crown or total prosthesis already has huge gains compared to metal-ceramic, which has a metal structure and a porcelain exterior.
Pure milled zirconia crown
The pure zirconia crown is milled from a multilayer zirconia block, meaning that the block is already produced with the different layers of color and translucency just like the teeth. In other words, the pure zirconia crown model does not need a layer of ceramic to reproduce the shades and translucency of the teeth. After milling, it goes straight into the kiln. It represents the most resistant material available in dentistry today, in addition to the natural aesthetic result, similar to natural teeth.
Pure zirconia full dentures milled and after sintering in the furnace
Pure zirconia crowns
What is the best type of zirconia crown?
Nowadays, patients are looking for comfort when undergoing dental treatment. In addition, they want a treatment with high durability and aesthetic results. The CAD/CAM Zirconia Crown meets all these requirements precisely because of the characteristics of the material and the method of execution using digital design and a 3D scanner. Without the need for the uncomfortable mass moldings of old.
The production of CAD/CAM pure zirconia crowns, due to the fact that no manual ceramic finishing work is required, allows faster work to be carried out. If the need is for faster treatment, and the patient is looking for the most modern treatment, this is undoubtedly the best option.
Totally metal-free rehabilitation: is it possible?
Yes, in the event that you need to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant and prosthetic crown, this rehabilitation can be done with a ceramic implant as well as a zirconia crown. In this way, we achieve a metal-free implant treatment. This has been a trend for followers of biological dentistry, who are looking for dental treatments without any metal.
All of ImplArt’s zirconia dental crowns and prostheses are made in the dental clinic‘s own digital laboratory. This allows for high quality control and on-time delivery.
How much does a zirconia crown cost?
In order for us to ascertain the needs of your case: single tooth crown, fixedprosthesis, prosthesis on implants, prosthesis protocol, we need to assess you carefully and thus be able to give you the price of your personalized zirconia treatment. The consultation can be in person or online, for those patients who are physically far away. Contact us at ImplArt Dental Clinic and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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