Once upon a time, a beautiful smile had to be paid for with a metallic sheen or a prosthetic appearance. The cap used to cover the tooth, also called a crown, was either made of a metal like gold or silver, or a porcelain-metal combination. These caps were strong, but often lacked a natural look. Can you imagine having a ‘piece of metal’ in your mouth all the time? Or a cap that would leave a dark line on your gums over time?

But, the advancement of science and technology has ushered in a new dawn in dentistry. A material has been discovered that is as strong as metal, maybe even stronger, and as beautiful as natural teeth. This magical material is called zirconia. Let’s dive into the amazing story of the dental zirconia cap, and understand how it has given new life to the smiles of millions of people.

What is zirconia? – The Miracle White Dental Material

Zirconia, also known as zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), is actually a ceramic material. Interestingly, it is derived from a metal called ‘zirconium’, which is related to titanium. However, in dentistry it is used in ceramic form, which is extremely strong and white. You may have seen it in the industrial sector or in jewellery in the form of cubic zirconia, which is a cheap and attractive alternative to diamonds.

Zirconia has become an ideal choice for dental crowns, bridges, implants and other dental restorations due to the same properties. Its natural whiteness and translucency help it blend in with the natural appearance of teeth.

Why Zirconia Cap? – A Revolutionary Change

For years, porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or full metal (such as gold caps) were used for dental caps. PFM caps were good in appearance, but since they had a metal base, they often showed a dark line at the gum line. Also, sometimes metal allergies could occur. Full metal caps were strong, but they were not aesthetically appealing.

That’s where zirconia crown came in. It overcame all these limitations and set a new standard in dental restoration.

Types of Zirconia Caps – Choose as per your needs

Zirconia caps are not all the same; they are available in different types according to your needs and the condition of your teeth. There are mainly two types of it:

1. Solid (Monolithic) Zirconia Cap

Properties: This type of cap is made entirely from a single block of zirconia. It is extremely strong and durable, making it ideal for back teeth (molars), where chewing pressure is high. Its translucency is low, so it does not appear as transparent as a completely natural tooth, but its white color is its main advantage.

Uses: This is preferred by people with a habit of grinding their teeth (Bruxism), teeth that require heavy chewing, and where strength is more important than aesthetic appearance.

2. High-Translucent (Multilayered) Zirconia Cap

Properties: This is an advanced type of zirconia that is more transparent, giving it a look similar to natural tooth enamel. Some types also have layers of different shades of zirconia, mimicking the natural color gradient of teeth.

Uses: This is ideal for front teeth (incisors), where aesthetic appearance is paramount. It is barely distinguishable from natural teeth. Although it is slightly less strong than solid zirconia, it is still stronger than PFM.

Amazing Benefits of Zirconia Caps – Why are they so popular?

The many benefits of zirconia caps make them a favorite choice of both patients and dentists:

• Extraordinary Strength and Durability: Zirconia is an extremely strong material. It significantly reduces the chances of chipping, cracking, and breaking, especially compared to PFM or all-porcelain caps. With proper care, it can last for decades.
• Excellent Aesthetic Appearance: Zirconia’s natural white color and various translucency options help it blend in perfectly with the natural appearance of teeth. It reflects light in the same way as teeth, making it difficult to distinguish.
• Biocompatibility: Zirconia is a biocompatible material, which means it is easily accepted by the body. This is an excellent option for people with metal allergies. It does not irritate the gums or create dark lines.
• Low tooth friction: Zirconia exhibits a friction similar to tooth enamel, which reduces wear on opposing teeth.
• Non-corrosive: Zirconia does not corrode like metal, which helps in its longevity.
• Metal-free: Being completely metal-free, it is aesthetically superior and does not pose a risk of metal allergies. It also does not cause any problems during MRI or CT scans.
• Fast processing (in some cases): Using CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology, some zirconia caps can be prepared in a single visit.

How is a Zirconia Cap Made? – A Miracle of Modern Technology

The process of making a Zirconia Cap is a wonderful example of modern technology:

• Tooth Preparation: First, the dentist prepares the damaged or weak tooth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the upper part of the tooth to make enough space for the cap.
• Impression/Scan: Next, a precise impression of the tooth is taken. This can be done traditionally using putty or modernly using a digital scanner (oral scanner).
• CAD/CAM Design: The digital scan data is sent to a computer, where the dentist designs the cap in the exact shape and size using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
• Milling: Once the design is finalized, a CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) machine (also called a milling machine) carves the designed cap from a solid block of zirconia.
• Sintering: After carving, the zirconia cap is “sintered” in a special furnace at high temperatures (around 1,500°C to 1,700°C). This process makes the zirconia extremely strong and dense.
• Glazing and Polishing: Finally, the cap is glazed and polished to a high shine to give it a natural appearance. This gives it a smooth surface that reduces the accumulation of bacteria.
• Fitting: The finished zirconia cap is fitted to the patient’s tooth with permanent cement.

Zirconia Cap Cost – Is it Worth the Investment?

Zirconia caps are generally more expensive than PFM or all-porcelain caps. In India, they can cost anywhere from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000 per cap, depending on the dental clinic, the doctor’s experience, the type of zirconia used (solid vs. high-translucent), and the urban/rural area.

But is it worth the investment?

In the long run, yes. Due to its exceptional strength, durability, and aesthetic appearance, a zirconia cap reduces the need for frequent replacement or repair. Being metal-free, there is also a lower risk of allergies or gum problems in the future. When you consider the health and confidence of your smile, zirconia proves to be an excellent and valuable investment.

How to care for a zirconia cap? – Tips for longevity

Although zirconia caps are extremely strong, it is important to take proper care of them so that they last a long time:

• Regular brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing: Floss daily to prevent food particles and plaque from accumulating in the space between the cap and your natural teeth.
• Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist at least twice a year. They will monitor the overall health of your cap and teeth and perform professional cleanings if necessary.
• Avoid hard objects: Avoid chewing ice, almond shells, or other extremely hard objects with your capped teeth. Although zirconia is strong, excessive pressure can cause damage.
• Mouthguard for bruxism: If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night (bruxism), use a nightguard recommended by your dentist.

Conclusion

Dental zirconia caps have truly revolutionized the field of dental restoration. Their exceptional strength, natural beauty, and biocompatibility make them a great choice for dental crowns. They not only restore the function of your teeth, but also give you back a beautiful, confident smile, which can make a positive difference in your social and professional life. If you are looking for a long-lasting and aesthetic solution for your weak or damaged teeth, zirconia caps are definitely worth considering. Discuss with your dentist and enter a new era of your smile.