What Are Zirconia Crowns?

Zirconia crowns, made from zirconium dioxide, have been used in dental practices for years but have gained significant popularity in pediatric dentistry more recently. These crowns are known for their strength and durability and can closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, making them aesthetically pleasing.

They are metal-free, reducing the likelihood of allergies and minimising wear on adjacent teeth, making them an ideal choice for children. The precise fitting process ensures a perfect fit and longevity, while their smooth surface helps prevent plaque buildup. Suitable for both front and back teeth, zirconia crowns enhance chewing, improve smiles, and boost confidence by maintaining oral health.

Benefits of Zirconia Crowns for Children

Zirconia crowns have become a popular choice in paediatric dentistry for several reasons that benefit both the health and appearance of a child’s teeth:

Natural Appearance

Zirconia crowns look a lot like real teeth, so they fit in perfectly with your child’s smile. This makes them look nice, especially for the front teeth, where appearance really matters.

Durability and Strength

These crowns are incredibly strong, resistant to wear, and less likely to crack or chip compared to other types of crowns. This makes them a reliable option for restoring teeth that need to withstand the typical demands of a child’s active lifestyle.

Oral Health Benefits

Zirconia crowns are known for their biocompatibility, which means they are less likely to cause allergic reactions and do not irritate the surrounding gum tissue. Additionally, their smooth surface helps to reduce plaque accumulation, promoting better gum health and making them a hygienic choice.

Speech Development

Properly aligned and shaped teeth are crucial for clear speech. Zirconia crowns help maintain the natural structure of a child’s teeth, which supports normal speech development.

Preservation of Natural Teeth

By covering a decayed or damaged tooth, zirconia crowns protect the natural tooth underneath from further deterioration and prevent the need for more invasive procedures like tooth extraction. This is crucial as keeping the natural tooth helps maintain the proper spacing for permanent teeth to come in correctly.

When and Why to Choose Zirconia Crowns for Baby Teeth

Choosing zirconia crowns for your little one’s baby teeth can be a smart choice for a few good reasons. These crowns last a long time, which is great for kids who play hard and might be tough on their teeth.

Plus, zirconia looks just like real teeth, so your child’s smile will stay bright and even. They’re also gentle on the gums and don’t cause allergies, making them a safe option. Whether it’s for front or back teeth, zirconia crowns are a reliable and good-looking choice when you want your child’s teeth to look nice and last long.

Common Scenarios Requiring Crowns

If you’re thinking about whether your child needs a dental crown for their baby teeth, there are a couple of usual situations where dentists suggest getting one.

Severe Decay or Damage to a Baby Tooth

If a baby tooth has extensive decay or is significantly damaged, a crown can restore its shape and function. This is crucial because baby teeth hold the correct spacing for permanent teeth, and losing one prematurely can lead to alignment issues later on.

Post-Pulp Treatment Restoration

A crown is essential following treatments like pulp therapy or root canals, which are often necessary when the tooth’s pulp is infected or inflamed. It protects the tooth from further damage and restores its functionality, ensuring that your child can eat and speak comfortably.

Fractured Teeth from Accidents or Injuries

If your child’s tooth is chipped or broken due to a fall or other injury, a crown can repair it. Crowns provide a durable cover that protects the tooth from further decay and helps maintain its natural appearance and alignment.

Cost Considerations

When considering dental crowns for children, it’s important to weigh the initial costs and the long-term benefits and explore insurance coverage options.

Initial Costs

Dental crowns in Brisbane generally cost AUD $1,500 to $3,000 per tooth. The cost varies depending on the dental practice and region and the type of crown material selected—metal, porcelain, or zirconia. Each material has different benefits related to durability, appearance, and cost-effectiveness.

Long-Term Benefits

Investing in a high-quality crown like zirconia can be cost-effective in the long run due to its durability and minimal maintenance requirements. Zirconia crowns, for instance, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust, making them ideal for long-term dental health.

Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance policies in Australia often cover part of the cost of dental crowns, especially when deemed medically necessary. Coverage details can vary, so it’s essential to review your specific policy or speak directly with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses might be.

For accurate estimates and to discuss the best options for dental crowns that fit your needs and budget, it’s advisable to consult directly with our dental clinic. They can provide detailed information based on their services and help you navigate through insurance queries to ensure you get the most cost-effective treatment for your child.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Here’s what to expect from the procedure when your child is getting a dental crown:

Preparation

Initial Consultation and Examination: The Brisbane Paediatric dentist will first check your child’s teeth, discussing any concerns and examining the tooth that needs the crown. It’s a chance for you to ask questions and understand why the crown is needed.

Discussion of Sedation Options for Children: If your child is anxious, the dentist might talk about sedation options to help make the procedure comfortable and stress-free for them.

Placement Process

Removal of Decayed or Damaged Tissue: The dentist will carefully remove any decay or damaged parts of the tooth to prepare it for the crown.

Fitting and Sizing the Crown: They’ll take some measurements to make sure the crown fits perfectly. Sometimes, this might involve making a mould of your child’s tooth.

Adhering the Crown and Finishing Touches: Once the crown is ready and fits well, the dentist will place it over your child’s tooth and secure it with a special dental cement. They’ll then make any final adjustments to ensure it feels right.

Post-Procedure Care

Managing Discomfort and Diet Adjustments: After the crown is placed, your child might feel some discomfort or sensitivity. The dentist will suggest eating soft foods for a few days and might recommend pain relief if needed.

Importance of Oral Hygiene and Regular Dental Check-Ups: Keeping the new crown clean is crucial. You’ll need to help your child brush gently around the crown and continue with regular dental visits to keep their smile healthy.

Maintenance of Zirconia Crowns

Here’s a simple guide on how to maintain zirconia crowns:

• Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. This helps protect the crowns from scratches while keeping your gums healthy.
• Flossing: Daily flossing is crucial. It removes plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, especially around the crowns. To make this easier and safer for your crowns, opt for soft, shred-resistant dental floss.
• Eating Habits: Avoid chewing hard foods such as ice or hard candies with your crowned teeth, as they can damage the crowns. Also, try to minimise exposure to foods and drinks that stain, like coffee or red wine, to keep your crowns looking bright.
• Regular Dental Visits: Seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups helps ensure your crowns and overall dental health are in top shape. Your dentist can spot any issues early and prevent bigger problems down the line.
• Night Guards: If you grind your teeth at night, consider getting a custom-fitted night guard. This can protect both your natural teeth and crowns from excessive wear.

Remember, while zirconia crowns are very durable, they still require careful handling to maintain their aesthetic and functional qualities.

Finding the Right Dentist for Zirconia Crowns

When selecting a dentist for your child’s zirconia crowns, look for someone who specialises in paediatric dentistry with a warm, child-friendly clinic atmosphere. A Brisbane dentist experienced in zirconia crowns will ensure precise fitting and lasting results.

Read reviews from other parents to get an idea of their experiences, and consider a dentist who communicates clearly and compassionately, making both you and your child feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the process. Choosing the right dentist can make all the difference in your child’s dental care experience.

Common Questions Parents Ask

Below are some of the most common questions our Kid’s dentist hears from parents. We believe in open and clear communication, so if you have any more questions, please feel free to ask.

Conclusion

Choosing zirconia crowns for your child is more than just about giving them a bright and natural-looking smile—it’s about investing in their future oral health. These crowns are built to withstand the everyday challenges of childhood, from snacks to sports, ensuring durability that lasts.

They look just like natural teeth, boosting your child’s confidence while maintaining the health and appearance of their smile. Moreover, zirconia crowns help keep the necessary space for permanent teeth, supporting proper oral development.