Artificial teeth are conventionally made using a strong sub-structure which is covered by protective layers of porcelain. Dental implants may be constructed using several materials. Composite resins, precious and semi-precious metals as well as porcelain can all be used in the construction of artificial teeth. These numerous materials vary in strength, aesthetics, biocompatibility, durability and of course, cost. 

Fifty years ago, gold was the choice of material for the substructure. Teeth would be made of hard gold with a tooth-coloured resin stuck on top of it. However, over the years, the price of gold rose considerably. This brought about a decline in gold teeth, and ushered in a new age where semi-precious metals took over the market. These materials improved the overall aesthetics at a cheaper price, as the metal was covered with porcelain. The porcelain was used to mask its dark and metallic appearance almost completely. However with time, the gums would retreat upwards and expose the metal around the tooth. This happens partly due to a semi-precious metallic substructure, which leeches elements – irritating the gum and causing it to move away from the crown. 

 

This would leave a highly noticeable and unsightly dark line at the neck of the tooth, which could only be eliminated by replacing the crown or bridge with a new one. Although margins may be constructed entirely out of porcelain, eliminating the risk of the dark line appearing, this type of crown still does not offer the natural look which most people strive for.

 

Important factors which must be addressed prior to tooth construction:

•  Shape, grooves and curvature must match up with adjacent teeth
• Translucency: light must pass through the tooth giving it a natural look
• Body colour: deep porcelain layer and surface porcelain
• Uncommon features that need to be replicated, such as intrinsic stains and/or milky-white patches.
• Most of these factors cannot be entirely addressed in crowns having a metallic substructure. 

Zircona is one of the best material choices available nowadays when it comes to replacing an old crown. 

In the past decade, a non-metallic material called zirconia was introduced. This material is white in colour and offers excellent strength and biocompatibility. It is said to be the new gold standard and the cornerstone of all aspects of cosmetic dentistry. Zirconia may be used to construct single crowns, small and large bridges, as well as any implant-supported crowns and/or bridges. Besides offering excellent aesthetics, the use of zirconia also eliminates the risk of any metallic allergic reactions to the body.

 

How long have you been thinking of replacing those old crowns with new ones? It's time to regain your confidence with your new smile. Click here to contact us at Drs Demajo Dental & Implantology Clinic.