My new monolithic zirconia crowns look fake. They are solid white, and they make my upper lip protrude. Whose teeth are solid white? I got two second opinions, and each dentist recommended a different crown material. Online research says that it’s challenging to remove zirconia crowns. I’m concerned about ruining my teeth or causing more problems than I already have with these horrible crowns. – Thanks. Tonisha from GA
Tonisha,
Zirconia is a highly durable ceramic material for dental crowns. A computer-guided machine mills a zirconia block to fit your tooth perfectly. However, zirconia has a uniform color that may not perfectly match the natural variations in your teeth.
Monolithic zirconia, which lacks porcelain layering, is not recommended for front teeth. Its uniform appearance can look unnatural and artificial.
How Can You Get Natural-Looking Results with Zirconia Crowns?
Skilled dental ceramists often layer zirconia crowns with porcelain to achieve a more natural look, especially on front teeth. This process involves applying and baking a thin layer of porcelain onto the zirconia base. Skilled dental technicians can expertly blend various porcelain shades to mimic the beauty of natural teeth.
Proper Crown Placement is Crucial
In addition to the material considerations, the placement of your crowns is critical for achieving a natural and aesthetically pleasing result. When multiple front teeth are crowned, precise placement is essential for maintaining a harmonious and balanced smile.
Finding the Right Cosmetic Dentist for Dental Crowns
To address these concerns, it’s crucial to seek the expertise of a qualified cosmetic dentist. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) offers a rigorous accreditation program that ensures dentists possess the knowledge, skills, and artistic ability to create beautiful smiles.
While AACD accreditation is valuable, many highly skilled cosmetic dentists may be unaccredited. Regardless, requesting and reviewing before-and-after photographs of their previous work is essential.
While fees for cosmetic dentistry vary, high-quality materials, skilled technicians, and meticulous attention to detail require a reasonable investment.
The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.