Metal-free Ceramics – Ceramic crowns are the kind of aesthetic-functional fixed restorations, entirely made of ceramics.
Ceramic crowns provide superior aesthetics, perfectly shape around the gingival edge of the teeth, completely imitate the appearance of the enamel, giving the impression of naturalness, and simultaneously provide durability. Ceramic crowns are made of thin layers of materials, resulting in a higher degree of transparency. Zirconia (zirconium dioxide) which is used as a substitute for metal, whose distinctive strength, compressive strength and modulus of elasticity, absolutely match the mechanical properties of metals, rightly occupies a leading position in modern aesthetic dentistry.
Bearing in mind that the zirconium is biocompatible, it does not cause irritation or any allergic reaction, and there is no risk of increased sensitivity to temperature changes.
The greatest advantage of the ceramic crowns, compared to metal ceramic ones, is their ”typical natural look“. This feature can be attributed to the fact that a large percentage of the thickness of this kind of crowns are made of translucent porcelain that most closely mimics the light enamel manipulation (transmission and refraction of light), and thus a natural effect is amazing.
Metal Ceramic Crowns have a metal core construction that must be masked with opaque layers (chalky-white porcelain), which causes a smaller amount of the transparent layer applied over. Also, with ceramic crowns there is no danger that overtime metal edge appears and distorts the look of the entire crown. Dentists may mask the visible metal edge with certain techniques but with ceramic crowns such a situation is never called into question, either initially or later due to gingival recession.
Ceramic for making of crowns or bridges, by its abrasive characteristics is very alike to the teeth enamel, and is recommended even with developed bruxism. Porcelain for the metal- crowns can be coarse to the opposing teeth and eventually cause them to wear out.
When the metal - free crowns and bridges are the right choice for you?
The metal – free crowns and bridges are the right choice for you in all situations where aesthetics is of primary importance, such as front teeth are (visible zone smiles). The price of the ceramic crowns in the last years is a lot more affordable than ever before, including CAD / CAM technology, while keeping in mind that the materials reached a peak in resistance and durability, ceramic supplements are our recommendations for both the front and for the back teeth, individual crowns or bridges production.