Metal free crown & bridges

Metal-free crowns and bridges are a popular option for patients who want to restore their teeth with a natural look and feel. These dental restorations are made from advanced materials that mimic the appearance of natural teeth, while also providing superior strength and durability. In this article, we will explore the benefits of metal-free crowns and bridges, the materials used to create them, and the process involved in their placement. 

Difference between Crown and Bridges

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its size, shape, strength, and appearance. It is typically used when a filling or other dental restoration is not sufficient.

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth by spanning the gap between two healthy teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are held in place by two dental crowns on either side of the gap.

In summary, a crown is used to restore a single damaged tooth, while a bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring the artificial teeth to adjacent healthy teeth with the help of crowns.

What are metal-free crowns and bridges?

Metal-free crowns and bridges are dental restorations used to replace missing or damaged teeth. They are made from materials that do not contain any metal, such as ceramic, zirconia, or composite resin.They are popular because they provide a natural-looking and feeling solution for restoring teeth, and they are also highly biocompatible, meaning that they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or other negative side effects.

Benefits of metal-free crown and bridges

A natural appearance:

Metal-free crowns and bridges are made from materials that mimic the appearance of natural teeth, allowing them to blend seamlessly into your smile.

Superior strength and durability:

Despite not containing any metal, crowns, and bridges are incredibly strong and durable, allowing them to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.

Improved biocompatibility:

They are highly biocompatible, meaning that they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or other negative side effects.

Reduced sensitivity:

They do not conduct heat and cold in the same way that metal restorations do, making them less likely to cause tooth sensitivity.

Preservation of tooth structure:

They require less removal of healthy tooth structure than traditional metal restorations, allowing for more conservative treatment.

Materials used to create metal-free crowns and bridges

Ceramic:

Ceramics is a popular material for metal-free crowns and bridges because it can be customized to match the shade and translucency of natural teeth. It is also highly biocompatible and resistant to wear and staining.

Zirconia:

Zirconia is a strong and durable material that can be used to create highly aesthetic metal-free crowns and bridges. It is also highly biocompatible and resistant to wear and staining.

Composite resin:

Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that can be used to create highly aesthetic metal-free crowns and bridges. It is less durable than ceramic and zirconia, but it can be a good option for restoring front teeth or for patients who are on a budget.

The procedure of placing the metal-free crowns and bridges

Consultation and examination:

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and take x-rays to determine the best course of treatment. They will also discuss your treatment options with you and answer any questions you may have.

Preparation:

If you are receiving a crown or bridge, your dentist will prepare the affected tooth or teeth by removing any decay or damage and shaping the tooth to accommodate the restoration.

Impression:

Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth using a putty-like material or a digital scanner. This impression will be used to create a custom restoration that fits your teeth perfectly.

Temporary restoration:

If you are receiving a crown or bridge, your dentist will place a temporary restoration to protect your tooth or teeth while your permanent restoration is being fabricated.

Fabrication:

Your permanent restoration will be fabricated in a dental laboratory using the impression that was taken of your teeth. This process can take

Types of Metal free Crown and Bridges

Ceramic (such as porcelain):

These are the most common metal-free materials used for crowns and bridges. They are strong, durable, and can be color-matched to the patient's natural teeth.

Zirconia:

Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is known for its strength and durability. It is often used for bridges and crowns in the back of the mouth where more chewing force is required.

Resin:

Resin crowns and bridges are made from a type of plastic material. They are less expensive than ceramic or zirconia, but they may not be as durable.

Glass fiber:

Glass fiber reinforced composites (GFRC) are made from a blend of resin and glass fibers. They are strong and can be used to create bridges and crowns for front or back teeth.

All-ceramic (monolithic):

These are crowns and bridges that are made entirely from ceramic materials. They can be a good option for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.

Why use Metal free crowns and bridges

Aesthetic reasons:

Metal-free restorations provide a more natural and life like appearance compared to metal restorations. They can be made to match the color and translucency of natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

Biocompatibility:

Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to metals used in dental restorations. Metal-free restorations eliminate the risk of an allergic reaction or sensitivity.

Durability:

Metal-free restorations can be highly durable, with excellent resistance to wear and tear. They can also be more resistant to fracture and chipping compared to traditional metal restorations.

Comfort:

Metal-free restorations do not conduct heat or cold, which can cause discomfort or sensitivity in some people.

Non-invasive: Preparing a tooth for a metal-free restoration typically requires less removal of tooth structure compared to traditional metal restorations, making them a more conservative option.