Lumin8 Dentistry provides porcelain dental crowns in Lakewood, WA. Call (253) 581-6140 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
When a single tooth threatens your entire smile, modern dentistry offers a solution that rebuilds strength, restores function, and delivers natural beauty. Restorative dentistry provides options for teeth damaged by decay, fractures, or weakening over time, and zirconia crowns stand at the forefront of these treatments. These custom-crafted restorations cap damaged teeth with precision and aesthetic appeal, offering protection that can last for years. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we help patients understand how zirconia crowns work to clarify the path toward restoration. These dental caps cover the entire visible portion of a tooth, encasing it from the gum line up to create a durable, natural-looking replacement for the damaged structure. The process involves careful preparation, precise measurements, and expert craftsmanship to create a restoration that fits seamlessly into your smile.What Are Zirconia Crowns?
Zirconia crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over injured or weakened teeth to restore their size, shape, strength, and appearance. Made from high-quality materials, these restorations mimic the translucency and color of tooth enamel better than most alternatives. The material creates a restoration that blends invisibly with surrounding teeth. These crowns serve multiple purposes, including the following:- They protect teeth that have undergone root canal treatment
- Hold together cracked teeth
- Restore severely worn teeth
- Anchor dental bridges
The Crown Placement Process
A zirconia crown usually requires two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist reshapes the injured tooth to create space for the crown. This preparation involves removing a small amount of tooth structure from all sides and the biting surface. After reshaping, the dentist takes detailed impressions of your teeth using digital scanning or traditional impression materials. These digital impressions are sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians craft your custom crown. The process takes about two weeks, during which you’ll wear a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. At the second appointment, the dentist removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and color of your permanent restoration, and cements it permanently in place. Some dental offices now offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology. This advanced system designs and mills crowns in-office, allowing you to receive your permanent restoration in a single visit.Materials and Durability
Modern zirconia crowns are one of dentistry’s most significant technological advances. This advanced ceramic material combines exceptional strength with natural aesthetics, making zirconia an ideal choice for virtually any tooth restoration. Unlike traditional materials, zirconia maintains its structural integrity while mimicking the translucent quality of natural enamel. Zirconia’s crystalline structure provides remarkable durability for back teeth enduring significant chewing forces. The material resists fracturing and wears better than many alternatives, making it suitable for molars and premolars. Front teeth benefit equally from zirconia’s ability to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth while maintaining the strength needed for daily function. With proper care, zirconia crowns typically last 10 to 15 years, with many functioning well beyond that. Studies show that approximately 95% of dental crowns remain intact after five years when patients maintain good oral hygiene. Avoiding habits like teeth grinding, chewing ice, or opening packages with your teeth helps prevent damage and extends the life of your restoration.Benefits of Choosing Zirconia for Your Crown
Caring for Your Zirconia Crown
Maintaining a zirconia crown requires the same attention you give natural teeth. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily, paying special attention to the area where the crown meets the gum line. This junction can accumulate plaque and bacteria if not cleaned properly. Avoid biting extremely hard foods directly with crowned teeth. While zirconia crowns are strong, excessive force can cause cracks or chips. If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard protects both your crowns and natural teeth from damage. Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor the crown’s condition and the health of the underlying tooth. Professional cleanings remove deposits that home care might miss. If you notice any looseness, discomfort, or changes in how the crown feels when biting, schedule an appointment promptly.Experience Exceptional Care at Lumin8 Dentistry
Lumin8 Dentistry brings advanced restorative solutions to the Lakewood community, focusing on quality and patient comfort. Dr. Jun Carrington and the team combine technical skill with state-of-the-art technology to deliver zirconia crowns that restore both function and aesthetics. The practice serves patients throughout the greater Lakewood area, including those from nearby communities seeking comprehensive dental care. Whether you need a crown to protect a weakened tooth, restore a broken one, or complete other restorative work, our team provides personalized treatment in a welcoming environment. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how zirconia crowns may benefit your smile.Affiliations & Education
