Dr. Paul Krzeszowski

Advantages of zirconia crowns: It allows the dentist to reduce less tooth because the material is extremely strong and does not require much thickness to acheive that strength. They can be traditionally cemented instead of bonding which makes them easier to remove if necessary, an more suitable for wet environments while placing the crown, which is the case quite often for posterior teeth. Disadvantages: Not quite as esthetic as other materials that are far weaker, but zirconia crowns are typically used in the posterior where esthetics are not as important. A very good lab will still make good looking zirconia crowns. Zirconia blocks x-rays completely, limiting the dentists ability to monitor them for new decay where the crown meets the tooth. Other materials can be monitored better with x-rays. While this is a limitation it is consistent with previous materials used for crowns, so a good dentist should still be able to monitor the crowns. Zirconia is a fantastic material over all allowing more conservative preparation of the tooth with exceptional strength, and with a good lab they can be quite esthetic.

Persistent dry mouth can greatly increase risk of tooth decay, and early failure of restorations such as fillings and crowns. Xylitol products help reduce the bacterial levels, and there are other dry mouth products available. Many cases of dry mouth are related to medications prescribed, or simply due to the number of prescriptions prescribed. Five or more medications of almost any kind can increase the risk of dry mouth even if individually the medications are not known to cause dry mouth. Work with your physician to make sure you are taking medications that do not produce dry mouth (if possible). Sometimes a medication called pilocarpine can help, thought it has to be carefully managed. See your physician and your dentist to evaluate.

Grinding teeth can definitely cause jaw pain and clicking. The treatment for this is a custom fitted night guard from a professional. Do not purchase an over the counter night guard or order one online. These must be fabricated specifically for you, then the fit must be verified for an even bite, which cannot be done with over the counter or online ordering. If not properly done this appliance can cause more pain. Please see your dentist and he can fabricate one for you. They are not cheap, but are well worth it. Hope this helps.