What is Zirconium Toxicity?
Zirconium toxicity refers to the potential health risks associated with exposure to zirconium, a metal used in various dental materials, including zirconia crowns. While zirconia is generally considered biocompatible and safe for use in dentistry, there is ongoing debate about the potential toxicity of zirconium and its effects on human health. Zirconium dioxide, the compound used in zirconia dental crowns, is praised for its durability and aesthetic appeal, but concerns about its long-term safety persist among some dental professionals.
What are Zirconia Crowns?
Zirconia crowns are a type of dental crown made from zirconia dioxide, a durable and biocompatible material. These crowns are designed to restore a person’s teeth to their original shape, size, strength, and appearance. Zirconia crowns are a popular choice among patients due to their natural look and feel, strength, and durability. Unlike some other dental materials, zirconia dioxide is non-toxic and highly resistant to corrosion from acidic foods or beverages, making it an excellent option for long-term dental restorations.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns have several advantages, including:
Superior strength and durability compared to conventional PFMs or full-gold crowns
Excellent aesthetics, making them a popular choice for patients who want a natural-looking smile
Virtually indestructible, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements
Highly biocompatible, making them safe for patients with allergies to PFM restorations
Can be used for a variety of dental restorations, including crowns, bridges, and implants
Can be designed to match the color and shape of natural teeth
However, zirconia crowns also have some disadvantages, including:
Higher cost compared to conventional PFMs or full-gold crowns
May require more time and effort to fabricate and place
May not be suitable for patients with limited dental insurance coverage
May not be as aesthetically pleasing as other materials, such as porcelain or ceramic
May be more prone to chipping or cracking than other materials
May require special handling and care to prevent damage
May not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions, such as bruxism or teeth grinding
Do you have zirconium toxicity from zirconia crowns?
Most people have never heard of zirconium but this toxic heavy metal is used in society everyday and its not uncommon to find some degree of zirconium toxicity in people. Zirconium is toxic to humans and it is also radioactive, it is considered an irritant at low levels and higher levels are considered immediately dangerous to life and health.
Zirconium regardless of it toxicity and radio-activeness is used in many of today’s common products such as cosmetics, deodorants, toothpaste, mouthwash and is used in the making the of composite resin amalgams fillings or to replace metal amalgams. Zirconium is also used to make surgical appliances, glass, jewelry and is a sweat inhibitor. Additionally, zirconia, a form of zirconium, is used in dental implants due to its non-toxic properties and resistance to corrosion. So the real question is are you toxic with zirconium?
Symptoms of zirconium toxicity
Symptoms associated with zirconium toxicity vary depending on the amount you are currently exposed to, here are some of the more common symptoms:
Adrenal insufficiency
Parasympathetic dominance
Hyperparathyoidism
Hypoclhorhydria
Poor digestion
Acne
Hypothyroidism
Fatigue
Hypoglycaemia
Transient hypertension
Carpopedal spasms
Cardiac irregularities
Skin irritation
Additional symptoms of zirconium toxicity
Zirconium toxicity also becomes a bigger problem when it replaces or increases the needs for essential nutrients such as potassium. When potassium becomes depleted, zirconium takes it’s place and plays havoc with your health. Deficiency symptoms of potassium are therefore indicators of possible zirconium toxicity.
Potassium deficiency – Rapid irregular heart beat, muscle weakness, pins and needles, irritability, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, swollen abdomen, cellulite, low blood pressure resulting from an imbalance of potassium to sodium ratio, confusion and mental apathy can all be indications of zirconium toxicity.
Dental Crowns and Toxicity Risk
Dental crowns, including zirconia crowns, are designed to be safe and non-toxic. However, as with any medical device, there is a small risk of adverse reactions or toxicity associated with dental crowns. The risk of toxicity is generally higher with metal-based crowns, such as those made from nickel or chromium, which can cause allergic reactions or release toxic ions into the body. In comparison, metal crowns can also pose risks such as the visibility of metal through porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and potential gum irritation. Zirconia crowns, on the other hand, are less likely to cause such issues due to their biocompatibility and the inert nature of zirconium dioxide. Nonetheless, it is essential to monitor for any signs of adverse reactions when using any dental materials.
Causes and Diagnosis
The causes of zirconium toxicity are not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the release of zirconium ions from dental materials, such as zirconia crowns. Zirconia crowns disadvantages include their higher cost and difficulty in adjustments post-placement. Diagnosis of zirconium toxicity can be challenging, as the symptoms are often non-specific and may resemble those of other conditions. Common symptoms of zirconium toxicity include:
Allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching
Inflammation or irritation of the gums or mouth tissues
Metal taste or sensitivity
Fatigue or weakness
Joint pain or arthritis
If you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms of zirconium toxicity, it is essential to consult with a dental professional or healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dental professionals can conduct tests to determine if zirconium ions are present in your system and recommend appropriate steps to mitigate any adverse effects.
The dangers of zirconium toxicity in dental materials
Zirconium toxicity as mention above can interfere with potassium which is an electrolyte, when this happens you can end up with low potassium and high sodium ratio putting you at serious risk of electrolyte imbalances which can be life threatening, some of the symptoms would include:
Acute stress
Adrenal imbalances (Chronic fatigue)
Inflammation or pain
Water retention
Edema
High blood pressure
Anger
Emotional stress
Kidney disease
Heart disease
Zirconium dioxide toxicity & genetics
genetically predisposed to zirconium toxicity, this is because certain genes belonging to liver detoxification pathways that normally deal with zirconium detoxification have been deleted, in these cases can confirm and a specialized nutritional program can help the individual detoxify zirconium.
Zirconia Crown Safety and MRIs
Zirconia crowns are safe to use and do not pose any risks with MRIs. They are made from a material that is not prone to corrosion or wear and tear, and they are highly biocompatible. However, it is still important to inform your dentist or radiologist about your zirconia crown before undergoing an MRI. This ensures that all medical professionals are aware of your dental restorations and can take any necessary precautions.
Do you have zirconium toxicity?
The best way to find out if you have toxic levels of zirconium and or if you’re at risk from zirconium related disease is by a , this simple home test shows if you are toxic and guidance can be given to how to detoxify the zirconium in your situation as everyone is different.
People who have electrolyte imbalance symptoms are highly encouraged to test for zirconium toxicity. These symptoms would include:
Eating disorders
Fatigue
Muscle pain
Headache
Nausea/vomiting
Bowel irregularities (IBS)
Heart problems
Kidney issues
Detoxification of zirconium in dental materials
Often people attempt to detoxify zirconium without knowing if they have toxicity and without knowing the best ways to achieve results. Many heavy metal detoxification supplements on the market do not work and often contain toxic heavy metals themselves.
Solid zirconia, also referred to as monolithic zirconia, is widely used in dental applications due to its strength and durability. It can withstand heavy chewing forces, making it particularly suitable for restoring posterior teeth, and offers aesthetic benefits when used with proper thickness.
Zirconium is a very toxic metal and each person who has been exposed to the metal is affected in different ways, this can cause detoxification problems.
Have any questions about zirconium toxicity & treatments? Get an online consultation now.
Choosing the Right Zirconia Crown for Your Needs
Choosing the right zirconia crown for your needs depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, and your personal preferences. Your dentist can help you determine the best type of zirconia crown for your needs.
Anterior crowns are used for front teeth and are designed to be more aesthetically pleasing.
Posterior crowns are used for back teeth and are designed to be more durable.
Monolithic zirconia crowns are made from a single piece of zirconia and are more durable than layered crowns.
Porcelain crowns are made from a combination of zirconia and porcelain and are more aesthetically pleasing than monolithic crowns.
Zirconia Crown Maintenance and Care
Zirconia crowns require regular maintenance and care to ensure they last for a long time. Here are some tips to help you care for your zirconia crown:
Brush your teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy, which can damage your crown.
Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth, which can cause your crown to wear down.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to ensure your crown is in good condition.
By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your zirconia crown and keep your smile looking its best.