What Are Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns?

Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns are specialized dental prosthetics that combine the durability of zirconia material with the security of screw retention technology. Unlike traditional cement-retained crowns, these restorations are directly attached to dental implants using screws, creating a strong and reliable connection between the prosthetic and the implant fixture.

Developed by Glidewell Laboratories, Bruxzir zirconia material offers exceptional strength with a flexural strength exceeding 1,100 MPa. This makes it particularly suitable for patients with bruxism (teeth grinding) or those needing restorations in high-pressure areas of the mouth. The screw retention mechanism allows dentists to easily remove the crown when necessary for maintenance or adjustments without damaging the underlying structure.

How Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns Work

The installation process for Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns begins with the placement of a dental implant into the jawbone, which serves as an artificial tooth root. After the implant integrates with the bone (osseointegration), a custom-designed Bruxzir crown is created to match the patient's natural teeth in shape, size, and color.

Unlike traditional crowns that use dental cement for attachment, these crowns feature a small access hole through which a screw connects the crown directly to the implant. Once secured, the dentist fills the access hole with a tooth-colored composite material, making it virtually invisible. This design provides several advantages: it eliminates concerns about cement remnants causing inflammation, allows for easy retrievability if repairs are needed, and typically creates a more precise fit between the crown and implant.

Provider Comparison for Bruxzir Restorations

Several dental laboratories and manufacturers offer zirconia-based screw-retained crown solutions, with Bruxzir by Glidewell Dental being among the most recognized. 3Shape provides digital scanning technology that many providers use to create precise Bruxzir crown designs, while Nobel Biocare offers compatible implant systems that work well with Bruxzir restorations.

For those seeking alternatives, Ivoclar Vivadent produces e.max zirconia crowns that compete with Bruxzir in strength and aesthetics. Straumann also provides high-quality implant systems and restorative components that are compatible with various zirconia crown options. The choice between providers often depends on your dentist's preference, specific case requirements, and laboratory relationships.

Benefits and Limitations of Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns

Benefits: Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns offer exceptional durability, with resistance to chipping and fracturing that exceeds many other dental materials. The screw retention mechanism eliminates concerns about cement-related complications such as excess cement causing gum inflammation or cement failure leading to crown dislodgement. Additionally, these crowns are retrievable, meaning they can be removed by a dentist without damage if adjustments or repairs become necessary.

Limitations: Despite their advantages, these restorations do have some drawbacks. The access hole for the screw, though covered with composite, can potentially compromise aesthetics in visible areas. They also require precise implant placement to ensure the screw access hole is in an optimal position. Furthermore, Bruxzir material, while strong, may not match the translucency and natural appearance of some other ceramic options, particularly for front teeth where aesthetics are paramount.

Pricing and Investment Considerations

The investment for Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns typically falls within a mid to premium range among dental restoration options. The total cost encompasses several components: the dental implant itself, the abutment components, the custom-crafted Bruxzir crown, and the professional services for placement and adjustment.

While more economical options exist, the longevity and durability of Bruxzir restorations often provide better value over time. Many patients report their Bruxzir crowns lasting 10-15 years or longer with proper care, compared to 5-7 years for some alternative materials. When considering this investment, patients should discuss warranty options with their provider, as Glidewell Dental and many dentists offer coverage periods for their Bruxzir restorations. Additionally, some dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for these restorations, though coverage varies significantly between providers.

Conclusion

Bruxzir Screw Retained Crowns represent an excellent option for patients seeking durable, functional, and aesthetic dental restorations. Their combination of advanced zirconia material strength with the practical benefits of screw retention addresses many limitations of traditional crown options. While not the perfect solution for every dental situation, they offer significant advantages for posterior teeth and cases involving bruxism or high bite forces.

When considering dental restoration options, consulting with a prosthodontist or restorative dentist experienced with Bruxzir technology is essential to determine if this solution aligns with your specific needs. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, these restorations can provide reliable function and appearance for many years, making them a worthwhile consideration for those investing in their long-term dental health.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.