- Contains no metal; no grey line at the gum margin
- Digital design and manufacture (CAD/CAM)
- Generally 2–3 sessions, 5–10 days
- Full-contour zirconia (monolithic) or porcelain-layered options
In short: Zirconia is a framework material, containing no metal, used in prosthodontic dentistry. It is considered for aesthetics and durability in crown and bridge prostheses.
What is it?
A crown is an artificial cover that encloses the whole of a tooth that has lost structure or has a colour or shape problem. In a zirconia crown, the framework of this cover is milled digitally from zirconium oxide ceramic; porcelain can be layered over it, or it can be produced as a single piece in full-contour (monolithic) zirconia. In porcelain-fused-to-metal, by contrast, the framework is metal; it does not transmit light, and over the years a grey line may be seen at the gum margin.
When is it needed?
- Teeth that have lost so much structure through a large cavity or fracture that they cannot be repaired with a filling
- Posterior teeth that have had root canal treatment and are at increased risk of fracture
- Marked discolouration and shape defects (where whitening and veneers are insufficient)
- Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge; crowns and bridges on implants
- Renewing old crowns whose marginal fit has deteriorated or whose metal line has become visible
A healthy tooth is not crowned for colour alone; in that case, options that remove less tooth structure, such as whitening or veneers, are considered first.
Front tooth or back tooth?
In the front region aesthetics is the deciding factor: highly translucent multilayer zirconia or, if there is enough tooth structure, a veneer or all-ceramic restoration comes to the fore. In the posterior region durability takes priority; because it is very hard, full-contour zirconia reduces the risk of porcelain fracture and may be preferred in people who clench. The bite is adjusted carefully; a night guard extends the life of the crowns.
The process
- Examination and X-ray: The health of the tooth, the need for root canal treatment and the condition of the gum are assessed; the shade is chosen in natural light, in relation to the neighbouring teeth.
- Tooth preparation: The tooth is reduced as much as is needed for the crown to seat; this is done under local anaesthesia.
- Impression: A digital scan or conventional impression; a temporary crown is fitted.
- Laboratory: 3–7 days. The framework is milled digitally, and the porcelain is layered or the monolithic crown is stained and glazed.
- Try-in and cementation: Marginal fit, bite and shade are checked; if necessary it is adjusted and then fixed in place. A check-up follows after 1–2 weeks.
Lifespan and care
Well-planned and well-maintained crowns are generally used for 10–15 years. Their lifespan is determined by the health of the tooth under the crown, gum care, clenching and regular check-ups. The crown itself does not decay; however, the tooth at its margin can. For this reason floss and an interdental brush are even more important for crowned teeth.
Visit plan for patients coming from abroad
Zirconia crowns are mostly completed in a single visit of 5–10 days: examination, preparation and impression in the first days; try-in and cementation after the laboratory period. If root canal treatment or gum treatment is needed, the time may be longer.
Points to consider
- The fit and seal at the crown margin are decisive; otherwise decay and gum inflammation can develop at the margin.
- Biting hard objects or using the teeth as tools can cause the crown to fracture.
- If there is a clenching / grinding habit, it is taken into account in the planning; a protective night guard may be needed.
- Tooth preparation is an irreversible procedure; options that remove less tooth structure are considered first for a healthy tooth.
- Regular brushing, floss and dentist check-ups are necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Zirconia or porcelain-fused-to-metal?
In the front region zirconia stands out for its translucency and gum compatibility; in the posterior region both options provide sufficient durability. The decision is made at the examination according to the position of the tooth, the remaining tooth structure, the bite and the patient's preference.
Does the colour of a zirconia crown change?
The ceramic surface does not take up stains; no colour change is expected. If natural teeth are whitened, the crown does not whiten; for a good match, whitening is done first.
Is it suitable for people with a metal allergy?
Yes; zirconia and all-ceramic options contain no metal.
What if there is pain under the crown?
Hot-cold sensitivity is temporary in the first weeks. If there is constant pain or pain on biting, the tooth under the crown may need root canal treatment; make an appointment for a check.
Is an examination necessary?
Yes. The choice of material, the amount of preparation and the need for root canal treatment can only be determined by examination and X-ray.
How many sessions does it take?
Generally 2–3 sessions: preparation and impression, try-in, cementation. With the laboratory time, 5–10 days.
Can zirconia break?
As with every prosthetic material, fracture can occur under excessive force.
How is the shade chosen?
It is assessed together with the dentist, taking into account the natural tooth shade and the patient's expectations.
The information on this site is for general guidance only; diagnosis and treatment require an examination by a dentist.