Zirconium Crowns

What is a zirconium crown?

A zirconium crown is a full ceramic tooth crown without metal support. These crowns, whose basic material is zirconium dioxide, are processed with high technology and provide aesthetics and function similar to natural teeth. Although zirconium has a ceramic structure, it is durable enough to be called ‘ceramic steel.’

Properties of zirconium crown material:

Color and light transmission:

Thanks to its translucent structure, zirconium shows the characteristics of natural tooth enamel. Especially multilayer zirconium variants offer a more realistic appearance by creating color depth.

Mechanical strength:

The compressive strength is 3-4 times that of conventional porcelain. This makes it ideal against high chewing forces on the back teeth.

Thermal conductivity:

It does not conduct heat like metals, so the risk of hot/cold sensitivity is low.

Areas of use of zirconium dental crowns:

Zirconium dental crowns are widely used in dentistry due to the advantages of zirconium dioxide material. The main areas of use are as follows:

Single tooth restorations:

• It is used for the restoration of decayed, broken, cracked, or severely worn teeth.
• It is preferred for aesthetic correction of discolored or deformed teeth.

Fixed bridge prosthesis:

• Zirconium bridges are made as fixed dentures to replace missing teeth.
• Thanks to its high strength, it offers a durable solution in multiple tooth deficiencies.

Implant restorations:

Natural-looking and functional teeth are created by placing zirconium crowns on dental implants.

Aesthetic dental veneers:

• It is used especially on the teeth in the anterior region, where aesthetic concerns are at the forefront.
• Thanks to its light transmittance, it provides an appearance similar to natural tooth enamel.

Posterior tooth restorations:

It is preferred for chewing teeth in the posterior region due to its resistance to high chewing forces.

Conditions requiring allergy and biocompatibility:

• In patients with metal allergies, it offers a safe alternative thanks to its metal-free structure.
• It shows high biocompatibility with the gingiva and reduces the risk of gingival irritation.

Tooth shape and alignment corrections:

It is used for aesthetic correction of mild crowding or deformities.

Who are suitable and unsuitable for zirconium crowns?

Suitable candidates:

• Those who do not want metal-ceramic crowns on their front teeth (if natural appearance in the smile line is a priority)
• Those with gum recession (zirconium does not create a grey colour on the gum edge)
• Those with metal taste in the mouth or allergies to nickel, cobalt, or other metals
• Those exposed to intense chewing forces on the back teeth (molars and premolars)
• Those with bruxism (clenching/grinding) problem (zirconium is more resistant than traditional porcelain)
• Those who want a long-lasting restoration
• Those who have metal implants (hip prosthesis, plate-screw, etc.) in their body and do not want metal contact in the mouth
• If aesthetics and strength are required together in implant crowns
• Those who want to have a full arc denturele such as All-on-4/All-on-6

Unsuitable candidates:

• If the teeth are too worn or small, there may not be enough thickness for a zirconium crown (zirconium has a minimum thickness requirement). In this case, metal-supported porcelain crowns or composite laminates may be more suitable.
• In patients with severe clenching (bruxism), more flexible materials (e.g., lithium disilicate) or a night plate may be recommended.
• For long bridges, zirconium may not offer as high resistance as metal-backed crowns. Hybrid bridges with metal-supported porcelain or zirconium substructures may be considered.
• Zirconium is more expensive than traditional metal-ceramic crowns. More economical options (metal-supported porcelain) may be preferred.
• Although gingival compatibility of zirconium is excellent in some patients, special types of zirconium (translucent ceramics) may be required for very sensitive gums.

How are zirconium crowns applied?

Zirconium crowns are applied in a multi-step process that typically requires 2-3 dental visits.

When you come to our clinic, our dentist will assess your oral and dental health. At this stage, any teeth requiring crowns will be identified, existing restorations will be evaluated, and a treatment plan will be created. Taking into account your expectations and aesthetic requirements, our dentist will determine the suitability of the zirconia crown and the type of zirconia to be used (e.g., monolithic or multilayer).

Application stages of zirconium crowns:

Below is a detailed breakdown of the procedure:

Initial consultation and examination:

• Evaluation: The dentist checks tooth decay, gum health, and bone support (X-rays may be taken).
• Treatment Plan: Decides if zirconium crowns are suitable (e.g., for front teeth aesthetics or back teeth durability).
• Shade Selection: The tooth color is matched using a shade guide for a natural look.

Tooth preparation (first visit):

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied for comfort.
• Tooth reshaping: The tooth is filed down (1.5–2 mm reduction) to make space for the crown.
• Impressions: A digital scan (or traditional mold) is taken of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth.
• Temporary crown: A provisional (temporary) crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated (usually 1–2 weeks).

Laboratory fabrication (CAD/CAM technology)

• The digital scan is sent to a dental lab, where:
• A 3D model is designed using computer-aided design (CAD).
• A zirconium block is milled into the crown shape with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM).
• The crown is sintered (heated at high temperatures) for strength.
• Layers of porcelain may be added for a natural, translucent appearance.

  Crown Fitting and adjustment (second visit):

• The temporary crown is removed, and the tooth is cleaned.The zirconium crown is test-fitted for:
• Fit: Checks if it aligns properly with adjacent teeth.
• Bite: Ensures no discomfort when chewing.
• Color: Verifies it matches natural teeth.
• Adjustments (reshaping or polishing) are made if needed.

  Permanent cementation (final step)

• The tooth is etched and cleaned for better adhesion.
• Dental cement (or adhesive) is applied to the crown.
• The crown is placed on the tooth and cured with a special light for a strong bond.
• Excess cement is removed, and the bite is rechecked.

zirconium crowns treatment süresi:

The duration of aesthetic zirconium treatments can vary depending on several factors and usually involves several visits.

• This stage usually requires a visit to a dentist and takes about 30-60 minutes.
• Tooth preparation can take 1-2 hours, depending on the number and complexity of teeth.
• Measurement takes about 15–30 minutes. Digital scanning methods can be faster.
• The laboratory phase can take a few days to a week, depending on the lab's workload and the complexity of the restoration.
• Placing the crown in the patient's mouth and checking the fit, edge adaptation, and occlusion takes about 30-60 minutes. If necessary, minor corrections are made, and the patient can see the colour and shape of the crown at this stage.
• After the fit check, the zirconium crown is ready to be cemented to the tooth. The cementation process takes approximately 30-60 minutes.
• Once the treatment is complete, our dentist may ask for one or two more follow-up appointments in a few weeks. These appointments usually take 15–30 minutes.
• The total duration of the zirconium crown treatment can usually take several weeks. In simple cases, 2-3 weeks may be sufficient, whereas in more complex cases, this can take up to 4-6 weeks.
• Simple restorations, such as single tooth crowns, can be completed more quickly, while more extensive treatments, such as multiple crowns or bridges, can take longer.
• In some cases, laboratory processes can be accelerated, and zirconium crowns can be applied in a single day in some clinics.
• Additional treatments: If necessary, additional procedures such as root canal treatment or gum treatment can prolong the treatment process.

What are the advantages of zirconium crowns?

Zirconium crowns (zirconia crowns) offer several advantages due to their material properties, making them a popular choice in restorative dentistry. Below are the key benefits:

Exceptional durability and strength:

Zirconia is an extremely strong material, resistant to chipping, cracking, and wear. It can withstand normal chewing forces, making it ideal for both front and back teeth.

Natural appearance:

Zirconium crowns have a translucent quality that mimics the look of natural teeth, providing excellent aesthetics. They can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth, making them suitable for visible areas like front teeth.

Biocompatibility:

Zirconia is hypoallergenic and biocompatible, meaning it’s unlikely to cause allergic reactions or irritate gums. This makes it a safe choice for patients with sensitivities to metals used in other crowns (e.g., porcelain-fused-to-metal).

Stain resistance:

Zirconium is highly resistant to staining compared to materials like composite resin or even natural teeth, helping maintain a bright, consistent appearance over time with proper care.

Minimal tooth preparation:

Zirconia crowns often require less removal of natural tooth structure compared to other crown types, preserving more of the original tooth.

No metal components:

Unlike porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, zirconia crowns are metal-free, eliminating the risk of a dark metal line appearing at the gumline over time, which enhances aesthetics.

Thermal insulation:

Zirconia conducts less heat and cold than metal-based crowns, reducing sensitivity to temperature changes in food or drinks.

Long lifespan:

With proper care, zirconium crowns can last 10–15 years or longer, offering a durable, long-term solution for tooth restoration.

Versatility:

Suitable for various applications, including single crowns, bridges, and even implant-supported restorations, due to their strength and aesthetic properties.

What are the disadvantages of zirconium crowns?

The disadvantages of zirconium crowns are the following:

High cost:

Zirconium crowns are more expensive than metal-supported porcelain crowns. The quality of the material, CAD/CAM technology, and the manufacturing process increase the cost.

Risk of fragility:

Despite their high strength, very thin engineered zirconia crowns may show brittleness, especially with insufficient thickness or high occlusal loads. Monolithic zirconia reduces this risk, but aesthetic layering may increase the risk of fracture.

Aesthetic limitations:

Although the new generation of highly translucent zirconiums provides a close approximation to natural tooth enamel, aesthetic adaptation may be difficult in some complex aesthetic cases (e.g., multicolored or transparent teeth) compared to porcelain veneers.

Wear potential:

Monolithic zirconia crowns can cause wear on opposing teeth (especially natural teeth or softer materials) due to their high hardness. This can be reduced by appropriate polishing or occlusal adjustments.

Technical precision requirement:

The fabrication and application of zirconium crowns requires high precision. Improper design or inadequate laboratory processing can lead to fit problems or a shortened life of the restoration.

Color change limitations:

Zirconium crowns offer limited flexibility for color change or adaptation once applied, which may require reproduction if aesthetic expectations change.

Which type of crown should I choose?

Below is a comparison table we have prepared for you so that you have an idea of which type of crown to choose:

How to care for zirconium crowns?

Caring for zirconium crowns (also called zirconia crowns) is similar to maintaining natural teeth, but their unique material properties require specific attention to ensure longevity and aesthetics. Zirconium crowns are durable, biocompatible, and resistant to wear, but improper care can lead to issues like staining, gum irritation, or damage to surrounding teeth. Below are practical steps to care for them, based on dental best practices:

Maintain good oral hygiene:

Brush twice daily:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste (avoid whitening or highly abrasive toothpastes, as they can scratch the crown’s surface over time). Brush gently to clean the crown and surrounding teeth without excessive pressure.

Floss daily:

Floss carefully around the crown to remove plaque and debris from the gumline. Use dental floss or interdental brushes to avoid irritating the gums. A water flosser can also be effective for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

Rinse with mouthwash:

Use an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup and keep gums healthy.

Avoid hard or sticky foods:

Zirconium is strong, but biting on hard objects (e.g., ice, nuts, or pens) or sticky foods (e.g., caramel, taffy) can damage the crown or loosen it. Cut hard foods into smaller pieces and chew on the opposite side if possible.

Prevent staining:

While zirconium is highly stain-resistant compared to other materials like porcelain, the surrounding natural teeth or bonding cement can stain. Limit consumption of staining foods and drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco). Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these to minimize staining risks.

Avoid grinding or clenching:

Zirconium crowns can withstand normal chewing forces, but excessive grinding (bruxism) or clenching can wear down opposing teeth or damage the crown’s fit. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a nightguard to protect the crown.

Regular dental checkups:

Visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for cleanings and exams. They can check the crown’s integrity, ensure it’s properly seated, and address any gum issues. Professional cleanings remove tartar that can’t be brushed away.

Be Cautious with extreme temperatures:

Zirconium crowns are resistant to thermal changes, but extreme temperature swings (e.g., eating very hot food followed by ice-cold drinks) can stress the bonding cement or surrounding teeth. Try to avoid rapid temperature changes.

Address issues promptly:

If the crown feels loose, rough, or uncomfortable, or if you notice gum swelling or pain, contact your dentist immediately. These could indicate issues like poor fit, decay under the crown, or gum disease.

H2: Zirconium crown prices:

The prices of zirconium crowns vary according to countries, clinics, and the quality of the material used. You can contact MagicTouch Dental Clinic to get current prices.

F.A.Q:

Will I feel pain during zirconium crown application?

Since local anaesthesia is used during zirconium crown application, the procedure is painless. Slight sensitivity after the procedure is normal.

Can zirconium crowns be removed?

Yes, they can be removed by the dentist, but this is usually only done when the crown needs to be replaced.

Can zirconium crowns be used with implants?

Yes, zirconium crowns can be placed over dental implants and provide aesthetic results.

Do zirconium crowns cause hot-cold sensitivity?

Zirconium is a good thermal insulator, so it creates less sensitivity compared to metal crowns.

Can zirconium crowns break?

Very rare; zirconium is extremely durable, but biting extremely hard objects can pose a risk of fracture.

Will teeth grinding damage zirconium crowns?

It is difficult to damage the crowns themselves, but using a nightguard can protect the opposing teeth and the fit of the crown.

Do zirconium crowns change the taste in the mouth?

No, zirconium is a neutral material and does not cause a change in taste.

Do zirconium crowns damage tooth enamel?

No, when properly placed, it does not damage the surrounding teeth or enamel. However, if there is teeth grinding, there may be abrasion on the opposite teeth.

Do zirconium crowns stain?

Zirconium is highly resistant to stains, but rinse your mouth after foods such as coffee and tea to avoid staining the surrounding teeth or adhesive cement.

How long do zirconium crowns last?

Zirconium crowns are known for their high durability and longevity, but their lifespan varies according to care, usage habits, and the physician's application technique. Average lifespan: 10-15 years. With good care, it can be up to 20 years.

Is teeth whitening done after a zirconia crown?

Teeth whitening (bleaching) is not recommended after zirconia crowns are made because the color of zirconium does not change. However, bleaching should be planned before the crown is placed.

Is there an alternative treatment to zirconia crown?

• If your priority is aesthetics, Emax or laminate veneer.
• If durability is important : porcelain or gold crown with metal support.
• If you want a budget-friendly option, composite crowns are a temporary solution.