Zirconia crowns are metal-free dental crowns and bridges milled from zirconium dioxide blocks using computer-aided (CAD-CAM) systems. They were developed to reduce the drawbacks of metal-ceramic crowns, such as an opaque look and a dark shadow at the gum line. Zirconia is impact-resistant, lightweight and a poor conductor of heat.
- Metal-free, tissue-friendly framework
- No metal shadow at the gum line
- Suitable for single crowns and bridges
- Computer-aided CAD-CAM production
Treatment process
Examination and planning
The teeth and gums are assessed, and we check whether the teeth under the crowns need any treatment first.
Tooth preparation
The teeth are shaped with a proper shoulder so that the crowns fit accurately.
Impression
A digital or conventional impression is taken and transferred to the computer.
Design and milling
The crowns are designed with the CAD-CAM system and milled from a zirconia block.
Try-in and fitting
Colour, shape and bite are checked at the try-in, handling the zirconia carefully to preserve its strength, and the crowns are then cemented.
What are zirconia crowns?
Zirconia-based crowns were developed to overcome the drawbacks of metal-ceramic crowns. They are produced by computer-controlled milling of white blocks made from zirconium dioxide.
Zirconia is impact-resistant, lightweight, a poor conductor of heat and relatively translucent. Because it is made with CAD-CAM technology, it fits the tooth very well when a careful impression is taken and the tooth is prepared with a proper shoulder.
Types of zirconia crowns
Zirconia crowns are made in two ways:
- As a framework: A zirconia framework is made from a digital or conventional impression, and porcelain is layered over it. The zirconia is not directly visible in the mouth; it covers the tooth and the porcelain forms the outer surface.
- Monolithic zirconia: Made from more translucent zirconia blocks that need no porcelain layering. It allows crowns and 4–5 unit bridges in the back teeth. As it is less lifelike than layered restorations, it suits the back of the mouth, where appearance is less critical. Milling with CAD-CAM takes around 5–6 hours.
Advantages of zirconia
- Light transmission: Metal frameworks can make teeth look opaque and artificial. Zirconia lets more light through, giving a result closer to natural teeth.
- Gum compatibility: The purplish or dark shadow sometimes seen at the gum line with metal-ceramic crowns does not occur with zirconia. Even if the gums recede over time, no dark margin shows.
- Biocompatibility: As it contains no metal, zirconia can be used for people with metal allergies.
- Thin and light: Crowns can be made thin and lightweight.
- Low heat conduction: Because zirconia conducts little heat, sensitivity to hot and cold after fitting is usually minimal and patients adapt quickly.
- Hygiene: Its smooth, gum-friendly surface reduces plaque build-up and makes oral hygiene easier.
Limitations and points to consider
Like any material, zirconia has limitations, and these are discussed openly when planning treatment:
- Porcelain layered over a zirconia framework is more likely to chip than porcelain bonded to metal. Careful clinical and laboratory work reduces this risk.
- For long bridges in the back of the mouth that receive very high or unfavourable forces, metal-framework crowns may be preferred.
- Although zirconia is classed as an aesthetic material, it is less translucent than metal-free, zirconia-free glass-ceramic crowns (E-max, Empress). For single teeth or short bridges, especially at the front, glass ceramics can look more natural.
- Contact with a dental bur during the try-in can significantly reduce the strength of zirconia, so this stage is carried out with great care.
When is zirconia the right choice?
Zirconia can be used in almost any case that requires fixed prosthetics, from a single crown to a bridge. It is particularly suitable for:
- Missing teeth that need a long bridge, including bridges that involve the front teeth
- Teeth that have darkened after root canal treatment
- Patients who clench or grind their teeth (bruxism)
- People with metal allergies
- Crowns and bridges in the back teeth, where appearance is less critical (monolithic zirconia)
At our clinic in Denizli, Turkey, the decision to use zirconia is made after an examination, taking into account the condition of your teeth and gums as well as your expectations.
Frequently asked questions
Do zirconia crowns break easily?
Zirconia has high fracture resistance. However, contact with a bur during the try-in can weaken it, and layered porcelain on zirconia is more prone to chipping than on metal. This is why every stage is handled with care.
Should I choose zirconia or E-max?
For single teeth, especially at the front, glass ceramics such as E-max offer higher translucency. Zirconia may be more suitable for bridges, darkened teeth or patients who grind their teeth. The choice is made after the examination.
I have a metal allergy. Can I have zirconia crowns?
Yes. Zirconia crowns contain no metal, so they can be used for people with metal allergies.
Does zirconia cause a dark line at the gums?
No. The purplish discolouration sometimes seen at the gum line with metal-ceramic crowns does not occur with zirconia. Even if the gums recede over time, no dark margin shows.
How long does zirconia crown treatment take?
There are try-in appointments to check colour, shape and function. With the CAD-CAM system, treatment is often completed at the second appointment, usually the next day. If no additional gum or tooth treatment is needed, it can be finished the same day or within one day.
Will my teeth be sensitive after zirconia crowns?
Because zirconia conducts little heat, sensitivity to hot and cold after fitting is usually minimal and most people adapt quickly. Individual experience can vary.
Is zirconia the most aesthetic option?
There are differences between zirconia and glass-ceramic (E-Max) restorations. Where conditions allow, glass-ceramic tends to give a more aesthetic result. Which material suits you is decided by assessing the position of the tooth, the biting load and the remaining tooth structure.
The information on this website is for general information only and does not replace an examination, diagnosis or treatment plan by a dentist. Treatment and outcomes vary from person to person.