Zirconium. Although this word may sound like a legendary metal from a sci-fi story, it actually refers to a material that performs excellently in dentistry and is quite popular. What do we mean by zirconia framework, how is a zirconia crown made, and why is it a good choice when dental restoration is needed?
What is a zirconia crown?
If a tooth is so damaged that it cannot be restored with a filling or an inlay/onlay, a dental crown is likely needed to preserve its function and improve the look of the patient’s smile. When choosing the material for the crown, several factors are considered, such as the tooth’s location, aesthetic requirements, cost, and durability. While metal-ceramic crowns may have the disadvantage of showing the metal edge when the gum recedes over time, or being unsuitable for patients with metal allergies, zirconium is an excellent choice for its superior aesthetics and metal-free composition.
Zirconium can be used to create:
- Single crowns,
- Adjacent crowns, and
- Zirconium bridges.
What is the difference between a zirconia framework and a full zirconia crown?
The term zirconia crown usually refers to a crown made with a zirconia framework covered with a porcelain overlay. While the porcelain coating is highly aesthetic, it is fragile, so small pieces may chip off. Since porcelain is less flexible than natural teeth, it cannot perfectly absorb forces generated by chewing or the impact of teeth grinding, so we typically do not recommend porcelain-coated crowns for full upper and lower restorations.
The classic zirconia crown differs from the monolithic or full-contour zirconia crown, which is carved entirely from a block of zirconia, eliminating the need for a porcelain overlay. The monoblock material is less brittle, and the structure and hardness of full-contour zirconia crowns are similar to those of natural teeth, allowing them to absorb the forces created during chewing.
The advantages of zirconia crowns
- Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a white, powdered material, and their placement requires the removal of only a minimal amount of healthy tooth structure.
- Zirconia is highly biocompatible, meaning it is less likely to trigger an immune response, such as inflammation, in the body. It is completely metal-free, yet strong and durable.
- Another key factor is that zirconia crowns match the natural tooth in terms of color shade and light transmission, making them highly aesthetic as well.
The disadvantages of zirconia crowns
The main disadvantage of zirconia crowns is their higher price compared to traditional crowns.
How to care for a zirconia crown
After placing the dental crown, it’s important to be cautious when eating, so wait at least 2-3 hours before having a meal. Initially, avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as sticky or hard foods.
Just like natural teeth, dental crowns require careful attention and maintenance. Therefore, maintaining oral health by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and using dental floss or an interdental brush is essential. Don’t forget to clean along the gum line as well, as small pieces of food tend to accumulate in this area.
Zirconia crown prices
The actual prices depend on the used materials and technologies.
- Porcelain-fused zirconia crown (2-year warranty)
To ensure precise planning and execution, we use CAD/CAM technology, which combines computer-aided design and manufacturing.
- PROCERA crown and bridge with zirconia framework (5-year warranty)
For further details, check out our price list!
Do you need a zirconia crown? Contact us by phone or book a consultation online to receive the best possible care and treatment. From smile design to tartar removal, our clinic offers exceptional aesthetic and restorative dental treatments alongside modern tooth replacement procedures.
Our dental practice is equipped with an in-house X-ray and CT lab, providing everything from standard small X-rays to panoramic and 3D CT scans for accurate diagnostics.