Zirconium Crowns (Zirconia Teeth)

Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium is a white alloy used instead of the gray metal substructure of traditional porcelain crowns and bridges. By combining zirconium with oxygen in special furnaces, it is transformed into zirconia ceramic, which is then used as a dental material. Due to its advantages, zirconium crowns have become one of the most preferred methods in recent years, especially by patients with tooth decay or those seeking a more aesthetic, natural-looking white smile.

Where Are Zirconium Crowns Used?

Advanced discolorations where whitening cannot achieve results
Treatment of hereditary tooth discolorations
Slightly misaligned, rotated, or gapped teeth when orthodontic treatment is not preferred
Restoration of teeth with severe structural damage or old fillings
Bridges or crowns on posterior teeth
Prostheses over anterior dental implants
Smile design and aesthetic restorations

Aesthetic Advantages of Zirconium

Thanks to its light-transmitting property, zirconium crowns mimic the appearance of natural teeth. While natural enamel fully transmits light, metal substructures in traditional porcelain crowns create an opaque appearance, making teeth look artificial and lifeless. Zirconium eliminates this problem, providing a natural and vibrant look.

Compatibility with Gums

Fully biocompatible material
No purple discoloration at the gum line (often seen with metal-supported crowns)
Does not cause gum recession
If gum recession occurs due to other factors (e.g., improper brushing), it does not create an aesthetic problem

Additional Advantages

No Metal Allergies: Safe for patients with metal sensitivity
No Taste or Odor: Zirconium contains no metal, so it does not cause taste changes or bad odor
Stable Color: The smooth porcelain surface prevents plaque accumulation, so coffee, tea, or smoking do not discolor zirconium crowns
Easy Maintenance: Brushed like natural teeth, with the addition of floss and superfloss for interdental cleaning; regular check-ups every 6 months recommended

Durability and Longevity

With regular dental visits, zirconium crowns can last for many years
Teeth are living structures and may shift or wear with time; crowns may need replacement for proper adaptation, but zirconium itself does not degrade
Removal and replacement, if needed, is safe: crowns are cut off without damaging the underlying tooth structure

Application Procedure

Teeth are slightly reduced (1–2 mm, similar to metal-supported crowns).
Once the gums are healthy, precise impressions are taken using special materials and trays.
A zirconium substructure is fabricated in the laboratory, layered with porcelain, and fitted in the clinic.
Finally, the crown is permanently bonded with special adhesives.

During the process, patients receive temporary crowns to protect teeth and maintain aesthetics until final placement.

Treatment Duration

For patients with healthy gums, zirconium crown treatment is typically completed within 1 week.
Several trial sessions may be performed until both dentist and patient are fully satisfied with the result.

Age Considerations

Zirconium crowns can be applied at any age after permanent teeth have erupted.
Not recommended before 18–20 years, as jaw growth during adolescence can create gaps, requiring frequent replacement.

Strength Compared to Porcelain and Metal

Zirconium-based crowns and bridges are now as strong as metal-supported crowns.
Less brittle than porcelain, providing greater durability
Better adaptation between porcelain and zirconium reduces the risk of porcelain fractures

Risks and Limitations

Breakage may occur under extreme force, though the risk is comparable to that of natural teeth
Rarely, crowns may come loose if the supporting tooth decays; in such cases, the tooth is treated and the crown re-cemented
Not recommended for very long edentulous spans in posterior regions due to increased risk of fracture