Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia is used most often for posterior crowns and bridges. It is also used for anterior crowns, anterior bridges and custom implant abutments.

The tooth is reshaped before an impression is taken. A temporary crown protects it until the permanent zirconia crown is ready for cementing.

Reported zirconia crown problems include debonding, chipping, fracture and wear of opposing teeth. In a 2021 survey, debonding was the most commonly reported problem.

A review found five-year survival of 95.9% for tooth-supported zirconia crowns and 97.1% for implant-supported crowns. Long-term performance can vary by tooth position and crown design.

Crown treatment generally takes two visits. The tooth is reshaped and impressed at the first visit, then the permanent crown is cemented after the laboratory work is complete.

A temporary crown is fitted after the first appointment. About two weeks later, it is removed and the permanent crown is cemented in place.

Lithium disilicate is more translucent than zirconia and is available in low, medium and high translucency forms. White filling material or a porcelain veneer may sometimes rebuild a tooth instead of a crown.

The first visit prepares the tooth and provides a temporary crown. The permanent zirconia crown is fitted at a later visit after laboratory fabrication.

Zirconia crown treatment includes preparation, an impression, a temporary crown and final cementing. The permanent crown is usually ready about two weeks after preparation.