What is a Zirconia Crown?

A zirconia crown is a popular type of all-ceramic crown which is worn to improve the appearance of a tooth which has become stained or disfigured/ decayed over the years. They are stronger than metal , made with CAD CAM technology. Plus zirconia crowns have a translucent appearance which means that they are indistinguishable from your own teeth. It is hard to spot a zirconia crown amongst natural teeth.

How is a Zirconia Crown fitted?

⦁ The process is similar to that for other crowns. It involves two stages: preparation (first stage) and the fitting of the crown (second stage).

⦁ The first stage is where your teeth are assessed and measured for a crown. The dentist will discuss the procedure with you before preparing your affected tooth. This preparation involves the cleaning of the tooth before reshaping (which reduces its size) with a small drill.

⦁ A small layer of tooth is removed under a local anaesthetic which ensures that the tooth is the correct shape for the crown.

⦁ A mould is made with dental putty which you will be asked to bite into. This is used as a guide for the production of your new crown at a dental laboratory.

⦁ The second stage is where you will be fitted with your new crown. The tooth which will receive this crown is roughened with a special dental acid which scratches the surface and increases the bond between crown and tooth.

⦁ The crown is then fitted onto your tooth. The dentist will check its appearance and fit before cementing it into position. It is then given a final polish.

⦁ A zirconia crown must be cared for in the same way as your natural teeth.