Zirconium crowns (or zirconia crowns) are a type of dental crown made from zirconium dioxide, a strong, biocompatible ceramic material. They are widely used for restoring damaged or missing teeth due to their strength, durability, and natural appearance.

What Are Zirconium Crowns?

Zirconium crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth or on top of a dental implant. They can be either:

• Monolithic Zirconia: Solid zirconia – extremely strong, often used for back teeth.

• Layered Zirconia: Zirconia base with a porcelain overlay – more natural-looking, used for front teeth.

Advantages:

1. High Strength: Much stronger than porcelain or ceramic crowns.

2. Biocompatibility: Rarely causes allergic reactions or gum irritation.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: Can be made to look very natural, especially the layered type.

4. Durability: Resistant to chipping, cracking, and wear.

5. No Metal: Unlike PFM (porcelain-fused-to-metal) crowns, they don’t have a dark line at the gum.

Common Uses:

• Crowns for front or back teeth

• Bridge units

• Crowns over dental implants

• Cosmetic restorations