Restorative Dentistry

Zirconia Crowns

IN EVERETT, WA

Exceptionally strong, natural-looking crowns without any metal.

Why zirconia

Zirconia is a ceramic of unusual strength — durable enough for molars, where chewing forces are highest and where older all-ceramic materials tended to fracture.

Modern layered zirconia is translucent enough to look convincing at the front of the mouth as well. Where a tooth is highly visible we will discuss whether zirconia or a layered porcelain gives the better aesthetic result for your case.

Strength is the headline. Zirconia withstands the forces at the back of the mouth better than the all-ceramic materials that preceded it, which is what made metal-free crowns realistic on molars rather than only on front teeth. In practice that means fewer fractured crowns and less need to compromise on appearance to get durability.

The gum-line point matters more over time than patients expect. A porcelain-fused-to-metal crown has a metal substructure, and as gums naturally recede over the years a dark line appears at the margin — the single most common complaint about older crowns. Zirconia has no metal, so there is no line to appear, however far the tissue moves.

When zirconia is the material of choice

  • A molar that needs a crown and takes heavy chewing force.
  • A dark line showing at the gum edge of an older porcelain-fused-to-metal crown.
  • A preference for, or a sensitivity related to, metal-free restorations.
  • A tooth that has been root treated or heavily filled and now needs full protection.

What to expect

Like other crowns, typically two visits.

  1. 1 Preparation The tooth is shaped to receive the crown, and any decay or failing restoration is removed.
  2. 2 Impressions and temporary Precise impressions are taken and a temporary crown protects the tooth in the meantime.
  3. 3 Fit and cement We check fit, contacts, bite and shade before cementing the crown permanently.

Caring for zirconia

Zirconia does not decay, but the natural tooth beneath its margin can. Brush and clean between the teeth daily, keep regular hygiene visits, and wear a nightguard if you grind — zirconia is hard enough to wear opposing natural teeth if grinding goes unmanaged.

Common questions about zirconia crowns

How long do zirconia crowns last?
Commonly ten to fifteen years and frequently longer. The crown itself is highly resistant to fracture; what usually ends its life is decay in the natural tooth at the margin, which daily cleaning and regular check-ups prevent.
Will it look natural at the front of my mouth?
Modern layered zirconia is translucent enough to be convincing on front teeth. Where a tooth is highly visible we choose the more translucent formulations and layer them, accepting slightly lower strength in exchange for appearance.
Does getting a crown hurt?
Preparation is done under local anesthetic and is comfortable. Mild sensitivity while a temporary crown is in place is normal and settles once the final crown is fitted.
Can a crowned tooth still get a cavity?
The crown cannot decay, but the natural tooth beneath its margin can — and that is the usual reason a crowned tooth is eventually lost. Brush and clean between the teeth daily, particularly right at the gum line.
Zirconia or porcelain — which should I choose?
Zirconia for strength, especially on back teeth and for anyone who grinds. Layered porcelain can still edge it on translucency for a single front tooth. We will recommend based on which tooth it is, your bite, and how visible it is.

Questions about zirconia crowns?

We'll walk you through the options, the costs, and what to expect.

Madison Street Dental Clinic serves Everett and the surrounding communities of Marysville, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Lake Stevens, Snohomish, Lynnwood and Bothell.

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