Strong tooth-shaped caps made of zirconia, a ceramic used for crowns and bridges.
What it involves
Zirconia is a hard, tooth-coloured ceramic. A zirconia crown fully covers a prepared tooth and is milled to fit. It is chosen for its strength, particularly on back teeth, and for being metal-free.
Who it suits
Suits teeth that are broken, heavily filled, root-treated or worn, and teeth that need a crown over an implant. The dentist must remove some tooth structure to make room for the crown.
How it usually works
The tooth is shaped under local anaesthetic, a digital or physical impression is taken and a temporary crown is fitted. The crown is made in a lab or milled in the clinic and fitted a few days later or the same day, then checked for the bite and bonded in place.
Risks and things to consider
Preparing a tooth removes enamel and is not reversible. The nerve of a prepared tooth can become inflamed and need root canal treatment. A crown can loosen or chip the surface opposing it. Zirconia is very hard and can wear opposing teeth if the bite is not adjusted.
Questions to ask before you decide
Which zirconia is used, and who makes the crown? How much tooth will be removed? How will the bite be checked? What is covered if the crown comes loose?
General information, not medical advice. A dentist decides what suits you after examining you.