Are Patients Satisfied with Zirconia Crowns?

The use of zirconium in oral and dental health is growing steadily. Thanks to its natural-looking appearance and aesthetic results, it has become an increasingly preferred crown material. Reviews from patients who have had zirconia crowns generally show a high level of satisfaction with the procedure.

Monolithic zirconia is a single-piece type of zirconia; no porcelain is added on top, but it is colored to give a porcelain-like appearance. Thanks to its nano-scale particle structure, it is extremely strong, with a very low risk of chipping, cracking, or breaking. Even a thin layer of about 0.5 mm can withstand maximum bite force. Since this application doesn't involve porcelain, it can usually be completed in two sessions, and patients tend to be satisfied with the durability, aesthetics, and natural-tooth compatibility of the result.

Zirconium is an extremely strong element found in nature — so strong that it's even used in fields like aerospace and automotive engineering, such as in heat shields. The crowns are custom-manufactured in a lab for each patient, and the process is generally completed in 3 to 5 sessions. In experienced hands, it can be applied smoothly without complications.

Completing zirconia crowns, including identifying suitable teeth and X-ray evaluation, takes about two weeks. They are usually preferred for the incisors, which stand out most in a smile; any existing decay or abscess should be treated first. After placement, it's recommended to avoid extreme hot or cold foods as well as sticky and hard foods.

Zirconia crowns don't produce odor on their own thanks to their hygienic structure; however, if oral hygiene is neglected, food buildup, plaque, and tartar can cause bad breath. Their surfaces are carefully polished, so no discoloration occurs with regular care; however, heavy tea and coffee consumption, and especially smoking, can lead to staining, inflammation, and bad breath.