You bite down on something too hard and feel a sharp crack, or maybe a molar that’s been aching for weeks finally pushes you to schedule a dentist’s visit. Now your dentist is saying you need a crown, and not just any crown – a zirconia one.

More dental professionals are recommending zirconia crowns to their patients. This is due to their advantages over other types of crowns, such as porcelain fused to metal (PFM) and metal.

This guide details what zirconia dental crowns are, their pros and cons, how much they cost, and other facts you need to know to decide whether they’re the best choice for your tooth restoration.

What Is a Zirconia Crown?

A zirconia crown is a type of dental prosthesis made from zirconium dioxide, which is one of the strongest and most durable materials used in dentistry. Unlike PFM crowns that combine a metal base with a porcelain coating, zirconia is milled from a single solid block of ceramic using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) technology.

After shaping, the crown is hardened in a high-heat oven to strengthen it. Zirconia can be pre-shaded or stained to match the color of your natural teeth. Sometimes, a thin layer of porcelain is added to make the crown look even more lifelike.

The Benefits of Zirconia Dental Crowns

Zirconia crowns combine several qualities that make them stand out among other materials. These include:

• Strength: Zirconia dental crowns are highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and wear.
• Longevity: With proper care, zirconia crowns can last 10 to 15 years, or even longer. 
• Biocompatibility: Zirconia is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions than crowns made with metals like nickel or gold. 
• Natural Appearance: Zirconia can be shaded during manufacturing to match your teeth.
• Tooth Preservation: Because zirconia is strong on its own, it doesn’t require a metal base, and often less of the tooth needs to be removed during preparation.
• Convenience: Some practices use CAD/CAM systems like CEREC to scan, design, and place zirconia crowns in one appointment. That means there’s no need for a temporary crown or multiple visits.

When Is Zirconia a Good Choice?

Zirconia dental crowns are ideal when strength and longevity are priorities. They can be excellent restorations for patients with missing or damaged molars and those who grind or clench their teeth.

They’re also a good option for anyone with metal sensitivities or allergies, since zirconia is metal-free and generally well-tolerated. If you’re looking for something that looks good but can also hold up under pressure, zirconia may offer the best of both worlds.

Cost of Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are typically priced in the upper range of crown materials. In the United States, the cost generally falls between $1,000 and $2,500 per tooth, depending on factors like your location, your dentist’s fees, and whether the crown is made in a lab or milled in-office.

Same-day crowns using CEREC systems may be closer to the lower end of that range since no lab is involved, while layered zirconia crowns or those paired with porcelain may be more expensive due to additional customization.

While the upfront cost can seem high, it’s important to consider durability. As mentioned, a well-placed zirconia crown can last 15 years or longer with proper care, which may reduce the need for future replacements or repairs.

If cost is a concern, talk to your dental provider about payment plans or insurance coverage. Some plans contribute toward crown procedures, but reimbursement can vary based on the material and the reason for treatment.

The Procedure: What To Expect

The process for getting a zirconia crown depends on whether your dentist uses traditional lab work or same-day CAD/CAM technology.

In a traditional setting, the dentist will first numb the area and prepare the tooth by removing damaged or weakened enamel. They’ll then take an impression or digital scan and place a temporary crown. You’ll return a couple of weeks later for the permanent zirconia crown to be placed and bonded.

The process is much faster with same-day crowns. After preparing the tooth, the dentist takes a digital scan and designs the crown in the office. A milling machine then carves the crown from a block of zirconia. Once it’s polished and adjusted, it’s bonded to the tooth. This is all done in a single appointment.

Most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used, and any soreness usually resolves within a day or two.

Restore the Beauty of Your Smile With Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a strong, lasting option for restoring damaged or missing teeth. They resist wear, support natural function, and blend in with the rest of your smile.

At Only Crowns, we provide our patients with high-quality crowns quickly and affordably. We offer:

• Same-day zirconia dental crowns using advanced CEREC technology
• One flat price with no hidden fees
• Lifetime warranty on every crown (certain conditions apply)

To schedule an appointment or learn more, send us a message or call 385-308-1010.