
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, one of the toughest ceramic materials used in dentistry. They are metal-free, resist chipping and cracking, and handle heavy biting forces well, which makes them a common choice for molars. Newer, more translucent types of zirconia also allow a more natural look on visible teeth.
- Visits
- Usually 2
- Best suited to
- Back teeth and strong bites
- Longevity
- Often 10+ years with good care
Who it suits.
- Back teeth that take the heaviest chewing forces
- People who grind or clench their teeth
- Those who want a strong, metal-free crown
- Crowns on top of dental implants
What it brings.
Very high strength
Zirconia is highly resistant to fracture, even under heavy chewing forces.
Kind to other teeth
Polished zirconia tends to cause little wear on the teeth it bites against.
Biocompatible
The material is inert in the mouth, so reactions to it are rare.
No metal
There is no metal core to show through at the gumline.
Step by step.
- 01
Assessment
Your dentist examines the tooth, takes X-rays if needed and explains whether zirconia suits your bite and the tooth's position.
- 02
Tooth preparation
The tooth is numbed and gently reshaped so the crown has room to fit over it.
- 03
Scan and fabrication
A digital scan or impression is taken, and the crown is milled from a zirconia block and color-matched to your teeth.
- 04
Cementing the crown
The crown is checked for fit, bite and color, then fixed permanently in place.
Looking after it.
- Brush twice a day and floss daily around the crown
- Avoid chewing ice or using your teeth as tools
- Use a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Attend regular check-ups and professional cleanings
Good to know.
Do zirconia crowns look natural?
Traditional zirconia is fairly opaque, so it can look less lifelike than glass-ceramics on front teeth. Newer translucent zirconia and porcelain-layered versions look much more natural, though the most translucent types are slightly less strong.
How long do zirconia crowns last?
They are among the most durable crown options and often last well over ten years with good care. Your hygiene, bite and any grinding habit all affect their lifespan.
Is the procedure different from other crowns?
The steps are essentially the same as for other crowns: numbing, shaping the tooth, a scan or impression, then fitting. Because zirconia is so strong, it can sometimes be made thinner, which may mean removing slightly less tooth.

















