Zirconium (zirconia) crowns and veneers are metal-free restorations that combine strength with a tooth-coloured appearance. They are often designed and made using digital tools: intraoral scanners to record the teeth and CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacturing) to produce the restoration. This article explains how these steps work.
Conventional and Digital Impressions
With conventional impressions, a tray filled with impression material is placed in the mouth, a plaster model is made, and the restoration is produced from that model. This method is still widely used. Possible issues include:
- Material changes: impression materials can distort slightly, or air bubbles can form.
- Fit adjustments: any inaccuracy may mean adjustments or a remake.
- Comfort: some people find impression trays uncomfortable or trigger a gag reflex.
Digital Scanning with Intraoral Scanners
An intraoral scanner is a small camera that records a 3D image of the teeth, gums and bite.
- Comfort: no impression material is needed, which many people find more comfortable.
- Efficiency: the scan is usually completed within a single appointment.
- Accuracy: digital scans can give accurate records for well-fitting restorations.
- Immediate checking: the dentist can review the scan on screen and rescan any area if needed.
Designing a Personalised Zirconium Restoration
Digital Smile Design (DSD)
- Facial analysis: the shape of the face, lip line and smile are considered alongside the teeth.
- Simulation: a digital preview of the planned teeth can be created from your photos.
- Review: before the teeth are prepared, you can discuss the planned size and shape with the dentist and ask for changes.
CAD/CAM Production
- CAD: the restoration is designed on a computer using the scan data.
- CAM: a milling machine cuts the restoration from a zirconia block according to the design.
Features of CAD/CAM Production
| Feature | What it means |
|---|---|
| Fit | Digital design and milling can produce restorations that fit closely. |
| Production time | Depending on the laboratory and the case, production can be relatively quick. |
| Material consistency | Industrially made zirconia blocks have a uniform structure. |
| Stored records | Digital files are saved and can be used again if a restoration needs replacing. |
Function and Appearance
Gum Health
- Edge fit: a well-fitting margin reduces areas where plaque and food can collect, which supports gum health.
- No metal: without a metal framework, there is no grey metal edge at the gum line.
Bite
- Bite recording: the scan records how the upper and lower teeth meet, which helps the design fit your bite.
- Durability: a balanced bite reduces excess stress on the restorations and lowers the risk of chipping.
Natural Appearance
Zirconia has some translucency, and modern types vary in how much light they let through.
- Shading: the colour can be graded to resemble the variation seen in natural teeth.
- Surface detail: fine surface texture can help the restoration blend with neighbouring teeth.
- Layering: porcelain can be layered on a zirconia framework to add depth of colour, especially on front teeth.
Digital Zirconium Treatment Step by Step
| Stage | Tool or method | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Diagnosis and planning | Examination, X-rays, digital smile design | Agree goals and preview the design |
| 2. Tooth preparation | Local anaesthetic and careful preparation | Prepare only as much tooth as needed |
| 3. Records | Intraoral scanner | Accurate record of the teeth and bite |
| 4. Design | CAD software | Plan shape, size and bite |
| 5. Production | CAM milling | Make the restoration from a zirconia block |
| 6. Try-in and fitting | Dentist review and cementation | Check fit and appearance before fixing |
Is Zirconium Right for You?
Zirconium is one of several material options. Digital tools support accurate planning, but the right material and design depend on your teeth, bite and expectations. Your dentist will explain the options and their limitations.
AvrupaDent welcomes international patients at two clinics in Izmir, Buca Forbes and Gaziemir. Both hold the International Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health, and each patient is supported by one English-speaking coordinator.
Getting a Written Plan
If you would like to find out whether zirconium crowns or veneers may be suitable for you, you can send photos of your teeth and any recent X-ray to our coordinator on WhatsApp at +90 505 691 22 01. After a dentist has reviewed them, you will receive a written plan setting out the suggested treatment, the number of visits, the days you would need to spend in Izmir and the cost. The right approach and the expected outcome depend on your individual situation and are discussed with the dentist.