Zirconia crowns are strong, metal-free, and perfectly match natural teeth. This is why many people choose them today. However, it's important to remember that no dental treatment is completely flawless.
Sometimes, the high hardness of zirconium can cause wear on opposing natural teeth, especially in people who grind their teeth at night. Furthermore, the success of the treatment is directly linked to proper planning and placement by a skilled team. Otherwise, minor discomfort, bite imbalance, or aesthetic problems such as the crown appearing too white may occur.
In short, there are possible complications, but most of them are predictable and easily resolved. With the right dentist, the right technique, and regular check-ups, zirconia crowns will safely accompany you for many years.
What are the most common problems with zirconium crowns?
Zirconia dental crowns are a durable, aesthetic, and reliable solution for most people. However, like everything else, zirconium crowns can have minor problems. No matter how high-quality a car you buy, if the settings aren't correct, it won't drive comfortably. That's precisely the point of zirconium: fit and comfort. Here are the most common problems patients experience:
Discomfort when biting
If the zirconia crown is too high, the teeth won't fit together properly. Your mouth will react as if you're pressing the wrong key on a keyboard. This can also strain your jaw muscles.
Gum Irritation
If the edge of the zirconium crown presses too hard against the gum, pain, redness, or swelling can occur in that area. After all, the gums are living tissue; they're saying, "Let me breathe!"
Sensitivity
You might feel a slight prick when drinking cold water. It's usually temporary, but if the zirconium crown isn't perfectly aligned, your teeth will notice it.
Differences in aesthetic expectations
Some zirconia crowns are so white that they can appear unnatural. When you smile, it's as if spotlights, not teeth, shine. Shade selection plays a critical role here.
Abrasion on adjacent teeth
Zirconium is very hard. If not polished properly, it can wear down the opposing tooth like sandpaper. This is like two pieces of rock rubbing together.
Cracking or breaking (rare but possible)
A corner of a zirconia crown or veneer can be damaged due to excessive clenching, nighttime teeth grinding, or trauma. While strong, it's not "unbreakable."
Gaps
If there's a microscopic gap between the crown and the tooth, it becomes a food storage container. This can result in decay and foul odor.
A too-tight fit
Dental floss won't go through, and the gums will tire from the pressure. Think of it like shoes that are too tight; they look nice but don't work.
Breakage or cracking of zirconium crowns
Zirconium is like the "steel heart" of the dental world. It's very strong and doesn't give in easily. That's why many patients wonder, "Is it really possible to break?" Yes, zirconium is durable, but it's not a superhero. It's very rare for zirconia crowns to crack or break.
Disadvantages of zirconium crowns
Zirconia dental crowns have become the first choice for many people thanks to their strength, aesthetic appeal, and metal-free construction. However, as with any treatment, it's not right to say "everything is perfect." Before making a decision, it's important to understand the pros as well as the cons. Let's take an objective look together.
Colour may not always appear 100% natural
Some types of zirconia can appear milky white and slightly opaque. This means they may not be able to exactly mimic the light reflections of natural teeth. Especially in single-tooth treatments, if the color match with the adjacent teeth isn't perfectly matched, the result can appear "too artificial."
Fortunately, newer-generation tinted zirconiums have virtually eliminated this difference.
Risk of wear on opposing teeth
Zirconium is very strong... so strong, in fact, that it can sometimes be harsh on the opposing natural teeth.
If there's a malocclusion or a nighttime habit of grinding your teeth (bruxism), the enamel surface can wear down.
The good news? Regular checkups can address this risk before it grows larger.
Adjustment and repair can be difficult.
Zirconium is difficult to trim or adjust after placement.
If there is a problem, a complete replacement is sometimes necessary rather than a minor adjustment.
This requires both time and money.
Cost is higher than other crowns.
Zirconium is generally more expensive than porcelain crowns.
This is because the manufacturing process requires more advanced technology and a stronger material.
While the result is long-lasting, it can initially strain the budget.
Precision workmanship is required.
The success rate of zirconia crowns depends on the coordination between the dental technician and the dentist.
Even a small error in the size, margin, or height can lead to problems such as:
- gum irritation
- pain during chewing
- odor due to food accumulation
- decay due to open margins.
In conclusion, zirconia crowns offer an excellent balance of durability, aesthetics, and biocompatibility. However, like every material, it has its limitations:
- Proper planning
- Experienced physician
- Regular follow-up
If these three are present, the disadvantages quickly become minor details.
How to avoid complications with zirconia crowns?
Zirconium crowns offer a comfortable and stylish smile for many years. But this isn't a "install and forget" treatment. Without proper planning and regular maintenance, even the best material can cause problems. The good news is: With small but correct steps, you can reduce these risks to almost zero.
Let's discuss this step by step.
The first step is choosing the right dentist. An experienced cosmetic dentist will:
- analyze your bite,
- take digital impressions,
- fit the crown perfectly to your tooth.
In other words, the root cause of all problems is addressed right from the start.
A digital scan makes a big difference.
If you grind your teeth, make a night guard your friend. Bruxism is zirconium's biggest enemy. Throughout the night, pressure builds on the crown, like a hammer. A night guard absorbs these impacts and protects the crown.
Do not try to eat or break hard foods with your crown, or use it as a tool.
Don't neglect oral hygiene; regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash are crucial.
Don't miss dental appointments.
Pay attention to the temporary crown period. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent zirconium crown arrives. The smoother this period is, the better the permanent crown will fit.
Zirconia dental crowns offer years of reliability with the right dentist and regular maintenance. Actually, it's very simple: if you treat your crown well and take good care of it, it will treat you well.
I summarize this approach as follows:
"Invest in your smile, not a crown."
When should you replace your zirconium crown?
Zirconia crowns are safe to use for a long time. But sometimes things go wrong, and you need to say, "It's time to let go" of your existing crown. So, when do those signals appear? Let's clarify them together.
- If the crown is misaligned and constantly loosening
- If there is decay underneath
- If it's not aesthetically pleasing
- If the bite doesn't improve
- If there's a fracture or serious crack
- If speaking, chewing, or biting becomes difficult
- If the crown edge remains open
Regardless of your feelings, the final decision is made with X-rays and a clinical examination. Sometimes a minor adjustment can solve the problem. Sometimes a new crown is the best option for both aesthetic and health reasons.
How long do zirconia crowns last?
Zirconium crowns can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Regular check-ups, adequate oral hygiene, and attention to your lifestyle habits can maximize their lifespan.
How much do zirconia crowns cost in Turkey vs. the UK?
Deciding to get a zirconium crown raises not only the question of "which clinic?" but also the question of "how much will I pay?"
A zirconia crown in the UK typically costs between £700 and £1,400 (approximately $1,000 to $2,500).
What are the prices for zirconium crowns in Turkey?
Zirconium crowns in Turkey typically cost between £190 and £275.
If you want a beautiful smile and a travel and holiday experience, Turkey is a truly attractive option. Many patients say, "I can get a full smile makeover in Turkey for the price of a single tooth in the UK," and that's not an exaggeration.
To get zirconium crown prices from our Medical Dental Turkey dental clinic in Antalya, you can contact us or visit our zirconium crown treatment page or our price page.
Zirconia dental crown treatment in Antalya: Why Medical Dental Turkey is a trusted choice?
Zirconium crowns allow you to confidently showcase your smile thanks to their durability and natural light-reflecting properties. Zirconium crown in Turkey isn't just a procedure; it's a personalized aesthetic journey. Of course, as with any dental treatment, there are some minor risks; for example, if you grind your teeth at night, the risk of wear on your natural teeth may increase.
However, with a good team, proper planning, and simple precautions like a night guard, this can be easily managed. The perception that zirconium is "problematic" often stems from an incorrect fit or inexperienced practitioner—in the right hands, the results are both comfortable and long-lasting.
At Medical Dental Turkey, our expert team works with digital measurements and delivers a "perfect fit" when the crown is delivered. Our goal isn't just to cover your teeth; it's to ensure you can smile freely. For more information about zirconium crowns, please contact us. Our expert team will provide personalized advice.
Before after zirconia crown in Antalya, Turkey at Medical Dental Turkey
