Porcelain and Zirconia Restorations

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns may cover teeth with lost tooth structure or teeth being considered for changes in appearance.

Porcelain may be applied over a zirconia framework, or the entire restoration may be zirconia in suitable cases. The dentist assesses tooth position, the bite and neighboring teeth together. A zirconia crown may not be necessary or suitable for every tooth. An examination guides material choice and design.

All-Ceramic Crowns (E-max)

All-ceramic crowns are ceramic restorations without a metal framework. They may be considered where a natural tooth appearance is important.

Lithium disilicate ceramics, known as E-max, may be used for crowns, veneers and some partial restorations. Tooth structure, position and chewing forces guide material choice. All-ceramic restorations may not suit every case; clinical assessment determines suitability and ceramic type.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have a metal framework for strength, covered with tooth-colored porcelain.

They may be considered for extensive tooth structure loss, bridges or areas subject to high chewing forces. The dentist assesses tooth condition, gum health, the bite and the patient’s needs. An examination determines suitability and material choice.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are fixed restorations supported by neighboring teeth or implants to replace one or more missing teeth.

Planning considers the number and location of missing teeth, the supporting teeth, gum health and the bite. Zirconia, all-ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal materials may be used. Bridge suitability and materials vary by patient and are determined through clinical and radiographic examinations.

Inlay and Onlay Restorations

Inlays and onlays are partial restorations considered when tooth structure loss is too extensive for a filling but does not require a full crown.

They are made from an impression or digital scan and bonded to the relevant part of the tooth. Material choice depends on tooth position and treatment needs. The dentist assesses remaining healthy tissue, the extent of decay or fracture and biting forces to plan treatment.