Treatments
Zirconia and Veneers
Zirconia crowns and porcelain veneers are two different ceramic restorations used to restore the appearance and function of teeth. Which one is suitable depends on the condition of the tooth and on what you expect from treatment.
What is it?
A zirconia crown covers the whole tooth and contains no metal framework. It transmits light in a way similar to a natural tooth and, being durable, can be used on both front and back teeth. It is often chosen to protect teeth with large fillings, fractures or previous root canal treatment.
A porcelain laminate veneer is a thin ceramic shell bonded only to the front surface of the tooth. It is usually used on front teeth to address colour, shape, small gaps or wear, and in most cases requires only limited reshaping of the tooth.
For both options, gum health, the way the teeth bite together and habits such as clenching are taken into account during planning.
The process
Examination and planning
Your teeth and gums are examined, with X-rays if needed, and the zirconia and veneer options are discussed with you.
Preparing the teeth
Under local anaesthesia, the teeth are shaped as much as the chosen restoration requires. For veneers this is usually limited to the front surface.
Impressions and shade
Impressions of the prepared teeth are taken and the shade is chosen together; the restorations are then made in the laboratory.
Temporaries
While the restorations are being made, temporary crowns or veneers protect your teeth and maintain your appearance.
Try-in
The restorations are tried in; fit, colour, shape and bite are checked and adjusted if necessary.
Bonding and follow-up
Once approved, the restorations are bonded to the teeth. Gum response and bite are reviewed again at later check-ups.
Who is it for?
- People unhappy with the colour, shape or length of their front teeth
- People with heavily filled, fractured or root-treated teeth
- People with small gaps between their teeth or worn teeth
- People with marked discolouration of their teeth
- Adults whose gum health allows treatment
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between zirconia and veneers?
Zirconia is a crown that covers the whole tooth, while a veneer is a thin porcelain shell bonded only to the front surface. Veneers usually need less reshaping; zirconia may be more suitable for heavily worn or heavily filled teeth.
How long do zirconia crowns and veneers last?
It depends on oral hygiene, regular check-ups, habits such as clenching and the way your teeth bite together. With good care they can serve for many years, but this varies from person to person.
Will my teeth be sensitive afterwards?
Temporary sensitivity to hot and cold may occur after the teeth are prepared. It usually settles within a short time; if it persists, please contact your dentist.
Will they look natural?
Both zirconia and porcelain transmit light in a way similar to natural teeth. Colour and shape are chosen with your neighbouring teeth and facial features in mind.
How do I care for them?
As with natural teeth, regular brushing, flossing or interdental brushes and periodic check-ups are important. Avoid biting on very hard objects, and let your dentist know if you clench or grind your teeth.
Appointments
Book an examination
The right treatment for you is planned after an examination and any necessary tests, weighing the options together.
Treatments
Other treatments
- Smile DesignAesthetic treatments planned as a whole, around your facial features and teeth.
- Dental ImplantsA fixed replacement for missing teeth, close to natural teeth in function and appearance.
- Dental BondingSmall gaps, chips and shape irregularities corrected with tooth-coloured composite.
- Dentures and BridgesReplacing missing or badly worn teeth with fixed or removable prosthetics.
- Root Canal TreatmentTreating an inflamed or infected dental pulp to keep the natural tooth.
- General DentistryKeeping your mouth healthy with check-ups, scaling, fillings and preventive care.