Zirconia, or Zirconium dioxide to give it it’s proper name, in one form is used to make simulated diamonds but in dentistry it is used to make the strongest of all restorations. Because of this strength it is sometimes called white steel. It is 100% biocompatible and because of it’s translucent qualities is ideal when reproducing extremely natural looking dental crowns and bridges.

How are Zirconia Based Crowns Made?

Filmed entirely on-site at our clinic in Budapest, this video shows the high tech manufacturing process of Zirconium crown bases using the latest Weiland computer aided design and computer guided milling machines. This ensures the best possible fit of Zirconium based crowns. And because the process is now entirely on-site the clinic can produce outstanding results in almost half the time required using conventional techniques.

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Impression Taking

A silicon impression is taken as normal of the patients teeth. This is then made into a plaster cast called a ‘gibs’ ready for the next stage.

Laser Scanning

Using the 3shape D700 laser scanner the ‘gibs’ is scanned at ultra high resolution using 2 opposing lasers to ensure complete coverage.

Computer Aided Design – Identifying Teeth to Be Modelled

The highly detailed scan is loaded into the computer where any areas that have been missed by the scanner can be rescanned. The teeth to be modelled onto are then identified to the computer.

Computer Aided Design – Modelling the Framework

Once the teeth are identified the computer automatically works out the optimum size and shape of the framework or bases to ensure maximum fit and strength. Minor adjustments can then be made by the operator to ensure correct function and aesthetics.

Computer Controlled Milling

The design is then transferred to the computer controlled milling machine which cuts the framework out of solid blocks of Zirconium. Once complete the block is fired in an oven to 1500C.

Final Result

Porcelain is fused to the Zirconia framework and the final restoration is fitted. Shown here is one of our client’s teeth after completing a smile makeover with Zirconia based crowns. The resulting restoration has a translucency of natural teeth but with an increased inner strength and with proper care should last a life time.