What can I do if my zirconia crowns are too chalky white? I got them last November, and my dentist encouraged me to keep the crowns for six months. She said that I would get used to the crowns, and they wouldn’t look so white. I’m dissatisfied. I thought zirconia crowns would look better. – Thanks. Symeon

Symeon,

Zirconia is a durable ceramic commonly used for crowns. Labs mill zirconia from a solid block, which provides strength and precision.

Although zirconia is uniform in color, natural teeth are not. They have layers, translucency, and subtle variations. Solid zirconia cannot fully replicate these features on its own.

How Porcelain Layering Can Affect a Crown’s Appearance

Technicians can apply porcelain over the zirconia to create a more lifelike appearance.

Here is how the two options compare:

• Layered zirconia: Offers depth, translucency, and a natural look
• Monolithic zirconia: Lacks variation and appears more opaque

Layering is usually the better choice for front teeth.

How Does Crown Position Affect the Outcome?

Even the best materials cannot compensate for poor positioning. The front teeth must align properly with your lips, bite, and facial profile.

When several front teeth are restored at once, the dentist must carefully design their position. If the crowns sit too far forward, they can look unnatural and feel uncomfortable.

How to Find the Right Solution

You can correct this situation, but it requires the right provider. Look for a dentist who focuses on cosmetic cases and understands smile design.

Take a thoughtful approach when choosing who will replace your dental crowns. You want to feel confident in both their skill and their process.

Consider these steps:

• Consult an accredited cosmetic dentist
• Review before-and-after photos of similar treatments
• Ask how they plan and test the final appearance
• Discuss materials, lab work, and the number of try-ins

Creating a natural-looking smile takes time and precision. Dentists who deliver these results typically work closely with skilled technicians and use high-quality materials.

Costs can vary, but excellent cosmetic work is rarely inexpensive. Rather than focusing only on price, look for a dentist who can deliver results you feel comfortable with over the long term.

Dr. Brian LeSage, who some patients claim is one of the best cosmetic dentists in Beverly Hills, sponsors this post.