Crowns, Veneers & Bridges
See What Beautiful Zirconia Can Do For Your Smile
What Are Zirconia and Empress Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their strength, function, and appearance. Two popular types of all-ceramic crowns are Zirconia and Empress.
Zirconia Crowns
Made from zirconium oxide, a strong ceramic material, Zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional durability and natural tooth-like appearance. They are ideal for both front and back teeth due to their ability to withstand strong chewing forces.
Empress-Porcelain-Crowns
Empress crowns are crafted from leucite-reinforced glass ceramic, offering superior aesthetics, especially for front teeth. They provide a lifelike translucency that closely mimics natural enamel and are best suited for areas with less bite pressure.
What Is a Three-Unit Permanent Zirconia Crown-Supported Bridge?
A three-unit bridge is used to replace a missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth (called a pontic) between two Zirconia crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth. The two supporting crowns are cemented onto the neighboring teeth, and the bridge is permanent and fixed in place. Zirconia is often the material of choice due to its strength, durability, and natural look, especially when long-term function is important.
Note: the same procedure could be used to replace, two or up to three missing teeth.
Main Benefits of Zirconia and Empress Crowns & Bridges
Zirconia Crowns and Bridges
- High Strength – Ideal for molars and bridges; resists chipping and cracking.
- Natural Appearance – Looks similar to natural teeth with excellent color matching.
- Biocompatible – Gentle on gums, non-allergenic, and metal-free.
- Durability – Long-lasting solution for both crowns and bridges.
- Minimal Tooth Reduction – Requires less removal of natural tooth structure.
Empress Crowns
- Superior Aesthetics – Best for front teeth; matches natural enamel translucency.
- Metal-Free – No gray lines at the gumline; ideal for people with metal sensitivities.
- Precision Fit – Fabricated using advanced techniques for accurate placement.
- Comfortable – Smooth finish and lightweight design feel natural in the mouth.
As Part of a Bridge (Zirconia)
- Reliable Tooth Replacement – Effectively fills gaps left by missing teeth.
- Functional Restoration – Restores chewing ability and speech clarity.
- Prevents Teeth Shifting – Keeps adjacent teeth from moving out of alignment.
- Aesthetic Continuity – Provides a seamless, attractive smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know whether I need a Zirconia or Empress crown?
Zirconia is recommended for back teeth or bridges due to strength; Empress is ideal for front teeth needing superior aesthetics.
Are these crowns safe and metal-free?
Yes, both types are completely metal-free, biocompatible, and safe for people with metal allergies.
How long do Zirconia and Empress crowns last?
With proper care, Zirconia crowns can last 10-15 years or more; Empress crowns typically last 5-10 years, depending on bite force and care.
Is the procedure painful?
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Patients usually report minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
How do I care for crowns or bridges?
Maintain good oral hygiene: brush twice daily, floss carefully around crowns/bridges, and visit your dentist regularly.
What is the cost difference compared to U.S. clinics?
At Ultradent Dental Clinic in Ciudad Juárez, across the El Paso, TX border, patients save up to 70% compared to U.S. dental prices—without compromising on quality or materials.
Why Choose Ultradent Dental Clinic?
- High-Quality Materials – Same premium Zirconia and Empress ceramics used in U.S. clinics.
- Advanced Technology – Precision digital imaging and CAD/CAM fabrication for perfect crown fit.
- Experienced Dentists – Skilled professionals delivering excellent aesthetic and functional results.
- Significant Savings – Up to 70% cost savings and shorter wait times.
- Convenient Location – Just minutes from El Paso, TX, with personalized attention and care.