Zirconia
Pronunciation: zur-KOH-nee-uh
Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), a high-strength ceramic material widely used in contemporary prosthetic restorations for its durability, biocompatibility, and tooth-like aesthetics.
Full Definition
Zirconia (zirconium dioxide) is a polycrystalline ceramic that has become the dominant all-ceramic framework material in prosthodontics, used for crowns, fixed partial dentures, and implant abutments. It exists in multiple phases (monoclinic, tetragonal, cubic), and stabilisation with yttria (Y-TZP) enhances its fracture resistance. Multilayered and high-translucency zirconia formulations have expanded its aesthetic applications. Editors should note the correct spelling is 'zirconia' (not 'zirconium' alone, which refers to the elemental metal), and it should not be capitalised in general use unless starting a sentence or forming part of a trade name. The abbreviation 'ZrO₂' is acceptable in technical figures and tables.
Usage
Usage note: 'Zirconia' denotes the oxide compound used clinically. 'Zirconium' alone refers to the elemental metal and is incorrect in restorative contexts.
In Context
- "A monolithic zirconia crown was selected to minimize the risk of chipping associated with veneered restorations in bruxing patients." — Restorative dentistry case note
- "The manuscript consistently misspelled the material as 'zirconium crown'; the editor corrected all instances to 'zirconia crown.'" — Journal manuscript copy-editing