To remove a cemented zirconia crown, it is recommended to use a high-speed handpiece with a diamond bur and copious water cooling. Start by making a vertical cut along the center of the buccal/labial or lingual surface of the crown, beginning at the gingival margin. During the entire procedure, consistently use water spray to prevent overheating. Then, extend the cut through the occlusal or incisal surface of the crown.

After making the cut, a surgical spoon excavator can be inserted into it and gently rotated. This should cause the gap to widen and the crown to fracture into pieces. It is important to place a 2x2 gauze or similar material to catch small fragments of the crown as it breaks, preventing them from falling into the oral cavity.

Any remaining cement on the tooth can be removed using hand instruments or a high-speed handpiece. For a vital tooth that has not been previously endodontically treated, local anesthesia may be necessary.