What is the recommended minimum functional cusp reduction for a posterior molar to accommodate a full-contour monolithic zirconia crown?

For full-contour monolithic zirconia crowns on posterior teeth, the recommended functional cusp reduction is 1.0–1.5 mm. This reduction provides adequate material thickness for zirconia's inherent strength without over-reducing the tooth, which would compromise retention and resistance form. The overall occlusal reduction should be 1.0–1.5 mm for full-contour zirconia, with a 0.5 mm chamfer margin. This is less reduction than required for porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns (1.5–2.0 mm) or all-ceramic feldspathic restorations, making monolithic zirconia a tooth-conservative option. A 0.3–0.5 mm chamfer is used for the margin design, not the functional cusp.