Dental crowning is a standard dental procedure that involves covering a damaged tooth with a dental crown, a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over one’s tooth to cover up or restore the size and shape and is designed to enhance one’s appearance. Crowning has been the most preferred solution among all for dental issues. Zirconia is growing in popularity due to its many confirmed perks as it is comparatively stronger than porcelain and some other metal alloys. In comparison with various types of crowning systems, Zirconium crowns are the most preferred type of crowning system. Zirconia crownings cause less stress and damage on opposing pieces than their porcelain counterparts.
Well, there is a list of well-known types of zirconium crowning popular in the market which includes:-
- Katana Multi-Layered Zirconia
- BruxZir
- Argen, Hi-Strength Zir.
- PFZ, Porcelain fuse to Zirconia.
PFZ, Porcelain fuse to Zirconia is one of the most preferred by many people nowadays. Porcelain fused to Zirconia can be used for anterior and posterior crowns, crowns over the implant, and bridges up to various units. Porcelain fused to Zirconia crown is formed by the combination of porcelain with zirconium oxide. The zirconia base has a white shade and is layered with porcelain to match the final restoration. Computer-aided design or computer-aided manufacturing technology are used to design and mill the porcelain fused with zirconia crowns. These crowning systems allow more light to pass through them and make them more suitable to be used on the anterior teeth compare to metal-based crownings. They are hypoallergenic in nature and are biocompatible as well. It also has unparalleled substructure strength. Porcelain fused to Zirconia crown is CAD/CAM fabricated and is the substitute for traditional PFM.
Zirconia vs Porcelain
Well, you may ask what are the differences between porcelain and zirconia? Even though they both are equally preferred for dental purposes they both have their own differences along with it. Well, some of the differences between them are mentioned below.
First of all, porcelain is one of the most used dental restoration ceramics. It is also renowned as the most realistic and natural restoration for dental purposes. It easily helps to carry off an amazingly attractive smile. Porcelain won’t react to cold or heat nor trigger reactions in patients who are sensitive to certain metals. As you already know that each and everything has its own pros and cons, porcelain also has some cons along with some benefits. Porcelain damages the natural teeth to some extent as the natural teeth must be worn down so that the crown fits the best in order to minimize the chance of cracking or fractures. The material can undeniably get damaged due to clenching or even grinding.
Whereas, Zirconia is the new most preferred material in the field of dental restoration. It is this type of ceramic made up of zirconium oxide which is comparatively stronger than porcelain and other matter alloys. This material causes moderately less stress as well. Zirconia is growing in popularity due to its many confirmed perks which include the enhanced natural cosmetic result. It is relatively stronger than porcelain and is less prone to get damaged. It can be cheaper in the long run. As porcelain has cons along with its pros, so does zirconia. Some of the disfavors of zirconias are that they are not effective for veneers and partial tooth restorations as porcelain are. It is also not that suitable for patients who have metal sensitivities as it can trigger a reaction. It also might be a bit pricey and may require more frequent checkups.
But they both are and can be used together as sometimes zirconia is used as a base for porcelain and their combination creates a more natural look with greater durability than porcelain alone. Knowing about the right material for your crowns or any dental restorations can be confusing and proper decisions must be taken. So, to determine the best fit for one’s teeth it is best to consult with a dental professional.