Ill-fitting and rejection of dental restoration are the common challenges dentists face. One common issue is the failure of models to fit correctly if the material doesn’t work as expected. Dentists often use the material in 3D printers without enough knowledge about its composition.
It’s important to understand the zirconia material compositions to gain better restoration results. If the wrong type is used, it can lead to issues like cracks, poor wear resistance, or even discomfort for patients. To save you from this complication, this guide provides you with details about different zirconia material compositions. Furthermore, a short section on the application of material based on composition is also covered for your convenience. Keep reading!
What Are Zirconia Material Compositions?
Zirconia, known as zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), is a strong ceramic material made up of zirconium and oxygen. Its basic composition is simple. Zirconium (Zr) makes up around 90-99% of the total composition.
However, the remaining part is oxygen. This chemical composition of zirconia gives it strength and durability. The composition of Zirconia Material can be adjusted to suit different dental needs.
In its pure form, zirconia is tough and resistant to wear. You can easily break the pure zirconia. By adding stabilizers, it becomes more rigid, more heat-resistant, and more durable for dental applications.
Different Zirconia Material Compositions
Here is the detailed overview of the chemical composition of zirconia, as well as the pros and cons.
– Fully Stabilized Zirconia (FSZ)
This zirconia material composition has been stabilized with a high percentage of stabilizing agents. Usually the yttria (Y₂O₃) or ceria (CeO₂) are used as stabilizer agents. This stabilization ensures that the zirconia remains in its cubic phase at room temperature. Despite the high-stress condition, this material doesn’t deform.
Key Features of FSZ:
- High Strength: This material has exceptional strength and is ideal for high-performance applications.
- Phase Stability: It maintains its cubic phase even under extreme temperatures. So, the dental models made from this material will not crack.
- Resistance to Thermal Shock: This material withstands rapid temperature changes. It cannot easily break or lose strength.
Pros:
- It is highly resistant to wear and tear.
- It resists thermal shock, making it perfect for the dental industry.
- The material has exceptional strength and durability.
Cons:
- It’s less suitable for aesthetic applications.
– Partially Stabilized Zirconia (PSZ)
This type of zirconia has a composition of magnesia (MgO) or yttria. It can undergo phase transformation and is more flexible to use in the dental industry. However, this material is slightly less durable under extreme conditions.
Key Features of PSZ:
- Enhanced Fracture Toughness: This material is resistant to cracking. So, the crown made of this material absorbs stress and pressure without any tear.
- Varying Translucency: It has better translucency compared to fully stabilized zirconia. This material is more suitable for aesthetic applications.
- Balancing Strength and Aesthetics: Dental models need material that blends naturally with teeth. This material has the property to blend well with the natural teeth.
Pros:
- This material is more affordable as compared to other materials.
- It has exceptional strength and blends well with bone tissues.
- This material is best for crowns and bridges.
Cons: This material is not as durable as other materials.
– Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ)
Yttria-stabilized zirconia materials compositions are a form of zirconia stabilized with yttrium oxide (Y₂O₃). The addition of yttria helps zirconia maintain its cubic phase. This composition enhances its mechanical properties.
Key Features of YSZ
- High-Performance Material: This material is high in demand due to its high performance. You can use it to make veneers and bridges that last for years.
- Resistance to Phase Transformation: This material has exceptional stability. The composition prevents deformation and reduces the risk of cracking.
- Exceptional Mechanical Properties: YSZ is known for its excellent strength. It has high resistance to wear and tear.
Pros:
- It is durable and reliable under high stress.
- Ideal for structural components that need to make dental models.
- It can perform well in extreme temperature fluctuations.
Con:
- This zirconia material composition has limitations of use in the aesthetics industry.
– Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystalline (TZP)
Tetragonal zirconia Polycrystalline is a type of zirconia that is stabilized in the tetragonal phase. This composition gives TZP its high strength and toughness. This composition makes it ideal for industrial and engineering applications.
Key Features of TZP:
- High Strength: This material has excellent mechanical strength. It is suitable for use in a high-demanding environment.
- Wear Resistance: Due to the high resistance to wear, you can easily use this material to make dental restorations that last for a long time.
- Toughness: The tetragonal phase provides TZP with toughness. This composition makes it resistant to fracture.
Pros:
- TZP is highly durable and can withstand harsh conditions.
- It performs well under stress and extreme conditions.
- TZP’s ability to resist wear makes it long-lasting.
Cons: It may not be as versatile as other forms of zirconia for some applications.
– Ceria-Stabilized Zirconia (CSZ)
Ceria-stabilized zirconia (CSZ) is zirconia that is stabilized using cerium oxide (CeO₂). The addition of cerium oxide helps improve the thermal properties of zirconia. This material is ideal for high-temperature applications.
Key Features of CSZ:
- Excellent Thermal Properties: This material provides superior thermal stability. It can withstand high temperatures without degrading.
- High-Temperature Stability: The cerium oxide stabilizes the zirconia. This composition enhances the stability under extreme thermal conditions.
Pros:
- The material maintains its properties even in harsh conditions.
- It can handle rapid temperature changes without cracking.
- It’s stable and durable to use in dental applications.
Cons: This zirconia material composition is not available worldwide.
Aidite: The Best Supplier of Zirconia Based on Material Composition
It’s difficult for dentists to search for the brand that provides high-quality zirconia material compositions to suit different needs. Aidite is a leading supplier of zirconia material. This brand is known for its high-quality products and advanced technology.
They specialize in providing zirconia used in dental restorations. Aidite’s zirconia materials include fully stabilized, partially stabilized, and yttria-stabilized variants. Each composition is designed to meet specific demands in dental procedures. One of the key features of Aidite zirconia is its exceptional strength and affordability. Their materials are engineered to withstand the stresses of daily use. The company focuses on providing affordable zirconia material prices without breaking the bank.
FAQS
Why is zirconium so expensive?
This material is found in large quantities in the Earth’s crust. However, it’s very challenging and difficult to refine this material. The refinement of this material requires heavy costs and time. That makes it more expensive than other metals.
What are three compounds of zirconium?
The three main components of this material are zirconium tetrachloride, zirconium oxide chloride, and zirconium hydrogen phosphate. However, the zirconyl triflate is also used as a catalyst in this material composition.
Is zirconium stronger than titanium?
Yes, zirconium is technically stronger than titanium. The zirconium is a corrosion-resistant and long-lasting metal. Both metals are lightweight and strong enough. However, zirconium is generally resistant to dents or dings.
Final Thoughts—Zirconia Material Compositions
To summarize, there are different types of zirconia material compositions available in the market. It’s important to keep a few things in mind before making a final purchase. Always choose the brand that is well known in the market. You can check the brand reviews and testimonials.
Furthermore, also make sure the materials are high quality and won’t degrade over time. However, some are charged higher than others because of reputation and unique zirconia material compositions. It’s important to choose the materials that are cost-effective and suit the dental needs. Aidite Zirconia material is biocompatible and improves patient experience.