Zirconia Dental Bridge: Types, advantages and limitations

If you have a missing tooth it can lower your confidence significantly. A missing tooth can cause problems in chewing, speaking and even breathing. Zirconia dental bridge is a procedure for placing a false tooth in the place of a missing tooth. This is a non-surgical process. A dental bridge has two parts: the false tooth and two crowns fitted on adjacent teeth. A wide variety of materials is available in the dental market. The best-known material among all the materials is Zirconia Material.

In this article, you’ll find detailed information about the zirconia dental bridge. Moreover, we’ll delve into its advantages and disadvantages. 

What is Zirconia Dental Bridge?

With the progression in technology, different dental materials are being introduced. Zirconia Material is a relatively newer material in restorative dentistry. It is a ceramic material made of zirconium dioxide. A dental bridge in which zirconia is used is called a zirconia dental bridge.

Different materials like metals, porcelain, and PFM are used in dental crowns. However, none of these materials provide both strength and aesthetic quality. 

What to consider before getting a zirconia dental bridge?

Before you choose a zirconia dental bridge, you should consider these factors: 

• Oral Health Condition: Your adjacent teeth (abutments) must be healthy and strong enough to support the bridge. It is crucial to consider gum health to ensure the longevity of the bridge.
•  Material Strength Needs: If you grind your teeth or chew hard foods frequently, you should opt for a strong material. 
•  Cost Analysis: Zirconia dental bridge cost tends to be more expensive upfront due to their advanced material properties. 
•  Jawbone Health: If you’ve experienced bone loss, your dentist might recommend a bone graft or implant-supported bridge. When choosing between a zirconia bridge vs implant, both offer durable solutions but with different procedures and benefits.

Types of Zirconia Dental Bridge

Based on the type of zirconia used in manufacturing cubic zirconia dental bridges have the  following types: 

Low translucent Zirconia 

This type of dental bridge is made of solid zirconia block. As it is made of a single consistent block it exhibits exceptional strength. Out of all the other types, this is the most durable one. However, it is suitable for posterior bridges because of its low translucency. It does not appear as natural as other types. For optimal strength and natural shade gradient choose Aidite. 3D pro Zir by Aidite exhibits strength of upto 1100MPa and also matches natural shade of teeth without any visible layers. 

Layered Zirconia 

To enhance the zirconia dental bridge for front teeth, layered zirconia is used. It is layered with porcelain or other materials which closely resemble teeth. A layered zirconia dental bridge is suitable for front teeth because it provides strength and aesthetics. However, over time the top porcelain layer can chip.

High translucent Zirconia 

High translucency of zirconia is obtained through advancement in zirconia manufacturing techniques. It allows more light to pass hence mimics natural teeth.

Advantages of Zirconia Dental Bridge

A dental bridge cannot only restore your missing tooth but it can also increase your confidence. It can improve your facial harmony. The type of material used in the manufacturing of a bridge impacts its performance greatly. Zirconia dental bridges have gained immense popularity because of a unique set of characteristics of zirconia. Following are some of its advantages:

1. The dental bridge for molars and high-pressure areas of the mouth needs to have great strength. Otherwise, under strong chewing force, it’ll crack. The tough structure of the zirconia dental bridge reduces the likelihood of fractures or wear, even in the long run.

2.  Natural teeth have a natural luster to them. High-translucency zirconia dental bridges can replicate this natural property of teeth. Unlike metals, they do not look artificial.

3.  They are smooth and support gum health by minimizing irritation. Zirconia is metal and toxin-free.

4.  Zirconia is highly adaptive and can be used in advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing. It fits perfectly and securely without adjustments.

5.  Traditional metal bridges can sometimes lead to discoloration or metallic tastes. Dental bridge made of zirconia eliminate these issues entirely and offer a cleaner experience.

Limitations of Zirconia Dental Bridge

Here are some limitations of the zirconia dental bridge:

• Higher Cost: Zirconia dental bridges cost more compared to materials like porcelain-fused-to-metal or resin options.
•  Potential Wear on Opposing Teeth: If you clench or grind your teeth, zirconia dental bridges can damage the opposing teeth because of their high strength.
• Aesthetic Challenges: High translucency is needed for front teeth. Due to the opaque nature of zirconia, these bridges can lack a lifelike appearance.
• Repair Difficulties: It is rare but somehow if you crack your bridge, it becomes difficult to repair. It can also require complete replacement instead of repair.

Process of getting Zirconia Dental Bridge

1. Zirconia bridge preparation starts with an initial consultation with your dentist. Your dentist will examine your oral health and suggest the right dental restoration procedure. It also depends on your goals and priorities. 

2. After deciding on a zirconia dental bridge, the next step is preparing the adjacent teeth for crown placement. This process includes reshaping your abutment teeth so the crown can fit properly.

3. Next, impressions of your teeth are taken. These impressions can be digital or created with putty-like material. Then these impressions are sent to the laboratory. In the lab, your custom zirconia dental bridge is fabricated with advanced techniques and Zirconia Material.

4. In the meantime, your dentist will place a temporary bridge while your custom one is being fabricated.

5. The dentist will assess fit, bite alignment, and appearance of the bridge. After making the required adjustments, the zirconia dental bridge is placed permanently in place. Final touches are made to ensure that the bridge lasts longer.

How Much Does a Zirconia Dental Bridge Cost?

The price of a zirconia dental bridge depends on the number of teeth getting replaced, the complexity of the case, and it also varies from place to place. In general, a zirconia dental crown cost $1000 to $2500. 

FAQs related to Zirconia Dental Bridges:

How long do zirconia dental bridges last?

 With proper oral care, zirconia dental bridges can last up to 20 years. If you follow a proper oral care routine, they can even last a lifetime.

Which is better: Zirconia dental bridge vs porcelain?

 Aesthetically, porcelain has a much better look but zirconia dental bridges also look very similar to natural teeth. But in terms of strength, zirconia dental bridges are much superior.

What are zirconia dental bridge problems?

 Zirconia has low translucency and it can also be damaging to the opposing teeth due to its hardness.

Zirconia dental bridge vs implant: Which one should you choose?

 An implant is a surgical method for tooth restoration. If you are looking for tooth replacement without surgery, zirconia dental bridge is the right choice for you.

Conclusion

Zirconia dental bridges cater to diverse dental needs. If you are particularly looking for dental bridge placement in high-pressure areas like molars, zirconia dental bridges are an excellent choice. You must carefully consider factors such as cost, potential wear on opposing teeth, and repair challenges before getting zirconia dental bridges. Before opting for this restorative option, a thorough consultation with a dentist is crucial to assess oral health, material suitability, and financial considerations. With proper care and informed decision-making, zirconia dental bridges can offer a long-lasting, functional, and confidence-boosting solution for tooth replacement. The types of zirconia used in dental bridges also greatly impact its performance. Aidite provides durable, lifelike zirconia ideal for crowns, bridges, and veneers. Our advanced technology and quality control set industry standards, enabling superior dental restorations.