Zirconia’s tensile strength and durability are the popular properties of zirconia in dental restorations. Due to these specifications, dentists use this material to make dental models like crowns and veneers. However, dentists must gain a proper understanding of the different zirconia material properties.
If a dentist doesn’t understand these details, it could result in poorly fitting dental pieces. This situation affects the patient’s comfort and the function of the artificial teeth. Furthermore, the model made from the wrong material causes allergies or sensitivity in patients’ mouths. To avoid these complications, read the in-depth details about the different zirconia material properties. After reading this article, you will make dental models from the right quality material that fit patients.
What are Zirconia Material Properties?
Zirconia is a strong, white ceramic material. In its pure form, zirconia is a solid white color. Sometimes, other elements are added to make it even stronger and more stable. It is made from zirconium, a metal that is found in the Earth. The chemical name for zirconia is zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). It is often used in dentistry because it is tough and durable. Zirconia can handle high temperatures without breaking.
What are the Key Zirconia Material Properties That Make It Perfect for Dental Applications?
Here is a detailed overview of the physical, chemical, mechanical, optical, and biological zirconium dioxide properties.
1) Physical Properties of Zirconia
Zirconia Material is known for its exceptional physical properties. In the dental industry, this property makes it ideal to make different dental models.
Physical zirconia material properties include:
– Density and weight of zirconia
Zirconia has a moderate density compared to other dental materials. The zirconia’s density and hardness make models that are strong without being too heavy for the mouth. Its moderate density ensures it feels natural in the mouth without feeling too bulky.
– Melting point and thermal stability
This material has a very high melting point, which makes it stable under high temperatures. It can withstand the heat of the oral cavity, including when exposed to hot foods or cold drinks. This property ensures that zirconia-based dental crowns and bridges do not deform.
– Hardness and wear resistance
The material is highly resistant to scratches and abrasions. It can resist wear over time and maintain its shape and function. This makes it an ideal material for dental crowns and bridges.
2) Chemical Properties of Zirconia
Chemically, this material is stable and won’t be easily broken down. Its chemical properties make it a reliable choice for dental materials. Chemical zirconia material properties include:
– Chemical stability
When this material is exposed to acidic or basic substances, it won’t easily break down. It is resistant to corrosion and remains intact and stable in the mouth. This chemical stability ensures that zirconia-made models maintain their appearance.
– Reactivity and resistance to oxidation
One of the unique features of this material is its resistance to oxidation. It does not rust or corrode when exposed to air or moisture. The material will not discolor or weaken. So, it is perfect for long-lasting dental restorations.
3) Mechanical Properties of Zirconia
The mechanical properties of zirconia include toughness, strength, and fatigue resistance. These properties ensure that dental restorations can last for a long time without compromising the natural appearance. Here is the detailed overview of mechanical zirconia material properties:
- Tensile strength and toughness
Zirconia is known for its high tensile strength. It can handle stress without breaking or cracking. This toughness allows zirconia to resist fractures under pressure. Your zirconia-based dental implants and crown will resist fractures under pressure.
- Fatigue resistance
Zirconia tensile strength is also highly resistant to fatigue. This material can endure repeated stress over time without failing. The dental models made from this material don’t break down after many cycles of stress.
4) Optical Properties of Zirconia
Zirconia has excellent optical properties that make it blend naturally with surrounding teeth. It is important for the aesthetic demands of modern dentistry. Here is a detailed explanation of the optical zirconia material properties.
– Light transmission and reflection
This material can transmit and reflect light. It makes the dental bridges and veneers look similar to natural teeth. This property increases the natural appearance of the face and enhances the smile.
– Color like teeth enamel
This material has the ability to attain the color that matches the patient’s natural teeth. It causes artificial teeth to blend well with the rest of the teeth. So, it is best to replace the damaged or decayed front teeth.
5) Zirconia’s Biological Properties
This material possesses exceptional biological properties. It makes the zirconia material best for dental restorations and surgical guides. Let’s explore the biological zirconia material properties in detail.
- Biocompatibility of zirconia
Biocompatibility makes this material well-demanded in the dental industry. This material doesn’t cause irritation or inflammation when placed in the body. So, it is safe and provides a comfortable experience for patients.
– Non-reactive
One of the greatest zirconium dioxide properties is that it is non-reactive. It does not react with the tissues or fluids in the mouth. This material remains stable and safe for long-term use. Dental models made from this material integrate well with the bone.
Who are the Top Suppliers of Zirconia Material in Dentistry?
There are lots of zirconia suppliers in the market that claim to provide high-quality material. However, it’s important for you to choose a well-known brand that provides durable material without breaking the bank. Here are the details of three well-reputed brands:
1. Aidite
Aidite is a brand of precision and accuracy. This brand provides different dental equipment, tools, and zirconia material. The company is dedicated to innovation. They are constantly improving their products to meet the growing demands of the dental industry.
Their 3D Pro multilayer zirconia is durable and resistant to corrosion. You can use this material to make crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations. The material is designed to meet the needs of both general dentists and specialists. Furthermore, the brand provides cost-effective dental solutions for dental clinics. They maintain the balance between price and quality.
2. VITA Zahnfabrik
This brand built a reputation as a reliable and high-quality dental products supplier. The company has been in the dental industry for many years. Their zirconia materials are known for their strength, precision, and longevity. One of the standout zirconia material properties is its high aesthetic quality. The material is designed to enhance the natural appearance of teeth. It’s a great choice for long-term dental solutions. However, the brand material is a bit more expensive.
3. Ivoclar Vivadent
Ivoclar Vivadent is another reliable supplier of Zirconia Material. The company is known for its commitment to providing high-quality products. The zirconia material of this brand is designed to meet the highest standards of WHO. They provide various types of zirconia material that are highly durable. Their products are specifically designed to enhance natural aesthetics. Despite being high quality, the brand is expensive for beginners.
What Is the Cost of Zirconia Material in Dentistry?
The cost of zirconia material in the dental industry depends on the different factors. The major key factors among them are:
- Quality of material
- Brand or supplier reputation or rating
- Types of zirconia
Generally, the average cost range of this material is between $100 and $200 per unit. This cost varies according to your dental lab requirements and patient budget. The final cost also depends on the charges of the dentist to make the dental models. Dental lab fees, unique zirconia material properties and dentist experience also impact the overall charges.
FAQS
Is zirconia a lifetime?
Typically, dental models made from this material can last about 10 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, it can last for 20 years. The care involves regular brushing and avoiding using fast or oily foods.
Can a zirconia crown be removed?
Yes, you can remove the zirconia crown. The removal procedure is difficult and time-consuming. Doctors use a bur to dislocate the crown. Once the crown is misplaced, the dentist easily removes this model.
Can you eat normally with zirconia crowns?
No, after getting a zirconia crown immediately, you should avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods. These items may cause the crown to dislocate from the original position. Furthermore, it also weakens the bond between the crown and teeth tissues.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, the unique zirconia material properties enable the dentist to create high-quality dental models. The dentist made custom-size veneers, implants, bridges, and crowns. Zirconia material is strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion.
Furthermore, this material is biocompatible and nonreactive. The models made of this material will not degrade easily and enhance the patient’s smile appearance. However, it’s important to choose a zirconia supplier that provides a high-quality, cost-effective solution.
Aidite is leading as an affordable zirconia supplier by maintaining quality and innovation..