Porcelain Materials at Zak Dental

Porcelain Materials

A new generation off very strong porcelain materials for fabricating crowns, veneers and inlays helped to advance dentistry in many ways.

The previous generation of metal restorations ( including gold alloys ) would require aggressive reduction of the tooth to allow  enough thickness material to provide strength and retention. Cement ,  the substance used  to attach the restoration to the tooth , would provide a simple adhesion , similar to the one that would be provided by a glue.

Porcelain, Zirconia materials that are used now are allowing us to bond the restoration to the tooth and bond is more like a fusion of two objects and one which provides superior  strength , fracture resistance and retention. This allowed for a very thin restorations with minimum tooth reduction and great aesthetic qualities. Now these days porcelain , nonmetal restorations are definitely the restorations of choice.

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If you live in Southern California, feel free to Schedule a New Patient Visit with us in Zak Dental offices in Agoura Hills, Covina/San Dimas, Downey, Long Beach, North Park, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Simi Valley, Temecula, Valencia, Ventura, and Whittier/La Mirada, California.

For all your dental needs, call to schedule an appointment 833-ZAK-TEAM.

 

Dental Porcelain Materials FAQ

What is porcelain used for in dentistry?

Porcelain is primarily used in dentistry for creating dental crowns, veneers, bridges, inlays, and onlays. It’s chosen for its natural appearance, strength, and durability, closely mimicking the look of natural teeth.

What types of porcelain are used in dental restorations?

• Feldspathic Porcelain: Often used for veneers, it’s known for its esthetic properties.
• Leucite-Reinforced Porcelain: Provides more strength than feldspathic porcelain and is used for crowns and inlays.
• Lithium Disilicate Porcelain: Known for high strength and esthetics, used in crowns and veneers.
• Zirconia-Based Porcelain: Extremely strong, often used for crowns and bridges in areas requiring more durability.

How does porcelain compare to other dental materials?

• Aesthetics: Porcelain offers superior esthetics compared to metal or composite materials, providing a more natural tooth appearance.
• Durability: Porcelain is strong and wear-resistant, though it may be more brittle than materials like zirconia.
• Biocompatibility: Porcelain is highly biocompatible and unlikely to cause allergic reactions.

Can porcelain restorations stain or discolor?

Porcelain is resistant to staining and discoloration, maintaining its color over time. However, the cement used to bond the porcelain to the tooth can discolor, though this is uncommon.

What are the advantages of porcelain veneers?

• Natural Look: Porcelain veneers closely resemble the natural appearance of teeth.
• Stain Resistance: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers are resistant to stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco.
• Durability: With proper care, porcelain veneers can last many years.

Are there any downsides to using porcelain in dentistry?

• Cost: Porcelain restorations tend to be more expensive than other materials.
• Fragility: Although strong, porcelain can be brittle and prone to chipping or cracking under excessive force.
• Tooth Preparation: Some porcelain restorations require the removal of a small amount of natural tooth structure.

How should porcelain restorations be cared for?

• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from biting down on hard foods or objects that could chip or crack the porcelain.
• Regular Dental Visits: Regular check-ups with Zak Dental dentist can help maintain the longevity of porcelain restorations.

Can porcelain be repaired if it gets damaged?

Minor chips or cracks in porcelain can sometimes be repaired with composite resin, but significant damage may require replacing the restoration.

How long do porcelain dental restorations last?

With proper care, porcelain restorations can last between 10-15 years or longer. The longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, the location of the restoration, and the forces applied to it.

Is porcelain suitable for everyone?

While porcelain is a popular choice for dental restorations, it may not be suitable for patients with bruxism (teeth grinding) or those who put excessive force on their teeth. Your dentist can help determine the best material for your specific needs.

If you have more specific questions or need further information, it’s always a good idea to consult with Zak Dental dentist.