Ceramic bridges have become the top choice in dental restoration due to their strength, aesthetic appeal, and durability. Knowledge of the differences between types of ceramic bridges is very important for improving patient satisfaction and increasing clinical outcomes. The article explores some options for ceramic bridges that may help the dental office choose the best match for the patient’s needs.
A ceramic bridge is a dental restoration designed to replace missing teeth using metal-free ceramic materials. Known for their natural appearance, ceramic bridges are anchored to adjacent teeth or implants, providing a stable structure that functions as natural teeth. Through advancements in ceramic materials and technologies, these bridges can become versatile and customizable, enabling dentists to offer patients a durable and aesthetically pleasing restoration.
There are several types of ceramic bridges, with unique features that suit specific clinical cases. The most popular ceramic bridge materials are broken down here.
Full zirconia is made from a solid block of zirconium dioxide and boasts the highest flexural strength among all ceramic materials. Full zirconia presents a flexural strength of about 1200 to 1400 MPa, hence highly durable. However, its transparency is almost zero, hence giving it zero natural look compared to other ceramic materials. In particular, the cost is reasonable and more economical for the patients.
Full Zirconia: The popular type of bridge
Compared to full zirconia, HT zirconia has a higher translucency but a lesser strength (750–1200 MPa). This option is suitable for both anterior and posterior placements. However, high transparency may not be suitable for areas of teeth with a dark background, easily revealing the background layer.
HT Zirconia: The ceramic bridge is considered
This type of ceramic bridge consists of a core made from zirconia, which is then layered with porcelain. The porcelain layer provides an excellent level of translucency and is usually indicated in the anterior region, where aesthetic properties are very important. Because of its layered construction, it may be more susceptible to chipping, which calls for careful patient selection.
Other types of ceramic bridge
Composed of lithium disilicate, IPS E.max is known for superior aesthetics with its strength being within the moderate range. It will prove highly adequate in anterior bridges where aesthetics, is of the utmost importance. This kind of ceramic bridge has an excellent balance of translucency versus durability (Mpa > 470). Although IPS E.max is a bit less strong when compared to the zirconia-based options, it is popular among patients seeking a natural look. Emax bridges are only ideal for 3-unit bridges and are not recommended for long-span restorations due to the risk of cracking or fracturing caused by low strength.
A high aesthetic type of bridge
Generally, PMMA bridges’ durability and esthetics are not as good as ceramic bridges. PMMA bridges are inexpensive and sufficient for temporary applications, but they don’t possess the strength and natural-looking features of ceramic bridges, especially those of zirconia. Therefore, ceramic bridges would be more suitable for those patients who need long-lasting and high-quality types, as they guarantee a more durable solution with an excellent aesthetic and comfortable feeling.
Ceramic vs. PMMA
Porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations combine the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, hence making PFM bridges so popular when durability—especially in posterior teeth—is needed. However, a metal margin may be visible at the gum line with PFM bridges, which is less than pleasing to the eye.
Ceramic vs. PFM
In contrast, ceramic bridges, particularly high-translucency zirconia and multilayer zirconia offer similar strength but with a fully natural appearance, making them ideal for both anterior and posterior placements where aesthetics are a priority.
Full-cast metal bridges are the strongest and can last for very long periods. This is the reason why they are used for posterior teeth, which have to endure very high bite forces. However, it lacks aesthetic appearance because it does not replicate either the color or translucency of a tooth. Ceramic bridges, especially high-translucency zirconia, and layered zirconia, possess high durability with good aesthetics. Hence, these types of bridges are highly in demand by those who need a combination of strength and aesthetics.
Ceramic vs. Full-Cast Metal
In conclusion, choosing the right ceramic bridge is based on the specific needs of each case. By explaining these choices clearly to patients, dental professionals can enhance patient trust and satisfaction.
VTS provides great products and the latest technology to ensure the standard of quality if you are searching for sophisticated, superior dental bridge solutions for your patients. For more information, please contact us.
