The number of options you have when it comes to cosmetic and restorative dentistry is amazing, but it can also be overwhelming. When it comes to long-lasting and natural-looking materials for dental restorations, you won’t find anything much better than zirconia or porcelain. However, this still leaves you with two great options to choose from. To help you make your decision, we’ll break down the important differences and what you need to consider when weighing your options. Your dentist will work closely with you to help you make the best choice for you.
What’s the difference between zirconia and porcelain?
A lot of people wonder whether zirconia is the same as porcelain. They are not the same material. Porcelain is oftentimes touted as the gold standard for veneers. Zirconia, on the other hand, is often called “ceramic steel” and is quickly gaining in popularity for its unparalleled durability. Though porcelain is really strong, zirconia offers the strength of metal. Porcelain, however, tends to look more natural.
Is zirconia better than porcelain?
If you’re wondering if zirconia is better than porcelain, the answer is, like most things, that it depends on the application. If you’re getting an entire restoration, porcelain is probably the better option for you because it will look beautifully natural. However, if you’re getting one or just a few teeth restored in a place that takes a lot of daily impact and wear, zirconia is probably best for you. Your dentist will help you decide which option is the best for your individual case and budget.
The number of options you have when it comes to cosmetic and restorative dentistry is amazing, but it can also be overwhelming. When it comes to long-lasting and natural-looking materials for dental restorations, you won’t find anything much better than zirconia or porcelain. However, this still leaves you with two great options to choose from. To help you make your decision, we’ll break down the important differences and what you need to consider when weighing your options. Your dentist will work closely with you to help you make the best choice for you.
BENEFITS OF ZIRCONIA VERSUS PORCELAIN
It’s important to note that both porcelain and zirconia are strong, natural-looking options for a restorative or cosmetic dentistry application. The basic rundown is this:
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- Zirconia is stronger than porcelain
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- Zirconia is translucent
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- Zirconia is more resistant to chipping, cracking, and breaking
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- Porcelain is more likely to stain than zirconia, though it is still unlikely
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- Porcelain is a more cost-effective option
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- Porcelain can be tinted to match your surrounding teeth or to make your teeth whiter
Is zirconia better than porcelain?
If you’re wondering if zirconia is better than porcelain, the answer is, like most things, that it depends on the application. If you’re getting an entire restoration, porcelain is probably the better option for you because it will look beautifully natural. However, if you’re getting one or just a few teeth restored in a place that takes a lot of daily impact and wear, zirconia is probably best for you. Your dentist will help you decide which option is the best for your individual case and budget.
The number of options you have when it comes to cosmetic and restorative dentistry is amazing, but it can also be overwhelming. When it comes to long-lasting and natural-looking materials for dental restorations, you won’t find anything much better than zirconia or porcelain. However, this still leaves you with two great options to choose from. To help you make your decision, we’ll break down the important differences and what you need to consider when weighing your options. Your dentist will work closely with you to help you make the best choice for you.
DENTAL CROWNS
Because of the strength of zirconia, if it’s in your budget, you should seriously consider zirconia crowns. The metal-like strength but ceramic appearance means that your crown will look like a natural tooth but offer a level of strength to protect against natural wear and tear that porcelain can’t. Because a crown is primarily intended to protect the integrity of your tooth, going with something that is exceedingly strong is a great idea.
This said, porcelain crowns are strong, reliable, and look great. Your dentist will work with you to determine which material is best for your dental crown.
DENTAL VENEERS
Porcelain is already incredibly strong, and most people are opting for veneers as a cosmetic option for their front teeth. Veneers are versatile, and they don’t impact the integrity of your natural tooth. Because of this, you don’t necessarily need something that is as strong as metal. Veneers tend to look more natural than zirconia, so if your reason for choosing veneers is cosmetic, not only is porcelain a more cost-effective option, but it’s also a more natural-looking option.
THE BOTTOM LINE ABOUT WHETHER ZIRCONIA IS BETTER THAN PORCELAIN
The number of options you have when it comes to dental restorations is both thrilling and overwhelming. You can make almost any change you want to your smile, but that also means that you can feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices you have to make after you decide you want to make a change. In the debate between zirconia and porcelain, the better material is really the one that works best with your budget and long-term goals.
If you’re ready to finally move forward with restoring the integrity and beauty of your smile, call our office today. It’s time to love your smile.
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There is hope for your smile and your confidence, and it starts at South Bay Prosthodontics
Our prosthodontists have the education and experience to give you the smile you deserve and the oral health you need to lead a beautiful, healthy life. If you’re ready to get your oral health and your self-confidence back on track, call South Bay Prosthodontics today to schedule your consultation