Full contour zirconia has become increasingly popular in the world of dentistry, and for good reason. This is a type of all-ceramic crown and bridge which is ideal for creating restorations that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Are you considering full contour zirconia and wondering if it’s worth trying? This article explains what you need to know about full contour zirconia and some of its advantages for dental clinicians.
What is Full Contour Zirconia?
Full contour zirconia is a type of ceramic material that is made from zirconium dioxide, which is a naturally occurring element. It is known for its strength and durability, making it an ideal material for dental restorations. Full contour zirconia restorations are made by milling a solid block of zirconia into the desired shape and then sintering it at a high temperature to increase its strength.
Advantages of Full Contour Zirconia
Full contour zirconia has revolutionized the world of restorative dentistry, and its many advantages make it a popular choice for dental clinicians. Here are some of its advantages.
- Durability
One of the primary benefits of full contour zirconia is its durability. Unlike other materials, such as porcelain, full contour zirconia is extremely durable and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. It is also resistant to chipping and cracking. This makes it an ideal choice for patients who have a tendency to grind their teeth or participate in contact sports.
- Aesthetics
Another impressive feature of full contour zirconia is the enhanced aesthetic feature. It can be customized to match the color and shape of the patient’s natural teeth, making it an ideal material for creating natural-looking restorations.
- Biocompatibility
Full contour zirconia is also biocompatible, meaning that it is safe for use in the human body. This makes it an excellent choice for patients who have allergies or sensitivities to other materials. Furthermore, full contour zirconia is hypoallergenic, which means that it is unlikely to cause any adverse reactions in patients.
- Easy to Mill
Full contour zirconia is easy to mill, which means that it can be manufactured quickly and efficiently. This makes it a cost-effective material for dental clinics.
- Versatility
Another advantage of full contour zirconia is its versatility. It can be used for both anterior and posterior teeth and can be customized to match the natural color and shape of the patient’s existing teeth. Additionally, full contour zirconia can be used to create a range of restorations, including crowns, bridges, and implant-supported restorations.
- Longevity
Full contour zirconia restorations have a long lifespan, making them a cost-effective investment for patients. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years, which means that patients do not need to replace them as frequently as other restorations.
- Reduced Chair Time
One of the most significant advantages of full contour zirconia is its reduced chair time. Unlike other materials that require multiple appointments and several days to manufacture, full contour zirconia can be milled in-house and installed in a single appointment. This saves time for both the patient and the clinician and can help to improve patient satisfaction, leading to a more efficient and comfortable overall dental experience.
