Dentist Questions Dentist

Which is better porcelain or zirconia bridge?

I am a 25 year old female. I want to know which is better porcelain or zirconia bridge?

4 Answers

An interesting question. Porcelain looks great, but is weak. Zirconia is extremely strong, but not as esthetic. The first question: is your bridge replacing a front tooth where esthetics are really important, or in the back where function is more of a concern? Also, your dentist can layer porcelain onto zirconia so you can have the best of both. In addition, there is now a new esthetic zirconia for front teeth. Finally, depending upon the size of the bridge, you could use E-Max a dilithium silicate. VERY esthetic and strong. So you see, while the question seems simple enough, there are quite a few things to consider. I would discuss your concerns with your dentist (or a dentist if you don't currently have one) to determine the best solution for you.
Hope this helps.

Steven Chamish, DDS
I would say zirconia in most circumstances. But I would also say that the bridge is generally not the best treatment, especially at such a young age. An implant is much more sound and durable long term. A periodontist is the best person to place the implant, in my opinion
The inside framework is made of zirconia. In the back of the mouth, bridges are all zirconia. In the front, it looks nicer to overlay porcelain on top of the zirconia framework.
Part of the answer is, where is the bridge located? if it's in the front of your mouth, Zirconia is more esthetic and more friendly to the gums. If the bridge is located in the back of your mouth, porcelain would be the better choice because it is stronger and better able to withstand the biting forces of chewing over the long term.
I hope that helps.