Monolithic Zirconia restorations like ZIRMAX M by Burbank Dental Lab are among the most widely prescribed restorations and have been for more than a decade. Prior to the emergence of zirconia crowns, porcelain fused to metal crowns (PFM) was the leading restorative option.
While monolithic zirconia makes up the bulk of restorative options, there are still some areas where PFMs offer a better restorative solution.
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Monolithic Zirconia Restorations
A variety of metal-free ceramics have been developed to meet patient demands for natural-looking restorations. Zirconia’s biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and white color have made it a popular dental biomaterial.
ZIRMAX M and ZIRMAX ME are two proprietary zirconia products offered by Burbank Dental Lab.
ZIRMAX M by Burbank Dental Lab
ZIRMAX M is a high-quality type of monolithic zirconia known for its versatility. With a flexural strength of 1000 MPa, it is one of the strongest zirconia restorations available. Due to its exceptional strength, ZIRMAX M is suitable for a variety of restorative applications, including posterior restorations, single units, wide-span bridges, and even full arch restorations.
In addition to being strong, ZIRMAX M is aesthetically pleasing, with up to 25% greater transparency than other full zirconias.
ZIRMAX ME by Burbank Dental Lab
Porcelain Fused to Metal Restorations
Porcelain-fused metal crowns are fabricated using a metal substructure and porcelain layers. The use of these restorations in dentistry dates back to the 1950s. As a result of the metal substructure, the ceramic layer provides strength, aesthetics, and function. Castings are made at Burbank Dental Lab using either induction casting or computer-aided manufacturing.
Benefits of PFM Restorations
Indications for PRMs
Undeniably, zirconia restorations are replacing many indications once served by PFMs. There are fewer areas where PFMs offer a more ideal treatment option. There are, however, some areas where PFMs still offer an effective treatment option, such as:
ZIRMAX ME is 47% more translucent than other zirconias and is formulated to eliminate graying associated with lighter shades.
This material has a flexural strength of more than 1000 MPa, which makes it suitable for anterior bridges of four units and posterior bridges of three units (extending to the first molars). Compared to pressed ceramics, this material has superior aesthetics and doubles its strength.
Benefits of ZIRMAX Zirconia Restorations
Indications for ZIRMAX Line of Zirconia
Zirconia restorations can be used in a wide range of restorative indications; Zirconia restorations can be used in a wide range of restorative indications, including single-unit crowns, bridges, inlays, onlays, implants, and in some instances, dental veneers.
This material is best prescribed when patients require durability and for those who may have sensitivities or allergies to metal. There has been continuous improvement in this material by its manufacturers, which allows it to continuously improve esthetics.
This is how the ZIRMAX line from Burbank Dental Lab is indicated:
Technical Advantages of Zirconia vs. PFM
Due to the difference between these two materials, zirconia has become the more widely prescribed material.
Monolithic zirconia crowns are made from a single layer of high-strength material, while PFM crowns are comprised of two parts: a metal substructure and a porcelain layer.
Due to the inferior strength of porcelain compared to zirconia, the added porcelain layer is more prone to chipping or breaking.
During the fabrication process, zirconia blocks are milled and sintered. By doing so, uniformity is created throughout the whole restoration.
As a result, the material is less likely to chip or shear off. The combination of improved manufacturing processes and this material has catapulted it to take over PFMs as the dominant method of restorative dentistry.
However, zirconia restorations must be fabricated within specific guidelines to ensure their success and longevity. When a long-span bridge is needed, zirconia restorations require enough room to ensure the bridge connectors are adequately supported. In situations where vertical space is limited, PFMs are the best choice.
In almost every area of dentistry, zirconia provides outstanding benefits. They provide strength, aesthetics, biocompatibility, and longevity. Although zirconia restorations have improved dentistry, PFMs remain an essential part of restorative dentistry.
Let us know what you need for your next case by calling or chatting with a Burbank Dental Lab team member.
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