Why Choose Dental Porcelain?
There are several dental materials to choose from when you require a dental restoration. Each material has its advantages and draw backs. Your dentist will recommend the material that he or she sees fit for the type of restoration you need. Their decision will be based on where the restoration will be placed, cost, effectiveness, longevity, esthetics, etc. One of the most esthetic dental materials available is porcelain. Dental porcelain is used for crowns, veneers, and inlays and onlays (which are indirect dental fillings). There are several reasons why dentists choose dental porcelain.
Dental Porcelain
Dental porcelain is a biocompatible, white ceramic material that is nearly equal in translucency to your natural tooth structure. When a porcelain restoration is placed, it should be difficult to tell the difference between that and your natural tooth. The esthetic value of porcelain is what makes it so popular.
Pros and Cons
Just as any dental material, porcelain has its advantages and disadvantages, and one must take these into consideration when deciding if a porcelain restoration is right for you.
Advantages of dental porcelain: Porcelain has a high rate of effectiveness, it is biocompatible, it is durable and can last up to 20 years or more, and the esthetics of porcelain restorations are hard to exceed.
Disadvantages: Although porcelain is highly resistant to wear, it can cause wear on opposing teeth if it becomes rough. If the patient is a chronic bruxer (grinds and clenches their teeth), porcelain can be brittle and may not be able to tolerate that amount of bite pressure.
Uses
Dental porcelain is most commonly used for crowns and veneers to correct:
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Unshapely teeth
- Teeth that are too small
- Protect/reinforce fractured or broken teeth