Zirconium and laminate are two common materials used in dental procedures, and they have some marked differences. These include the following:
Material Composition
- Zirconium: is a strong, durable, and biocompatible material; zirconium is used so much for dental crowns and bridges due to its strength, plus the fact that it looks natural. This is dental material used in restorative dentistry. One of the ceramic materials used is dioxide, also known as zirconia, which is an extremely biocompatible and resistant material. Therefore, it is highly indicated for dental use, including crowns, bridges, and dental implants. They turn to the former in many cases not only for a more natural look but also because it offers better durability compared to other dental materials.
- Laminate, also known as dental veneers, involves thin layers prepared from porcelain or composite resin and is primarily applied for the aesthetic functioning of teeth.
Dental laminates, mostly known by their other name—dental veneers—are thin shells, generally produced with porcelain or composite resin, cemented to the front surface of teeth in order to enhance their appearance. The material can be used for discoloration, chips, cracks, or small misalignment of the teeth. They bring both natural appearance and strength, which are the key to providing perfect smiles for every dental individual. - High resistance to wear makes zirconium restorations more useful for teeth under great chewing forces.
- Dental laminate is brittle when compared to Zirconium, and hence chipping or cracking may occur if more pressure is applied.
Use or application
- Zirconium is utilized for crowns and bridges because they are utilized more with molars and premolars that require extra chewing force.
- Dental laminate is primarily utilized for cosmetic purposes like enhancing the appearance of a front tooth by overlaying discoloration or stain on teeth or to hide small flaws on them.
Zirconium and Laminate Tooth Preparation
- Zirconium restorations are thick and strong and require more tooth preparation, but they exhibit brilliant long-term fitting and functioning;
- Minimal tooth reduction is needed with the application of dental laminate, hence a quite conservative smile enhancement option;
Basically, zirconium is preferred because of its strength and is hence used for functional restorations, and laminate is preferred because of its cosmetic advantages and hence used primarily for beautification purposes in anteriors.
In general, minimal tooth reduction is required for the application of dental laminate, thus making it a very conservative option for smile enhancement.
Basically, zirconium is used in lieu of its strength and durability purposes for functional restorations, while laminate is used with a view to aesthetics, principally for improving the cosmetic appearance of anterior teeth.
