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Porcelain fused to metal
The long-term reliability of PFM can hide metal abutments due to layering of opaque porcelain. Various gold alloy content alloys are available.
Porcelain-fused-to-zirconia
This metal-free option is strong, aesthetic and opaque enough to hide metal abutments beneath it.
IPS e.max®
Lithium disilicate offers superb aesthetics but has structural limitations. If used on metal abutment, opaquing is needed.
For optimal aesthetics anteriorly, IPS emax® should be placed over a zirconia abutment.
Ceramic-Composite Hybrids
(eg. Lava™ Ultimate CAD/CAM Restorative, CERAMAGE®)
These offer a more resilient material and cushion the implant against occlusal forces
Some ceramic-composite hybrids can be:
Hybrids can be readily repaired.
Fully milled zirconia
A high-strength metal-free material which is produced using a CAD/CAM process, allowing excellent marginal adaptation. Care with adjustment is required. Careful case selection is necessary to minimise wear of the opposing dentition.
Summary of Material Options
PFM | PFZ | FMZ | Resin / Hybrid Ceramics |
IPS e.max® | |
Strength | ✓ ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ ✓ | ✓ | ✓ ✓ |
Longevity | ✓ ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ |
Cushioning | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ ✓ ✓ | ✓ |
Cost | ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ |
Aesthetics | ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ | ✓ ✓ | ✓ ✓ ✓ |
Indications | Unlimited | Aesthetics Good Strength |
Strength | Cushioning / Less force transmitted to implant (material wears) |
Aesthetics |
Ability to be repaired intraorally | Limited | Limited | Limited but rarely needed | Excellent | Some but still limited |