Classification of dental zirconia blocks

Dental zirconia block, as a high performance dental repair material, has excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility, and is widely used in dental crowns, dental Bridges and other restorations. According to different classification standards, dental zirconia blocks can be divided into many types. The following is a detailed introduction to the classification of dental zirconia blocks:

First, according to the crystal phase composition and performance classification

According to the crystal phase composition and properties of zirconia, dental zirconia blocks can be divided into four generations:

First generation zirconia:

Features: The tetragonal phase zirconia (3Y-TZP) is the main crystalline phase, and an appropriate amount of alumina is added as the flux. It has good mechanical properties and strength, but the light transmission is relatively poor.

Application: Mainly used in the restoration of all zirconia crown bridge in the posterior tooth area.

Representative products: Lava Frame (3M ESPE), KaVo Everest ZH (KaVo Dental), etc.

Second generation zirconia:

Features: By reducing the amount of alumina flux and appropriately increasing the sintering temperature, zirconia can basically achieve densification and sintering, and improve the semi-permeability. It maintains high strength and high toughness and is known as "high strength zirconia".

Application: It is suitable for making all zirconia crown and bridge of rear teeth, and can also be used for all porcelain bottom crown of front teeth and multi-unit bridge of front and rear teeth.

Representative products: Prettau Zirconia (PRT), Bruxzir Zirconia BRX.

Third generation zirconia:

Features: Adding more stabilizer yttrium oxide, so that the cubic phase zirconia grain content increased, the light transmission has been greatly improved, known as "high permeability zirconia". But the strength and toughness have decreased.

Application: It is mainly used for the restoration of the single crown, bridge and veneer of the front teeth.

Representative products: Katana High Translucent KAT, IPSe.max Zir CADMT, etc.

Fourth generation zirconia:

Features: Further increase the content of the stabilizer yttrium oxide, cubic phase zirconia crystal into the main crystalline phase, semi-permeability is very good, known as "super transparent zirconia". But the strength and toughness are relatively low.

Application: Mainly used for the restoration of aesthetic areas with high requirements for light transmission.

Note: Since the specific products and applications of the fourth generation zirconia may still be evolving and updated, only general descriptions are provided here.

Second, according to other classification standards

In addition to classification by crystal phase composition and performance, dental zirconia blocks can also be classified according to other criteria, such as shape, size, use, etc. However, it should be noted that these classification standards may vary from different manufacturers or research institutions, so it is necessary to choose according to the specific situation in practical application.

Sum up

Dental zirconia block, as a high performance dental restorative material, has experienced many generations of development and improvement in crystal phase composition and properties. Different generations of zirconia blocks have different characteristics and scope of application, which can meet the repair needs of different patients. When selecting dental zirconia blocks, comprehensive consideration should be made according to the specific situation and repair needs of patients.