The advantages of nano-sized dental zirconia blocks

The advantages of nano-sized dental zirconia blocks

Dental zirconia blocks with nanoscale particle size have significant advantages in the field of dental restoration, mainly reflected in the following aspects:

1. Excellent mechanical properties

High strength and high toughness

Nanoscale zirconia particles have a higher specific surface area and surface energy, which can promote densification and reduce material defects during the sintering process. Studies show that the flexural strength of nano-zirconia can reach 1-2 GPa and the fracture toughness can reach 10-15 MPa·m¹/², which are significantly higher than those of traditional zirconia materials.

Anti-wear performance

The hardness and wear resistance of nano-zirconia are superior to those of traditional ceramic materials. It can withstand the long-term chewing pressure in the oral cavity and reduce the risk of wear and fracture of the prosthesis.

2. Outstanding aesthetic effect

High transparency and optical compatibility

The grain size of nano-scale zirconia is very small (usually less than 100 nm), which can significantly reduce light scattering and improve the light transmittance of the material. Its refractive index is close to that of natural teeth and can simulate the optical properties of natural teeth, making the restoration present a more realistic appearance under natural light.

Color stability

The base crown color of nano-zirconia ceramics is tooth white. It will not turn black, dark or bluish after long-term use, solving the aesthetic problem of metal-ceramic crowns.

3. Good biocompatibility

Non-toxic and histocompatible

Nanometer zirconia has excellent biocompatibility, with high compatibility with oral tissues and mucous membranes. It will not cause allergic reactions or tissue rejection reactions and is suitable for long-term implantation in the oral environment.

Low irritation and corrosion resistance

Nanometer zirconia is non-irritating to the gums, resistant to acid and alkali corrosion, and can effectively resist chemical erosion in the oral cavity, thereby extending the service life of the restoration.

4. Optimized processing performance

Reduce the sintering temperature

The sintering temperature of nano-scale zirconia powder is approximately 150℃ lower than that of ordinary powder, which can reduce energy consumption and lower the risk of material deformation.

Improve processing accuracy

The nanoscale particle size enables the material to have higher precision and edge fit in CAD/CAM processing, ensuring the fit between the restoration and the tooth and reducing the occurrence of secondary dental caries.

5. Clinical application advantages

Adapt to complex repair requirements

Nanometer zirconia blocks can be used to fabricate single crowns, multi-unit Bridges, implant abutments, etc., meeting the dual demands of aesthetic restoration of anterior teeth and functional restoration of posterior teeth.

Reduce complications

Its high strength and toughness can reduce the risk of prosthesis rupture or detachment, and decrease the number of follow-up visits for patients and the frequency of prosthesis replacement.

6. Long-term stability

Anti-aging performance

Nanometer zirconia materials exhibit excellent resistance to hydrothermal aging and mechanical fatigue in the oral environment, and can maintain mechanical properties and aesthetic effects for a long time.

Low radioactivity

Nanometer zirconia does not block X-rays. When patients undergo head X-rays, CT or magnetic resonance imaging examinations, there is no need to remove the prosthesis, which is convenient for clinical diagnosis.

7. Environmental Protection and Safety

No metallic components

Nanometer zirconia is an all-ceramic material without any metal components, which avoids the discoloration of the gums or allergic reactions caused by the release of metal ions, and eliminates the metallic odor at the same time.

Sustainability

The production process of nano-zirconia materials is relatively environmentally friendly, and its high durability reduces material waste, which is in line with the sustainable development trend of modern dental materials.

Summary

Dental zirconia blocks with nanoscale particle size have become ideal materials in the field of modern dental restoration due to their excellent mechanical properties, aesthetic effects, biocompatibility and processing performance. Its high transparency, high strength and good tissue compatibility make it perform well in single crown, bridge and implant restoration, providing patients with a solution that combines functionality and aesthetics. With the continuous advancement of technology, the application prospects of nano-zirconia in the dental field will be even broader.