Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-13 Origin: Site
The use of zirconia blocks in the base of complete dentures has a relatively high adaptability, but a comprehensive assessment needs to be conducted in combination with specific clinical requirements and the patient's condition.
First, the advantages of zirconia blocks as the base material for complete dentures
Excellent mechanical properties
The flexural strength of zirconia material can reach 900-1200 MPa, and its fracture toughness is 5-10 MPa·m¹/², which is much higher than that of traditional resin-based supports (with a flexural strength of about 50-80 MPa). It can withstand greater bite force and reduce the risk of fracture of the restoration.
It has high hardness and strong wear resistance, making it suitable for long-term use. It is especially suitable for the durability requirements of dentures for patients with edentulous jaws.
The aesthetic effect is prominent.
Zirconia base teeth can achieve a color and transparency similar to natural teeth through multi-layer staining technology, avoiding the problem of black lines on the gums caused by traditional metal base teeth and enhancing patients' aesthetic satisfaction.
It has good light transmission and can simulate the optical effect of natural tooth enamel, making the restoration more natural and realistic.
Excellent biocompatibility
Zirconia material has high biological inertness, does not cause tissue inflammation or allergic reactions, and is non-irritating to gingival tissue, making it suitable for long-term implantation.
It has strong chemical stability, is corrosion-resistant and wear-resistant, and is not easy to degrade or discolor in the oral environment.
Digital processing compatibility
Zirconia base supports are suitable for CAD/CAM cutting and 3D printing technologies, enabling high-precision repair production. They have excellent edge fit and reduce the risk of bacterial invasion.
The processing procedure does not require masking materials, simplifies the operation process and improves the repair efficiency.
Second, the limitations of zirconia substrates
High cost
The price of zirconia materials is significantly higher than that of traditional resin or metal-based trays, which may increase the economic burden on patients.
The production process is complex, requiring professional equipment and technicians, which further increases the cost.
Weight and Comfort
Zirconia has a relatively high density (about 6 g/cm³), and the base of a full denture may be heavy, affecting the wearing comfort of patients, especially for those with severe alveolar ridge resorption.
The weight needs to be reduced through optimized design (such as reducing the thickness and adopting a hollow structure), but it may affect the strength.
Brittleness risk
Although zirconia has better toughness than traditional ceramics, there is still a risk of brittle fracture, especially at the edge of the base or in areas where force is concentrated.
The impact resistance needs to be enhanced through edge reinforcement design, adding metal brackets and other means.
Third, clinical compatibility suggestions
Patient choice
Applicable population: Patients with high aesthetic requirements, strong bite force, and good alveolar ridge conditions; Or patients who are allergic to metals and cannot tolerate traditional base materials.
Groups with caution: Patients with severe alveolar ridge resorption, sensitive oral mucosa, and limited economic conditions.
Design optimization
Hollow structure: Hollow base supports are fabricated through 3D printing technology to reduce weight while maintaining strength.
Metal reinforcement: Embedding metal mesh or titanium alloy brackets in key force-bearing areas (such as the cusp zone) to enhance flexural resistance.
Edge optimization: A rounded and blunt edge design is adopted to reduce stress concentration and lower the risk of porcelain chipping.
Processing technology
Select a high-precision CAD/CAM system to ensure a complete fit between the abutment and the alveolar ridge shape, reducing protrusions and compression.
Control the sintering temperature and time to prevent the deterioration of zirconia performance.
Fourth, alternative solutions and comprehensive assessment
Pure titanium-based support
Advantages: Light weight, good biocompatibility, and low cost.
Disadvantages: Poor aesthetic appeal and prone to black lines on the gums.
Applicable scenarios: Patients who have low aesthetic requirements and limited economic conditions.
Resin-based support
Advantages: Low cost, light weight, and simple processing.
Disadvantages: Low strength, prone to wear and tear, and short service life.
Applicable scenarios: Short-term restoration or as a transitional denture.
Zirconia-resin composite base support
Combining the aesthetic and mechanical properties of zirconia with the lightness of resin, complementary advantages are achieved through a layered design.
It is suitable for patients who have high requirements for both aesthetics and comfort.
Fifth, Conclusion
The use of zirconia blocks in the base of complete dentures has significant advantages in mechanical properties, aesthetic effects and biocompatibility, but factors such as cost, weight and brittleness need to be comprehensively considered. In clinical applications, appropriate materials and design schemes should be selected based on the specific needs and conditions of patients. When necessary, composite structures or optimized processes can be adopted to achieve the best adaptability.