What is Zirconia?
Zirconia, classified as a member of the titanium family, has emerged as a promising alternative material for these prostheses. Its potential to address the durability issues associated with traditional prostheses is second to none. The study reveals that the one-piece complete arch fixed implant-supported zirconia prostheses, primarily monolithic with veneered porcelain restricted to the gingival region, exhibited excellent survival rates. The first-year interval survival rate was 99.8%, and the cumulative 5-year survival rate was 99.3%. Complication rates related to fractures and technical issues were minimal.
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When a patient needs full-arch tooth replacement with dental implants, the treatment plan depends on factors like bone quality, smile aesthetics, and more. Treatment planning involves a comprehensive patient evaluation, including CBCT scans, to assess the condition and choose the appropriate treatment
A zirconia, implant-supported, screw-retained bridge is superior to traditional denture materials. This choice offers advantages like retrievability, aesthetics, strength, and reduced susceptibility to chipping. Zirconia bridges have a proven track record for success.
Other alternatives like acrylic hybrid bridges and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) bridges have drawbacks, including chipping and difficulty in repair. Zirconia screw-retained implant restorations are fabricated through CAD/CAM technology, ensuring precision and reducing casting distortion issues. They also offer improved plaque control and reduced risk of peri-implantitis.
Presenting treatment options, sequencing, and financial aspects to the patient is crucial for informed consent. Provisionalization during implant integration can be immediate loading, 2-stage, or utilizing natural teeth, depending on various factors.
The retrospective study conducted by Avinash S. Bidra, BDS, MS, Michael Tischler, DDS, and Claudia Patch, DMD, focuses on the survival outcomes of 2039 one-piece complete arch fixed implant-supported zirconia prostheses over a 5-year period.
These zirconia dentures are alternatives to traditional metal-acrylic resin or metal-ceramic prostheses for patients with tooth loss. Conventionally made dental prostheses are known for their need for regular maintenance and poor durability, creating inconvenience and increased costs for both patients and clinicians.
The study's main takeaway revealed that fixed implant-supported zirconia dentures are a sustainable and reliable option for patients suffering from tooth loss. Prostheses crafted with durable zirconia offer patients an excellent replacement for traditional implant-supported dentures with low complication rates.
According to this study, the use of zirconia prostheses over the use of traditional metal-acrylic resin or metal-ceramic offers several considerable advantages. Some advantages include reduced laboratory costs, superior strength and durability, pleasing aesthetics, and biocompatibility. However, the study also acknowledges limitations. The short-term nature of the research has shown the need for further long-term clinical studies to provide more thorough insights into the material's extended performance.