You’ve got to get a good understanding of the differences between porcelain vs zirconia implants before you decide which one’s right for you. It’s a big investment, and you want things to look good and last a long time.
At Elegant Edge Dentistry, we guide you through every option and help you understand exactly what you’re getting, so you can feel good about your choice of implant crown materials. Porcelain and zirconia both have their pros and cons, so here’s a guide on what you need to know to make the right decision.
What Are Porcelain Implant Crowns?
Porcelain dental implants have been around for years. They’re translucent ceramic, meaning they reflect light the same way your real teeth do, and they match the color of real teeth, too.
Porcelain’s a good choice if you’ve got a problem in the front of your mouth that needs fixing because it blends in so well you can hardly even tell it’s there, and the American Dental Association says it lasts 10 to 15 years if you take good care of it.
And if you’re a big tea or coffee drinker, porcelain’s good because it’s really stain-resistant, even more than your own teeth. But if you clench or grind your teeth, then you might want to opt for a stronger material that won’t chip as easily.
What Are Zirconia Implant Crowns?
Zirconia dental crowns use newer technology. Cubic zirconia is a kind of really strong crystal that doesn’t need a metal base, meaning if you clench or grind your teeth a lot, zirconia’s probably the right choice.
We lean toward zirconia for back molars; that’s where you’re doing most of your chewing. Newer layered zirconia looks a lot more natural than the older stuff, too. It typically holds up 15+ years, and it’s easy on your gums because it’s biocompatible.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Porcelain vs. Zirconia
Strength and Longevity
Zirconia’s the most durable of the two, so if you clench your jaw or grind your teeth at night, you’re less likely to end up with chips or fractures.
Cracking’s not as much of an issue with front teeth, so you’re probably safe going with porcelain, which looks more natural.
Both options tend to last longer than resin.
Color Matching and Natural Appearance
As you can see, porcelain looks more natural if you’re looking for cosmetic dental implants. It catches light just like real enamel, so it’s got more depth and dimension. Elegant Edge Dentistry does customized shades to match the rest of your teeth.
And even though zirconia’s not as translucent, modern versions have gotten a lot more natural, so the difference is unnoticeable once the crown is in place.
Cost Considerations
Zirconia can cost more than traditional porcelain crowns, not just because the material is more expensive, but because it needs specialized milling equipment. Just the same, it also lasts longer, so you’re making a really good investment.
We work with most major carriers and help you get maximum benefits. A lot of the time, folks can use financing options to make zirconia fit their budget.
Ideal Use Cases
Choose porcelain crowns for front teeth where you need a more natural, stain-free look.
Go with zirconia for molars and premolars that are responsible for chewing. It’s also smart if you’ve got bruxism or you play contact sports.
Tips for Maintaining Your Implant Crown
Caring for porcelain vs zirconia implants is pretty similar: Just brush your teeth two times a day (we recommend morning and night) with a soft brush and toothpaste, and floss around the crown the same way you do with the rest of your teeth.
Don’t chew on ice or hard candy or use your teeth as tools, and if you grind your teeth, wear a night guard. Plus, see Elegant Edge Dentistry every six months for routine cleanings and checkups.
Which Implant Crown Material Is Best for You?
The best dental crown material for you depends. When you come to Elegant Edge Dentistry, Dr. Mansour evaluates your bite and teeth and asks you what you’re expecting as far as appearances, and then he makes recommendations based on the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
If you need work done in the front and back of your mouth, you can probably do a combo of the two materials; so, porcelain for your front teeth, and zirconia for the back. We use really up-to-date imaging and digital planning tools to make sure everything fits the way it should and looks natural when it’s done. Plus, we make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.
We’ll walk you through the different material options and help you decide what’s going to work best for you. We’ve got flexible hours, including evenings, and we’re welcoming new patients. Contact us for a free consult.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is stronger: porcelain or zirconia implant crowns?
Zirconia is a better choice for back teeth and for patients with bruxism.
Which implant crown material looks most natural?
Porcelain looks more natural, though modern layered zirconia has gotten a lot better, so it still looks good.
Are zirconia crowns more expensive than porcelain crowns?
The cost of zirconia is usually higher, but it’s pretty cost-effective considering how long it lasts.
How long do porcelain and zirconia implant crowns last?
You can usually get a solid 10–15 years out of porcelain if you take good care of it, and zirconia can last even longer since it’s tougher and more durable.
Can I switch my existing crown from porcelain to zirconia?
You can for sure switch out an old porcelain crown for zirconia if it’s time. Before we do anything, we’ll take a look at the implant you’ve got now, the teeth around it, and how your gums are doing to make sure everything’s good to move forward.
