Investigating the effectiveness of ceramic materials, particularly zirconium oxide, and the advantages the white metal holds over traditional materials used in dentistry

The use of ceramic materials in dentistry holds several advantages. These materials have a higher light permeability, which reduces the visibility of the prosthetic thereby improving the aesthetic appeal. Plus, they have a higher ‘biocompatibility than traditional metal materials,’ says Uno, meaning there are less issues with allergies and other adverse reactions. ‘Among the ceramics available,’ explains Uno ‘zirconium oxide, sometimes called white metal, is now being used as brackets for orthodontic braces, zirconia all-ceramic crowns, zirconia crowns, zirconia bridges, dental implant abutments and as a material it is capable of achieving aesthetic and strength compatibility.’ These material properties, along with recent improvements to computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques, allow zirconium oxide devices to be applied as a single body and according to Uno: ‘zirconium oxide now contributes to metal-free dental treatment and has become an indispensable material to meet patient’s needs.’ While white metal is a great replacement for true metals, it still needs to be coupled with other materials, like porcelain, and it must be able to bond with the dental cements and resins. Along with improving coupling and adhesion properties, Uno and his team of collaborators are also experimenting with new ways to improve the strength of ceramic prosthetics. Before this exciting new material can truly take hold in the mouths of those who need it, these important challenges must first be overcome.