The strongest and toughest ceramic materials currently used in dentistry are yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and lithium disilicate. YSZ is known for its high fracture strength and toughness, making it suitable for posterior prostheses, while lithium disilicate offers excellent strength and esthetics, making it ideal for both anterior and posterior restorations.
Yttria-stabilized Zirconia (YSZ): YSZ is characterized by its high thermal resistance, low thermal conductivity, chemical stability, and high fracture strength. It is a high-performance material with excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. The tetragonal form of zirconia, which is metastable at room temperature, can transform to monoclinic zirconia under external stresses such as sandblasting, grinding, and thermal aging. This transformation is associated with a 3 - 4% volume expansion that induces compressive stresses, which close the tips of any advancing cracks, preventing them from propagating further. This unique characteristic makes YSZ superior to other dental ceramics in terms of toughness and resistance to fracture.
Lithium Disilicate: Lithium disilicate ceramics are known for their high strength and esthetic properties, making them suitable for both anterior and posterior restorations. They are used in the construction of all-ceramic core crowns, where a high strength ceramic coping provides resistance against loading. The material is produced via computer-assisted design/computer-aided manufacture (CAD/CAM) systems, ensuring precision and accuracy in the manufacturing process. Lithium disilicate's combination of high fracture resistance, esthetics, and good accuracy of fit contributes to its clinical success and popularity in restorative dentistry.
Both YSZ and lithium disilicate represent significant advancements in dental ceramics, offering superior mechanical properties and esthetics compared to traditional materials. Their use in dentistry has expanded due to their ability to withstand the functional forces generated in the mouth cavity during chewing and other movements, ensuring longevity and patient satisfaction.
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