DENTAL MATERIALS

Dental materials – choosing the right material for the right indication

The material used for a filling, veneer, crown, bridge or implant restoration influences function, aesthetics, wear, repairability and long-term maintenance. At Fachzahnarztpraxis Dr. Gasser in Basel, material choice is based on the clinical indication rather than on a “one material fits all” philosophy.

1. Dental ceramics: zirconia and lithium disilicate

Typical indications: crowns, partial crowns, veneers, inlays/onlays, selected bridges and implant restorations.

Advantages: high colour stability, good tissue compatibility, strong aesthetic potential and excellent mechanical performance when the correct ceramic and design are chosen. Zirconia and lithium disilicate have different optical and mechanical properties, so they are not interchangeable in every situation.

2. Composite resin

Modern composite is particularly useful for conservative direct restorations, repairs and additive aesthetic corrections. It bonds adhesively to the tooth and can often be repaired rather than fully replaced. Compared with ceramic, it may show more wear or surface staining over time, depending on the site and load.

3. Titanium

Titanium is a long-established material for dental implants and implant components. It combines high strength with reliable osseointegration. Peri-implant inflammation is primarily a biological disease associated with biofilm and patient/local risk factors; it should not simply be attributed to the presence of titanium itself.

4. Fibre-reinforced and metal-based materials

Fibre-reinforced composites and metal alloys still have selected indications. Their use depends on available space, load, design, aesthetics and the ability to clean and maintain the restoration.

How we choose

• remaining tooth structure and defect size
• tooth position and bite forces
• aesthetic requirements
• bonding and preparation requirements
• periodontal and implant-tissue conditions
• repairability and expected maintenance
• documented allergies or material sensitivities where relevant

The goal is a restoration that is appropriate, maintainable and as tooth-preserving as possible. No dental material is completely free of limitations, and longevity depends on diagnosis, design, technique, hygiene and loading as well as on the material itself.

Frequently asked questions

Which material is the most biocompatible?
There is no universal answer. Dental ceramics and titanium have excellent clinical track records, while composite is indispensable for many conservative restorations. Individual allergy history and the clinical indication matter more than marketing labels.

How long does a ceramic restoration last?
Many ceramic restorations function for many years, but no fixed lifespan can be promised. Caries risk, bruxism, preparation design, bonding, hygiene and regular maintenance all influence survival.

Can dental materials cause allergies?
True reactions are uncommon but possible with some components. If there is a well-documented allergy, the material history is considered during planning.