Choosing the right dental material is more than just about appearance — it’s about strength, safety, and longevity. Whether you're getting a filling, crown, or bridge, your dentist considers several factors when selecting a material that will function well in your mouth and last for years.
In this blog, we’ll explore commonly used dental materials like resin composites, ceramics, zirconia, and bioactive materials — and what current research says about their performance.
What Makes a Good Dental Material?
An ideal dental material should be:
Biocompatible – Safe for surrounding tissues and non-toxic
Strong – Able to withstand chewing forces
Aesthetic – Matches natural tooth color and translucency
Durable – Resists wear and fracture over time
Bondable – Sticks well to natural teeth or cement
Common Dental Materials Explained
🔹 Resin Composites
Used for fillings and cosmetic repairs, resin composites are tooth-colored and ideal for small to moderate restorations.
Pros: Aesthetic, minimally invasive, easy to apply
Cons: Prone to wear and staining over time
Research Insight: Clinical trials show resin composites perform well in anterior teeth but may wear faster in molars under heavy pressure.
🔹 Ceramics (Porcelain)
Used in crowns, veneers, and bridges, ceramics offer a natural appearance and good durability.
Pros: Excellent aesthetics, stain resistance
Cons: Brittle under extreme force
Research Insight: Studies show ceramic crowns have high survival rates (~95% over 10 years) in properly selected cases.
🔹 Zirconia
A newer, high-strength ceramic, zirconia is used in crowns and bridges, particularly in back teeth where durability is essential.
Pros: Very strong, biocompatible, good aesthetics
Cons: Can be opaque compared to natural enamel
Research Insight: Zirconia is shown to outperform porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) in both strength and patient satisfaction.
🔹 Bioactive Materials
These materials actively interact with the body to support healing or remineralization. Common in pediatric fillings and some liners under restorations.
Pros: Promote remineralization, reduce sensitivity, antibacterial
Cons: Less durable for large fillings
Research Insight: Bioactive glass and calcium silicate-based materials are being tested in fillings and root treatments with promising results.
How Dentists Choose the Right Material
Your dentist considers:
Tooth location and function
Size of the restoration
Aesthetic expectations
Bite pressure
Patient allergies or sensitivities
Longevity and maintenance
Material Matters in Crowns and Bridges
A 2023 comparative clinical review found:
Zirconia crowns show greater fracture resistance than ceramic or metal-ceramic options.
Resin composites perform best in small cavities and for aesthetics, but have higher wear in stress-bearing areas.
Bioactive cements may enhance crown retention and gum health but are still under long-term study.
Final Thoughts
Dental materials have come a long way — and ongoing research continues to improve their strength, beauty, and safety. Whether you're restoring one tooth or multiple, discussing material options with your dentist ensures the best outcome for your oral health and lifestyle.
Have questions about which material is right for you?
Book a consultation today and let us help you make an informed choice.