At TAG Dental Clinic in Austin 18, JB, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We use high-resolution digital 2D X-rays to assess your tooth's structure before recommending a specific material.
1. Composite Resin: The Conservative ChoiceThink of composite as a high-tech "liquid tooth" that we harden with light.
Porcelain mimics the translucency of natural enamel perfectly.
Zirconia is an incredibly tough, tooth-colored ceramic.
A common misconception is that the "hardest" material is the best. However, if a restoration is harder than your natural enamel, it can act like sandpaper, wearing down the healthy teeth on the opposite jaw.
At TAG Dental, we prioritize Balanced Wear. We choose materials that "play nice" with your existing teeth. We also ensure that the fit is perfect using digital 2D X-rays, which provide the high-contrast detail necessary to see how the material sits against your natural tooth structure.
The "hidden" cost of cheap dental materials is gum irritation. High-quality materials like Zirconia and E-max are biocompatible, meaning your body doesn't treat them as a "foreign object." This prevents the "black line" often seen at the gum line of older, metal-based crowns and keeps your breath fresher by reducing bacterial buildup.
It is very rare with modern ceramics like Zirconia and Porcelain, which is why we prefer them over older metal-alloy crowns.
2. How long will these materials last?With proper care—including brushing 3 times a day—Zirconia and Porcelain can last 10–15 years or more.
3. Does TAG Dental use 3D X-rays to pick materials?We find that digital 2D X-rays offer superior clarity for checking the "seal" of a material against the tooth, which is the most important factor for longevity.
4. Why do you recommend brushing 3 times a day?Even the best material can fail if bacteria seep underneath it. Brushing after lunch is the "secret weapon" for material longevity.
5. Is Zirconia better than Porcelain?Neither is "better." Zirconia is better for strength; Porcelain is better for beauty. We often use a "layered" approach to get the best of both.
6. Does the material affect how the sedation works?No. Whether you are getting a filling or a crown, if you need sedation, it is managed by a medical doctor at our clinic for your safety.
7. Why don't you offer laughing gas?We prioritize medical-grade safety. For patients who need help relaxing during restorative work, MD-supervised sedation is a more controlled and safe alternative.
8. Can I whiten a crown or filling?No. Whitening only works on natural teeth. This is why we match the material to your desired shade before placement.
9. Why is my old crown showing a dark line at the gums?That is usually a "Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal" crown. We replace those with metal-free Zirconia for a more natural look.
10. Do back teeth always need Zirconia?Not always, but for patients who grind their teeth, it is the safest choice to prevent fractures.
11. Is composite cheaper than porcelain?Yes, because it is handcrafted in the chair rather than made in a laboratory.
12. Will my new crown feel different?It might feel "smoother" than a natural tooth, but your bite should feel identical within a few days.
13. Does coffee stain Zirconia?No, Zirconia and Porcelain are highly resistant to staining, unlike natural enamel and composite resin.
14. What happens if a material chips?Minor chips can often be smoothed down; larger fractures usually require a replacement of the restoration.
15. Is modern dentistry safer than it used to be?Yes. Between biocompatible materials, low-radiation 2D X-rays, and MD-led sedation, the process is safer than ever.
16. How do I choose the right material for my budget?During your consultation in JB, we provide a "Good, Better, Best" breakdown based on your clinical needs and goals.
Choosing the right material is a blend of art and engineering. At TAG Dental Clinic, Austin 18, JB, we combine the latest material science with a gentle, patient-centered approach.
Ready to find the perfect fit for your smile?