PMMA vs Zirconia: Choosing the Right Full Arch Prosthesis Material
Understanding the Materials
When it comes to full-arch dental implants, patients are often presented with two primary choices for their final prosthesis: PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) and zirconia. Historically, zirconia has been seen as the gold standard due to its exceptional strength and durability, while PMMA has often been dismissed as a temporary solution. But at Smileloc, we're changing the narrative.
Related Reading: Learn about the complete implant process in our real-life guide , or compare all treatment options in our decision guide
The PMMA Difference at Smileloc
Unlike many practices that use low-cost PMMA pucks, we partner with Ivoclar, a global leader in dental material innovation. Our final prosthetics are milled from Ivotion twotone pucks, which deliver:
- Natural color gradation without the need for external staining or glazing
- Long-term color stability for a vibrant smile
- Superior wear properties for lifetime durability
This isn't the PMMA of yesterday—it's a high-performance, esthetic, and biocompatible material designed for comfort, longevity, and beauty.
PMMA vs. Zirconia: Comparing the Benefits
| Feature | PMMA (Ivotion) | Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | High impact resistance | Extremely strong |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
| Feel | Natural teeth-on-teeth feeling | Harder surface |
Not All PMMA Is Created Equal
The dental industry is flooded with low-cost PMMA options that truly are better suited for temporary use. Some providers cut costs by using cheap, monolayer pucks and pass them off as long-term solutions. These often discolor, stain, or fracture over time— reinforcing the false notion that PMMA can’t be permanent.
At Smileloc, we exclusively use premium Ivotion materials backed by our limited lifetime warranty. We're confident in the quality because we've seen the long-term results firsthand.
One Arch or Both? Material Matters
If you’re only replacing one arch, PMMA may be the better choice due to its softer nature. Zirconia opposing natural teeth can lead to wear. On the other hand, if you’re replacing both arches, either material works well—but many patients still choose PMMA for its:
- More natural "teeth-on-teeth" feeling
- Lighter weight
- Comfort while chewing and talking
Final Thoughts
Zirconia and PMMA both have a place in modern implant dentistry—but choosing between them isn’t about which material is stronger on paper. It’s about what feels right in your mouth, what looks best in your smile, and most importantly, what’s built to last.
At Smileloc, we offer both PMMA and zirconia finals because we believe our patients deserve options—without compromise. Every material we use is premium, and every smile we build is designed to last a lifetime.