KeywordsPMMA vs zirconiaPMMA temporary crownzirconia final restorationdental temporary materialCAD/CAM restoration choice
"Zirconia beats PMMA" is only true for the final restoration. For provisionals, the opposite is often smarter.
Two different jobs
Zirconia delivers 900–1200 MPa flexural strength and permanent aesthetics; PMMA delivers fast, cheap, tissue-friendly temporisation at 60–90 MPa. Using zirconia for a 2-week provisional wastes a £20–40 blank on a part you will throw away.
Quick comparison
| PMMA provisional | Zirconia final | |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 60–90 MPa | 900–1200 MPa |
| Best for | Temp <6 mo | Permanent |
| Cost / unit | Low | High |
Keep zirconia for the definitive crown via our zirconia range, and PMMA for the provisional stage.
Decision matrix
| Factor | PMMA | Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Single provisional | Best | Overkill |
| Final posterior | No | Yes |
| Chairside adjust | Easy | Needs diamond |
| Cost per unit | Low | High |
For a long-span temporary bridge, milled PMMA holds the arch shape cheaply; convert to zirconia only at the final stage.