Composite vs. Porcelain: What You Need to Know By Dr. David Clark

By Dr. David J. Clark | April 2017

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This article explores the evolving role of composite restorations in modern dentistry and challenges the long-standing preference for porcelain crowns and veneers. Dr. David Clark highlights the Bioclear Method and injection overmolding, demonstrating how composite can offer superior aesthetics, durability, and conservative tooth preservation compared to traditional ceramic restorations.

Key Takeaways from the Article

Why Composite is Gaining Ground Over Porcelain

  • Traditional ceramic crowns require removing up to 72% of the tooth structure, leading to eventual structural failure.
  • Injection-molded monolithic composite restorations preserve more tooth structure and can be just as strong as lithium disilicate crowns.
  • Porcelain margins often cause gingival irritation, whereas composite’s ultra-thin margins (20-30μm) integrate better with soft tissue.

Case Studies: The Power of Composite Overmolding

Case 1: Composite vs. Porcelain for a Peg Lateral

  • A peg lateral incisor was restored using injection overmolding with composite.
  • The result: A smooth, porcelain-like appearance that remained stable even after 5 years.
  • Soft tissue health was superior compared to traditional porcelain restorations, which often create gingival irritation.

Case 2: The Problem

 with Crowns on Young Teeth

  • A patient with fractured central incisors had undergone multiple ceramic crowns over 20 years.
  • Each replacement required further tooth reduction, leaving little natural tooth structure remaining.
  • Solution: Composite overlays and Bioclear 360° veneers restored the teeth without additional removal of structure, preserving what remained.

Why Choose Composite Over Porcelain?

  • Minimally Invasive – No aggressive grinding of healthy tooth structure.
  • Aesthetic Longevity – Properly injected composites maintain color stability and high polish.
  • Stronger Than You Think – Monolithic composites have similar compressive strength to lithium disilicate crowns.
  • Less Risk of Future Tooth Loss – Avoids the cycle of continuous tooth reduction that leads to extractions.

The Bioclear 

360° Composite Veneer: A Game-Changer

  • A fully wraparound composite restoration that mimics the strength and appearance of porcelain.
  • No need for aggressive axial reduction, unlike traditional ceramic crowns.
  • Tight contact points and anatomical contours using Bioclear matrices create a seamless result.
  • Single-visit restorations without the need for temporary crowns or laboratory delays.

Conclusion

The dental industry has traditionally favored ceramic restorations, but modern composite techniques offer an equally durable and more conservative alternative. The Bioclear Method and injection overmolding enable dentists to create high-strength, aesthetic restorations while preserving natural tooth structure.

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