Dikiy Maxim¹, Smirnov Ilya², Kuznetsova Anna³, Popov Aleksei⁴, Vasilieva Maria⁵, Mikhailov Artyom⁶, Sokolova Elena⁷, Orlov Nikita⁸
ABSTRACT:
Background: The continuous evolution of dental materials has transformed prosthetic dentistry, offering a wide array of options with enhanced esthetics, mechanical strength, and biocompatibility. Modern dental prostheses utilize diverse materials, including metal alloys, ceramics, polymers, and hybrid composites, each with unique physicochemical and clinical performance profiles. Comparative assessment of these materials is critical for optimizing longevity, functionality, and patient satisfaction in prosthodontic treatments. Methods and Results: This review provides a systematic comparison of contemporary dental prosthetic materials based on key parameters such as flexural strength, fracture resistance, wear behavior, esthetic properties, and resistance to aging and degradation in the oral environment. Zirconia-based ceramics demonstrate high strength and biocompatibility, but their brittleness and limited translucency pose design challenges. Lithium disilicate offers a balance between esthetics and mechanical integrity, making it ideal for anterior restorations. Metal-ceramic systems remain reliable for posterior load-bearing prostheses, though their esthetic limitations have led to a decline in use. Polymer-infiltrated ceramic networks and high-performance polymers such as PEEK show promise in lightweight, shock-absorbing applications, with good fatigue resistance. In vitro aging simulations and clinical follow-up studies highlight differences in long-term survival rates and material-specific failure modes. Surface treatments and bonding protocols also significantly affect performance and durability outcomes. Conclusion: The selection of dental prosthetic materials should be guided by an integrated understanding of their biochemical, mechanical, and esthetic characteristics. Advancements in material science, coupled with evidence-based clinical evaluation, are essential to improving prosthesis longevity and meeting the demands of modern restorative dentistry.