All-ceramic restorations are the most commonly placed restorations in America. But there is still a large amount of confusion as to the options and features of the various materials and styles of crown fabrication. The purpose of this article will be to lay out the basic options available in materials and restoration styles, and I will also touch on some of the best applications for the various restoration categories within all-ceramic restorations.

The goal of any dental restoration is so well stated by Dr. Newton Fahl - “The primary goal of either monolithic or layered restorations is to reintegrate form, function, and esthetics with minimal damage and maximum longevity to the remaining natural dentition. Today’s state-of-the-art technology available in both realms is capable of yielding from above average to excellent esthetic results. The clinical choice between one or the other can depend on several factors that include strength and esthetics and whether restoring the anterior or posterior segments.”

Compendium, February 2014. Volume 35, Issue 2.