Written by Andrew Sedler
The versatility of zirconia restorations continues to expand with the development of new shades and translucencies. As a result, zirconia has improved significantly in recent years and is more closely resembling real dentition than ever before. In addition to its excellent aesthetic properties, zirconia also offers precision fits, strength, and durability. This restorative option offers a number of ways to improve success rates.
The biggest factor in achieving the best results with zirconia restorations is understanding the appropriate preparation design. Some universal requirements help to create the perfect zirconia preparation. Those requirements are as follows:
These general preparation guidelines are standard for most ceramic restorations. There are more specific requirements for zirconia restorations that must also be followed.
Increasingly, monolithic zirconia crowns provide an excellent material choice. As a result of grinding and clenching, these restorations are strong enough to withstand these forces. This is particularly true in patients suffering from bruxism or limited occlusal clearance.
To prepare for full contoured restorations, follow these steps:
Once the case is prepared, it is ready to be impressed and sent to Burbank Dental Lab for processing.
Zirconia restorations, as with other types of ceramic restorations, may require adjusting during insertion. When it comes to adjusting and polishing zirconia restorations, several great products can help.
To begin with, determine if a diamond is required for the adjustment. A diamond bur is only necessary when a significant adjustment is needed. Abrasive polishing wheels or points can be used if only minimal adjustment is required.
Following are some rules to follow if you determine that a diamond will be needed to accomplish the necessary adjustment:
Almost all abrasive companies sell diamonds specifically for zirconia adjustment, including Brasseler, Comet, Axis, and others.
It is essential to use a fine diamond bur suitable for zirconia restorations if adjustments are needed.
Zirconia can be micro fractured by too much heat or sparking during an aggressive reduction. Heat must be reduced as much as possible by using as little pressure as possible.
Keeping the restoration cool is also made easier by using water while adjusting.
When adjustments are made chair-side, it is easy to polish zirconia, creating an exceptionally smooth surface. It is important to have a highly polished surface on zirconia restorations.
Achieving an adequate surface polish requires the use of abrasives that have been designed to be used specifically for polishing zirconia. When using the correct instruments, achieving the desired polished surface is accomplished with less effort. Abrasive manufacturers have specialized products for zirconia, just like diamonds.
Polishing Zirconia involves a two-step process:
This procedure will deliver a very effective polish intra-orally in a very short period.
The preparation design of any restoration sets the foundation for the overall success of the case.
Following the parameters set forth by the material manufacturers helps to ensure the best fit, longevity, and esthetics for the restoration. Using time-tested techniques chairside will help make the inevitable adjustments smooth, effective, and fast.
To get help with your next case, click the blue icon along the bottom right-hand corner or call (800) 336-3053.
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Burbank Dental Lab has three new state-of-the-art Carbon M2 printers. We are very excited about the options that these cutting-edge printers will allow us to offer our dental clients. Here are some of the advantages that these printers will begin to deliver to you and your dental practice.
Carbon offers a highly dependable 3D manufacturing solution for many dental applications with its breakthrough Digital Light Synthesis™ technology, enabled by a wide range of dental materials.
Burbank Dental Lab has three new state-of-the-art Carbon M2 printers. We are very excited about the options that these cutting-edge printers will allow us to offer our dental clients. Here are some of the advantages that these printers will begin to deliver to you and your dental practice.
Carbon offers a highly dependable 3D manufacturing solution for many dental applications with its breakthrough Digital Light Synthesis™ technology, enabled by a wide range of dental materials.
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