Dental Lab Products-2010-11-01

What is the average time for a porcelain buildup? With all the studies and articles I have read throughout the years, I can honestly say “who knows.” I developed my No Cut Back Technique more than 20 years ago and have taught this technique throughout the United States at various dental conventions. This technique is designed to increase production and at the same time allow the ceramist to produce a much more esthetic restoration.

November 2010 | Dental Lab Products

  Fewer than half of the respondents to the October 2010 DPR Implant Survey said they are currently placing implants, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be up to date on implant treatments and have a surgical partner in mind so they can offer implants as an option to their patients.

Laboratory ceramists and their dentists often are faced with restorative cases that demand the use of a singular material capable of simultaneously providing conservative esthetics and sufficient functional strength. Lithium disilicate is increasingly being used in clinical situations demanding the highest physical and optical characteristics.

We sometimes struggle to match a patient’s tissue color. The tough connective gingiva, which lines the base of the teeth, is part of the lining of the mouth. Not only does it surround the teeth, it also produces a seal. Unlike the soft tissue linings of the lips and cheeks, most of this gingiva is tightly bound to the underlying bone, which aids in resistance of the chafing of food as it’s chewed.

Photo: RubberBall Productions/Getty Images

The surface texture of laboratory-manufactured restorations is an important aspect in esthetic dentistry. Texture (micro-geography) often is neglected by laboratory technicians who create unnecessary translucent effects and artificial cracks during the porcelain layering.

November 2010 | Dental Lab Products

November 2010 | Dental Lab Products