Anterior Case Study: Units 6-11, Procera Zirconia crowns

Filed under | Case Studies

Date Posted: Oct 03, 2008

It is evident that cosmetic dentistry is becoming more of a priority for millions of Americans. In most aesthetic cases, and in this instance, usually prescribed for units six through eleven is an all-ceramic prosthesis. A number of requirements are considered when choosing all-ceramic crowns including strength, availability of space, material type, and esthetic demands.

There are many benefits to using metal free restorations such as the elimination of gray margins and an excellent marginal fit, but most importantly that they have the ability to produce the most pleasing results for the patients. Another benefit to the dentist is that preparation and cementing techniques for many all-ceramic systems are similar to that of a traditional PFM crown or bridge.

When preparing for a cosmetic case such as this one it is important to include certain elements in order for the crowns to reveal ultimate results. In any multiple unit aesthetic case a diagnostic wax up is a helpful communication tool in both the case design and patient presentation. It allows for any necessary preparation adjustments and also for the provisionals to be made. Pre-op photographs and pre-op models are another useful visual that can help during the fabrication process.

A stumpf shade should be listed on the prescription so that the proper materials and shades can be chosen for the crowns. Other things that should be included on the Rx are age and gender so that the design of the restorations is appropriate for the patient.

After an accurate impression is taken and sent to the dental lab, the solid and working models are poured. Dental lab CAD/CAM technology is used to scan each die from the master cast where it relays the spatial relationship of the size and shape of the die. This software enables the dental lab tech to set the margin and design a coping with the proper uniform thickness that is required for adequate porcelain buildup. The laboratory technician can also choose from four different shade colors of zirconia before approving the design for milling.

The Procera zirconia copings that are used in this case offer superior aesthetics as well as strength, which are comparable, if not better than, traditional PFM dental restorations. The all-ceramic restoration will display a positive tissue response and allow light to transmit directly through the porcelain. When returned to the dental lab the zirconia copings are layered with porcelain and then glazed and also stained if needed. The all-ceramic crowns are now ready to be checked out and sent to the dentist’s office to be seated.

Smile Makeover Case Study Photos

Diagnostic Wax Up

A cast of the wax up is recovered from an impression

After the lab receives the impressions a diagnostic wax up is designed and sent back to the doctor. A cast of the wax up is recovered from an impression and provisional restorations are fabricated.

Procera Forte Scan

The scan is sent electronically, the copings are milled

After the master cast is poured the Procera Forte individually scans each die. The scan is sent electronically to New Jersey where the copings are milled.