Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
and computer-aided-manufacturing (CAM) processes has strongly
influenced the development of dental ceramics since the 1990s,
allowing the introduction of high-strength polycrystalline ceramics
such as pure alumina and zirconia. These systems provide customized
frameworks for dental prostheses by milling out of ceramic blocks.
Globally, there is a clear economizing trend to replace hand-
craftsmanship with industrial production, even for the veneering
process, companies now promoting monolithic restorations, which are
no longer veneered and are simply tinted and glazed. Today, dentists
can either order prostheses from a dental technician or directly from a
big company or even buy CAD-CAM systems designed for
dental offices, which allow them to manufacture the prostheses
themselves.
Figure 9.1.
Section through a porcelain-fused-to-metal
versus an all-ceramic crown
Figure 9.2.
All-ceramic crown on a central incisor: a) tooth preparation;
b) zirconia framework; c) final restoration, with the veneer layer
