What influences your decision when choosing ceramics?

What are the main ceramics nowadays—and do porcelain-fused-to-metal still have a place in dentistry?

Are the protocols different for various types of ceramics and crown materials?

How important is rubber dam isolation, and is a split dam good enough?

In this Back to Basics Protrusive episode, Jaz teams up again with Emma Hutchison, ‘the Protrusive Student’, to break down these critical questions and simplify the world of ceramics. From decision-making frameworks to practical rubber dam tips, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your practice.

Whether you're a student navigating the foundations or a seasoned clinician revisiting the essentials, this discussion offers a fresh, evidence-based perspective on mastering ceramics in dentistry.

https://youtu.be/z4a8Hv6peVU

Watch PS013 on Youtube

Key Takeaways:

Understanding the role of metal ceramic crowns is crucial in modern dentistry.

Monolithic ceramics are preferred for posterior restorations due to their strength.

Layered ceramics can enhance aesthetics but may compromise strength.

Proper crown preparation is essential for successful restorations.

Communication with lab technicians is vital for successful bonding.

The choice of ceramic material largely depends on the amount of enamel available.

Following manufacturer protocols is key to achieving optimal results.

Bruxism patients require careful consideration in material selection.

Rubber dam isolation is crucial for predictable bonding.

Digital scanning requires more aggressive tissue management.

Impressions are still valuable, but digital methods are advancing.

Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!

Highlights for this episode:

03:52 Emma's Exam Experience

07:28 Feedback on Previous Episode

08:00 Discussion on Ceramics in Dentistry

10:51 Practical Applications and Material Choices

19:45 Monolithic vs. Layered Ceramics

24:18 Exploring Milled Cobalt Chromes and Gold Crowns

26:14 Challenges in Fitting Restorations and Bonding Techniques

30:03 Rubber Dam Techniques and Benefits

37:01  Intraoral Scanners vs. Traditional Impressions

40:14 Effective Communication with Lab Technicians

44:25 Conclusion and Future Plans

This episode is eligible for 0.75 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcomes B and C.

AGD Subject Code: 010 BASIC SCIENCE (Dental materials)

Dentists will be able to -

Identify the suitability of ceramics based on their strength, aesthetics, and application.

Highlight the importance of proper crown preparation and manufacturer protocols for optimal results.

Emphasize the importance of rubber dam isolation and compare the benefits and challenges of analog impressions versus digital scanning.

If you love this episode, make sure to watch Composite vs Ceramic with Dr Chris Orr – PDP030 and make sure to read the Protrusive Notes! 

Click below for full episode transcript:

Teaser: I do not place lithium disilicate and I cement it. So for me, the way my mind works is if I'm cementing and not bonding, if I'm cementing just using a GIC based cement, so I'm not relying on enamel for adhesion, why would I use lithium disilicate? Using lithium disilicate posteriorly and bonding it, excellent strength, good, it's going to be fine, as long as you give it enough thickness, 1.5-2mm, you're golden, okay.

Teaser:If you don't respect the thickness, or if you use cement and you don't bond it, you're going to really compromise on the strength, you're not going to get the high strength. So therefore, the same material, lithium disilicate, cemented is a completely different ceramic to the same ceramic lithium disilicate, bonded.

You need to know your material and the correct protocol for your material. You're not supposed to air abrade lithium disilicate.