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Refractory Veneers – Preserving the Art of Hand-Made Aesthetics

Introduction: While zirconia has rapidly become the leading material for strength, predictability, and CAD/CAM efficiency, refractory feldspathic veneers continue to offer unique advantages in specific situations. They are most valuable in the aesthetic zone, where preserving natural tooth structure and achieving the highest level of colour control are paramount. This technique is particularly suited to cases requiring ultra-thin restorations, minimal preparation, or where stump shade plays a critical role in the final outcome. It is also considered when the treating clinician’s philosophy favours conservative approaches that respect the original tooth anatomy. Unlike modern digital workflows, refractory feldspathic veneers are fabricated entirely by hand. Every layer is carefully built and customised, requiring a high degree of skill and artistry. For this reason, the technique...

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Fusion of Modern and Ancient: Feldspathic/Refractory Veneers using Zirconia Porcelain

As a young technician over a decade ago, I searched for ways of mastering the refractory veneer technique to achieve the ultimate aesthetics. When I found the refractory die material for Zirconia, the 'aha moment' came to me, and the rest is the history.   The presented technique remains how I fabricate the refractory veneers today, and it is beneficial for some instances with conservative/minimum preps.   It was an honour to participate in a book chapter amongst prominent dental professionals and pioneers such as: Oliver Ahlers, Paulo Battistella, Michael Behm, Gilberto A. Borges, Oliver Brix, Julian Conejo, Daniel Edelhoff, Fàbio Fujiy, Will Geller, Galip Gürel, Axel Gütges, Sascha Hein, Ralf Janda, Akito Kani, Manfred Kern, Peer Kulzer, Karl-Heinz Kunzelmann, Klaus Möller, Klaus Müterthies, Patrick...

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Unbreakable Zirconia Abutments: New Lava and NeoLink Zirconia Abutments

eLABORATE Magazine featured Yugo’s article titled ‘Unbreakable Zirconia Abutments: New Lava and NeoLink Zirconia Abutments’ in Jan/Feb 2010 (published language: English).   Introduction:   Strength and aesthetics are foremost in the mind of today’s ceramist. The longevity of restorations has always been an essential factor. In the past, however, aesthetic compromises may have been tolerated, particularly in the posterior region. Thankfully today, achieving a lasting, highly aesthetic result technically has become far more accessible due to the development of new technology and materials. In the burgeoning field of implant dentistry, to maximise aesthetics, it is essential to create a customised abutment instead of using ‘off the shelf’ abutments. Custom abutments are necessary to control the emergence profile, as well as the Sub-Gingival Contour (SGC). Customised Zirconia...

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Before and After 2009: Soft-Tissue Management at the Socket on Pontic Sites

A Caucasian male in his 70s had presented with failed roots on the lateral incisors (12 & 22). The patient was also concerned about the aesthetics of the overall smile, wanting to have a youthful look. We commenced the case with 2 x Zirconia bridges 13-11 & 21-23.   Fig 1 shows the pre-op condition. 12 and 22 were extracted, and the soft tissue was managed during the temporary stage by the treating prosthodontist. Fig 2 shows the remarkable state of the soft tissue recovery.   Communication in the shade taking is essential between the clinician and ceramist. The shade tab should be placed edge to edge position, as shown in Fig 3. Fig 4 shows the completed Lava zirconia bridges (13-11 & 21-23). Note...

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