How to Block Out Understructures When Using Translucent Zirconia

By Jack Marrano

Posted Dec 02, 2020 in Technical

Technician’s Statement


Zirconia has evolved into the restorative material of choice and recent advancements have resulted in a material that’s unsurpassed not only in strength but in esthetics as well, even in monolithic full contour restorations. However, advancements in its translucency and esthetics also mean that modern-day zirconia has lost the ability to stop the bleed-through of underlying structures—such as alloy abutments, dark stumps or even post-and-core buildups—leading to unacceptable discoloration in the final restoration. This case study illustrates how to overcome that challenge.


Restorative Challenge


The 30-year-old male patient presented with a lost central incisor (#8) and a discolored incisor (#9) previously treated with a cast metal post and core; implant site #8 was integrated and ready to restore. Surrounding dentition exhibited beautiful shade and translucency (see Figures 1-3 below).


Material selection...

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About The Author

  • Jack Marrano

    Director Of Signature Prosthetics Division at Absolute Dental Services · Cary, NC

    Jack Marrano, CDT, is the Director of Absolute Dental Services Signature Prosthetics Division in North Carolina. Starting his ceramics career in 2002, he's managed the Implant, All Ceramic and PFM Divisions of MicroDental...

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