Both zirconia and metal lack fluorescent qualities, which we should attempt to re-create when restoring the oral cavity with fixed prosthetic restorations. When applying porcelain to a zirconia or metal coping or framework, it is helpful to use a porcelain material that has fluorescent properties to add vitality to the substrate.
In this article, we use several different shades of zirconia (zerion®) frameworks from Straumann with Creation® ZI Porcelain System* to demonstrate how to use a fluorescent dentin material to match shades. Today, most dental porcelain companies provide materials with fluorescent qualities and by using them you will create a restoration that is lifelike which the dentist and patient demand.
*© Creation Willi Geller International AG
Peter Kouvaris is a world renowned master ceramist with over 30 years' experience as well as a member of the prestigious Oral Design International Foundation. In addition to being mentored by the revered Willi Geller, he has studied under other highly regarded technologists such as Walter Gebhard and Claude Sieber. Peter has received academic achievement awards for his knowledge on implant dentistry. For the last 20 years he has lectured nationally and internationally on shade taking, color, case sequencing, and material sciences along with ceramic and metal design. He also lectures on predictable aesthetics utilizing the Dawson concept of occlusion combined with unsurpassed ceramics. Peter is one of the instructors and technicians of the International Aesthetic Advantage program under the guidance of Dr. Larry Rosenthal and is a faculty member of New York University's Continuing Education technical programs.
