Dental Ceramics for Absolute Beginners –...

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.

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.

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 –

1. Identify the suitability of ceramics based on their strength, aesthetics, and application.
2. Highlight the importance of proper crown preparation and manufacturer protocols for optimal results.
3. 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!