Metal-ceramic constructions

Prostheses whose surface is covered with ceramic are among the most aesthetic and realistic-looking. The production of such prostheses usually consists of two stages:

1. Formation of the frame, which ensures the prosthesis’ strength.

2. Application of 3 to 18 layers of ceramic onto the surface of the frame, making the prosthesis visually indistinguishable from a natural tooth.

The frame can be made in various ways from cobalt-chrome alloys (metallic) or be metal-free.

You can learn about the production of metal-free frames on the pages of the relevant department.

There are 3 methods for making metal frames. First, the frame can be cast into the shape of a mold. Second, the frame can be made by milling. Our laboratory does not provide metal milling services! Third, the frame can be produced using SLS technology.

You can learn about casting frames from cobalt-chrome alloys on the relevant department.

  • Casting

    Precise molding of metal frameworks for fixed and removable prostheses made of cobalt-chrome alloys.

    : Casting
    Casting

SLS is a technology of laser welding a frame from metal powder according to a CAD/CAM model. With SLS, frame production is more economical than milling but comparable in speed. The milling machine removes a large amount of valuable high-quality material from around the resulting frame.

Also, after milling, a metal disc remains – the leftover material. In contrast, the remaining powder for SLS can be reused in the next cycle. SLS is a more complex and new technology.

Once the frame is ready, the ceramic layering process begins.

This allows for natural color transitions and translucency at the cutting edge of the finished prosthesis.

When applying Ivoclar Inline ceramic to the frame, each layer is successively baked in a Programat P310/G2 oven, which carefully controls temperature based on an exact formula.

  • Ivoclar Programat P310/G2

    A modern ceramic firing furnace designed for high-quality firing of dental restorations, featuring an intuitive interface and easy control thanks to a color touch screen. This furnace ensures precise and even heating to achieve the best results. Its small size and reliable construction make it an excellent choice for any laboratory.

    Ivoclar Programat P310/G2

For metal-ceramic work, it’s possible to add an artificial gum – “pink aesthetics”

For the production of metal-ceramics, we accept an intraoral scan, dental impression, or plaster model. Production times depend on the type of model provided.

A plaster model and dental impression, unlike an intraoral scan, need to be digitized. A dental impression will need to be cast in plaster first.