90% of crowns and bridges are now fabricated from a ceramic material according to a report from one of the largest US dental laboratories.  Ceramic materials do not handle the same as metal-based restorations and improper selection or handling can lead to premature failure.  This course will teach you how to select and handle different types of ceramic materials that are currently used in dentistry that will be much less confusing than typical marketing rhetoric.  The ability to bond these dental ceramics allows the practitioner to perform more conservative tooth preparations.  As there are many different types of dental ceramics available (zirconia, lithium disilicate, porcelain, processed composite, etc), determining the correct protocol for each type of ceramic can be confusing.  This lecture aims to simplify the process of bonding ceramics and provide the clinician with a protocol that can be used to bond any type of dental ceramic.  In this course, we will review the best clinical practices based on research studies conducted at the UAB School of Dentistry and provide pearls for you to take back to the office.

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OBJECTIVES: At the completion of the course, participants will be able to:

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• Review the different types of dental ceramic materials

• Choose a ceramic material for anterior restorations

• Prepare and design considerations for posterior crowns and bridges

• Strategize to adjust, polish and cut off ceramic crowns

• Review the indications for bonding dental ceramics

• Present a protocol for preparing the surface of ceramic crowns (ie etching, sandblasting, priming, cleaning)

• Classify the types of cements used for adhesive bonding