Selected Properties of a Synthetic Quartz Glass-Ceramic

QDT 2005 1 he restoration of missing or compromised tooth structure requires dental materials that offer toothlike esthetics, functionality, biocompatibility, and longevity. Silica-based ceramics (eg, feldspathic porcelain) offer all of these necessities and are the materials of choice for esthetic all-ceramic restorations (eg, laminate veneers, ceramic inlays and onlays, and full-coverage jacket crowns) and for veneering of metal and high-strength ceramic copings and frameworks. Silica-based ceramics have dominated the esthetic dental material market for decades, and their esthetic properties cannot be matched by any other material. However, recent developments have led to a newer generation of silica-based ceramics to overcome some of the earlier shortcomings. This article reiterates some of the most significant properties of traditional silica-based ceramics and introduces some characteristics of a new synthetic quartz glass-ceramic.