How to adjust zirconia crowns

For the best results when working with zirconia, you should rely on instruments optimized for the high-strength material. Standard instruments often fail in these cases, requiring the operator to use multiple burs to adjust or polish a single restoration. In turn, if the instrumentation does not achieve a high luster on the restoration, the zirconia will be very unforgiving and antagonistic to the opposing dentition; therefore, a special kit dedicated to high-strength ceramics offers the ideal solution. The kit contains a range of specialized instruments engineered to cut, finish and polish full-contour restorations fabricated of zirconium oxide, lithium disilicate, aluminum oxide and other pressed ceramics.

To re-contour, adjust or finish a zirconia crown, use a custom diamond bur that is uniquely engineered with a permanently bonded, densely packed diamond layer. The coarse-grit diamonds provide an exceptional performance-to-service life ratio, and the medium-grit versions are especially suitable for a wide range of adjustment procedures.  Adjusting occlusal contacts is also  frequently required at the time of try-in and/or post-insertion. If there is a minor occlusal adjustment needed,  use only a rubber abrasive polishing wheel and not a diamond. A diamond is needed only if there is a significant adjustment to be made.  If a diamond is used in this process, proper polishing of the surface is necessary to achieve a smooth surface. A polished ceramic surface is less abrasive than one that is glazed, so there should be no need for re-glazing of the restoration The larger the diameter of the polishing wheel used, the more efficient and effective the process. A point may be necessary to get into the depth of the anatomy, however it is the least effective because of its size.

Bayshore can recommend the same burs & wheels used by our lab technicians to use for adjusting and polishing zirconia restorations. For more information call us at  877-954-6243 or fill out the form below.