Excellent esthetics with the ‘one bake’ technique: Precise layering and stable firing results with VITA LUMEX AC

In the laboratory scanner, a plaster model with dies on tooth 11 and 21 was used to generate a virtual model where two crown frameworks were constructed from VITA YZ HT White zirconia and then fabricated using CAD/CAM technology. Both copings were sandblasted to create a strong bond between the framework and the veneer. The washbake with VITA LUMEX AC FLUO INTENSE sand and sesame was dusted with a thin layer of FLUO INTENSE arctic white to control the fluorescent depth effect and to create a strong bond with the subsequent layers. 

After firing, DENTINE A3 (a more chromatic material) was used in the lower third, with brighter DENTINE A1 applied in the two upper thirds to create the dentin core. In doing so, the morphological basis for the mamelon structure was already created in the incisal area and built upon using a 1:1 combination of DENTINE A1 and OPAL TRANSLUCENT opal-neutral. A cut-back was used to make the mamelon structure more pronounced in the incisal direction. This was then further intensified using MAMELON honey melon. 

A blue-translucent play of light was created on the margins using TRANSLUCENT deep blue. In the next step, the incisal area was covered using a balanced combination of TRANSLUCENT foggy grey and TRANSLUCENT sunlight and built upon using OPAL TRANSLUCENT opal azure. Directly under the incisal area, a stripe of TRANSLUCENT smoky white was layered to create a white effect in this area. A moderate cut-back was then added on the incisal edge and the margins were built up successively using PEARL shell. 

In the next step, the cervical area was again intensified using TRANSLUCENT sunlight and a chromatic effect added centrally using TRANSLUCENT light blond. The two lower thirds were then coated with ENAMEL medium and the upper third of the incisal area with ENAMEL clear. Finally, on the incisal edge, a halo effect was achieved using a balanced combination of MAMELON honey and TRANSLUCENT sunlight. This was followed by firing and finishing using mechanical means only.

This case example shows that with the ‘one bake’ technique, VITA LUMEX AC delivers results that offer both shade and firing stability. The veneering ceramic facilitates a controlled and targeted approach to working, bringing efficiency and added value to the laboratory. Just one firing cycle provided a lifelike play of light and natural shade and shape effects. Shade effects were in the same place where they were previously layered. In other words, with VITA LUMEX AC, custom premium esthetics are also cost-effective. User-friendly for experts and beginners alike, this universal product also ensures that your drawers remain clean and tidy.