This document summarizes the process of fabricating ceramic bridges to replace lateral incisors. It describes how the metal framework was made with a silicone index to develop an ideal ceramic dimension. Feldspathic porcelain was layered using a lateral segmental technique to form the artificial dentin core. Enamel porcelain was applied and slightly overbuilt to compensate for shrinkage. The bridges were precisely contoured on a soft tissue model. Completed bridges showed a circumferential window of ceramic material that enhanced aesthetics. Post-operative views showed harmonious integration of the biomaterial, soft tissue, and remaining teeth.

2. 12 Periodontal Plastic Surgery
1-3 4-6
Anterior Alveolar Ridge
Augmentation with
Delayed Ovate Pontic Development
Patient presents with unnatural ceramic restorations displayed upon smiling. (1 - 3) Retracted
facial view of preoperative condition reveals bilateral vertical recession on the maxillary left
and right centrals and cuspids with Class I horizontal defects in the edentulous regions of
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the pre-existing lateral incisors. (4 - 6) A diagnostic wax-up is prepared to the ideal shape
and contour without connective tissue corrections. This allows the patient to visualize and
understand the importance of soft and/or hard tissue augmentation. (7)
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3. 12 Periodontal Plastic Surgery
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The ceramo-metal bridges were fabricated using a feldspathic porcelain (Initial™, GC America®) Enamel porcelain was applied over the fired dentin. The entire dentin surface was covered
and the lateral segmental layering technique. A 360º circumferential ceramic window (Geller with a combination of translucent and opalescent powders designed to simulate shaded
technique) was utilized to allow the light to pass through and create a natural aesthetic result. enamel. Although the enamel layer is thin, it will regulate the the brightness of the underlying
The metal framework was designed to a labial silicone index that allows the development of colors as they are projected through it. The value dimension is determined by the artificial
an ideal ceramic dimension (38) After the framework was vertically reduced and opaqued, enamel layer. (42 - 43) The initial fire of the enamel layer reveals subtle maverick deposits,
a feldspathic ceramic material (Initial™, GC America®) was layered using the lateral segmen- these deposits are not discernible in the mouth but are important for harmonization in the oral
tal layering technique to form the artificial dentin core. The dentin layer buildup was slightly cavity with the adjacent natural teeth. Note the shrinkage of the first enamel layer. Any correc-
overbuilt interproximally and incisally to compensate for shrinkage. (39 - 40) Once the inter- tions are made before the second fire. The average thickness of natural enamel is slightly less
nal dentin core was developed and fired the incisal edge is cutback. The body buildup was than 1 mm and the enamel porcelain layer is 0.3 mm. The artificial enamel layer was slightly
completed with incisal cutbacks to accomodate the maverick colors. Internal effects within the overbuilt to compensate for shrinkage. (44 - 45)
incisal edge were created by applying specific intensive stains. (41)
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4. 12 Periodontal Plastic Surgery
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The restorations are precisely contoured and finished on a Geller soft tissue model. If prop- Completed 3-unit ceramic bridges. The metal substructure adds physical strength, whereas,
erly built up, only a minimal amount of contouring should be required. This consideration is the circumferential window of ceramic material enhances the aesthetics. It is important to
extremely important because excess grinding can remove essential color. (46 - 47) remember the ceramic window is fragile until bonded. (48 - 49) Prior to adhesive cemen-
tation, the internal surface of the silica-based porcelain shoulder was etched for 2 minutes
with a hydrofluoric acid, silanated, and air dried. (50 - 51) Laboratory courtesy of Olivier
Tric, C.D.T.
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5. 52 - 54
55 - 56
Retracted facial views reflect the harmonious integration of biomaterial, soft tissue, and tooth
structure. There is a balance in color and function between the maxillary and mandibular
teeth and perio-aesthetic harmony. The incisal silhouette of this postoperative smile demon-
strates natural aesthetics. (52 - 56)
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