- Laser-sintered Cr-Co framework
- No casting porosity
- Reproducible digital production
- Reliable for long-span bridges
- Porcelain fired in a Programat P300
What is a laser-sintered metal-ceramic crown?
A metal-ceramic crown is a restoration in which porcelain is applied to a cobalt-chromium (Cr-Co) framework. With laser sintering, the framework is not cast but built directly from the digital design by melting metal powder layer by layer with a laser. This eliminates the wax-up, investing and casting steps of the conventional process, and with them the porosity and shrinkage defects that casting can introduce.
Indications
Metal-ceramic restorations have been used clinically for decades and their behaviour is well documented. They are chosen particularly for long-span bridges, posterior cases requiring high strength, and patients looking for a cost-balanced option.
- Posterior single crowns and multi-unit bridges
- Long-span bridges and wide edentulous spaces
- Cases that must match existing metal-ceramic restorations
- Clinical situations where all-ceramic restorations are not indicated
Material and manufacturing process
The prepared abutments are scanned and the framework is designed in 3Shape or Exocad. The design aims for a form that supports the porcelain with an even layer thickness, and connector dimensions are sized according to the span of the bridge. The framework is then produced from Cr-Co alloy by laser sintering; support structures are removed and the surface is prepared for veneering. After the opaque layer, dentine and enamel porcelains are layered and fired in an Ivoclar Vivadent Programat P300 furnace. Finally, form, occlusion and surface texture are refined and the crown is glazed.
Why Marjinal CAD?
Because laser-sintered frameworks are produced directly from the digital design, every unit is based on the same data and the result is reproducible. At Marjinal CAD, we check marginal fit at the design stage and plan metal thickness and connector sizes for each case. As impressions are digitised with highly precise scanners, deviations caused by manual work on the model are minimised. During veneering, your shade information and photographs are our reference.
Sending your case
You can send metal-ceramic cases to our dental laboratory in two ways:
- Intraoral scan: Send your iTero, 3Shape TRIOS or Medit data as STL/PLY files. The opposing arch and a bite registration are required for the design.
- Conventional impression: Send a silicone impression or a stone model; it will be scanned and brought into the digital workflow.
Please state the shade, the margin design (metal collar or porcelain shoulder) and any special requests on the prescription. Contact: +90 542 329 30 56 or [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
How does a laser-sintered framework differ from a cast one?
A laser-sintered framework is produced directly from the digital design, without wax-up or casting. This prevents casting porosity and shrinkage and makes the result reproducible.
When is a metal-ceramic crown the right choice?
It is chosen for long-span bridges, highly loaded posterior cases and situations where the restoration must match existing metal-ceramic work.
Will metal be visible at the gingival margin?
In the aesthetic zone, a porcelain shoulder design minimises a visible metal collar. Simply state your preference on the prescription.
Which alloy do you use?
Frameworks are produced from cobalt-chromium (Cr-Co) alloy by laser sintering.