A method for fabricating a cast post and core that is esthetic when used under an all-ceramic crown

This article presents a technique to enhance the optic qualities of all-ceramic crowns when placed over a cast post and core. An opaque layer is necessary over a metal structure, such as a cast core, to reduce light absorption and increase the reflectance of the metal. The desired effect is to raise the value of the core in order to approach the optic qualities of dentin. However, the problem of reflectance is fully eliminated by the use of an opaque layer of ceramic. The translucence of a ceramic crown may not be limited by the use of opaque material under the crown. This procedure requires the placement of an opaque layer of ceramic on the core, thereby moving such a layer 0.3 to 0.5 mm more deeply from the surface of the restoration. This allows more depth and translucence to the crown, as light penetrates further into the crown.