Some properties of dental ceramics

The rather exacting aesthetic requirements of dental restorations has largely dictated the composition of dental ceramic materials. The so-called dental porcelains have evolved from the traditional whiteware formula of feldspar, clay and quartz. One of the first variables which might be considered is that of chemical composition. It is, however, generally accepted that for ceramic materials small variations in composition are not critical. Since the early work of Watts in 1918, little interest has been expressed in the chemical composition of dental porcelain. The composition of traditional dental porcelains has evolved over a period of many years by practical trial and error, as discussed by Jones (1971). The development of dental porcelains advanced to the point where any major improvements in physical properties could only be achieved by major changes in composition and technique as advocated by McLean & Hughes (1965). The resulting alumina/glass composites which have been developed use a technique which involves the build up of an inner core which contains a high proportion of crystalline alumina (45-50 %) embedded in a glass matrix surrounded by a transparent outer veneer. This work compares the effect of such inter-related variables as composition, inclusion of filler, viscosity, texture, hardness, and strength of the fired product.