A Hybrid Approach Using AI-Assisted Chairside Staining for an Anterior Metal-Ceramic Crown

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Metal-ceramic anterior crowns can present esthetic challenges, including color mismatch and gingival darkening.
• Traditional fabrication methods may require multiple appointments and adjustments for optimal color matching.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a hybrid approach for fabricating metal-ceramic anterior crowns.
• To evaluate the efficacy of an artificial intelligence (AI)-guided chairside staining technique.

Main Methods:

• A step-by-step protocol for a single anterior metal-ceramic crown replacement was detailed.
• Chairside staining utilized AI-generated recipes (Matisse) for precise color reproduction.
• The technique combined traditional ceramic layering with AI-assisted staining.

Main Results:

• The hybrid approach successfully integrated laboratory and chairside procedures.
• Achieved optimal esthetic outcome with a color difference below the perceptibility threshold (ΔE₀₀ = 0.5).
• Reduced treatment time and cost compared to conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• The AI-assisted chairside staining hybrid approach is feasible and effective for metal-ceramic anterior crowns.
• This technique offers a practical tool for accurate color reproduction and enhanced esthetic outcomes.
• Applicable to both layered and monolithic restorations, improving treatment efficiency.