A ceramic shoulder refers to the edge of a crown, which in this case is made of ceramic rather than metal.This edge is pushed slightly under the gum, making the crown almost invisible.
Normal metal-ceramic crowns have a core of metal surrounded by ceramic.But this type of restoration shows significant disadvantages. For example, the gum line is often reddened or inflamed because the metal releases oxides. This results in an unsightly dark margin. Even if the gums recede somewhat over the years, the metal margin becomes visible.To avoid this, there is a simple solution: the ceramic shoulder. In this case, the metal framework is shortened slightly and replaced by a final ceramic margin. This makes the dark edges and inflammation disappear and the crown is practically invisible. The light is reflected naturally.Even if the gum recedes, only the ceramic margin is visible, which appears like a natural tooth.
By improving aesthetics and preventing unsightly metal margins, crowns with ceramic shoulders have a longer lifespan.
Indications (areas of application)
- Optimization of aesthetics in the visible area
Contraindications
- Preparation forms unsuitable for ceramics – e.g. tangential preparation.
The preparation
After the dentist has ground the tooth to be restored, an impression of the prepared die is sent to a dental laboratory along with the opposing jaw impression and a bite registration.
There, the metal framework is fabricated first. It is modeled in wax on the die, then provided with casting channels made of wax and embedded in investment material in a casting muffle. After the wax is melted out in a hot furnace, the liquefied metal is cast. The framework can be made of either a gold-containing alloy or non-precious metal alloys.
Subsequently, the framework must be shortened to make room for the ceramic shoulder. The ceramic is then applied to the marginal area and fired. Special shoulder materials are used for this purpose. In the next step, the ceramic veneer is applied to the metal framework in the tooth shade previously determined by the dentist.
The crown can then be placed by the dentist. It should be noted that crowns with ceramic shoulders must be inserted adhesively. To optimize the bond to the metal, it should also be roughened. After inserting the crowns, the cement is light-cured.
Of course, the application of a ceramic shoulder is also possible for bridge restorations.
Benefits
A crown with a ceramic shoulder remains invisible in the mouth, even when the gums recede, and avoids painful inflammation or allergies.These improved aesthetics provide more confidence and radiance, and a smile that is as beautiful as the first day, even after years of wearing the crown.
