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PROSTHETIC DENTISTRY SECTION

Fig 39a-c: The surface structure and polish, along with natural-looking abrasion marks, were created mechanically using rotary tools, completing
the restoration.

Fig 40a-b: DSLR photographs were taken and evaluated again at the cementation appointment. Fig 41: The photo with increased contrast
Photography with a transverse polarizing filter eliminates reflections on the tooth surface, highlights the extent to which internal details
allowing better assessment of the tooth’s basic color rendering. were successfully imitated. It also allows for a
good comparison of the transparent parts of the
enamel.

to be a challenge (Figure 42). Unfortunately, it was also found that the patient’s oral hygiene
could be improved, as calculus was present on the margins.

CONCLUSION
Color effects, staining, cracking, texture, tooth shape, basic color, brightness, saturation,
enamel transparency, and light intensity are all elements we are entrusted with, as it is part
of our daily work to identify and imitate them. However, all of these factors change as our
teeth age. Age is one of the most important considerations when deciding which material and
technique to use for a restoration. Therefore, communication with the dentist, detailed note-
Fig 42: The integration was very successful. taking, specimens, photos, and digital protocols are invaluable for gathering all necessary
However, it is challenging to create an invisible aspects to create a restoration that faithfully replicates the original. However, the experience of
crown, even for a small, inconspicuous lateral the dental technician is equally critical. Together, these elements form the working protocol,
incisor. Unfortunately, the calculus on the
collars on the day of cementation documented helping to solve the complex puzzle that a natural tooth represents. n
that the patient’s dental care could be better.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
evaluated. Figures 40a and 40b show the
situation with transverse polarization, which Edwin Zanabria was born in Lima, Peru in 1985. In 2004, he
completed his professional training as a dental technician at
eliminates surface reflections, allowing for the Peruvian Cayetano Heredia University and, in the same
better evaluation of the tooth’s basic color. year, specialized in ceramics. In 2008, he became one of
The contrast-enhanced photograph clarifies the certified dental technicians recognized by the Peruvian
internal details and allows for a good Ministry of Culture. In 2009, in New York, he completed
comparison of the transparent enamel parts an international internship in the laboratory/dental clinic
(Figure 41). The normal photograph of the of Dr. Jorge Cervantes Grundy, DDS. To further perfect
final crown cemented in place at implant site his craftsmanship skills and expand his knowledge, Edwin
22 marks the conclusion. It was noted that travelled around the world, attending numerous courses
the integration had been successful, although and internships with master dental technicians such as
Sascha Hein, Thomas Sing, Olivier Tric, Stefan Picha, Nondas
creating a crown that is nearly invisible — Vlachopoulos, Carlos Ayala, Oriol de la Mata, and many
even a small and inconspicuous one — proved others.

62 Dental Practice I November-December 2024 I Vol 20 No 5