Keeping it smart and simple: Micro-layering of implant supported reconstructions

Case by Andreas Chatzimpatzakis

Many modern, tooth-coloured dental materials enable us to achieve more with less. By using high-strength ceramics with a multi-layered colour structure and natural translucency, for example, the path to the desired outcomes involves fewer components, smaller layers and a reduced number of bakes. A possible streamlined procedure is illustrated below. The main materials used were KATANA™ Zirconia HTML PLUS for the screw-retained implant-supported superstructure and CERABIEN™ MiLai (both Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.) for vestibular micro-layering.

Fig. 1. Zirconia-based screw-retained implant-supported prosthesis after milling and carving to obtain a natural surface texture.

Fig. 2. Restoration after sintering. To intensify the colour characteristic of the multi-layered blanks, the surface was treated with Esthetic Colorant (mainly in the incisal area and the gum parts).

Fig. 3. Appearance after the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai SS Fluoro.

Fig. 4. Restoration after the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai internal stains. They add some natural shading effects to the tooth and gum areas.

Fig. 5. Restoration on the model after micro-layering. In the cervical area, CERABIEN™ MiLai LT1 was mainly used, while the middle and incisal areas were individualized with E2 and Tx, the latter adding a seamless gradient in translucency. For the gingiva, the choice fell on the tissue porcelains 1, 5 and 6.

Fig. 6. Finished restoration on the model.

Fig. 7. The micro-layer of porcelain has a brilliant effect.

Fig. 8. The lifelike appearance is due to a smart combination of surface texturing …

Fig. 9. … and micro-layering with a comprehensive set of internal stains plus porcelains.

CONFIDENCE AND CONTROL

Full ceramic layering can produce beautiful results, but can be quite complex and time-consuming. In times with limited availability of skilled personnel and high-performance materials being offered, it may be a valuable strategy to opt for micro-layering with CERABIEN™ MiLai whenever appropriate. The system provides precise control over the layering and shading procedure, so that highly aesthetic and functional outcomes are easily and confidently obtained.

Dental technician:

ANDREAS CHATZIMPATZAKIS

Andreas graduated from the Dental Technology Institute (TEI) of Athens in 1999. During his studies he followed a program at the Helsinki Polytechnic Department of Dental Technique, where he trained on implant superstructures and all ceramic prosthetic restorations. As of 2000, he is running the ACH Dental Laboratory in Athens, Greece, specialized on refractory veneers, zirconia and long span implant prosthesis. In 2017 Andreas visited Japan where he trained under the guidance of Hitoshi Aoshima, Naoto Yuasa and Kazunabu Yamanda and become International Trainer for Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc..

• 11 nov. 2025

KATANA Zirconia HTML PLUS Voir le produit

CERABIEN MiLai Voir le produit