Futureproof your lab with CERABIEN™ MiLai LOOKING FOR PORCELAINS AND INTERNAL STAINS FOR MICRO-LAYERING ON LITHIUM DISILICATE AND ZIRCONIA? The innovative product CERABIEN™ MiLai, based on synthetic feldspar, enables dental technicians to add the final touch to their zirconia or lithium disilicate restorations in a simple and time-saving procedure – for outstanding aesthetics right from the start. Check out the video to learn about the features of CERABIEN MiLai and the resulting benefits. Jun 10, 2025
A Fresh Look at the Future of Ceramics Recently we introduced CERABIEN™ MiLai - a brand-new line of porcelains and internal stains specially developed for micro-layering on zirconia and lithium disilicate. In this special edition of BOND magazine, we're excited to share the very first clinical cases using this innovative system. From beautifully natural veneers to streamlined lab workflows, these real-world examples show just what’s possible with CERABIEN™ MiLai. If you’re curious about what the future of aesthetic dentistry looks like, this is the place to start! Start Reading: BOND | VOLUME 12 | 07/2025 Previous versions: BOND | VOLUME 11 | 07/2024 BOND | VOLUME 10 | 10/2023 BOND | VOLUME 9 | 08/2022 BOND | VOLUME 8 | 12/2021 BOND | VOLUME 7 | 10/2020 Jul 15, 2025
Welcome to the future of ceramic layering Cases by DT Ioulianos Moustakis and MDT Andreas Chatzimpatzakis Producing dental restorations that are not recognizable as such – this is probably the ultimate goal of every dental technician. For a long time, pursuing this goal was complicated by core materials whose optical properties were very different from those of natural teeth. The dark metal or opaque zirconia substructures had to be masked by applying multiple layers of intensively coloured ceramic powders, topped by more translucent porcelains imitating the enamel. The rise of modern, tooth-coloured core materials such as lithium disilicate and zirconia has changed the game. With a core that is highly aesthetic, translucent and close to the final shade, it became much easier to produce a restoration that is virtually indistinguishable from the adjacent teeth. The thickness of the porcelain layer decreased as did the number of shades to be combined and necessary bakes to be conducted. The use of the existing porcelain systems for the new micro-layering techniques posed several new challenges: those systems originally developed for opaque zirconia were indicated for the more translucent zirconia core materials, but usually not for lithium disilicate. Moreover, the complexity of the systems made their use unnecessarily complicated for inexperienced users. Consequently, Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. developed a new porcelain system for micro layering on zirconia and lithium disilicate core materials. The portfolio of CERABIEN™ MiLai, which refers to micro-layering and the Japanese word for future (mirai), consists of 15 internal stains (13 tooth colours including Bright to boost the translucent and Fluoro to boost the fluorescent effect, and two tissue colours) and 16 porcelains (12 tooth porcelains and four tissue porcelains). Hence, it enables dental technicians to implement a modernized version of the original Internal Live Stain Technique developed by Hitoshi Aoshima in the early 1990s in a porcelain layer of minimal thickness. The following demo cases are used to show how to achieve lifelike aesthetic restorations based on aesthetic zirconia and on lithium disilicate. Illustrating each step, the cases allow users to anticipate how much time and effort can be saved compared to traditional layering techniques. CASE 1 MAXIMALLY SIMPLE APPROACH ON LITHIUM DISILICATE In this case, the idea was to restore the six maxillary anterior teeth in a simple way. The selected core material for the planned veneers was Amber Press (HASS Bio) LT in the shade B1. The lithium disilicate restorations were pressed with a micro cut-back and their fit was checked on the model, followed by surface texturing, sandblasting and steam cleaning [Fig. 1a]. When the veneers are milled instead of pressed, the procedure is the same. After that, the restorations are ready for the application of the CERABIEN™ MiLai internal stains for characterization of the core. In order to achieve the desired result, it is critical to mix the selected stains with the internal stain Bright responsible for a translucent effect. The chroma map for internal staining is shown in figure 1b, the outcome of the procedure in figure 1c. Subsequently, the veneers were built up to their final anatomy with selected CERABIEN™ MiLai Porcelains [Fig. 1d] to imitate the enamel and create a window effect. In this approach, simple layering and a single bake are sufficient to create the desired restoration. After glazing with Clear Glaze, finishing of the restorations was accomplished with paper-abrasive cones, a rubber polisher and polishing paste. The outcome is shown in figure 1e. Fig. 1a. Pressed lithium disilicate veneers after surface optimization (grinding), sandblasting and steam cleaning on the model. Fig. 1b. Chroma map for the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains to the lithium disilicate surface. We selected B+ (red colour) for the cervical area. For the proximal and middle incisal areas, Incisal Blue 1 & 2 (gradient blue colour) were applied and incisally in the middle, we chose Cervical 2 (orange colour). Tip: all internal stains were mixed with Bright and IS Liquid. Fig. 1c. Appearance of the veneers after the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains. Fig. 1d. CERABIEN™ MiLai Porcelains applied on top of the internal stains: LT1 is used for the cervical area (red) and a mixture of TX and E2 (30:70 ratio) for the middle and the incisal third. Fig. 1e. The final restorations after glazing with Clear Glaze and mechanical polishing using paper-abrasive cones, a rubber polisher and Pearl Surface Z (Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.). Images courtesy of Andreas Chatzimpatzakis. CASE 2 ADVANCED APPROACH ON LITHIUM DISILICATE In order to imitate a more complex inner colour structure with mamelons, different levels of translucency and more individual effects, a slightly more complex micro-layering approach was selected. Again, the core was produced using Amber Press in the LT variant and the shade B1. After pressing and fitting on the model, we reduced the incisal third to create space for the transparent porcelain [Fig. 2a]. Subsequently, an extremely thin layer of CERABIEN™ MiLai Porcelain adding translucency to the enamel surface (TX) was applied in the incisal third of the veneers [Fig. 2b]. In this way, it is possible to create an optimally translucent basis for the application of the internal stains. The first bake was conducted and the surfaces were sandblasted as well as steam cleaned to create the conditions needed for internal staining [Figs. 2c and 2d]. The chroma map for and outcome of the internal stain application are shown in figures 2e and 2f. Afterwards, a final layer of CERABIEN™ MiLai Porcelain was applied [Fig. 2g]. All four incisors received a layer of LTx to add ultimate translucency and opalescence to the enamel, while LT1 was the material of choice in the cervical third of the canines, where LTx completed the layer in the other areas. As LT1 is slightly less translucent and opalescent, a natural effect is obtained in this way. The outcome obtained after glazing and mechanical polishing is shown in Figure 2h. Fig. 2a. Lithium disilicate veneers reduced for the advanced layering procedure involving more porcelains and bakes. Fig. 2b. Thin layer of TX applied to the incisal third of the restorations to boost the translucency in this area. Fig. 2c. Appearance of the veneers after the first bake. Fig. 2d. Ceramic surfaces after sandblasting and steam cleaning. Fig. 2e. Chroma map for the application of the internal stains. Cervical 2 was used for the cervical third, Incisal Blue 2 for the proximal regions and Mamelon Orange 2 for the mamelons. As mentioned before, the selected internal stains were mixed with Bright. Fig. 2f. Appearance of the veneers after the bake of the applied CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains. Fig. 2g. Final build-up to reach the desired shape of the veneers. LTx is the only material applied to the central and lateral incisors, while the canines are built up with LTx in the incisal and middle and LT1 in the cervical third. Fig. 2h. Glazed and polished veneers on the model. Images courtesy of Andreas Chatzimpatzakis. CASE 3 ADVANCED APPROACH WITH GUM AREAS ON ZIRCONIA In this case, a highly complex ten-unit bridge with gum parts in the anterior region had to be produced. The selected framework material was KATANA™ Zirconia HTML Plus (Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.), which offers a multi-layered colour structure, an optimized translucency and the high flexural strength required for long-span bridges. The restoration was milled in an anatomically reduced design and the surface texture was optimized with rotating instruments before sintering [Fig. 3a]. After the final sintering procedure, the restoration had a favourably high translucency in the incisal region and a natural shade structure [Figs. 3b and 3c]. In the first step of the micro-layering procedure, the application of the CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains was planned and carried out [Figs. 3d and 3e]. Subsequently, different layers of CERABIEN™ MiLai Porcelain were applied. The images 3f to 3h reveal which shades were combined and illustrate the procedure, while the outcome before and after the last bake is shown in Figures 3i to 3k. In the next step, the gum areas were completed using the CERABIEN™ MiLai tissue porcelains Tissue 4, 5 and 6 in the order and locations described in Figures 3l to 3o. In the final layer, Tissue 1 was mixed with ELT1 to imitate the labial frenulum and with LTx to create a smooth transition to the natural gingiva [Figs. 3p and 3q]. The final restoration is shown in Figure 3r. Fig. 3a. Milled restoration after surface texturing. Fig. 3b. Shade and translucency of the sintered zirconia restoration. Fig. 3c. Highly translucent bridge on the model. Fig. 3d. Chroma map for the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains. Fig. 3e. Applying a mixture of Bright, Salmon Pink and Tissue Pink to the gum area. Fig. 3f. Application of CERABIEN™ MiLai E2 to add translucency to the structure. Fig. 3g. Application of Tx and a mixture of Tx and CCV-2 to individualize the cervical and incisal areas while boosting the translucency of the enamel in the middle and incisal third. Fig. 3h. Adding a final layer of LT1 for additional translucency and opalescence. Fig. 3i. Appearance of the ten-unit bridge before the bake – labial view. Fig. 3j. Appearance of the ten-unit bridge before the bake – palatal view. Fig. 3k. Appearance of the ten-unit bridge after the bake. Fig. 3l. Application of small amounts of Tissue 5 … Fig. 3m. … covered with a layer of Tissue 6 alternating with Tissue 5. Fig. 3n. Following another bake, Tissue 5 is applied in the proximal areas. Fig. 3o. How to combine Tissue 6 and Tissue 4 in the next layer. Fig. 3p. How to complete the tissue layer with Tissue 1, locally mixed with ELT1 or LTx. Fig. 3q. Restoration before the final bake. Fig. 3r. Final ten-unit bridge ready for placement. Images courtesy of Ioulianos Moustakis. ABOUT THE AUTHORS DT IOULIANOS MOUSTAKISGermany Dental Technician/Photographer1985 - 1987 Studied at the School of Dental Technology (SBIE) in Athens / Greece1997 - 1998 Master school in Berlin2007 - Education as Maxillofacial prosthetic technician (IASPE)2010 - Advanced education in Functional diagnosis temporomandibular joint2011 - 2012 Curriculum implant prosthetics for dental technicians (DGZI)2013 - 2014 Education as a graphic designer at the Media Design Hochschule (MDH) in Berlin2015 - 2017 Education as a photographer at the Photocentrum of the Gilberto Bosques VHS Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg2014 - 2016 - 2018 Further training at Noritake/Kuraray in Japan2019 - International Instructor Noritake/Kuraray2019 - Certified trainer of Teeth Morphology carving (Osaka Ceramic Training Center)1998 - Implant Dental Studio - Athens/Greece2010 - Zirkler & Moustakis Dental Technology - Falkensee/Germany2020 - Giuliano Dentaldesign - Falkensee/Germany Publications in Dental Journals2014 - 5/2014 Dental Dialogue/Germany2015 - 10/2015 The International Journal of Dental Technology/Japan2018 - 1/2018 Cosmetic Dentistry/Germany2018 - 4/2018 Zahntechnik Zeitung/Germany2018 - 5/2018 Das Dental Labor/Germany2018 - 5/2018 Dental Dialogue/Italy2018 - 10/2018 Laborama/Greece2019 - 1/2019 LabLine/Hungary2019 - 3-4/2019 Dental Technologies/UK2020 - 4/2020 LabLine/Hungary2021 - 1+2 LabLine/Hungary2021 - 5/2021 + 12/2021 Quintessenz Zahntechnik/Germany2021 - 4/2021 QDRP France Competitions2013 – 6th place at the 8th KunstZahnWerk contest by Candulor2017 – 5th place at the 10th KunstZahnWerk contest by Candulor2017 – 1st place at the 10th KunstZahnWerk contest by Candulor as "Best Documentation“2020 – 1st place at the 4th Panthera Master Cup by Panthera Dental MembershipsNGSC Noritake Greek Study ClubDGZI German Society of Dental ImplantologyIASPE International Association for Surgical Prosthetics and EpitheticsKey Opinion Leader (KOL) at company MPF Brush CompanyKey Opinion Leader (KOL) at company CandulorKey Opinion Leader (KOL) at company Kuraray/Noritake MDT ANDREAS CHATZIMPATZAKISGreece 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. From the year 2000, he is running the ACH Dental Laboratory in Athens, Greece, specialized on refractory veneers, zirconia and long span implant prosthesis. ACH Dental Laboratory is Co-operating lab with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens for the MSc degree in Dental Laboratory Materials. From 2016 he is key opinion leader for the MPF Brush.co. On 2017 he visits Japan where he trained from Hitoshi Aoshima, Naoto Yuasa and Kazunabu Yamanda and becomes International Trainer for Kuraray – Noritake company. In 2018 he became Editor-in-chief for the dental technician magazine “LABORAMA” published by OMNIPRESS co. On 2019 he studies carving, morphology and all ceramic restorations at the Osaka Ceramic Training Center by Shigeo Kataoka. On 2019 he establishes the Dental Technicians’ Coaching Services and coaches dental technicians to improve their work. Andreas has also conducted several lectures and hands on seminars in Greece and abroad and published articles in Greek and international magazines. His lecture “An exciting journey … to be a dental technician” is about inspiring dental technicians to improve their work by observing and emulate natural teeth using the internal live stain technique. Article first published in Labline Magazine Issue 45, Spring 2022 edition. Mar 25, 2025
Fire it right! Achieving consistent, high-quality ceramic restorations requires more than just premium materials — it demands a deep understanding of your tools and processes. The CERABIEN™ MiLai Firing Guide is designed to help dental technicians unlock the full potential of this advanced micro-layering porcelain system. With tips on optimal furnace positioning, trial baking, and troubleshooting, this guide supports efficient, aesthetic results every time. Whether you're new to CERABIEN™ MiLai or looking to refine your firing process, this resource lays the groundwork for success. Aug 26, 2025
Micro-layering on lithium disilicate Case by Francesco Ferretti, MDT Is it possible to produce lifelike porcelain veneers using lithium disilicate and a porcelain system with a reduced number of internal stains and porcelains designed for micro-layering? This is what we wanted to find out when we decided to test the new CERABIEN™ MiLai line-up. As loyal users of the CERABIEN ZR family for porcelain layering on zirconia, we hoped that the new product would offer similar handling and optical properties. The CERABIEN™ MiLai line-up consists of 15 internal stains and 16 porcelains, which are - like CERABIEN ZR - based on synthetic feldspathic porcelain technology from Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. With a comparatively low firing temperature of 740 °C (or 1,364 °F), the system may be used on zirconia as well as silicate ceramic restorations, provided that the CTE value of the materials is between 10.2 and 10.5 × 10-6/K (50 °C – 500 °C). This is true for lithium disilicate, our preferred base material for the production of ceramic veneers. The thickness of the porcelain layer is usually smaller than 0.5 mm, which allows us to exploit the aesthetic potential of the underlaying ceramic, while creating some individual effects for the underlying structure and the enamel. A clinical case predestined for the use of the new system is shown below. Fig. 1. Young male patient with discoloured composite restorations on his maxillary central incisors. Fig. 2. The patient was unhappy with his smile aesthetics, so that it was decided to place more durable ceramic veneers. Fig. 3. Appearance of the central incisors after minimally invasive tooth preparation. Fig. 4. Veneers made of lithium disilicate individualized with CERABIEN™ MiLai placed on the model. Fig. 5. Intraoral view of the teeth after adhesive cementation of the veneers. Fig. 6. Close-up view of the anterior teeth. Fig. 7. Smooth optical integration of the veneers: They show some individual effects and are virtually indistinguishable from natural tooth structure of the adjacent lateral incisors. Fig. 8. Black-and-white photograph of the maxillary anterior teeth. Fig. 9. Smile aesthetics. Fig. 10. Beautiful treatment outcome. COMPACT SYSTEM The compact line-up of CERABIEN™ MiLai with its nicely developed internal stains and porcelains enables us to imitate the patient’s natural teeth very well in the great majority of cases. Shades are easily selected and the favourable consistency of the porcelains facilitates application in thin layers. Due to the reduced thickness of the porcelain layer, it is possible to play with the optical properties of the underlying lithium disilicate, creating a final restoration with a natural appearance despite the simplified procedure. Dentist: FRANCESCO FERRETTI, MDT Born in Rome on March 15, 1957, Francesco Ferretti received his dental technician diploma from the Edmondo de Amicis Institute in Rome and began working independently in 1980. His dental career has been versatile and impressive - working under Prof. Mario Martignoni, being partner at ORAL DESIGN Center in Rome (founded by Mr. Willi Geller and Mr. Francesco Felli) and having his own Estech Dental Studios, are just some of the highlights. He taught the advanced course in prosthesis at the University of Chieti from 2002 to 2010 and the postgraduate course in prosthesis at the University of Naples Federico II in 2007. He has been using metal free methods for more than 30 years, specialized in prosthesis and implants, has published articles and research in Italian, American, Russian and Asian magazines and has been a speaker at various international conferences and courses. Jul 8, 2025
Practical chroma maps for anterior case CERABIEN™ MiLai in Daily Use A tooth with crack lines, a characteristic round shape, age-related changes, or medication-induced discoloration — there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to all-ceramic anterior restorations, even when the porcelain system and production technique are defined. To support technicians who wish to simplify their layering workflow using the micro-layering technique and CERABIEN™ MiLai — whether just getting started or looking to refine their process — we’ve collaborated with DT Dumitru Leahu to create a Chroma Map Catalogue featuring seven typical anterior restoration scenarios. Each case example includes a detailed screenshot of the framework design, chroma maps outlining the planned steps, images of internal staining and micro-layering procedures, and the final restoration on the model. You’ll also find essential information about the selected framework material, target shade, and other relevant details. We invite you to use the CERABIEN™ MiLai Catalogue as a step-by-step guide to success or simply as inspiration for individual cases. It offers a fast track to understanding the material’s optical properties and will make planning your next micro-layering case more intuitive. No need to start from scratch — instead, adapt what’s already there and gradually develop your own maps and techniques. Interested in the CERABIEN™ MiLai Chroma Map Catalogue? Download it here! Sep 18, 2025
Micro-layering: are there benefits of using a dedicated porcelain system? Case by Andreas Chatzimpatzakis When dental technicians from all over the world started using the micro-layering technique, they simply combined a reduced number of porcelains and stains from their original porcelain system. After some time, porcelains specifically designed for micro-layering were introduced to the dental market. Consequently, early adopters had to decide whether or not to switch to one of those new systems. For me as a frequent user of CERABIEN™ ZR (Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.), a porcelain system based on synthetic feldspathic porcelain developed for porcelain layering on zirconia frameworks, switching to any micro layering porcelain system was not an option. However, when I had the chance to test the brand-new CERABIEN™ MiLai porcelains and internal stains (Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.), I grabbed it for two reasons. Firstly, the simplicity! I was surprised how easily I could achieve a high aesthetic result without using too many different ceramic powders. Secondly with this system, I have a micro-layering porcelain system at my disposal that works for both, zirconia and lithium disilicate. Farther more, the product is well-aligned to CERABIEN™ ZR – and offers a very similar handling. CASE EXAMPLE The following case is a nice example of how it may be used in the anterior region. The male patient had already been treated with monolithic zirconia crowns from another dental laboratory in the posterior region. Now, he desired a maxillary anterior smile makeover due to discoloured composite restorations and signs of tooth wear. The decision was made to produce six veneers with frameworks made of lithium disilicate (Amber Press), individualized with CERABIEN™ MiLai using the micro-layering technique. I would like to thank the prosthodontist Dr Konstantina Aggelara for the excellent collaboration and the intra oral photos. For layering, I simply applied CERABIEN™ MiLai Value Liner 1. Then, I used CCV2 in the cervical and Tx in the incisal area, as well as Liner 2 for the mamelons. Internal stains were applied after the first bake. Subsequently, the canines were completed with LT1. The lateral and central incisors were built up with LT1 in the cervical area, Creamy Enamel on the marginal ridges and the middle and E2 mixed with Tx in the ratio 70/30 in the incisal area. Fig. 1. Initial situation: The patient was unhappy with his lip line and facial appearance, … Fig. 2. … particularly due to discoloured composite restorations and severe wear in the maxillary anterior region. Fig. 3. Shade determination after tooth preparation. Fig. 4. Restorations produced with Amper Press (Shade LT A2), individualized with CERABIEN™ MiLai. Fig. 5. Lateral view: The internal play of colours (internal stains) creates a nice effect. Natural shading and surface texture. FINAL SITUATION Fig. 6a and 6b. Restorations placed in the patient’s mouth. THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT TO MY STANDARD PORCELAIN SYSTEM As hoped, CERABIEN™ MiLai offers similarly great handling properties as CERABIEN™ ZR – probably mainly due to the fact that it is also based on synthetic feldspathic ceramic. It is not only responsible for consistent handling, but also for predictable optical properties, eliminating unwanted shadow effects. As the system is designed for micro-layering, it offers a natural appearance when applied in thin layers. This fact – in addition to the broader compatibility (to high-strength oxide and silicate ceramics) – makes it worthwhile to consider using a specific porcelain system for micro-layering. Experience shows that it works just as well on zirconia as it does on lithium disilicate, so that combining both framework materials in a single patient becomes a lot easier, while the line-up is neat. 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.. Aug 12, 2025
The new way of micro-layering Case by Andreas Chatzimpatzakis With CERABIEN™ ZR, Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc. offers a whole porcelain portfolio for the finishing of restorations based on zirconia. Originally developed for complex layering techniques, the synthetic feldspathic porcelain powders, liquid ceramics, internal and external stains allow for the creation of beautiful dental artwork. We love to work with the system as it offers consistent handling and mechanical properties, allowing us to produce predictable outcomes. However, the complexity of the system with its huge number of different shades can pose challenges to less experienced users. This complexity is further increased when different substructure materials are used, as CERABIEN™ ZR works exclusively on zirconia, so that users would need to select and manage a second porcelain system when opting for a lithium disilicate framework, for example. For dental technicians who would like to keep it smartly simple, the new CERABIEN™ MiLai line-up is certainly a great solution. Specifically developed for micro-layering on pre-shaded, highly translucent substructure materials such as lithium disilicate or a latest-generation zirconia, CERABIEN™ MiLai porcelains and internal stains may be applied in a thin (micro-) layer on restorations with a small (vestibular) cut-back. Just like CERABIEN™ ZR, the new system is based on synthetic feldspathic porcelain delivering consistent properties, but the line-up is reduced to 15 internal stains and 16 porcelains. As the CERABIEN™ MiLai has a firing temperature of 740 °C (1,364 °F), it works on oxide ceramics like zirconia, but also on reinforced silicate ceramics like lithium disilicate*. *The material should have CTE value within 9.5~11.0×10-6 /K (50~500 °C) Consequently, the system may be used as the universal porcelain system for micro-layering on aesthetic ceramics. With its slim portfolio, it fits the philosophy of creating impressive restorations with fewer components, layers and bakes very well, as demonstrated in two different case examples below. VENEERS BASED ON LITHIUM DISILICATE Fig. 1. Six anterior veneers made of lithium disilicate (Amber Press LTA2 HASS Bio), designed with a slight cut-back to create the space needed for micro-layering. Fig. 2. Restorations after the application of CERABIEN™ MiLai Value Liner 1 followed by wash firing and internal staining. This type of porcelain increases the value of lithium disilicate restorations. By staining the core, we control the chroma and add some internal characteristic effects. In this case, we added Cervical 2 to the marginal area and characterized the incisal third with Cervical 2 and Incisal Blue 1 & 2. Fig. 3. First porcelain layer consisting of CERABIEN™ MiLai LT1 applied to the cervical, ELT1 to the mesial third and TX to the incisal third before … Fig. 4. … and after the first bake. Fig. 5. Application of internal stains for special effects like cracks, intense chroma etc. Fig. 6. Second porcelain layer consisting of CERABIEN™ MiLai LT1 applied to the canines as well as the cervical third of the central and lateral incisors, while the middle and incisal third of the four incisors is individualised with LTx. Fig. 7. Finished restorations on the master cast. Fig. 8. Lateral view of the restorations highlighting their natural surface texture. ANTERIOR BRIDGEWORK BASED ON ZIRCONIA Fig. 1. KATANA™ Zirconia HTML Plus (A2 shade) structure immediately after milling. Fig. 2. Appearance of the substructure after sintering. Fig. 3. High translucency of the zirconia with the applied CERABIEN™ MiLai stains and porcelains on teeth and gingiva. Fig. 4. Palatal view of the individualized restoration before the firing process. Fig. 5. Restoration ready for try-in. CONCLUSION The two different cases confirm that CERABIEN™ MiLai works very well on lithium disilicate and zirconia. Despite the reduced number of stains and shades, it is possible to imitate most of the shades and individual effects found in natural teeth, which are important for lifelike outcomes. Hence, the new material is worth a try for everyone who prefers standardized and simplified procedures. 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.. Apr 8, 2025
Veneer Characterization with CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains on KATANA™ Zirconia YML In the first part of this aesthetic veneer workflow, dental technician Roberto Rossi demonstrates how to apply internal stains to KATANA™ Zirconia YML. This crucial step enhances the restoration by adding depth, translucency, and natural character from within. After refining the anatomy and surface texture, Roberto skillfully blends and applies selected shades such as A+, Fluoro, and Incisal Blue. These shades create depth, opalescence, and inner vitality that radiate through the final restoration. A must-watch for dental technicians looking to elevate their zirconia restorations with advanced, yet straightforward, internal staining techniques. Oct 21, 2025
A dynamic duo for natural-looking, functional restorations Case by Kostia Vyshamirski, DT KATANA™ Zirconia YML AND CERABIEN™ MiLai Virtually every patient in need of restorative treatment desires functional restorations with an aesthetic appearance. However, the individual expectations and needs may be very different depending on the clinical situation (state of the natural tooth structure, parafunctional behaviour, periodontal health etc.), the patient’s financial resources and personal preferences. A versatile material combination fulfilling many different needs and desires is KATANA™ Zirconia YML finished using micro-layering with the new CERABIEN™ MiLai (both Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.). This system supports low invasive preparations due to a favourable minimum wall thickness of the merely monolithic multi-layered zirconium oxide prosthesis and a minimal thickness of the porcelain layer in the aesthetic zone. Moreover, the high strength zirconium oxide prosthesis combined with only a very thin layer of porcelains makes this technique extremely useful in patients with parafunctional habits like bruxism. Last but not least, consisting of a carefully compiled selection of internal stains and porcelain shades, CERABIEN™ MiLai supports the creation of individual 3D shade effects that mimic those of natural teeth even when space is limited. The following case example reveals how this is possible. INITIAL SITUATION The patient presented with concerns related to both function and appearance. During the diagnostic phase, it was determined that increasing the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) and creating a wax-up in the new jaw position would be necessary to improve both the occlusion and the aesthetic appearance of the smile. Fig. 1. Intraoral scan of the maxillary teeth revealing severe tooth wear. Fig. 2. Intraoral scan of both jaws confirming the need for an increase of the VDO. Fig. 3. Intraoral scan: Occlusal view of the maxillary teeth. TREATMENT PLANNING AND COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN Following the approval of the wax-up, the treatment plan was created. It consisted of restoring the four anterior incisors with zirconia crowns and performing direct composite restorations on the posterior and lower teeth. To conserve as much of the healthy tooth structure as possible, the space created was aligned to the required wall thickness of the planned restoration (framework + micro-layer of porcelain in the vestibular areas only). Following an aesthetic analysis, the crowns were designed with a minimal vestibular cutback. This was due to the patient’s functional problems, which would increase the chipping risk in case of using a more heavy cutback design with a thicker, more conventional porcelain layer. KATANA™ Zirconia YML offers exceptional aesthetics, requiring only a 0.3 mm reduction for the porcelain to achieve natural results. Therefore, it was the logical material choice for this specific case. Fig. 4. Minimally invasive preparations for the crowns. Fig. 5. Occlusal view of the preparations. Fig. 6. Aesthetic analysis – a crucial step for achieving the desired new smile. Fig. 7. Frontal view of the crowns in their final cutback design. Fig. 8. Lateral view of the crowns in the CAD software. CROWN PRODUCTION Immediately after milling, the zirconia surface was treated with effect liquids. This kind of pre-sintered characterization helps enhance the characteristics of zirconia restorations. In the presented case, orange stain was applied to the cervical area, while a blue stain was used at the incisal edge. In addition, a white opaque liquid was applied to the inner surface of the central zirconia crowns to block out any discolouration from the underlying tooth structure. Following final sintering, the vestibular layer of porcelain was built up with CERABIEN™ MiLai using a combination of internal stains and porcelain micro-layering. After morphological adjustments and surface polishing, the restorations were completed by applying CERABIEN™ ZR FC Paste Stain and Glaze. Final polishing was then performed to enhance the natural appearance of the surfaces. Fig. 9. Effect liquids applied to the cervical and incisal areas of the crowns. Fig. 10. Treatment of the central incisor crowns’ inner surfaces. Fig. 11. KATANA™ Zirconia YML framework after sintering. Fig. 12. CERABIEN™ MiLai Internal Stains and Porcelains. Fig. 13. Prepared vestibular surfaces ready for application of the internal stains. Fig. 14. Application of 0.2-0.3 mm layers of CERABIEN™ MiLai porcelain: CCV2 for the cervical area, LT1 – Creamy Enamel for the main body and luster, LTX at the incisal edge. Fig. 15. Frontal view of the final restorations on the model. Fig. 16. Lateral view of the final restorations on the model. Fig. 17. Polished and glazed palatal surfaces of the crowns. FINAL OUTCOME The finalized restorations showcase great details, crafted with CERABIEN™ MiLai internal stains and porcelains. The result are natural-looking restorations. An additional benefit of using zirconia as a restorative material is its excellent compatibility, which is evident in the healthy gingival conditions. Fig. 18. Restorations in place. Fig. 19. Natural-looking restorations in the patient’s mouth. Dental Technician: KOSTIA VYSHAMIRSKI DT Kostia Vyshamirski, Riga, Latvia After earning his Dental Technician Certificate from the Medical College in Minsk, Belarus, in 2014, Kostia began his career as a dental technician, focusing on aesthetic clinical cases that integrate the latest digital and manual technologies. Moving to Riga, Latvia, in 2015 greatly expanded his professional opportunities. With over a decade of experience, Kanstantsin Vyshamirski now conducts courses, lectures, and seminars worldwide. He is a member of the DTG (Dental Technician Guild), a professional group of dental technicians based in the USA, and an invited guest of the AAED (American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry), an exclusive, invitation-only organization. Operating his own lab in Riga, Latvia, Kanstantsin specializes in aesthetic prosthetic porcelain work and is an experienced, passionate user of KATANA™ Zirconia and Noritake porcelains. Sep 23, 2025
Finishing Veneers with CERABIEN™ MiLai Lusters on KATANA™ Zirconia YML In part two of this veneer workflow, Roberto Rossi completes the restoration by applying CERABIEN™ MiLai lusters to the pre-stained and sintered KATANA™ Zirconia YML. Watch as he enhances surface texture, gloss, and lifelike detail through precise finishing techniques. With just a few simple steps, Roberto creates depth, dynamic light effects, and natural contours that rival real enamel. The process is intuitive and efficient, delivering a high-end finish—culminating in a final self-glazing fire for a polished, natural result. An intelligent solution for dental technicians seeking efficiency without compromising on aesthetics. Oct 23, 2025
Micro-layering with CERABIEN™ MiLai Case by Andreas Chatzimpatzakis A CONCEPT EVEN FOR AESTHETICALLY DEMANDING CASES The micro-layering technique is regarded as a more efficient, streamlined approach used as an alternative for full porcelain layering. It requires aesthetic, high-strength ceramics like lithium disilicate or zirconia as a base and – ideally – a set of porcelains specifically designed for reduced layer thicknesses that allows users to focus on imitating the characteristics of enamel. A high-quality example is CERABIEN™ MiLai (Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc.). Consisting of a set of internal stains and porcelains with a firing temperature of just 740 °C and a coefficient of thermal expansion in the range of 9.5~11.0×10-6/K (50 °C – 500 °C), this product works well on lithium disilicate and zirconia. Its aesthetic potential is surprisingly high: Depending on case-specific requirements, users are given the choice between maximum efficiency using a single-bake technique and maximum aesthetics achieved with more complex layering. The latter option is demonstrated below using the example of six maxillary anterior veneers. Fig. 1. Lithium disilicate frameworks (Amber Press) on the model. Fig. 2. CERABIEN™ MiLai Value Liner 1 applied to the framework. This porcelain is typically used on lithium disilicate for wash baking. Fig. 3. First build-up with CERABIEN™ MiLai CCV2 in the cervical section, … Fig. 4. … Value Liner 2, … Fig. 5. … Creamy Enamel in the middle area … Fig. 6. … and Tx used to add ultimate translucency. Fig. 7. Appearance of the restorations after the first bake. Fig. 8. Outcome of the internal staining procedure. Fig. 9. Application of CERABIEN™ MiLai LT1 for a standard translucency and opalescence effect, … Fig. 10. … E2, … Fig. 11. … a mixture of E2 and ELT1 (mixing ratio: 50:50) for translucency and brightness and along the marginal ridges, … Fig. 12. … Tx mixed with Royal Blue (mixing ratio 70:30) for a blueish translucency in the incisal area… Fig. 13. … as well as a final layer of LTx to add ultimate translucency and opalescence to the whole enamel surface. Fig. 14. Outcome of the third bake. Fig. 15. Cutback for the final layer of porcelain. Fig. 16. Final layer of CERABIEN™ MiLai added to the central and lateral incisors for translucency. Fig. 17. Situation after the fourth bake, grinding and use of a rubber polisher. Fig. 18. Outcome of the fifth bake (self-glaze). Fig. 19. Beauty shots … Fig. 20. … of the restorations … Fig. 21. … on the model. TRULY BEAUTIFUL OUTCOMES POSSIBLE This case example reveals that CERABIEN™ MiLai is much more than just a maximum-efficiency solution: With the current line-up of porcelains and internal stains, truly beautiful restorations can be produced. Hence, users are given high flexibility regarding not only the high-strength framework material they prefer, but also the effort and time they would like to invest. This makes CERABIEN™ MiLai a versatile porcelain system that meets many needs and covers a wide range of applications in the dental laboratory. 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.. Oct 14, 2025
