In January 2019, Kuraray Noritake Dental proudly hosted a symposium dedicated to the KATANA™ Zirconia Block. Dental professionals from across Europe gathered in Berlin to hear a number of experts detail their research into, and clinical experiences with, this all-zirconia solution. Among those presenting were Dr Alessandro Devigus and master dental technician Daniele Rondoni, both active members of the European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry.

Devigus and Rondoni’s presentation was focused on discussing the possibilities of the KATANA™ Zirconia Block for restorations in the aesthetic zone. Devigus, who is the founder and president of the Swiss society for computer-aided dentistry (SGcZ), spoke of the dual meaning of the word ‘digital’—though it refers to numbers, it also can be used to describe something performed with one’s digits, or fingers. Digital dentistry, he explained, thus combines the reliability of computer-aided design and manufacturing with the creativity and aesthetic possibilities of handcrafted restorations. “This combination of hands and machine is, simply put, what defines digital dentistry,” Devigus said.

The evolution of KATANA™

Rondoni highlighted the evolution of Kuraray Noritake Dental’s work, particularly with zirconia. Having been an international instructor for the company for many years, he spoke of witnessing the development of the KATANA™ family into a solution that can truly replicate the appearance of natural dentition. “Thanks to the multilayered nature of this material, we can obtain a mimetic effect in regards to the optical properties of a natural tooth,” he explained, and described how these multiple layers effectively reproduce the shade gradation of teeth and work to create a three-dimensional effect.

Fluorescence is crucial

Both presenters emphasised the importance of fluorescence for the aesthetic qualities of dental restorations. “My concern was always that, with zirconia, there was no fluorescence,” Devigus admitted. This fear was easily allayed, however, with the use of Kuraray’s Cerabien™ ZR FC Paste Stain, a product optimised for full-zirconia restorations.

A true chair side solution

To demonstrate their experiences with the KATANA™ Zirconia Block, the two presenters then showed a number of clinical cases that they had worked on together in Devigus’ dental practice in Bülach in Switzerland. Devigus praised the speed sintering that is made possible through the block’s integration with Dentsply Sirona’s CEREC system, saying that, “For me, if a material can be used to complete a restoration in less than two hours, then it is truly a chair side material. You cannot expect a patient to sit there and wait there for four hours in your dental practice—but this is not a concern with the KATANA™ Zirconia Block.

Dr Alessandro Devigus	Daniele Rondoni

• 19. aug. 2021

KATANA Zirconia Block Se produktet