All-ceramic alternatives to conventional metal-ceramic restorations.

In the search for the ultimate esthetic restorative material, many new all-ceramic systems have been introduced to the market. One such system, In-Ceram, is primarily crystalline in nature, whereas all other forms of ceramics used in dentistry consist primarily of a glass matrix with a crystalline phase as a filler. In-Cream can be used to make all-ceramic crowns and fixed partial denture frameworks. Three forms of In-Ceram, based on alumina, spinal (a mixture of alumina and magnesia), or zirconia, make it possible to fabricate frameworks of various translucencies by using different processing techniques. This article discusses clinical indications and contraindications for the use of In-Ceram Alumina and In-Ceram Spinell all-ceramic restorations. Particular attention is given to cement considerations using several clinical examples.