Preliminary & Diagnostic Work Up Flashcards

What is the purpose of a phonetic evaluation during the preliminary diagnostic work-up for anterior ceramic restorations?

Answer: To determine proper incisal edge position by observing tooth display during 'F,' 'V,' and 'S' sounds

Phonetic analysis helps confirm that the planned incisal edge length and position will allow proper articulation of fricative sounds without interference.

During the diagnostic work-up, a ceramist reviews the patient's smile photographs and notes excessive gingival display. This finding primarily influences:

Answer: Whether crown lengthening or gingival recontouring is needed before restorations are placed

Excessive gingival display may indicate that surgical or laser crown lengthening is necessary to expose adequate tooth structure and create harmonious gingival contours before ceramics are placed.

Which of the following is an important consideration when reviewing periapical radiographs during pre-ceramic diagnostic evaluation?

Answer: Root length, bone levels, and periapical pathology that could compromise restoration longevity

Periapical radiographs reveal root length, bone support, and any periapical pathology that must be resolved before investing in ceramic restorations.

In a diagnostic work-up, the ceramist receives casts that have been mounted in maximum intercuspation (MIP) rather than centric relation (CR). The primary limitation of this mounting is:

Answer: MIP may not represent the most stable condylar position, potentially leading to occlusal discrepancies in the final restorations

Mounting in MIP captures the habitual bite position, which may differ from centric relation, potentially masking CR-MIP discrepancies that affect occlusal design.

When evaluating a patient for ceramic anterior restorations, what does the 'E' test determine?

Answer: The amount of incisal tooth display at rest by asking the patient to say 'E'

Asking the patient to say 'E' reveals how much of the upper and lower anterior teeth are exposed at rest, informing incisal length and display decisions.

Before beginning a diagnostic wax-up for a patient with a Kennedy Class I removable partial denture, the ceramist should consider:

Answer: How the planned ceramic restorations will interact with the RPD framework rests and clasps

Ceramic restorations must be designed with rest seats and clasp paths in mind to ensure the RPD continues to function correctly alongside the new ceramics.

A ceramist receives a case with no written prescription or shade map. The best course of action is to:

Answer: Contact the restorative dentist to obtain complete case documentation before starting any work

Fabricating restorations without adequate documentation risks errors in shade, contour, and occlusion; the ceramist must request complete information from the dentist before proceeding.