CDT CDT Ceramics & Porcelain Techniques 3

Question 1

What is the function of an 'enamel' or 'incisal' porcelain in a layered ceramic build-up?

Accepted Answer

To add translucency and depth to the outer surface, mimicking natural enamel

Answer

To provide the opaque foundation layer

Answer

To bond the porcelain to the metal coping

Answer

To strengthen the internal core of the restoration

Question 2

What causes porcelain to appear 'gray' or 'flat' after firing in a PFM crown?

Accepted Answer

Insufficient opaque coverage allowing metal to show through

Answer

Over-firing the glaze stage

Answer

Using too much incisal powder

Answer

Incorrect condensation technique

Question 3

What is 'sintering' in the context of zirconia processing?

Accepted Answer

High-temperature densification that transforms porous zirconia into a hard, dense ceramic

Answer

The process of staining pre-sintered zirconia with colorants

Answer

Bonding zirconia to a resin cement

Answer

Milling zirconia from a pre-sintered puck

Question 4

Which porcelain defect is characterized by small pits or craters on the fired surface?

Accepted Answer

Pinholes (pitting)

Answer

Crawling

Answer

Crazing

Answer

Delamination

Question 5

What does 'chroma' refer to in dental shade selection?

Accepted Answer

The saturation or intensity of the hue

Answer

The overall hue category of the tooth (A, B, C, or D)

Answer

The brightness of the tooth under UV light

Answer

The surface texture of the enamel

Question 6

What precaution must be taken when grinding or adjusting ceramic restorations chairside or in the lab?

Accepted Answer

Use copious water cooling and wear appropriate respiratory protection

Answer

Always use a dry diamond bur at low speed

Answer

Only use rubber wheels without water

Answer

Grind only with zirconia-specific carbide burs at high speed