One of the more frustrating things that happens to us to set us back time wise when doing a CEREC procedure is an open contact. What should I do if I have one? Do I use porcelain add on? You can, and it is not that hard, but takes some practice and also takes some post firing work. Should I remill? You can do this too, but it certainly adds both time and cost to fixing the issue. Should I apply a thicker layer of glaze in the contact area to try and close it?

Well, I’m going to say no and yes to this. I say no if you are just using standard glaze. I find that most glazes, if you try to add a thick layer, the glaze will get this porous appearance. This will allow for a rough contact that can accumulate plaque and bacteria, and also is a weaker contact that can certainly chip off at any time. I say yes if you try a glaze called Lustre Paste NF from GC. This is a glaze based on fine ceramic particles imbedded into the glaze so it can be applied a bit thicker. It works great to close a small open contact. If the contact is more than say .5 mm, I would use the porcelain add on kit.

Another thing that I find the Lustre Past NF is great for is to create some texture on anterior teeth. Because it is a bit thicker, it give the restoration some texture that can be left as is or it can be polished back some to refine the texture. Luster Paste NF makes for a very life like final restoration.