Question

Which of the following is correct with regards to finishing and polishing of ceramic restorations:

• A. Apply overglaze or natural glaze before contouring and finishing
• B. Apply overglaze or natural glaze before contouring, finishing and polishing
• C. Apply overglaze or natural glaze after contouring, finishing and polishing
• D. Apply overglaze on natural glaze after contouring

Hint:

In ceramic restorations, glazing is always the final step after all adjustments to preserve surface smoothness and esthetics.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Sequence of Ceramic Restoration Procedures.
After ceramic restoration fabrication, the restoration is first contoured to achieve proper anatomy and occlusion.
Finishing is then performed to smooth out surface irregularities.
Polishing follows to create a smooth and lustrous surface.
Step 2: Purpose of Glazing.
Glazing (natural glaze or overglaze) is performed after contouring and finishing procedures.
It seals surface porosities and enhances surface smoothness and esthetics.
Glazing also reduces plaque accumulation and improves wear resistance.
Step 3: Evaluation of Options.
Applying glaze before contouring or finishing is incorrect because adjustments would remove the glaze layer.
Glaze must be the final step after contouring, finishing, and polishing.
Therefore, only option (C) correctly describes the proper sequence.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, overglaze or natural glaze should be applied after contouring, finishing, and polishing.