With zirconia continuing to play a central role in restorative dentistry due to its high strength and biocompatibility, Dentsply Sirona has introduced a new zirconia block, CEREC Cercon 4D™, designed for use with chairside CAD/CAM systems. This material aims to combine mechanical durability with a high level of esthetics.
CEREC Cercon 4D™ features a flexural strength exceeding 1,100 MPa and utilizes a proprietary 3-dimensional layering process intended to replicate the gradient of natural dentin and enamel. According to the manufacturer, this design approach supports a more lifelike appearance in final restorations.
A notable clinical feature of the material is its ability to support reduced wall thickness—0.5 mm for single-unit crowns and 0.6 mm for bridges—while maintaining strength. These dimensions may allow for increased preservation of tooth structure and provide clinicians with greater flexibility when managing cases involving limited interocclusal space.
In terms of workflow, the material is compatible with the CEREC SpeedFire® sintering furnace and supports accelerated sintering, with single crowns reportedly completing the cycle in under 14 minutes.
“Based on our clinical research with CEREC Cercon 4D zirconia blocks, the 3D shading has provided an accurate shade match and blends well with the adjacent enamel. The milled restorations fit very well and have a very smooth surface finish when hand polished,” says Dr. Dennis J. Fasbinder, Clinical Professor, University of Michigan School of Dentistry.
CEREC Cercon 4D™ is designed for a range of indications, from veneers to multi-unit restorations, and can be used regardless of the clinician’s experience with zirconia materials.
For cementation, the material is compatible with Dentsply Sirona’s Calibra® Universal+, a self-adhesive resin cement that may be used with or without an adhesive agent such as Prime&Bond®. The cement enters a gel phase approximately 45 seconds after light activation, allowing for easier removal of excess.
“With CEREC Cercon 4D™, Dentsply Sirona takes the next step in advancing its goal of making zirconia a versatile material that enables you to create strong and beautiful restorations,” explains Julie Mroziak, Vice President, Restorative Solutions at Dentsply Sirona. “CEREC Cercon 4D™ is packed with innovative technology that empowers users to achieve high esthetic zirconia restorations with great confidence—even in just a single visit.”
CEREC Cercon 4D™ will be available in 11 shades, including one bleach option. More details can be found at: www.dentsplysirona.com/cerec-cercon4d
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CEREC Cercon 4D™
