3M^TM has introduced the Lava^TM Esthetic Fluorescent Full-Contour Zirconia, which features a natural-toothlike fluorescence and excellent shade match.

“Finally, an indirect restorative that does not compromise esthetics while providing high strength,” said David Hornbrook, DDS, FAACD, FACE, FASDA. “With Lava Esthetic Zirconia, we can optimize strength, fit, and translucency and, since it is designed and milled in the dental laboratory, we achieve ideal contours, occlusion, and marginal integrity.” Hornbrook continued, “With its fluorescent properties, Lava Esthetic interacts with light like natural teeth.”

Lava delivers optimized translucency for esthetic full-contour crowns and 3-unit bridges* at a high strength of 800 MPa**. At the same time, a 2016 study has shown that restorations made of Lava Esthetic zirconia are wear-friendly against opposing enamel.

A unique four-shading element formulation makes it the first pre-shaded zirconia to offer inherent fluorescence for all shades, as well as a true color match with VITA^®Classic shades. Due to its inherent natural fluorescence in any lighting condition---whether daylight, sunshine, or black light---restorations will always look natural. No special fluorescent glaze is required.

Using Lava Esthetic Zirconia can save more than three hours since there is no need for shading liquids or drying time. More than two additional hours can also be saved in the sintering step versus other zirconia materials.

The pre-shaded discs have an integral color gradient to deliver natural-looking shading from enamel to dentin and a true color match to the VITA^®Classic shades Bleach, A1, A2, A3, A3.5, B1, C1, and D2. The material is available in 98mm disc with step format in 14mm, 18mm, and 22mm heights.