Gerard Chiche: The evolution of aesthetic possibilities based on zirconia.

In this presentation, emphasis will be placed on clinical situations that are best served aesthetically with zirconia. While the main advantage of zirconia is its mechanical strength, it is possible to design the restoration to maximize its esthetic potential and also to blend it as necessary with other silica-based restorations without compromising strength. Zirconia fixed partial dentures supported by implants or natural teeth will be a strong focus with small and large reconstruction cases depicted in terms of design, connector requirements and available zirconia options to provide optimum strength and improve esthetics.

Dr. Gerard Chiche is the Director of the Center for Esthetic and Implant Dentistry at Georgia Regents University, College of Dental Medicine in Augusta, Georgia. In 2009 he became the first recipient of the Thomas P. Hinman Endowed Chair in Restorative Dentistry at his university, sponsored by the Hinman Dental Society. He is a Past President of the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry. He has authored two textbooks entitled Esthetics of Anterior Fixed Restorations and Smile Design – A guide for Clinicians, Ceramists and Patients.