How to Optimize Your Dental Lab with Zirconia Blocks

Zirconium dioxide, with the chemical formula ZrO2, is the main oxide of zirconium. It is usually white, odorless and tasteless crystals, and is insoluble in water, hydrochloric acid and dilute sulfuric acid. It is chemically inactive and has the properties of high melting point, high resistivity, high refractive index and low thermal expansion coefficient, making it an important high temperature resistant material, ceramic insulating material and ceramic sunscreen. 

In dental laboratories, zirconia blocks are also an important medical material that can be used for oral restorations. Zirconia blocks are used for the fabrication of crowns, bridges, implants, and other restorations. How to optimize your dental laboratories with zirconia blocks? How to improve the efficiency of using zirconia blocks in dental laboratories? The following aspects require special attention.

First, you need to evaluate your needs and determine the type of zirconia block dental restorations that the laboratory should use. Zircon porcelain teeth are mainly divided into two types: zirconium dioxide porcelain teeth and zirconium dioxide all-ceramic teeth. Both types of zircon porcelain teeth are based on zirconia blocks materials, but their application methods and characteristics are different. When choosing a suitable type of porcelain teeth, it is recommended to consult a professional dentist to make the best choice based on your personal dental condition and needs.

Secondly, pay attention to the performance and quality management of zirconia blocks. The laboratory needs to evaluate the hardness, strength, transparency and other characteristics of zirconia blocks. Comprehensively compare different brands and products to ensure that the raw materials of zirconia blocks used are high-quality products that meet the requirements of clinical medical use.

Third, optimize the workflow and efficiency. The processing process of zirconia blocks includes cutting, grinding, surface treatment, and sintering. Commonly used processing tools include ceramic blades, diamond tools, hot pressing molds, etc. Since zirconia is a special ceramic material, the processing requires carefulness and patience. Pay attention to process details and safety matters to ensure that the processed zirconia material has excellent mechanical properties and surface quality.

Fourth, store zirconia blocks correctly. When storing zirconia blocks, you need to pay attention to the storage temperature, light, humidity and packaging. Store zirconia blocks in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Zirconia blocks have strong hygroscopicity, so they should be kept away from moisture as much as possible during storage. At the same time, when storing zirconia blocks, relevant information should be marked on the packaging, such as production date, batch number, etc., so as to track its source and quality.

Fifth, regularly inspect and maintain the processing equipment. The key to maintaining zirconia blocks processing equipment in the laboratory is regular cleaning, lubrication, calibration and replacement of wearing parts. Regular cleaning and lubrication are basic steps in maintaining zirconia blocks processing equipment. You can use a special detergent and soft brush to clean the internal and external surfaces of the machine, and use a special lubricant for lubrication. Due to long-term use, zirconia blocks processing equipment may have problems such as tool offset and inaccurate positioning, so regular calibration and debugging are necessary. Regularly check the condition of the equipment and replace damaged and aging parts.