Ceramic Opacity — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateDental MaterialsCeramic OpacityORE Part 1

An all-ceramic crown on the upper right central incisor appears noticeably less translucent than the natural contralateral incisor. Which ceramic-related factor is the most likely cause?

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Correct answer: B — An excessively opaque core ceramic

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · A = shown as B · B = shown as C

A is correct. An overly opaque core ceramic reduces light transmission through the restoration, producing an anterior crown that looks comparatively opaque. In layered ceramic restorations, both material type and the core–veneer thickness combination influence translucency. B is incorrect because reducing ceramic thickness generally increases, rather than reduces, translucency. C may cause a hue, value or chroma mismatch, but shade is not the principal determinant of translucency. D concerns marginal seal, periodontal health and longevity, not the optical behaviour of the crown body. E may alter surface lustre and perceived surface texture, but it does not account for reduced bulk translucency. The key finding in the stem is reduced translucency, pointing to excessive ceramic opacity.

Reference: Jeong I-D, et al. Translucency of zirconia-based pressable ceramics with different core and veneer thicknesses. Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 2016. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26794702/