Recent advances in ceramics

Much of the materials research since the mid 1960s has been directed towards producing stronger reinforced restorations with improved marginal accuracy. Although a new wave of ceramic products appeared in the 1980s, most of the materials currently available are developments derived from ideas established more than 20 years ago. This book outlines some interesting aspects of recent developments and considers the present state of the art with respect to both materials and techniques.Restoration of teeth is not recent but ancient, dating back to 1st century B.C. many materials have been used to restore and replace a lost tooth or a part of it.The quest for an artificial prosthesis similar to the natural tooth, both in function and esthetics, in the oral environment still remains as a foremost concern to the dentist, which has led to the use of CERAMICS in dentistry.An understanding of the materials available, their application and limitations will not only help with selection but will allow more effective communication with patients and laboratories. Promotion of such understanding allows better-informed decision to be made.