Shaping, Finishing, and Polishing a CEREC Restoration with DiaShine

Without proper finishing, CEREC restorations can appear flat or dull, but with the right techniques and materials—like DiaShine polishing pastes and tools—you can achieve an enamel-like shine that rivals traditional lab-glazed restorations.

 
 
 
 
 

By incorporating DiaShine into your CEREC workflow, you can ensure that your restorations consistently deliver exceptional quality, durability, and patient satisfaction.

 
 
 
 
 

Achieve a Lab-Quality Finish on Your CEREC Restorations

CEREC technology has transformed modern dentistry, allowing clinicians to design, mill, and place restorations in a single visit. While the milling process creates precise restorations, the shaping, finishing, and polishing steps are crucial in achieving a natural, long-lasting, and aesthetic result. Without proper finishing, CEREC restorations can appear flat or dull, but with the right techniques and materials—like DiaShine polishing pastes and tools—you can achieve an enamel-like shine that rivals traditional lab-glazed restorations.

Dr. August De Oliveira, a leading expert in CEREC and digital dentistry, has used DiaShine extensively in his practice and teaching. He emphasizes how the right finishing and polishing protocol can take CEREC restorations to the next level:

"I have been using DiaShine with my CEREC restorations and in my CEREC courses for over 5 years, and I am constantly amazed at the shine that I get. I am consistently getting a finish that rivals that of a glazed restoration. Combining DiaShine with rubber wheels and using a polychromatic block, you can easily and quickly get CEREC restorations that look every bit as good as something from a great dental lab."

Step-by-Step: Perfecting Your CEREC Restorations

1. Shaping the Milled CEREC Restoration

After milling, restorations often require refinement of anatomical details to ensure they blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth. This step is critical for creating a natural look and proper function.

Recommended Tools:

  • Sintered Diamond Adjusting Wheels – Ideal for refining occlusal anatomy and contours.

  • Fine and Medium-Coarse Rubber Wheels – Perfect for shaping and softening line angles.

2. Smoothing and Finishing the Surface

Before moving into final polishing, it's essential to remove any rough areas or tool marks left from the milling process. Smoothing the surface prevents micro-scratches that can trap plaque and impact longevity.

Recommended Tools:

  • Medium & Fine Rubber Wheels – Provide a uniform surface, ensuring better stain and glaze adhesion if desired.

  • Soft Bristle Brushes – Help refine surface texture without over-smoothing important anatomical features.

3. Polishing the CEREC Restoration to an Enamel-Like Finish

Polishing is where a CEREC restoration truly comes to life. Using the right polishing paste and brushes will enhance the translucency and light reflection, giving the restoration a natural enamel-like gloss.

Recommended Tools & Products:

  • DiaShine Fine & Fine/Soft Paste – Achieves a smooth, high-gloss finish that mimics natural teeth.

  • SHP Stiff and Soft Bristle Brushes – Allow precise polishing control in all areas of the restoration.

  • Polishing Mandrels – Improve accuracy and ease of polishing with rotary tools.

Why Proper Polishing Matters for CEREC Restorations

Many clinicians underestimate the impact of proper polishing on the longevity, aesthetics, and function of CEREC restorations. A well-polished surface:

  • Enhances stain resistance and longevity.

  • Creates a smooth finish that prevents plaque accumulation.

  • Reduces wear on opposing teeth.

  • Provides a natural, lab-quality aesthetic without additional glazing.

Why Choose DiaShine for CEREC Polishing?

  • High-Gloss Results: DiaShine polishing pastes consistently create a finish that rivals traditional glazing.

  • Efficient & Chairside-Friendly: Achieve predictable, professional results in minutes—no need for extra lab processing.

  • Versatile Compatibility: Works on zirconia, lithium disilicate (e.max), and composite materials, making it ideal for all CEREC restorations.

Perfect Your CEREC Workflow with DiaShine

CEREC restorations offer efficiency, precision, and convenience, but to maximize their aesthetic and functional potential, the right finishing and polishing routine is essential. By incorporating DiaShine into your CEREC workflow, you can ensure that your restorations consistently deliver exceptional quality, durability, and patient satisfaction.

Explore DiaShine’s Polishing Solutions and take your CEREC restorations to the next level.