Ceramic materials have become integral parts of esthetically driven restorative treatment concepts ranging from conservative veneers to full-coverage restorations to full-mouth rehabilitations. High-strength ceramic materials and CAD/CAM technologies are progressively applied for tooth- and implant-supported restorations. This evolution, paired with the developments in adhesive dentistry, has vastly shifted traditional treatment paradigms and offers a whole new range of treatment options that are not only more esthetic and less invasive, but also long-term functional. Besides bonded laminate veneers, which already have a long track record for clinical success, the ceramic resin-bonded fixed partial denture is one of these emerging treatment options that can be applied very successfully in situations where traditional approaches fail. CAD/CAM advancements, however, are even more beneficial for the design and precise fabrication of full-mouth reconstructions, specifically on dental implants, where accurate fit is fundamentally important.

Crucial aspects for successful integration of these modern materials and technologies are case selection and treatment planning, as well as laboratory and clinical handling (i.e., preparation, cementation, and resin bonding) based on the current scientific evidence.

This presentation will provide an update on dental esthetics, ceramics, adhesion, and CAD/CAM technology and discuss guidelines for long-term success with tooth- and implant-supported ceramic restorations.

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Dr. Markus B. Blatz is Professor of Restorative Dentistry and Chairman of the Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he also founded the UPenn SDM CAD/CAM Ceramic Center. Dr. Blatz graduated from Albert-Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany, and was awarded an additional Doctorate Degree, a Postgraduate Certificate in Prosthodontics, and, most recently, Professorship from the same University.

Dr. Blatz is a Board-certified Diplomat in the German Society for Prosthodontics and Biomaterials (DGPro) and a member of multiple other professional organizations, including the European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry, the American College of Prosthodontics, and O.K.U. Honor Dental Society. He serves on the editorial boards of numerous recognized scientific dental journals and is former Associate Editor of Quintessence International and Quintessence of Dental Technology.

Dr. Blatz is the recipient of multiple teaching and research awards and has published and lectured extensively on dental esthetics, restorative materials, and implant dentistry.