New firing parameters: Perceptibly optimize your firing results!

6 October 2016

When you fire IPS e.max Ceram, you aim to obtain the best possible results in terms of firing stability, homogeneity and surface quality. To this end we have optimized the firing parameters for IPS e.max Ceram, and we have made the following adjustments.

1. Two-stage heating phase

In contrast to the existing firing parameters, the new program features a two-stage heating phase. The initial high heating-up rate of 90°C/min ends shortly before the sintering process of IPS e.max Ceram starts and decreases the total firing time. At the subsequent lower heating rate of 20°C/min, the restoration is evenly and homogeneously baked to ensure flawless, low-stress sintering of the ceramic.

2. Lower firing temperature and extended holding time

The new firing temperature of 730°C is lower than that of the existing program (750°C). Furthermore, the default holding time has been extended by one minute. This enhances the firing stability during sintering.

When and why is the new holding time of the firing program necessary? The default holding time is two minutes. This interval is ideal for one to three-unit ZrO₂ and LS₂ restorations, irrespective of the number of restorations placed in the furnace. For optimum firing of long-span ZrO₂ restorations composed of four to 14 units, the holding time needs to be increased to three minutes.

Schematic diagramm about the two-stage firing program Programat Ivoclar Vivadent.

Conclusion: a variety of benefits

The new firing parameters offer a variety of benefits. They are summarized below for your convenience:

Enhanced firing stability, homogeneity and surface quality at same length of firing;
No risk of confusion; furthermore, heightened efficiency due to collective firing of veneered ZrO₂ and LS₂ restorations;
Exceptional firing results, even of large ZrO₂ restorations;
Suitable for wash firing and first and second dentin/incisal firing of LS2 and ZrO2