[Coloration of mica glass ceramic for use in dental CAD/CAM system].

Objective: An intrinsically colored machinable glass-ceramic containing tetrasilicic fluormica as the predominant crystal phase was studied, which was used in molar crown in dental CAD/CAM system.

Methods: Orthogonal design analysis was used to select appropriate base formula, coloration and heat treatment process.

Results: Factors influencing the color appearance of mica glass ceramic were nucleation agent and the ratio of Mg(2+) to K(+) in base formula; Cerium oxide (CeO(2)) was used as the main coloration; The preferred heat treatment was 650 degrees C for 1 h and 1,000 degrees C or 1,050 degrees C for 3 h - 4 h.

Conclusions: This mica glass-ceramic could provide 4 to 5 color appearance for dental use, it showed excellent machinability which was eminently suitable for use in dental CAD/CAM system.