What is ceramic blocks

In denture restoration, ceramic blocks are core blanks for all-ceramic crowns, ceramic veneers, inlays, onlays and other restorations, which are processed into final components via cutting, sintering and other steps.

Ceramic blocks have two core functions: 

1) Simulating the appearance and texture of natural teeth—blocks with different translucency (HT/MT/LT) match the transparency and color of natural teeth, realizing high-aesthetic restoration effects;

2) Providing reliable mechanical properties to bear daily masticatory forces, with good biocompatibility that avoids irritating oral soft and hard tissues, suitable for anterior tooth aesthetic restoration, posterior tooth functional restoration and other scenarios.

What are the functions of different ceramic blocks then?

In the denture field, HT, MT and LT are mostly translucency markers for ceramic blocks and other restorative materials in denture processing. MTA is sometimes misidentified as MT. The core differences of the three lie in translucency and applicable restoration scenarios, as follows:

1. HT (High Translucency): Highest translucency; well simulates the transparent texture of natural tooth incisal edges. Suitable for inlays, onlays and other restorations requiring high natural transparency, with HT materials improving restoration aesthetics.

2. MT (Multi Translucency): Translucency between HT and LT; segmented design matches the varying translucency of different natural tooth parts. Wide applicability—ensures moderate transparency and uniform restoration color for conventional porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and all-ceramic crowns.

3. LT (Low Translucency): Low translucency but high brightness and saturation, with rich colors. Commonly used for ceramic veneers and conventional crown restorations that need clear, stable colors and good base color coverage; LT materials meet both appearance and functional requirements.