What are Lava crowns?

3M ESPE Lava Crowns and Bridges (3M ESPE )are a milled zirconia coping (using CAD/CAM technology) overlaid with feldspathic ceramic for optimal strength and esthetics. They are indicated for anterior or posterior crowns and for 3- and 4-unit bridges (maximum span 38 mm). They can be cemented with traditional crown and bridge cements. In a clinical study of 3M ESPE Lava Crowns and Bridges, C linical Consultants of THE DENTAL ADVISOR placed 66 units in 42 patients. At recall of 59 units at three years, resistance to fracture, resistance to microleakage, and wear resistance were rated very good to excellent for more than 85% of the restorations.