NTI-Kahla

Zirconium oxide, the second most common natural occurrence of the element zirconium, was introduced to the dental market over 25 years ago and has proven to be a revolution in retrospect. From green body to hipped material to the whites commonly used today - the continuous improvement of the material is an indication of its immense potential. The development continues: from the first generation of yttrium-reinforced zirconium oxide to the current fourth generation 4Y-TZP, all zirconium oxide workpieces have one thing in common: enormous hardness, high esthetic function, good workability and excellent biocompatibility. The sintering speed in particular has been massively reduced in recent years and is around 30 minutes for the latest generation. However, the extreme hardness of the material remains a problem. The lengthy processing of zirconium workpieces is a challenge, particularly from an economic point of view. At the same time, instrument consumption increases due to the higher stress on these instruments. We, the diamond experts from Kahla, have been involved in the processing of all forms of zirconia from the very beginning and are constantly adapting our instruments to the developments in this material. This is how we developed the Z-Cut diamond instruments, which are already appreciated by many dentists worldwide for their special properties. Thanks to a special electroplating process and a special "Z-Cut diamond coating", our product has been proven to have the longest durability on the market. The pleasantly smooth running and high stock removal rate ensure efficient processing. In order to meet the individual requirements of users, we have included the most popular shapes in our Z-Cut range. This range is constantly adapted to the needs of our customers and the requirements of the material properties. However, as with any success story, it is also important to address the negative aspects of this development. Zirconium dioxide is prone to severe cracking during grinding and milling, which has been reduced with the development of the individual generations, but has never been completely eliminated. This initial cracking can lead to frictional effects and stress corrosion, commonly known as "crack growth", when used in a humid environment. For this reason, it is essential to adequately polish zirconium dioxide, but grinding also requires a targeted selection of instruments. To meet all requirements, we have defined four grit sizes in our Z-Cut range: medium, fine, superfine and ultrafine. This prevents overly coarse processing, which could lead to problems later on. Minimal cracking during the processing of zirconium dioxide prevents even more complex polishing and reduces the risk of deeper individual cracks, which cannot be completely removed even by polishing. The consequences are well known: Crack growth, material fatigue and workpiece failure. But that doesn't have to be the case. Opt for Z-Cut - a safe, proven and economical system.