ABSTRACT

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of individual manipulative variations on the thickness and color values of opaque porcelain layers applied by different dental technicians. A total of 11 dental technicians applied opaque porcelain onto prepared metal specimens (n=10). The thicknesses of these opaque porcelain layers were measured with an ultrasonic device, and color values were evaluated using a spectrophotometer. Obtained values were compared with those of the control group specimens (n=10), which were fabricated by a prosthodontist. Opaque porcelain thickness values of metal specimens applied by 10 dental technicians were significantly different than those of the control group. Color values of opaque porcelain layer applied by nine dental technicians were significantly different than those of the control group. It was concluded that the opaque porcelain layer thickness and color values may be affected by individual manipulative variations by the different dental operators according to results of present study.