The Procera Process :: O'Brien Dental Lab
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The Procera Process

The Procera process utilizes a computer-aided design (CAD) system. Your die is scanned, a digital file is created, and then the high-strength coping is created from that file.

Because the die scanning device uses a small, rounded tip, the ideal preparation for the Procera system is a chamfer. Rounded surfaces and smoothly flowing horizontal margins result in the most accurate scan and most accurate fit. Sharp edges and vertical transitions around the margin circumference should be avoided.


Preparation of chamfer type, with rounded internal angles.

Procera Prep. Illustration 1 Procera Prep. Illustration 2
Shoulder margins are not necessary and provide no esthetic or structural advantage over a chamfer margin.
Procera Prep. Illustration 3 Feather edge margins can be scanned and duplicated with Procera, however they do not produce optimum esthetic results.


It is important to properly taper the preparation to avoid any undercuts and to round off all surface transitions.

Procera Prep. Illustration 4 Procera Prep. Illustration 5 Tall, thin incisal profiles with sharp incisal edges should be avoided.


The occlusal surface should be reduced as for metal ceramics and should have a relatively smooth surface topography. As in any porcelain posterior restoration, the more occlusal space, the more vital and natural your final product will look.

Procera Prep. Illustration 6 Procera Prep. Illustration 7 Posterior preps with deep central groove reduction should be avoided. Procera Prep. Illustration 8 Large, flat posterior preps with short axial walls are not as desirable for the passive fit of Procera.


Margins should flow smoothly around the circumference, avoiding sharp, angular transitions.

Procera Prep. Illustration 9 Procera Prep. Illustration 10 Vertical margins should be avoided. Procera Prep. Illustration 11 Eradic, stepped margins do not lend themselves well to the scanning process and should be smoothed out.


Procera Prep Guide Most Frequently Asked Questions

Shall I cement or bond?

The choice is yours! For cementation, you may use whichever crown
and bridge cement you prefer. When bonding Procera, studies have
shown Panavia 21 to deliver the best results, however any resin cement may be used.

How do I make adjustments?

When making adjustments to veneering porcelain, use proper care and the same precautions as with any other standard porcelain. Before occlusal adjustment, measure occlusal thickness with calipers so as not to come in contact with the core. Cement the crown before making occlusal adjustments. Because of extreme hardness of the core, we recommend against any adjustments on the core.

Do I need to etch the core?

No. Aluminum oxide does not need to be (nor can it be) etched. You will find that the surface texture is already adequate.

I have another question...

For any other guidance or information, feel free to call our Customer Technical Advisor, Tony Megale.
(800) 445-5941 or (541) 754-1238
Monday – Friday 7am until 5pm.

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