THE CREATION PORCELAIN SYSTEM includes a series of special Enamels known as the TIs that can add beautiful effects to your restorations. In this report, we'll cover some of the more common uses of the TI powders. The TIs include a range of translucent Enamel powders used to achieve various translucent effects in the Enamel overlay. The colors include TI-1 (blue), TI-2 (white), TI-3 (pink), and TI-4 (yellow).

TI-1 produces a blue tint and is most effective in the second bake when only small amounts of other overlaying Enamels are added. It can be lost if placed too deeply in the layering. It produces a nice bluish effect in the mesial and distal corners of the incisal edge when added at the second bake. It can also be used to form the blue window between the mamelons and the incisal halo. However, it should be used cautiously since its blue tint can be very strong in the mouth.

TI-2 produces a high value, frosty white effect. It is useful to form frosted cusp tips on posterior teeth by placing over the Enamel cusps either to finish the initial build up or at the second bake. When placed over the Dentin beneath layers of Enamel it can be used to form white highlights at the gingival and along the mesial or distal line angles of anterior teeth. Since TI-2 can be very strong, it may be helpful to dilute it with other Enamels or place it deep within the layers if a subtle effect is desired.

TI-3 produces a pink tone. Many young patients have a pinker color to their teeth than older patients and this can be enhanced with TI-3 alone or within the context of the mosaic or segmental build up. It also can be mixed with TI-1 and used as an overlay to produce a violet-toned Enamel.

TI-4 produces a yellow tone. Its uses are varied and it is often employed in the various Enamel overlaying techniques.

In the lateral segmental buildup (i.e., strips of varying Enamels laid next to each other across the facial surface) place a segment of TI-4, then TI-4 plus CL-O, then CL-O. When building a mosaic type of layering, (i.e., small patches of Enamel placed in random order cross the facial surface) use it to produce varying areas of yellow either alone or mixed with CL-O. It also can be overlaid without dilution toward the gingival third to give a warm depth to the translucency.

Using significant amounts of TI-4, especially when mixed with CL-O, can lower the value of a restoration in the mouth and the user should keep this in mind during the buildup to prevent unintentional graying. On the occlusal surface, TI-4 enhances the illusion of depth when placed near the central fossae in small increments to form the base of the cusp. Overlaying with higher value Enamels, such as SI-1, SI-2, S57 or S58, creates optical heights and depths.

Susan C. Krivichi, MA, CDT owns and operates Dental Harmony, LTD, located in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. Her degrees include an AAS in Dental Laboratory Technology, a BS in Dental Auxiliary Teacher Education, and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction. Ms. Krivichi is a contributing writer to this issue of the Palette.

For more information on the new TI-5 or any of the other TI powders please call Jensen at 800-243-2000.

Revision 0, 3/19/99