Quick run-down of the Lava DVS ...

The DVS is a feldspathic porcelain, and although may be indicated for the entire mouth is more of a product for bicuspids and molars at this time. This is only due to the look of the finished crown, hopefully we will learn more about the final shading when Dennis Ouye, CDT comes on the 29th for his course. I have been told he has done quite a few of these.
There did seem to be a stable bond between the milled ceramic and the zirconia with the fusion material, and a definite learning curve as to the the proper amounts of material used. Too little and you have a problem, too much and you have extensive adjustment. I must say though, the process was much easier than we initially thought.
Is the DVS a better product than we are currently producing? Right now we don't think so, however it is an additional product. To me it highly resembles the IPS e.max CAD, just stronger. (Granted I am not a ceramist)
Initially I felt this could be blended in with our current Lava crowns, now I'm not so sure ... there will have to be more samples made, and even some test tops milled and sent to our friends with the 500 mills for the ceramic to be milled. This is only due to the final aesthetic value.
As with many of the new products coming out, this is more of a production time saver. More product in less time, not necessarily for less money. Again, we are going to have to do a few more of them to tell.
Over all, we have some very excited technicians in regards to the possibilities of the Lava DVS. The thought of focusing on the shading was appealing, with not as much focus on stacking and grinding. This places more emphasis on the importance of the ceramic design with the Lava CAD Designer, and the communication between the ceramist and the design technician.

Very exciting possibilites, and we are very appreciative to Lava for the opportunity to get started. Also thankful to Dekema for sending a therm for testing, what a nice machine.

Dan
Lava CAD/CAM Team