This article is sponsored content brought to you by The University of Sydney.
A hands-on workshop led by
Dr Reza Shahmiri
When it comes to materials that deliver positive patient outcomes, zirconia continues to play a transformative role in modern dentistry, particularly as digital workflows and material science evolve. A popular choice for its excellent durability, aesthetics and tooth preservation, zirconia remains a high-quality option for dental restorations and cosmetic treatments.
Not only does using zirconia mean minimal tooth reduction, allowing the preservation of the natural tooth structure, but it also increases patient satisfaction, as zirconia crowns closely resemble natural teeth, resulting in natural-looking dental restorations and better patient smiles.
Zirconia is also minimally invasive and provides a metal-free alternative to other dental restoration materials, which is especially beneficial for patients with allergies or sensitivities.
Another major advantage of using zirconia in crowns is their strength and durability.The superior treatment outcomes achievable with zirconia make it one of the premier material choices, and offering zirconia treatment options as part of your practice is essential if you want to reach a wider client base.
“Zirconia has redefined what is possible in restorative dentistry, but its success depends heavily on how well we understand and control its material behaviour. Mastering zirconia is not about following recipes; it’s about making informed decisions that optimise strength, aesthetics, and bonding reliability in real clinical scenarios,” says Dr Reza Shahmiri.
Sydney Health Executive Education, part of the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Medicine and Health, is offering an exclusive one-day masterclass in Mastering Zirconia: Techniques and Applications in Modern Dentistry, led by Dr Shahmiri.
A key aim of this course is to move beyond simply “using” zirconia to truly understand how its microstructure, surface treatment, and processing protocols influence clinical outcomes.
To be held at the Bligh Dental Simulation Clinic on May 23rd, 2026, this short course has been designed specifically for dentists and dental technicians eager to master the art and science of zirconia restorations.
You’ll gain insights into zirconia’s unique properties, its usage in crowns, bridges and implants, and learn how to navigate its advantages and challenges in everyday clinical practice. You’ll also discover best practices for working with zirconia, understand the material properties that impact fabrication, and enhance your laboratory workflows for stronger, more aesthetic restorations.
Upon completion, you’ll be able to identify the clinical indications and contraindications of zirconia veneers compared to traditional ceramic options, understand zirconia’s biological, mechanical, and optical properties as a restorative material, and be able to evaluate the limitations of lithium disilicate and feldspathic ceramics in complex clinical cases such as bruxism and dark stump masking. You will also have explored CAD/CAM workflows and digital fabrication techniques for zirconia veneer production and be able to integrate material science principles into aesthetic treatment planning for improved long-term success and patient satisfaction.
This course is hands-on, allowing you to put theory into practice through live demonstrations of zirconia fabrication, finishing, and polishing techniques.
Why attend?
Deepen your understanding of zirconia’s clinical and laboratory applications.
• Improve bonding techniques and surface preparation for predictable outcomes.
• Explore innovative materials and surface modifications to enhance masking and aesthetics.
• Address common concerns such as strength, bonding, and longevity.
• Stay updated with evidence-based practices and material advancements.
• Earn CPD points and enrich your professional network.
This short course is available to any dentists looking to confidently incorporate zirconia veneers and restorations into their practice, dental technicians seeking advanced fabrication techniques, and dental material companies aiming to stay at the forefront of innovation.
Course details
Date: 9am-6pm, May 23, 2026
For more information, or to enrol contact fmh.sheed@sydney.edu.au
