Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to the most common questions below. Still need help? Contact Technical Support
Milling Questions
What voltage do I need for the Upcera equipment?
All Upcera equipment requires 220v power with exception of scanners and hand pieces.
Can my milling machine be connected using wifi?
The milling machine needs to be on your wired network not wifi.
How often do I need to change the tools on the milling machine?
There is a tool life tracker on the milling machine that will alert when its time.
Why does the cord on my equipment look like a standard 110v plug?
This is standard in Asia but is easily changed to match your 220v outlet.
Can I use other materials or only Upcera materials?
Our mills have been validated with our material but yes you can use others.
Do I need to lubricate the machine with oil or grease?
The machine does not require any oil or grease.
What kind of air compressor do I need to run the machine?
Any compressor will work as log as it has a dryer and 100 psi constant.
Can the Upcera milling machine mill facial anatomy?
Yes our A52 and A53 can mill facial anatomy in 90 degree milling.
Does my CAM PC need to be directly connected to the milling machine?
The CAM PC and the mill need to be on the same network.
Does the vacuum start automatically when the machine is milling?
If purchased through Upcera the vacuum will start automatically.
Can I use the machine without a network connection?
Yes programs can be moved to the machine with a USB drive.
How often should I calibrate the milling machine?
Depending on use, Once a month or when you see irregularities in milling.
Is there maintenance I need to perform on the milling machine?
Keeping the machine as clean as possible is the only maintenance needed.
Can I leave the mill on or should I turn it off?
Your choice, most people shut down over weekends.
Do I need to pay an annual license fee for Millbox CAM software?
Annual license payment is only required if you want to upgrade.
Do I need to purchase a CAM license for every machine?
One CAM license can run any number and all of Upcera mills.
How many crowns can fit in a disc?
Depending on the crowns between 18-22 on average.
What happens if I misplace or lose the Millbox dongle?
The dongle is your license so try to not lose. If lost there is a replacement charge.
How do I install my A52 Milling Machine
Watch our step-by-step video here.
Sintering Questions
Can I use my existing furnace to sinter Upcera zirconia?
Yes you can use your existing furnace and program our cycles.
Why are my shades coming out lighter than usual?
Calibrate your furnace if possible, more than likely the temperature is off.
Does the GT1 have a fast sintering cycle?
No, the GT1 is not recommended for fast cycles.
How many crowns can I sinter in the GT1 at once?
You can sinter as many crowns that fit in two trays.
Can I program the GT1 for different materials?
The GT1 furnace has 18 programmable cycles.
Do I need to calibrate the sintering furnace?
Calibrating the GT1 is recommended if shade accuracy is an issue.
Does the furnace need to be decontaminated?
If you start to see yellowing or greenish hues, yes decontaminate.
How do I decontaminate the sintering furnace?
Place pieces of white zirconia in a tray and run a regular cycle until they sinter white.
Do I need to add any purge or decontamination materials in the furnace?
No, always use pieces of scrap white zirconia to decontaminate.
Can I sinter full arches and crowns in the same cycle?
Crowns can be run in a long full arch cycle but full arches should only be run in a long slow climb cycle.
Do the elements come pre-installed in the GT1 furnace?
Elements do not come installed to avoid breakage in shipping.
How long do elements usually last before having to replace?
Elements last years. That being said they are fragile after use so it is not recommended to ship or transport. Life also is determined by use.
Zirconia Questions
What is zirconia?
Zirconia (ZrO₂), or zirconium oxide, is a naturally occurring mineral transformed into a white crystalline oxide. It is biocompatible, heat-resistant, and exceptionally durable, making it ideal for dental restorations and prosthetics.
What is the minimum thickness for your materials?
Minimum thickness should be .5mm.
Do you offer a material that is suitable for all restorations?
Explore functional can be used for the majority of indications.
Can Upcera zirconia be milled wet?
Yes it can be milled wet with pure water with no lubricant or coolant to avoid contamination of your furnace.
How long does the zirconia need to dry after milling wet?
At least 15 minutes under a heat lamp or air dry for an hour. Full arches should air dry as long as possible.
What should I use to cut milled parts from the disc after milling?
A high speed with a fine diamond or carbide tip is recommended.
What should I use to remove the pins after removing them from the disc?
Pins should be removed with a soft rubber wheel before sintering.
Can I make adjustments after sintering the zirconia?
Yes, adjusting and polishing is fine. A diamond high speed with water is recommended.
Do full arches need to have a support bar added in milling for sintering?
Yes, to avoid warping a support bar is recommended.
Do small bridges also require a support bar?
All bridges that are above 5 units and have a curve should have a support bar.
Is sand blasting recommended on Upcera zirconia?
Sand blasting is allowed just be careful around margin areas. Sand blast only after sintered not in green state.
Can any infiltrating coloring liquid be used on Upcera white zirconia?
Any water based should be fine. Test infiltration time to make saturation and color results desired are achieved.
Can Upcera material be polished instead of glazed?
Yes polishing is acceptable if preferred.
What is the composition of zirconia used in dentistry?
Dental zirconia is typically Yttria-stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystal (Y-TZP). Yttrium oxide is added to stabilize the crystal structure, improving toughness and strength through a mechanism known as transformational toughening.
Is zirconia a ceramic or a metal?
Zirconia is scientifically classified as a metal oxide but is grouped with ceramics under ISO 6872:2024 due to its similar behavior in dental applications. It offers a unique balance of metal-like strength and ceramic-like aesthetics.
Where is zirconia sourced from?
The primary source of high-quality zirconia is Australia, which produces material with the lowest natural radioactivity levels. Other notable sources include Brazil, India, Russia, China, and the United States.
FDA-approved zirconia must have radioactivity levels below 20 Bq/kg.
How is zirconia processed for dental use?
Dental zirconia goes through CAD/CAM design, milling, sintering, and glazing. In its “green-state” (semi-sintered form), zirconia has a strength of 65–100 MPa, making it easy to mill. After sintering, it reaches its full strength and translucency.