Because zirconia powders produced by Tosoh Corp. are widely used, dentists may be accustomed to describing zirconia using the 3Y, 4Y and 5Y terminology and may thus prescribe restorations primarily based on yttria concentration. However, not all zirconia materials available on the market conform to the Tosoh classification system, and a 3Y/4Y/5Y prescription can therefore be interpreted differently by the laboratory, leading to misunderstandings.

KATANA Zirconia discs are manufactured by Kuraray Noritake Dental using proprietary powders and advanced multilayer technology developed in-house. Because of their material composition and performance characteristics, these zirconia blanks cannot be accurately described using the Tosoh 3Y/4Y/5Y terminology. Instead, they are classified according to the internationally recognised ISO 6872 standard, which is designed to reflect clinical indications and material performance.

Why ISO 6872 matters

ISO 6872 provides a clear, scientifically grounded and globally accepted framework for dental ceramics. It supports consistent communication between clinicians and dental technicians by focusing on material properties such as strength and translucency and on intended indication range. By referencing ISO 6872, dental professionals can align material selection with clinical requirements rather than powder composition alone, helping to reduce ambiguity in prescriptions and laboratory workflows.

KATANA Zirconia represents a family of advanced dental zirconia materials whose properties are not fully captured by composition-based shorthand such as 3Y, 4Y or 5Y. Instead, it is positioned within the ISO 6872 framework, which provides an indication-driven basis for material selection based on material performance. Use of this globally recognised standard supports clearer communication, improved decision-making and greater confidence for both clinicians and dental laboratories.

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