Leucite
Pronunciation: LOO-site
A potassium aluminium silicate crystalline phase dispersed within a feldspar-based dental ceramic to improve its mechanical strength and thermal compatibility.
Full Definition
Leucite (KAlSi₂O₆) is a crystalline mineral phase incorporated into dental porcelains and pressed ceramics to reinforce the glassy matrix. The controlled addition of leucite crystals raises the coefficient of thermal expansion of the ceramic, facilitating compatibility with metal substructures and improving crack-propagation resistance through crack deflection mechanisms. Leucite-reinforced ceramics (e.g., IPS Empress) are distinguished from leucite-free ceramics in clinical manuscripts. Editors should note the correct English spelling 'leucite' (not 'leukite') and verify that crystal phase claims are supported by X-ray diffraction data where appropriate.
Usage
Usage note: Correct spelling is 'leucite', not 'leukite' or 'lucite' (the latter being a trade name for an acrylic). Do not conflate with lithium disilicate, which is a distinct ceramic phase with different mechanical properties.
In Context
- "The leucite-reinforced ceramic crown exhibited a flexural strength of 160 MPa, adequate for anterior single-unit restorations." — Results section, ceramic fracture study
- "The editor corrected 'lucite ceramic' to 'leucite-reinforced ceramic', noting that Lucite is a trade name for PMMA." — Manuscript correction log, prosthodontics journal