In vitro chipping behaviour of all-ceramic crowns with a zirconia framework and feldspathic veneering: comparison of CAD/CAM-produced veneer with manually layered veneer

Interface adhesion on layered zirconia: Effects of the veneering ceramic material and veneering technique

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of different veneering ceramics and veneering techniques on the bond strength to zirconia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

3Y-TZP zirconia blocks were sliced into 60 slabs, polished, and sintered. Each slab received one ceramic cylinder (Ø = 3.4 mm, 5 mm-high), according to the veneering ceramic type (feldspathic-FEL or lithium disilicate-based-LD) and the veneering technique (file-splitting with resin-based luting agent-RC, file-splitting with fusion ceramic-FC, or heat-pressing-HT), which resulted in six groups: FEL-RC, FEL-FC, FEL-HT, LD-RC, LD-FC, LD-HT. After preparation, the samples were immersed in distilled water for 24 h before the shear bond strength (SBS) test. The failure modes were classified as adhesive, predominantly adhesive, or cohesive. Representative failure mode images were taken in a Scanning Electron Microscope. The SBS data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test.

RESULTS

Both type of veneering ceramic and technique affected the bond strength. FC led to the highest SBS values. RC and HP provided similar results when compared within each veneering ceramic. Lithium disilicate achieved lower bond strength than feldspathic ceramic when the heat-pressing technique was applied. The most frequent failure modes were predominantly adhesive and adhesive for FEL and LD, respectively.

CONCLUSION

File-splitting with fusion ceramic provided the highest adhesion to zirconia when feldspathic or lithium disilicate-based ceramics were used. The heat-pressing technique for veneering with lithium disilicate significantly decreased the bond strength when compared to the feldspathic ceramic.

Fracture Resistance of 3D-Printed Occlusal Veneers Made from 3Y-TZP Zirconia

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the fracture resistance of 3D-printed zirconia occlusal veneers (OVs) of different thicknesses and supported by different abutment materials. Materials and Methods: The standard OV of a natural molar was prepared and digitized using a laboratory 3D scanner. The resulting digital tooth abutment was milled either using cobalt-chromium (CoCr) or a fiber-reinforced composite (FRC). All the abutments were digitized and standardized OVs (30° tilt of all the cusps) designed with 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, or 0.8 mm wall thicknesses. The OVs were fabricated using either the Programill PM7 milling device (Ivoclar Vivadent, PM) or one of two 3D zirconia printers, Cerafab 7500 (Lithoz, LC) or Zipro-D (AON, ZD). The ZD samples were only tested on CoCr abutments. The completed OVs were luted to their abutments and subjected to artificial aging, consisting of thermocycling and chewing simulation before fracture testing with a steel sphere (d = 8 mm) as an antagonist with three contact points on the occlusal OV surface. Besides the total fracture resistance Fu,tot, the lowest contact force Fu,cont leading to the local fracture of a cusp was of interest. The possible effects of the factors fabrication approach, wall thickness, and abutment material were evaluated using ANOVA (α = 0.05; SPSS Ver.28). Results: The total fracture resistance/contact forces leading to failure ranged from Fu,tot = 416 ± 83 N/Fu,cont = 140 ± 22 N for the 0.4 mm OVs fabricated using LC placed on the FRC abutments to Fu,tot = 3309 ± 394 N (ZD)/Fu,cont = 1206 ± 184 N (PM) for the 0.8 mm thick OVs on the CoCr abutments. All the factors (the fabrication approach, abutment material, and OV wall thickness) had an independent effect on Fu,tot as well as Fu,cont (p < 0.032). In pairwise comparisons for Fu,tot of the OVs luted to the CoCr abutments, the ZD samples statistically outperformed the LC- and PM-fabricated teeth irrespective of the thickness (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, the printed occlusal veneers exhibited comparable fracture resistances to those of the milled variants. However, more resilient abutments (FRC as a simulation of dentine) as well as a thinner wall thickness led to reduced OV fracture resistance, suggesting that 0.4 mm thick zirconia OVs should not be unreservedly used in every clinical situation.

Fatigue behavior of multilayer ceramic structures in traditional and reverse layering designs

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the fatigue failure load (FFL) and the number of cycles for fatigue failure (CFF) of traditional (porcelain layer up) and reversed (zirconia layer up) designs of porcelain-veneered zirconia samples prepared with heat-pressing or file-splitting techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Zirconia discs were prepared and veneered with heat-pressed or machined feldspathic ceramic. The bilayer discs were bonded onto a dentin-analog according to the bilayer technique and sample design: traditional heat-pressing (T-HP), reversed heat-pressing (R-HP), traditional file-splitting with fusion ceramic (T-FC), reversed file-splitting with fusion ceramic R-FC), traditional file-splitting with resin cement (T-RC), and reversed file-splitting with resin cement (R-RC). The fatigue tests were performed using the stepwise approach at 20 Hz, 10,000 cycles/step, step-size of 200 N starting at 600 N, and proceeding until failure detection or up to 2600 N if enduring. The failure modes (from radial and/or cone cracks) were analyzed in a stereomicroscope.

RESULTS

The reversed design decreased the FFL and CFF of bilayers prepared with heat-pressing and file-splitting with fusion ceramic. The T-HP and T-FC reached the highest results, which were statistically similar between them. The bilayers prepared by the file-splitting with resin cement (T-RC and R-RC) were similar to the R-FC and R-HP groups regarding FFL and CFF. Almost all reverse layering samples failed by radial cracks.

CONCLUSIONS

The reverse layering design did not improve the fatigue behavior of porcelain veneered zirconia samples. The three bilayer techniques behaved similarly when used in the reversed design.

Veneer crowns in anterior endodontically-treated teeth: A case report with 1-year follow-up

Key Clinical Message

Veneer crowns can be used in anterior endodontically-treated teeth with light occlusal force and enamel substrate consideration as a more conservative approach instead of conventional all ceramic crowns.

Abstract

All-ceramic anterior crowns and veneers have been used widely in dentistry with high clinical success rate. The development of new reinforced ceramics in recent years has led to more use of extended defect-oriented preparation designs, that is, extended veneers, instead of full crown preparations which are less invasive. A veneer crown is simply a veneer that covers the entire tooth. The preparation preserves remaining enamel and uses a conservative preparation design. Its indication should be carefully raised taking into consideration various factors. The preparation design is crucial to ensure longevity of such restoration. The balance is between sufficient preparation for the material thickness and adequate strength against occlusal load and the enamel preservation. A 24-year-old man referred to the restorative department of the Dentistry School of Tehran University of Medical Sciences complaining from his poor esthetics in the maxillary incisors. In clinical and radiographic evaluation, he had open bite, composite discoloration due to corrosion of the pre-fabricated posts in all four incisors, a periapical lesion in tooth 21 and under-filled root canal therapy in tooth 22. All four posts and composite restorations were removed and teeth 21 and 22 were retreated. Although the amount of remaining tooth tissue was low, it had enough enamel thickness, especially in the buccal area. Taking into consideration this mixed enamel and dentin substrate, endodontics access, esthetics needs and canine guidance occlusion with no parafunction history, bonded lithium disilicate veneer crowns were selected to restore the maxillary incisors. A 12-month follow-up showed promising clinical (healthy gingival tissue and successful restorations) and radiographic (reduced periapical lesion) outcomes.

Novel Dental Restorative Solutions for Natural Teeth and Implants

The long-term survival of restorations in the oral cavity has always been one of the most significant challenges in modern dental practice [...].

Prospective 5-year clinical evaluation of posterior zirconia fixed dental prostheses veneered with milled lithium disilicate (CADon)

OBJECTIVE

Bi-layer zirconia-based posterior fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) have reportedly a high incidence of veneering ceramic fractures. The CADon technique employs zirconia frameworks veneered with milled lithium disilicate glass-ceramic to overcome these shortcomings but long-term clinical studies are missing. This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of posterior 3-unit CADOn FDPs over a 5-year period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 25 patients, 16 male and 9 female with a mean age of 55.6 years, received a total of 25 posterior three-unit CADOn FDPs. Patients were recalled for baseline and for follow-up visits at 6, 12, 24, and 60 months. Parameters evaluated were fracture, marginal adaptation, marginal discoloration, wear, polish, color match, surface staining, and retention of these restorations as well as secondary caries of the abutment teeth.

RESULTS

A total of 21 FDPs evaluated at 60-months revealed a 100% survival rate. All evaluated clinical parameters were satisfactory (alpha or bravo) and there was no statistically significant difference at different time points, except for surface staining, which was also worse at 60 months compared to baseline (p  ≤  0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

CADOn three-unit posterior FDPs demonstrate excellent fracture resistance after 5 years of clinical function. All evaluated clinical parameters were satisfactory, except for surface stain, which also increased over time.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Conventionally veneered bi-layer zirconia-based posterior FDPs have limited clinical success. Based on this study, alternative methods such as zirconia frameworks veneered with milled lithium disilicate glass-ceramic provide a viable alternative with excellent long-term clinical outcomes.

Fracture Resistance of Monolithic High-Translucency Crowns Versus Porcelain-Veneered Zirconia Crowns After Artificial Aging: An In Vitro Study

Purpose

To evaluate the fracture resistance and fracture mode of high-translucency monolithic zirconia (HTZ) crowns and porcelain-veneered zirconia (PVZ) crowns.

Material and methods

A master die was scanned to design and fabricate the HTZ group (n = 10) and PVZ group (n = 10). Both groups were artificially aged before loaded to fracture. The means of fracture loads of the two groups were compared using an independent t-test at a significance level of 0.05. The mode of fracture was determined using a digital magnifier.

Results

The mean fracture strength for the HTZ group (4,425 ± 177 newtons (N)) was significantly higher than in the PVZ group (1,798 ± 30.9 N) (p-value < 0.001). All crowns in the HTZ group presented core fracture mode. However, crowns in the PVZ group showed both a core and adhesive fracture mode of 60% and 40%, respectively.

Conclusion

The fracture strength of HTZ crowns is superior to PVZ crowns. The fracture strength of both types surpassed the maximum bite force in the posterior region, which may be deemed clinically adequate.

CAD-FEA modeling and fracture resistance of bilayer zirconia crowns manufactured by the rapid layer technology

In the RLT (Rapid Layer Technology), veneering ceramic and framework are fabricated by computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and then cemented to obtain the restoration. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the thickness of veneering ceramic manufactured by the RLT technique on the fracture resistance (FR) of bilayer crowns with zirconia frameworks. Twenty zirconia frameworks and twenty feldspathic posterior crowns with two different veneering ceramic occlusal thicknesses (1mm=TF1; 2mm=TF2) were manufactured using CAD/CAM system. The specimens were luted to an epoxy resin abutment with resin cement and mechanically cycled (200N and 4.5×105 Pa, 37°C, 2×106 cycles, 3Hz). The FR test was performed (10kN, 0.5mm/min), and the specimens were analyzed in a stereomicroscope. For the stress analysis (finite element analysis, FEA), a 10kN load was equal to the in vitro test, and the principal stress was evaluated. The FR data were analyzed by Student's t-test and Weibull's analysis. The thickness influenced the FR of bilayer crowns. The FR was higher in the TF2 than in the TF1 group. The TF2 group presented the highest characteristic strength compared to the group TF1. The predominant type of failure was delamination. The FEA showed higher stress concentrations below the loading application point at the veneering cement interface in the 1-mm-thick model. The bilayer crowns manufactured using the approach of 2mm of veneering ceramic promoted higher FR compared to the group with 1mm veneering ceramic. Also, the FEA showed that the veneer ceramic thickness has an effect on stress distribution in zirconia-based bilayer crowns.

On the behaviour of zirconia-based dental materials: A review

Zirconia-based dental materials are extensively used in clinical practice due to their tooth-like appearance, biofunctionality, biocompatibility, and affordability. However, premature clinical failures of veneering porcelains raise a concern about their integrity. Extensive studies have been performed over a decade to resolve this issue, but it is challenging to reference all information effectively. A single source identifying the significance of potential parameters on material performance has not previously been available. An evidence-based meta-narrative review technique was used to review the characteristic parameters that can affect the overall behaviour of zirconia-based materials. Keywords were chosen to assess manuscripts based on scientific coherence with this paper's research objective. Online keyword searches were carried out on ScienceDirect, PubMed, and SAGE databases for relevant published manuscripts from year 1985-2020.261 out of 3170 identified manuscripts were included. A total of 10 parameters were identified and classified into the material, manufacturing, and geometric aspects. The effect of every parameter was reviewed on the performance of the material. A discrepancy in findings was observed and is attributed to the fact that there is no standard methodology. This review acts as a single source that summarizes various parameters' contribution to zirconia-based dental materials' performance. This review facilitates manufacturing improvements by accounting for every parameter's effect on overall performance.

Impact of Coping Veneering Techniques on the Survival of Implant-Supported Zirconia-Based-Crowns Cemented to Hybrid-Abutments: An-In-Vitro Study

The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of veneering technique (hand-layering vs. milling) on the fracture resistance of bi-layer implant-supported zirconia-based hybrid-abutment crowns. Mandibular molar copings were anatomically designed and milled. Copings were then veneered by hand-layering (HL) (n = 20) and milling using the Cad-On technique (LD) (n = 20). Crowns were cemented to zirconia hybrid-abutments. Ten samples of each group acted as a control while the remaining ten samples were subjected to fatigue in a chewing simulator. Crowns were loaded between 50 and 100 N for 1.2 million cycles under simultaneous temperature fluctuation between 5 and 55 °C. Crowns were then subjected to static load a to fracture test. Data were statistically analysed using the one-way ANOVA. Randomly selected crowns from each group were observed under scanning electron microscopy to view fractured surfaces. Study results indicate that during fatigue, LD crowns had a 100% survival rate; while HL crowns had a 50% failure rate. Fracture resistance of LD crowns was statistically significantly higher than that of HL crowns at the baseline and after fatigue (p ≤ 0.05). However, fatigue did not cause a statistically significant reduction in fracture resistance in both LD and HL groups (p > 0.05). Copings fractured in the LD crowns only and the fracture path was different in both LD and HL groups. According to the results, it was concluded that milled veneer implant-supported hybrid-abutment crowns exhibit significantly higher fracture resistance, and better withstand clinical masticatory loads in the posterior region compared to the hand-layered technique. Also, fatigue application and artificial aging caused no significant strength reduction in both techniques. Clinical significance: Different veneering techniques and materials (hand-layering or milling) act differently to clinical forces and environment and may be prone to early chipping during service. Therefore, practitioners are urged to consider the appropriate veneering protocol for posterior implant-supported hybrid-abutment restorations.

Does veneering technique affect the bond strength of bilayer Y-TZP? A systematic review and meta-analysis

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Reasons for failures of bilayer yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) restorations include the core-veneer interface bond strength. The influence of the veneering method on the bond strength of veneered Y-TZP is unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of the veneering method on the bond strength of bilayer Y-TZP.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Searches were performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science (Core Collection), and Scopus for in vitro studies evaluating the effect of the veneering technique on the bond strength of bilayer Y-TZP. Statistical analyses were performed with random-effect models (α=.05).

RESULTS

From 619 identified studies, 140 were selected for full-text analysis and 16 were included. Manual searching yielded no additional articles. The meta-analyses comprised 15 studies, and 1 study was included only in the descriptive analysis. Meta-analyses compared the hand-layered method (control) with pressed, fused, and cemented veneering methods. The fused and cemented techniques were analyzed by using subgroups assessing the veneering ceramic type (predominantly glass-ceramics and particle-filled glass-ceramics). Similar bond strength results (P=.540) were found for pressed and hand-layered veneered Y-TZP specimens. Fused veneers achieved higher bond strength values (P<.001) than the hand-layered veneers on Y-TZP frameworks, irrespective of the veneering ceramic type (predominantly glass-ceramics: P=.002; particle-filled glass-ceramics: P<.001). Global and subgroup analyses indicated that lower core-veneer bond strength values (P<.001) were found for cemented in relation to hand-layered veneers.

CONCLUSIONS

Core-veneer interfacial adhesion was equivalent for pressed and hand-layered veneering techniques. Improved bond strength, regardless of the veneer ceramic material type, was achieved by the fused veneering method, which seems to be a promising choice for the veneering of Y-TZP. In contrast, the cemented method may be unsuitable for veneering Y-TZP structures because of its lower bond strength than the hand-layered veneering technique.

Acid Effects on the Physical Properties of Different CAD/CAM Ceramic Materials: An in Vitro Analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the flexural strength, elastic modulus, microhardness, and surface roughness of monolithic zirconia, lithium disilicate ceramics, and feldspathic ceramics after being exposed to different acidic solutions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rectangular specimens (n = 180) were prepared from three different ceramic materials: lithium disilicate, monolithic zirconia, and feldspathic porcelain. Initial Surface roughness of ninety specimens (n = 30/material) was evaluated using an optical noncontact profilometer. Thirty specimens of each material were immersed in one of the following solutions (n = 10/group): citric acid; acidic beverage; and artificial saliva, which served as the control. Post immersion surface roughness, flexural strength, and elastic modulus were determined using an optical noncontact profilometer and three-point bending test. Another thirty specimens of each material were immersed in the aqueous solutions (n = 10/group) following the same protocol and subjected to microhardness test using a Vickers diamond microhardness tester. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the surface characteristics changes. ANOVA and Post-hoc Tukey's Kramer tests were used for data analysis (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Immersion in different solutions did not affect the flexural strength and elastic modulus of lithium disilicate or zirconia. Microhardness and surface roughness were significantly affected in all groups (p < 0.05). For feldspathic porcelain groups, the flexural strength and elastic modulus were significantly decreased in the citric acid group (p = 0.045 and p = 0.019). Also, there were significant differences among all feldspathic porcelain groups (p = 0.001) in terms of microhardness and surface roughness values.

CONCLUSIONS

The tested acidic agents significantly affected the flexural strength, elastic modulus, surface roughness, and microhardness of feldspathic porcelain. However, the flexural strength and elastic modulus of evaluated lithium disilicate and zirconia did not change significantly.

Comparative In Vitro Study of the Bond Strength of Composite to Carbon Fiber Versus Ceramic to Cobalt-Chromium Alloys Frameworks for Fixed Dental Prostheses

Purpose: The aim of this comparative in vitro study was to assess the bond strength and mechanical failure of carbon-fiber-reinforced composites against cobalt–chrome structures with ceramic veneering. Materials and methods: A total of 24 specimens (12 per group) simulating dental prosthetic frameworks were fabricated. The experimental specimens were subjected to a thermocycling aging process and to evaluate bond strength. All specimens were subjected to a three-point bending test to fracture using a universal testing machine. Results: The cobalt–chrome/ceramic group yielded a bond strength value of 21.71 ± 2.16 MPa, while the carbon-fiber-reinforced composite group showed 14.50 ± 3.50 MPa. The failure assessment reported statistical significance between groups. Although carbon-fiber-reinforced composite group showed lower bond strength values, the chipping incidence in this group was as well lower. Conclusions: The chrome–cobalt/ceramic group showed greater bonding strength compared to the carbon-fiber-reinforced composite; most of the fractures within the cobalt–chrome/ceramic group, had no possibility of direct clinical repair.

An in vitro study to compare the surface roughness of glazed and chairside polished dental monolithic zirconia using two polishing systems

Aim:

To evaluate the efficiency of two commercially available polishing systems in reducing surface roughness of a monolithic zirconia after clinical adjustment and to compare them to glazed zirconia.

Setting and Design:

In vitro study.

Material and Methods:

This in vitro study was conducted on 25 discs (10mm in diameter and 2mm in thickness) using monolithic zirconia (Ceramill Zolid). From 25 specimens, 5 specimens were randomly selected as the positive control. The remaining discs were abraded for 15 secs with a red band diamond finishing bur using an air rotor handpiece. Then the specimens were randomly divided into 5 equal groups of 5 specimens each. Group 1: Roughened, unpolished and unglazed. Group 2 (Positive Control): Glazed without prior roughening,Group 3: Roughened and polished with eZr polishing kit, Group 4: Roughened and polished with Optra fine ceramic polishing kit and Group 5: Roughened and glazed. The surface roughness (Ra) values (μm) were measured quantitatively by a surface analyzer. The mean values were compared using one-way ANOVA and Post Hoc Test. One specimen of each group was evaluated qualitatively under a scanning electron microscope(SEM) for surface topography.

Statistical Analysis Used:

One-way ANOVA and Post Hoc Test.

Results:

The lowest Ra value was found in Group 4-Roughened and polished with Optrafine ceramic polishing kit (Ra=0.47μm) as compared to Group 3-Roughened and polished with eZr polishing kit (Ra=0.49μm) and Group 5-Roughened and glazed (Ra=0.59μm). There was no stastistically significant difference between two polishing systems. SEM analysis of surfaces polished with Optrafine polishing kit revealed smoother and regular morphology as compared to surfaces polished with eZr polishing kit.

Conclusion:

The Optrafine polishing kit created more smoother and uniform surfaces as compared to surfaces polished with eZr polishing kit both quantitatively and qualitatively. Also, lowest surface roughness values were produced by optrafine ceramic polishing kit on monolithic zirconia as compared to glazed monolithic zirconia after their clinical adjustments.Thus Optrafine ceramic polishing kit can be used as alternative to glazing.

Ceramic Materials and Technologies Applied to Digital Works in Implant-Supported Restorative Dentistry

Computer-aided design and manufacturing technology has been closely associated with implant-supported restoration. The digital system employed for prosthodontic restorations comprises data acquisition, processing, and manufacturing using subtractive or additive methods. As digital implantology has developed, optical scanning, computer-based digital algorithms, fabricating techniques, and numerical control skills have all rapidly improved in terms of their accuracy, which has resulted in the development of new ceramic materials with advanced esthetics and durability for clinical application. This study reviews the application of digital technology in implant-supported dental restoration and explores two globally utilized ceramic restorative materials: Yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline and lithium disilicate glass ceramics.

Bond strength of CAD/CAM-manufactured composite resin and ceramic veneers to a zirconia framework

This study investigated bond strength of CAD/CAM-manufactured composite resin and ceramic veneers to a zirconia framework and analyzed the effect of treatments of veneer surfaces. A CAD/CAM resin-based (AVE) composite or lithium disilicate ceramic (IEC) block was used as the veneer material. AVE and IEC specimens were assigned to receive one of three surface treatments (n = 22): no surface treatment, acid-etching with 9.5% hydrofluoric acid gel, and airborne-particle abrasion with alumina particles. Zirconia disks and AVE or IEC specimens in each group were bonded with a resin-based luting agent, and shear bond strength of the specimens was measured at 0 and 20,000 thermocycles. Significant differences were assessed by the Steel-Dwass test for multiple comparisons and Mann-Whitney U-test (α = 0.05). As compared with other surface treatments, bond strengths were significantly higher at 0 and 20,000 thermocycles in the airborne-particle abraded AVE and acid-etched IEC specimens. Airborne-particle abrasion of the surface of AVE specimens increased bond strength between AVE veneers and zirconia frameworks, while hydrofluoric acid treatment enhanced bond strength between IEC veneers and zirconia frameworks.

Fracture resistance of monolithic and veneered all-ceramic four-unit posterior fixed dental prostheses after artificial aging

This study compared the fracture resistance of monolithic and veneered all-ceramic four-unit posterior fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) generated by computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) after aging in a mastication simulator. Four-unit FDPs were designed from six different all-ceramic systems: 1) monolithic lithium disilicate (M-E), 2) monolithic zirconia (M-TZI), 3) veneered zirconia by conventional layering (V-L), 4) veneered zirconia by lithium disilicate pressing (V-P), 5) veneered zirconia by lithium disilicate fusing (CAD-F-E), and 6) veneered zirconia by feldspathic ceramic cementing (CAD-C-CB). The specimens were divided into control and aging groups (n = 10 per group). The aging process included both thermocycling and mechanical loading and was followed by fracture resistance testing. All specimens in the M-E, M-TZI, and V-L groups survived; however, all specimens in the V-P group were fractured during artificial aging. The highest fracture resistance values were observed in the M-TZI group. According to the fracture resistance test, connector fractures were the most frequent type of failure. M-TZI and M-E FDPs revealed no failures during aging and showed higher fracture resistance than the veneered groups. Among the veneered zirconia framework groups, V-L FDPs showed the highest success rate during aging, while the fracture resistance was similar among all the veneered zirconia groups.

Clinical performance of tooth- or implant-supported veneered zirconia single crowns: 42-month results

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this clinical study was to compare and assess the clinical performance of tooth-supported and implant-supported zirconia single crowns with sintered veneering caps.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 118 patients with a total of 220 single crowns placed on 106 teeth (69 vital teeth, 37 endodontically treated teeth) and 114 implants in molar and premolar regions were examined during a mean observation period of 42 months. The restorations were evaluated for technical failures such as veneering porcelain fractures (chipping), surface quality, marginal fit, and the interface quality of the coping and sintered veneering. The soft tissue status was assessed using the modified Silness and Löe's plaque and gingival index (mPI) and the modified Muhlemann sulcus bleeding index (mSBI). Tooth-supported crowns were checked for secondary caries and hypersensitivity during the follow-up period. Recalls were performed every 6 months.

RESULTS

The 3-year Kaplan-Meier success probability was 98.2% and 100% for implant- and tooth-supported crowns, respectively. A significant difference could be detected between the implant-supported and tooth-supported zirconia single crowns, in terms of their chipping rate (p = 0.039). Veneering material fractures were recorded on two implant-supported restorations (1.8%). No veneering fractures occurred on tooth-supported single crowns. The plaque and gingival index and sulcus bleeding index showed stable and healthy soft peri-implant and periodontal tissues. Neither loss of vitality nor secondary caries occurred on tooth-supported crowns.

CONCLUSIONS

Zirconia-based single crowns with a sintered veneering cap showed promising clinical results on both tooth and implant abutments; however, the dental implants were more prone to complications. In terms of clinical significance, high-strength ceramic with a sintered veneering cap can be recommended for prosthetic treatment of both tooth- and implant-supported single crowns in molar regions.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study provides valuable information for further application of all-ceramic restorations.

In vitro lifetime of zirconium dioxide-based crowns veneered using Rapid Layer Technology

Rapid Layer Technology (RLT) uses computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to manufacture a veneer layer that is adhesively bonded to the zirconia framework, avoiding firing steps during the fabrication process and thus preventing build-up of residual stresses. This work studied, using sliding contact fatigue, the in vitro lifetime of restorations produced using RLT compared with restorations produced using conventional veneering techniques. Zirconia copings were veneered with a conventional hand-layering method (VM9) using a fast (n = 16) or a slow (n = 16) cooling protocol, or with RLT. For the latter, the veneers were CAD/CAM fabricated using a feldspathic reinforced-glass (Vitablocs Mark II; n = 16) or a polymer-infiltrated reinforced-glass network (Enamic; n = 16) and adhesively bonded to the zirconia frameworks. Crowns thus obtained were submitted to sliding contact fatigue against a steatite indenter in a chewing simulator until failure. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was conducted. None of the hand-layered restorations survived after a 2 × 10⁶ -cycle interval, whereas no fractures in the RLT groups were observed. Vitablocs Mark II veneers survived for a longer testing period (3.5 × 10⁶ cycles) than their Enamic counterparts (2.5 × 10⁶ cycles) owing to their superior wear behavior. The RLT represents an efficient method to veneer zirconia frameworks by reducing processing steps and, more importantly, increasing the lifetime of the restorations.

Does veneering technique affect the flexural strength or load-to-failure of bilayer Y-TZP? A systematic review and meta-analysis

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Causes of failures of bilayer yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) restorations include the processing technique and the properties of the veneer ceramic. The effect of the veneering method on the mechanical behavior of veneered Y-TZP remains unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the effect of the veneering method on the flexural strength and failure load of bilayer Y-TZP.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Searches were performed through August 2017 in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science (Core Collection), Scopus, and Embase, with no year or language limit, targeting in vitro studies evaluating the effect of the veneering technique on the flexural strength and load-to-failure of bilayer Y-TZP immediately or after aging. Statistical analyses were conducted using an appropriate software. Comparisons were drawn with random effect models (α=.05).

RESULTS

From 3242 identified studies, 241 were selected for full-text analysis; from these, 33 studies were included. Manual searching yielded no additional papers. The meta-analysis consisted of 32 studies. Meta-analysis was performed separately for flexural strength and failure load data to compare the hand-layered method (control) with pressed, fused, and cemented veneering techniques. The cemented and fused methods were analyzed using subgroups depending on the veneering material being examined (predominantly glass-ceramics and particle-filled glass-ceramics), and the results were compared with those of the hand-layered method. The pressed group presented flexural strength (7 studies) (P=.150) and failure load (19 studies) (P=.140) values that were similar to those of the hand-layered group. Subgroup analysis revealed that the fused group with particle-filled glass-ceramics (7 studies) produced higher load-to-failure (P=.006) values than the hand-layered group. Subgroup analyses showed a statistical difference that favored the hand-layered over the cemented method, with predominantly glass-ceramic materials (5 studies) (P=.002).

CONCLUSIONS

The fused technique with particle-filled glass-ceramics seems more appropriate for the veneering of Y-TZP, with improved failure load, than the hand-layered method with predominantly glass-ceramic materials. The use of predominantly glass-ceramics for the cemented method is not recommended as failure load was lower than for the hand-layered group. Pressed veneers showed failure load and flexural strength values similar to those of the the hand-layered technique.

Masking Colored Substrates Using Monolithic and Bilayer CAD-CAM Ceramic Structures

Objective: To evaluate the masking ability and translucency of monolithic and bilayer CAD-CAM ceramic structures.

Methods: Discs of high translucency (HT) and low translucency (LT) lithium disilicate–based ceramic (IPS e.max CAD) with different thicknesses (0.7, 1, 1.5, and 2 mm) were evaluated as a monolithic structure or combined (bilayer) with a 0.5-mm-thick zirconia framework (IPS e.max ZirCAD). The masking ability and translucency were calculated based on CIE L*a*b* color coordinates measured with a spectrophotometer (SP60, X-Rite). The translucency parameter (TP) was calculated using color coordinates measured over standard white-and-black backgrounds. The masking ability was calculated by CIEDE2000 color difference metric (ΔE00) for each specimen measured over a tooth-colored substrate (shade A2) compared to three darker backgrounds (shade C4 and two metal substrates). Confidence intervals (CI) for the means (95% CI) were calculated for TP and ΔE00. The Pearson correlation between ΔE00 and TP was investigated for monolithic and bilayer structures over all backgrounds.

Results: The thinner the lithium disilicate layer, the greater the translucency and the higher the ΔE00 values. The effect of ceramic thickness on both translucency and masking ability was more pronounced for the monolithic structures. In addition, monolayers always presented a greater color variation than their bilayer counterparts. The metallic background produced greater ΔE00 than the C4-shaded substrate.

Conclusion: Monolithic veneers were able to mask C4-shaded background but did not mask metallic backgrounds. Bilayer structures showed greater shade masking ability than monolithic structures.

Clinical performance of screw-retained and cemented implant-supported zirconia single crowns: 36-month results

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the clinical performance of implant-supported zirconia crowns with a sintered veneering cap. Furthermore, the influence of the type of retention (screw-retained vs cemented single crowns) was analysed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-eight patients were accommodated with 114 implants, inserted in the molar and premolar regions. Zirconia-based crowns with a sintered veneering cap were either screw-retained (n = 53) or cemented (n = 61) on the implant. Recalls were performed every 6 months. The state of soft tissue was documented by the modified plaque and gingiva index (mPI) and sulcus bleeding index (mSBI). The restorations were evaluated for technical failures like veneering porcelain fractures, surface qualities and marginal fitting.

RESULTS

Neither implant loss nor crown fractures occurred. After a mean clinical service time of 36.9 months, fractures of the veneering porcelain were registered in 1.8 % of the cases. The Kaplan-Meier survival probability regarding eventless restorations was 98.2 %. Chipping of the veneering porcelain was registered in two cemented crowns without statistical influence of the type of retention. The indices showed healthy soft periimplant tissues in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Implant-supported zirconia crowns with a sintered veneering cap demonstrated good clinical performance. The type of retention had no influence on technical complications.

Effect of geometry on deformation of anterior implant-supported zirconia frameworks: An in vitro study using digital image correlation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of geometry on the displacement and the strain distribution of anterior implant-supported zirconia frameworks under static load using the 3D digital image correlation method.

METHODS

Two groups (n=5) of 4-unit zirconia frameworks were produced by CAD/CAM for the implant-abutment assembly. Group 1 comprised five straight configuration frameworks and group 2 consisted of five curved configuration frameworks. Specimens were cemented and submitted to static load up to 200N. Displacements were captured with two high-speed photographic cameras and analyzed with video correlation system in three spacial axes U, V, W. Statistical analysis was made using the nonparametric Mann-Whitney test.

RESULTS

Up to 150N loads, the vertical displacements (V axis) were statistically higher for curved frameworks (-267.83±23.76μm), when compared to the straight frameworks (-120.73±36.17μm) (p=0.008), as well as anterior displacements in the W transformed axis (589.55±64.51μm vs 224.29±50.38μm for the curved and straight frameworks), respectively (p=0.008). The mean von Mises strains over the surface frameworks were statistically higher for the curved frameworks under any load.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it is possible to conclude that the geometric configuration influences the deformation of 4-unit anterior frameworks under static load. The higher strain distribution and micro-movements of the curved frameworks reflect less rigidity and increased risk of fractures associated to FPDs.

Veneered Zirconia-Based Restorations Fracture Resistance Analysis

PURPOSE

To examine the effects of the veneering technique on the fracture resistance of zirconia-based crowns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An artificial tooth was prepared with a 1.2 mm heavy chamfer finish line and 8° taper. The prepared tooth was scanned using CAD/CAM technology to fabricate 45 cobalt chromium (CoCr) testing dies. One CoCr die was scanned, and 45 zirconia copings were milled and divided according to the veneering technique into three groups of 15 specimens each: layering veneering (LV) using Vita Vm9, overpressing veneering (OV) using Vita Pm9, and digital veneering (DV) using Vita Triluxe forte. The crowns were cemented onto the testing dies using glass ionomer cement. The specimens were thermocycled (3000 cycles, 5° to 55°) then statically loaded (3.7 mm ball, 0.5 mm/min crosshead speed) until failure. Failed crowns were inspected using a magnifier, and failure patterns were identified. One-way ANOVA and multiple comparison Bonferroni tests were applied for statistical analysis of the results.

RESULTS

Means and standard deviations of failure loads were 1200 ± 306 N for the LV group, 857 ± 188 N for the OV group, and 638 ± 194 N for the DV group. The differences in failure loads were statistically significant between all groups (p < 0.05). Failure mode was predominantly cohesive for LV and OV groups, whereas it was predominantly adhesive for the DV group.

CONCLUSIONS

The LV group was superior to other groups in terms of fracture resistance, while the DV group was inferior to the other groups in the same aspect.

Influence of Different Framework Designs on the Fracture Properties of Ceria-Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia/Alumina-Based All-Ceramic Crowns

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture load and failure mode of all-ceramic crowns with different ceria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia/alumina nanocomposite (Ce-TZP/A) framework designs. Four frameworks (anatomical shape: AS, with a buccal or lingual supporting structure: BS and LS, or buccal and lingual supporting structures: BLS) were fabricated. All frameworks were veneered with porcelain to fabricate all-ceramic crowns followed by cementation to tooth analogs. The fracture load of each crown either without or with pre-loading (1.2 million cycles, 49 N) was measured. The failure mode was classified into partial or complete fracture. Differences were tested for significance (p < 0.05) by a two-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey’s test and by Fisher’s exact test, respectively. Without pre-loading, supporting structures did not influence the fracture load or failure mode. Partial fractures were the most common failure mode. Pre-loading promoted the severity of the failure mode, although the fracture load among the framework designs was not influenced. In the AS group, prefailures were observed during pre-loading, and complete fractures were significantly increased after pre-loading. In contrast, the failure mode of the BLS group remained unchanged, showing only partial fracture even after pre-loading. This Ce-TZP/A framework design, comprised of an anatomical shape with additional buccal and lingual structures, has the potential to reduce the chipping of the veneering porcelain.