Do 3D-printed and milled tooth-supported complete monolithic zirconia crowns differ in accuracy and fit? A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Additive (3-dimensional printing) and subtractive (milling) methods are digital approaches to fabricating zirconia restorations. Comparisons of their resultant fabrication accuracy and restoration fit are lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the accuracy and fit of monolithic zirconia crowns fabricated by 3-dimensional printing and milling. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases were searched up to August 2023. Eligible records were included, and the standardized mean difference (SMD) analyzed 4 outcomes: marginal fit, intaglio fit, trueness, and precision. Publication bias was analyzed with Trim-and-fill, the Egger regression test, and Begg funnel plot. Methodological quality was rated using the QUIN tool. RESULTS: A total of 15 publications were found eligible out of the initial 6539 records. The 3-dimensional printing group demonstrated a lower marginal fit (SMD=1.46, 95% CI=[0.67, 2.26], P<.001; I2=83%, P<.001) and trueness (SMD=0.69, 95% CI=[0.20, 1.18], P=.006; I2=88%, P<.001) and a significantly higher precision (SMD=-2.19, 95% CI=[-2.90, -1.48], P<.001; I2=56%, P=.045). The intaglio fit did not differ significantly across the study groups (SMD=0.77, 95% CI=[-0.22, 1.77], P=.127; I2=87%, P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Given the high degree of heterogeneity, it can be cautiously concluded that while 3-dimensional printing led to greater precision, the outcomes of the 2 accuracy and adaptation parameters most crucial to the longevity of the restorations-trueness and marginal fit-showed the superiority of the milling technique.

Influence of nonthermal argon plasma on the micro-shear bond strength between resin cement and translucent zirconia.

Background: Considering the potential of translucent zirconia for application in esthetic restorations, it is necessary to find effective methods with the least adverse effects to increase its bond strength to resin cement. Aims: This study aimed to test if different conservative surface treatments and cement types could affect the micro-shear bond strength (µSBS), failure mode, and bonding interface between resin cement and translucent zirconia. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro experimental study, translucent zirconia blocks were divided into four groups based on the surface treatment they received: no treatment, argon plasma, primer (Pr), and Pr + plasma. Each group was further divided into two subgroups based on the applied cement: PANAVIA F2 and Duo-Link cement. Fourteen cement columns with a diameter of 1 mm were placed on each block (n = 14); all the specimens were immersed in 37°C water for 24 h. Afterward, µSBS was evaluated (P < 0.05), and the mode of failure was determined by a stereomicroscope (×10). The cement-zirconia interface and the surface hydrophilicity (contact angle) were also evaluated. Statistical Analysis: Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the effect of surface preparation, cement types, and incubator, simultaneously (P < 0.05). The bond strengths after incubation were analyzed by one-way ANOVA (P < 0.05). Failure mode, contact angle, and cement-zirconia interface were analyzed descriptively. Results: The highest bond strength was seen in Pr surface treatment for Duo-Link cement; however, this group was not significantly different from Pr and PANAVIA F2 cement and Pr + plasma and Duo-Link cement (P = 0.075) groups. All plasma specimens in the incubator failed prematurely. The mode of failure in all specimens was adhesive. The lowest and highest contact angles were seen in Pr + plasma and the control groups, respectively. Conclusion: The use of Pr could successfully improve the bond strength of resin cement to translucent zirconia while plasma was not an acceptable and durable substitute.

Resin cement selection for different types of fixed partial coverage restorations: A narrative systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review the selection criteria of resin cements for different types of partial coverage restorations (PCRs) and investigate if the type of restorations or restorative materials affect the type of selected resin cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search (1991-2023) was performed in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases by combinations of related keywords. RESULTS: A total of 68 articles were included to review the selection criteria based on the advantages, disadvantages, indications, and performance of resin cements for different types of PCRs. CONCLUSIONS: The survival and success of PCRs are largely affected by appropriate cement selection. Self-curing and dual-curing resin cements have been recommended for the cementation of metallic PCRs. The PCRs fabricated from thin, translucent, and low-strength ceramics could be adhesively bonded by light-cure conventional resin cements. Self-etching and self-adhesive cements, especially dual-cure types, are not generally indicated for laminate veneers.

Effect of pretreatment of root dentin surface with cold atmospheric plasma on improving the bond strength of fiber post and resin cement: In vitro study.

INTRODUCTION: Achieving stable adhesion between fiber post and interradicular dentin is a challenging process in the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of surface pretreatment with cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) on improving the bond strength between them. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight single-canal mandibular premolars were cut 1 mm above the cementoenamel junction to keep the root length of 14 mm or more. After endodontic treatment and preparation of the post space, the teeth were divided into four groups regarding the pretreatment of dentin surfaces, including normal saline, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), CAP, and CAP + EDTA groups. The data were analyzed using paired and independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance and the significance level was set at p < .05. RESULTS: The bond strength was significantly higher in the coronal third than in the apical third in all the groups. Moreover, the bond strength was significantly higher in the CAP + EDTA-treated group. The bond strength increased significantly in the CAP group compared to the normal saline group. In addition, the bond strength increased significantly in the CAP or EDTA groups compared to the control group. The lowest bond strength belonged to the control group (normal saline). CONCLUSION: The surface pretreatment with CAP (alone or in combination with EDTA) played a significant role in improving the bond strength of fiber post and root canal dentin.

Effect of Nonthermal Plasma on Shear Bond Strength of Translucent Zirconia in Layering Ceramic.

Background: Today, various methods are used to increase the bond strength of zirconia in layering ceramics. This study evaluated the effects of nonthermal argon plasma on zirconia shear bond strength to layering porcelain. Materials and Method. In this experimental study, 42 square blocks of zirconia were prepared and randomly divided into three groups (n = 14) according to the applying surface treatment: (1) the control group (without any surface treatment), (2) the plasma-treated group with argon nonthermal plasma, and (3) the air abrasion group with 50 µm Al2O3 particles. All samples were layered with porcelain. One sample from each group was evaluated by electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the cross-sectional area of the zirconia-ceramic bond. The rest of the specimens were subjected to thermocycling with 5,000 baths to imitate the aging process in the mouth and then were tested for shear bond strength. The failure pattern of the samples was examined by stereomicroscope. Bond strength data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA test in three groups and Tamhane post hoc test in pairs. The significance level of p-value was considered 0.05. Results: The shear bond strength of the plasma-treated group was significantly higher than the control group (p = 0.032) but the shear bond strength between the sandblast and the plasma-treated group was not significantly different (p = 0.656). The shear bond strength between the sandblast and the control group was also not significant (p = 0.202). Regarding the mode of failure, failures were mostly adhesive and then mixed. Examination of the samples under SEM showed that the bond area is the thickest in the sandblast group and also the surface roughness is the highest in the sandblast group and the lowest in the control group. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the use of nonthermal argon plasma treatment is an effective way to enhance the quality and quantity of shear bond strength between layering porcelain and zirconia.

Evaluation of Marginal and Internal Fit of CAD/CAM Endocrowns with Different Cavity Tapers.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of cavity tapering on marginal and internal adaptation of endocrowns fabricated from two different ceramic materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two mandibular molar model teeth were prepared with two different cavity tapers (5 and 10 degrees). A total of 40 endocrowns (four groups of 10 each) were milled using lithium disilicate and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate ceramics for each cavity taper. The marginal and internal adaptation of endocrowns were measured by a stereomicroscope (×30) at 18 different points. The data were statistically analyzed using independent t test (P < .05). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was shown among the tested groups at 10 degrees of taper (P < .001). At 5 degrees of taper, the difference was insignificant. The greatest internal gap was observed at the pulpal floor in all tested groups. CONCLUSION: All materials had clinically acceptable internal and marginal gaps; however, lithium disilicate ceramic had significantly better adaptation at 10 degrees of taper. Int J Prosthodont 2023;36:189-193. doi: 10.11607/ijp.6877.

Cement selection criteria for different types of intracanal posts.

Background: To consciously select an appropriate dental cement for each type of intracanal post. Materials and Methods: An electronic search was carried out (1970 to 2020) through Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The following keywords were searched in title, abstract, or keywords with different combinations: endodontically treated tooth, root canal therapy, dental posts, post and core, prefabricated posts, custom posts, dental cement, resin cements, cement selection, cement, and adhesive resin cement. Results: Evaluating full texts, 146 articles were selected to review the types of posts and cements, selection criteria of appropriate cement for each type of post, and compare the results obtained by different cements. Conclusion: Dental cements affect the survival rate, durability, and success rate of postbased treatments. Considering special characteristics and application of each type of intracanal post, conscious selection of cement is an important determining factor in long-lasting success. Choosing an appropriate cement has a key role in success and durability of dowel posts-based fixed restorations.

Comparing the Surface Behavior of Conventional and CAD-CAM Feldspathic Porcelains in the Face of Laser-Assisted Bleaching and Post-bleach Polishing.

Introduction: The prevalence of using different esthetic methods increases the possibility of close contact between them with potential adverse interactions. This study aimed to compare the surface changes (microhardness and roughness) in two types of feldspathic porcelain after laser bleaching and post-bleach polishing. Methods: 12 standardized rectangular specimens were prepared for each porcelain group (conventionally layered and CAD-CAM milled). Vickers microhardness and roughness were evaluated before and after the bleaching procedure and after polishing. Data were statistically analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and t test (P < 0.05). Results: The surface roughness of both groups increased significantly after laser bleaching (P < 0.001 for conventional and P=0.004 for CAD-CAM porcelains). The polishing process reduced the roughness of both groups; the reduction was significant in conventional specimens (P=0.020). The surface hardness values did not change significantly in the groups after bleaching and post-bleach polishing stages (P=0.142). Generally, the average surface roughness of CAD-CAM specimens was significantly lower (P < 0.001), and the surface microhardness of the CAD-CAM group was significantly higher than conventional porcelains (P=0.011). Conclusion: Laser bleaching significantly increased the surface roughness of feldspathic porcelains; however, it did not affect the surface microhardness significantly. Unlike CAD-CAM specimens, polishing significantly improved the surface smoothness of conventional porcelains.

Comparison of retention and fracture load of endocrowns made from zirconia and zirconium lithium silicate after aging: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to compare retention and fracture load in endocrowns made from translucent zirconia and zirconium lithium silicate. METHODS: Fifty-six intact human maxillary molars after being mounted in acrylic resin, were scanned to acquire biogeneric copies. Specimens underwent standard endodontic treatment and were prepared for endocrown up to 2 mm above the cementoenamel junction. The specimens were randomly divided into two groups of 28, and endocrowns were designed using biogeneric copies and milled from high-translucent zirconia disks (Zr) and zirconium lithium silicate blocks (ZLS). After cementation with dual-cure resin cement, all the specimens underwent thermomechanical aging, and pull-out retention test and compressive test were conducted (14 specimens were used for each test in each group, n = 14), and failure modes in both tests were evaluated. RESULTS: Independent samples t-test showed significant difference between the retention of Zr (271.5 N ± 114.31) and ZLS (654.67 N ± 223.17) groups (p value = 0.012). Compressive test results were also significantly different between Zr (7395.07 N ± 1947.42) and ZLS (1618.3 N ± 585) (p = 0.002). Failure mode of retention test was primarily adhesive failure at the cement-restoration interface in Zr group and cement-tooth interface in ZLS group. Failure modes of fracture test for Zr group were 7 non-restorable fractures and one restorable fracture while 6 specimens resisted compressive loads up to 8500 N without fracture. ZLS group showed 7 restorable and 7 non-restorable failures. CONCLUSIONS: Zr endocrowns showed significantly lower retention and higher fracture strength. Both materials seem to be suitable for fabrication of endocrown in clinical setup.

Evaluating the relation of posterior occlusal plane to ala-tragal line according to age and sex.

INTRODUCTION: Occlusal plane orientation affects the esthetic, function, and success of removable or fixed prostheses. The most prevalent index for determination of this plane is the ala-tragus line while there are controversies in the exact location of tragus reference point.

Comparison of Marginal and Internal Adaptation in Endocrowns Milled from Translucent Zirconia and Zirconium Lithium Silicate.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare marginal and internal adaptation in endocrowns made from translucent zirconia and zirconium lithium silicate using CAD-CAM technology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight freshly extracted upper molars were mounted in acrylic resin and underwent root canal therapy and endocrown preparation up to 2 mm above the cementoenamel junction. Endocrowns were CAD-CAM milled from zirconium lithium silicate (ZLS) and translucent zirconia (Zr). Internal and marginal adaptation was assessed by the replica technique before cementation. Marginal adaptation was evaluated by a stereomicroscope (×32) before and after cementation and also after thermomechanical aging. RESULTS: The ZLS group showed significantly higher internal adaptation compared to the Zr group (P = 0.028), while the marginal adaptation differences, at different times with different methods, were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Axiomarginal angle had the highest and axiopulpal angle showed the lowest adaptation in both groups. The cementation process and thermomechanical aging increased the marginal gap in both groups significantly (P < 0.001). The marginal gap assessed by the replica technique before cementation was 7.11 µm higher than direct view under a stereomicroscope with intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.797. CONCLUSION: Zirconia seems to be an acceptable material for endocrown with comparable internal and marginal adaptation to ZLS. Cementation and thermomechanical aging had significantly negative effects on marginal gap. The marginal gap assessed by the replica technique was higher than direct view under the stereomicroscope technique.

Rehabilitation of a deep bite patient with worn dentition using minimally invasive approach: A 3-year follow-up.

Full mouth rehabilitation of severely worn teeth represents a challenging situation for dental clinicians. This case report describes the minimally invasive interdisciplinary approach for treatment of severely worn dentition with a loss of vertical dimension of occlusion. After 3 years of follow-up, no complication was observed.

Cement selection criteria for full coverage restorations: A comprehensive review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Proper cement selection in fixed prosthesis plays a determinative role in providing long-term serviceability, retention, caries prevention, and patient satisfaction. This study, reviews different luting agent characteristics and their application based on different clinical situations and different types of full coverage restorations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An electronic search was conducted through PubMed, Medline, and Google scholar using following keywords or combinations: restoration, full coverage, PFM, porcelain fused to metal, all ceramic, zirconia, ceramic, casting, fixed partial denture, cement*, dental cement, cement selection, and retention. The most related articles were selected for review. RESULTS: Choosing a proper luting agent is highly dependent on scientific knowledge regarding the characteristics of restorative materials and luting agents. Conventional cements could be indicated in various situations; however, some restorative materials or clinical situations call for resin-cements to provide predictable retention, support, and durability. CONCLUSIONS: Conscious selection of retentive cement for each type of restoration/material is necessary to provide predictable successful treatment and reduce the potential complications. Key words:Adhesive cement, dental bridgework, dental cements, dental crowns, dental porcelain, prostheses and implants.

Comparison of Fracture Resistance and Failure Mode in Digitally Milled Restorations with Rapid Layering by Indirect Composite Resin: An In Vitro Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the fracture resistance and failure mode of implant crowns made by polyether ether ketone (PEEK), zirconia, and chromium-cobalt frames, veneered by milled composite resin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six implant analogs were mounted in acrylic blocks, and solid abutments were secured (n = 12). Single-unit frameworks were milled from PEEK, zirconia, or chromium-cobalt, and cemented to indirect composite veneers fabricated by the rapid layering technique. After thermal cycling, the fracture resistance test was performed at a speed of 0.5 mm/min, and the results were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post hoc test (P < .05). The failure mode was evaluated by a stereomicroscope ('L10). Veneer failure without damage to other components was considered desirable (repairable). RESULTS: The mean fracture resistances of PEEK, zirconia, and chromium-cobalt specimens were 2,037.24, 2,567.05, and 2,032.10 N, respectively. The Tukey post hoc test showed no significant difference between the PEEK and chromium-cobalt groups (P = .99); however, the difference was significant between zirconia and PEEK or chromium-cobalt specimens (P = .001). Failure mode was desirable in all chromium-cobalt (12 specimens), 9 zirconia, and 7 PEEK-based specimens. CONCLUSION: Zirconia-composite implant crowns had significantly higher fracture resistance. Given the range of maximum occlusal forces, all the specimens had clinically acceptable results. The failure mode was more desirable in chromium-cobalt, followed by zirconia-based crowns.

Evaluation of the colour and translucency parameter of conventional and Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) feldspathic porcelains after staining and laser-assisted bleaching.

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate the color and translucency changes of the feldspathic porcelain samples made using the conventional or computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) methods after immersion in staining solutions and laser bleaching. Materials and Methods: A total of 72 samples of feldspathic porcelain were fabricated using the conventional (n = 36) or CAD/CAM (n = 36) methods. Afterward, each group was randomly divided into three subgroups (n = 12), which underwent exposure to coffee, orange juice, or distilled water for 6 weeks. Then, the samples underwent diode laser-assisted bleaching. A spectrophotometer assessed the samples' color and translucency preintervention, after staining, and after bleaching. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way and two-way analysis of variance and independent t-test were used. The significance level was 0.05. Results: Staining for 6 weeks significantly changed the color of both types of feldspathic porcelains. Furthermore, there were significant differences between the ceramics made using different methods and immersed in different staining solutions (P < 0.001). Furthermore, laser-assisted bleaching changed the color of immersed specimens significantly (P = 0.005). However, there were no significant translucency changes in all the subgroups after staining (P = 0.215) and laser bleaching (P = 0.325). Conclusions: The staining-induced discoloration of all the subgroups was in the clinically acceptable range (ΔΕ<3.3). In addition, bleaching could effectively remove the stains in both types of ceramics while not affecting the primary color. Moreover, the translucency of the ceramics was not affected by staining or laser-assisted bleaching.

Marginal Adaptation of Implant Prostheses Fabricated by Different Materials in Excessive Crown Height Space before and after Veneering.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the marginal adaptation of implant-supported three-unit fixed restorations fabricated in excessive crown height by various frameworks namely zirconia, nickel-chromium (Ni-Cr) alloy, and Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) before and after veneering. Materials and Methods: A basic model with two implant fixtures was made to receive posterior three-unit fixed partial dentures (second premolar to second molar) in 15 mm crown height. A total of 30 frameworks were fabricated using Ni-Cr, zirconia, and PEEK (n=10). All specimens were veneered and vertical marginal discrepancy was evaluated before and after veneering using a stereomicroscope (×75). The effect of framework material and veneering on marginal discrepancy was evaluated by repeated-measures and one-way ANOVA, and paired t test (α=0.05). Results: There was a significant difference between the groups (P<0.001) before and after veneering. The vertical marginal discrepancy of zirconia frameworks was significantly lower than that of other groups both before and after veneering (P<0.001). Statistical analysis revealed that the veneering process had a significant effect on marginal adaptation (P<0.001). Conclusion: In implant prostheses with excessive crown height, zirconia had the greatest marginal adaptaion significantly, followed by Ni-Cr. Veneering caused a significant increase in marginal discrepancy of all the materials.

Effect of aging on fracture resistance and torque loss of restorations supported by zirconia and polyetheretherketone abutments: An in vitro study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: New materials have been developed for digital processing, including implant abutments, but studies on their mechanical properties are lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the effect of aging on the fracture resistance, failure mode, and torque loss of restorations made of zirconia and ceramic-reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) abutments with titanium bases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Titanium-based PEEK and zirconia abutments were milled and veneered with composite resin or feldspathic porcelain in the form of maxillary first premolars (n=10). All the specimens were subjected to an aging process and were assessed after every 250 000 cycles under a stereomicroscope, and torque loss was recorded with an electronic torque meter. Fracture resistance was measured under static load (crosshead speed of 1 mm/min), and failure modes and final torque were determined. A t test was conducted for statistical analyses (α=.05). RESULTS: The fracture resistance of the zirconia restorations was significantly greater than the PEEK-based restorations (P=.001). Torque losses were not significantly different after aging (P=.18); however, significant difference was recorded after the fracture test (P=.007). The effect of fracture load was significantly greater for the zirconia group (P<.001). Unlike with the zirconia group, the failure mode in the PEEK-based restorations was mainly adhesive and favorable (9 of 10 specimens). CONCLUSIONS: Ceramic-reinforced PEEK abutments had acceptable resistance to fracture, a favorable failure mode, and successfully sustained the aging process.

Evaluating the effect of different combination of impression and pouring materials on marginal and internal adaptation of zirconia crowns / Evaluación del efecto de diferentes combinaciones de materiales de impresión y vertido en la adaptación marginal e interna de las coronas de circonio

Purpose: Two important factors in dental prosthesis are making an accurate impression and producing a suitable cast which represents the exact relationship between prepared tooth and oral structures. This study, aimed to investigate the effects of different combinations of impression and pouring materials on marginal and internal adaptation of premolar zirconia crowns. Material and Methods: Forty maxillary premolars were prepared considering round shoulder finish line. The impressions were made either by additional (Panasil) or condensation (Speedex) silicon, and poured by two different types of gypsum materials (Siladent or GC gypsum) (N=10). Zirconia crowns were fabricated using a CAD-CAM system. The crowns were cemented, and the samples were cut in bucco-lingual direction. Marginal and internal gaps were measured by stereomicroscope (×25). Results: The mean marginal gaps for Pansil-Siladent, Panasil-GC, Speedex-Siladent, and Speedex-GC were 141 µm, 143 µm, 131 µm, and 137 µm respectively. The internal gaps were 334 µm, 292 µm, 278 µm, and 257 µm respectively. The independent T-Student test showed no significant differences in average marginal or internal gap among various impression and gypsum materials or their interactions (p>0.05). Two-way ANOVA test showed no significant differences in maximum marginal or internal gap among various impression and gypsum materials and their interactions (p>0.05). Conclusion: The present study revealed no statistically significant difference in marginal/internal gap among crowns prepared using different combinations of impression-pouring materials evaluated.

Introducción: Dos factores importantes en la prótesis dental son hacer una impresión precisa y la producción de un modelo adecuado que represente la relación exacta entre el diente preparado y las estructuras orales. Este estudio, tuvo como objetivo investigar los efectos de diferentes combinaciones de materiales de impresión y vertido sobre la adaptación marginal e interna de coronas de zirconio premolar. Material y Métodos: Se prepararon cuarenta premolares maxilares considerando la línea de meta del hombro redondo. Las impresiones se realizaron con silicio adicional (Panasil) o de condensación (Speedex) y se vertieron con dos tipos diferentes de materiales de yeso (yeso Siladent o GC) (N = 10). Las coronas de zirconio se fabricaron utilizando el sistema CAD-CAM. Las coronas se cementaron y las muestras se cortaron en dirección buco-lingual. La brecha marginal e interna se midió con estereomicroscopio (×25). Resultados: Las brechas marginales medias para Pansil-Siladent, Panasil-GC, Speedex-Siladent y Speedex-GC fueron de 141µm, 143µm, 131µm y 137µm, respectivamente. Las brechas internas fueron 334µm, 292µm, 278µm y 257µm, respectivamente. La prueba de T-Student independiente no mostró diferencias significativas en la brecha marginal o interna promedio entre varios materiales de impresión y yeso o sus interacciones (p>0.05). La prueba ANOVA bidireccional no mostró diferencias significativas en el espacio marginal o interno máximo entre varios materiales de yeso y de impresión y sus interacciones (p>0.05). Conclusión: El presente estudio no reveló diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la brecha marginal/interna entre las coronas preparadas con diferentes combinaciones de materiales de impresión y vertido evaluados.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Bone Allograft for Alveolar Ridge Preservation after Tooth Extraction: A Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVES: Bone remodeling after tooth extraction results in decreased ridge volume and complicates implant placement. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a rich source of autogenous cytokines and growth factors; it has been proven to effectively improve soft tissue healing and hard tissue regeneration. This study sought to compare the clinical application of freeze-dried bone allografts (FDBA) and PRF for alveolar ridge preservation after tooth extraction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This clinical trial was conducted on 32 patients presenting for the extraction of hopeless non-molar teeth. The teeth were extracted with minimal trauma, and the samples were randomly divided into two groups (n=16). Tooth sockets were filled with either FDBA or PRF (prepared using 10cc of the patient's blood). Bone regeneration was assessed by evaluating changes in horizontal and vertical bone dimensions after 12 weeks (the time of implant placement) using an acrylic stent fabricated before tooth extraction and a periodontal probe. The results were compared by repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA; P<0.05). RESULTS: Ridge width showed a significant reduction compared to the baseline in both groups (P=0.001); ridge height changes were not significant (P>0.05). The evaluated groups did not show any significant difference in height/width changes (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The results showed an acceptable efficacy for PRF without graft materials in alveolar ridge preservation. This material is cost-effective and could be easily prepared. PRF application in extraction sockets yielded similar results to FDBA.

Comparison of Retention and Seating of Implant-Supported Hard and Soft Metal Copings.

Objectives: Implant-supported restorations are generally used for the replacement of the lost teeth. Stability against masticatory forces and proper retention are critical for optimal durability of restorations. The aim of this experimental study was to compare the retention of cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) copings made by different techniques. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four solid abutment analogs were mounted and scanned with a desktop scanner. They were divided into two groups (n=12) and received metal copings fabricated by either soft or hard Co-Cr alloy. Soft Ceramill Sintron Co-Cr patterns were milled and sintered. Hard Co-Cr blocks were milled in a milling machine. The copings were sandblasted, polished, adjusted, and placed on the respective abutments. The frequency of adjustments was recorded for each abutment. The copings were cemented with zinc phosphate cement and underwent tensile test by a universal testing machine. The Mann-Whitney test and t-test were used to compare the two groups (α=0.05). Results: There was no significant difference in retention of copings between the experimental groups. The mean retentive force was 559.58±115.66 N and 557.13 ±130.48 N for the soft and hard metal groups, respectively (P=0.96). Considering the non-normal distribution of adjustment frequency data, the Mann-Whitney test showed that the frequency of adjustments was significantly higher in the hard metal group than the soft metal group (9.5 versus 0.1667; P<0.001). Conclusion: Although hard metal copings required more adjustments, retention of soft and hard Co-Cr copings was not significantly different.