Microstructure and nanoindentation analyses of low-temperature aging on the zirconia-porcelain interface.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of low-temperature aging on the micro-mechanical and micro-structural properties of zirconia-porcelain interface. In total, thirty-three Y-TZP zirconia blocks were fabricated by using CAD/CAM technology, veneered with porcelains. Specimens were submitted to low-temperature aging in an autoclave at 134°C, additional 0.2MPa pressure for 0h, 5h, or 10h. Flexural strength was obtained by using three-point bending test. Micro-mechanical properties (nano-hardness (H) and reduced modulus (Er)) were investigated by nanoindentation tests. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses were performed to identify the micro-structure and fracture behavior. The flexure strength, modulus and hardness of zirconia increased after 5h aging and decreased after 10h aging. No significant alterations of the reduced modulus or hardness of porcelain were detected in the whole aging duration. Width of the zirconia-porcelain interface was extended towards the bulk of zirconia. The detachment and cracks could be observed in zirconia, and the crystal alignment was disorganized in porcelain after 5h aging and 10h aging. Mechanical properties of the veneering porcelain are not affected by low-temperature aging. However, the expansion and the alterations of micro-mechanical and micro-structural properties of zirconia-porcelain interface were detected.

The effects of ferrule configuration on the anti-fracture ability of fiber post-restored teeth.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the fracture resistance of fibre post-restored teeth with various ferrule configurations by using fracture failure tests and extended finite element analysis (XFEM). METHODS: 60 Maxillary central incisors were collected and divided into six groups (n=10) according to various ferrule configurations with different ferrule heights in the labial or palatal region. All of the teeth were endodontically treated and restored by using fibre posts, composite cores and metal crowns. Fracture failure tests were performed on the post retained restorations until fracture occurred. The ultimate load was recorded and analyzed by one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The fractured specimens were longitudinal sectioned and investigated by micro-stereomicroscope and scanning electronic microscope. XFEM was used to model the fracture of the post-restored teeth and exhibit crack initiation and propagation in the cement layers. RESULTS: Fracture failure tests indicated that the palatal ferrule significantly enhanced the fracture resistance of the post-restored teeth, regardless the height of the labial ferrule. The fractography investigation exhibited that the crack initiated at the palatal margin of the cement layer and propagated to the cervical region of the root. XFEM confirmed these findings and demonstrated that increasing of the palatal ferrule could effectively enhance the anti-fracture ability of the adhesive cement and protected the integrity of adhesive cement. CONCLUSION: Adhesive interface was the susceptible structure of the post retained restorations. Increasing palatal ferrule height could effectively reduce the stress concentrated within the palatal adhesive cement. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: "Ferrule effect" exhibits the protection of the interity of cement layer. Increasing the ferrule height, especially in the palatal side, can significantly enhance the anti-fracture ability of fibre post-restored teeth.