Adhesive Cementation of CAD/CAM Silica-based Ceramics: Effect of Adhesive Type and Long-term Aging on the Bond Strength to Composite Cement.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of adhesive type and long-term aging on the shear bond strength (SBS) between silica-based ceramics and composite cement (CC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Lithium-silicate (LS), feldspathic (FD) and polymer-infiltrated ceramic (PIC) blocks were sectioned (10 x 12 x 2 mm) and divided into 24 groups considering the factors: "ceramics" (LS, FD, and PIC), "adhesive" (Ctrl: without adhesive; 2SC: 2-step conventional; 3SC: 3-step conventional; 1SU: 1-step universal), and "aging" (non-aged or aged [A]). After the surface treatments, CC cylinders (n = 15, Ø = 2 mm; height = 2 mm) were made and half of the samples were subjected to thermocycling (10,000) and stored in water at 37°C for 18 months. The samples were submitted to SBS testing (100 kgf, 1 mm/min) and failure analysis. Extra samples were prepared for microscopic analysis of the adhesive interface. SBS (MPa) data was analyzed by 3-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (5%). Weibull analysis was performed on the SBS data. RESULTS: All factors and interactions were significant for SBS (p<0.05). Before aging, there was no significant difference between the tested groups and the respective control groups. After aging, the LS_1SU (22.18 ± 7.74) and LS_2SC (17.32 ± 5.86) groups exhibited significantly lower SBS than did the LS_Ctrl (30.30 ± 6.11). Only the LS_1SU group showed a significant decrease in SBS after aging vs without aging. The LS_1SU (12.20) group showed the highest Weibull modulus, which was significantly higher than LS_2SC_A (2.82) and LS_1SU_A (3.15) groups. CONCLUSION: No type of adhesive applied after silane benefitted the long-term adhesion of silica-based ceramics to CC in comparison to the groups without adhesive.

Characterization of Microstructure, Optical Properties, and Mechanical Behavior of a Temporary 3D Printing Resin: Impact of Post-Curing Time.

The present study aimed to characterize the microstructure of a temporary 3D printing polymer-based composite material (Resilab Temp), evaluating its optical properties and mechanical behavior according to different post-curing times. For the analysis of the surface microstructure and establishment of the best printing pattern, samples in bar format following ISO 4049 (25 × 10 × 3 mm) were designed in CAD software (Rhinoceros 6.0), printed on a W3D printer (Wilcos), and light-cured in Anycubic Photon for different lengths of time (no post-curing, 16 min, 32 min, and 60 min). For the structural characterization, analyses were carried out using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical behavior of this polymer-based composite material was determined based on flexural strength tests and Knoop microhardness. Color and translucency analysis were performed using a spectrophotometer (VITA Easy Shade Advanced 4.0), which was then evaluated in CIELab, using gray, black, and white backgrounds. All analyses were performed immediately after making the samples and repeated after thermal aging over two thousand cycles (5-55 °C). The results obtained were statistically analyzed with a significance level of 5%. FT-IR analysis showed about a 46% degree of conversion on the surface and 37% in the center of the resin sample. The flexural strength was higher for the groups polymerized for 32 min and 1 h, while the Knoop microhardness did not show a statistical difference between the groups. Color and translucency analysis also did not show statistical differences between groups. According to all of the analyses carried out in this study, for the evaluated material, a post-polymerization time of 1 h should be suggested to improve the mechanical performance of 3D-printed devices.

Effect of Finishing Protocols on the Surface Roughness and Fatigue Strength of a High-Translucent Zirconia.

Purpose: In case of need for esthetical improvement of zirconia restorations, an individualization using extrinsic staining can be applied. This study aimed to evaluate the surface roughness and fatigue strength (survival) of high-translucency zirconia (3Y-TZP, YZ®HT, Vita Zanhfabrik) with extrinsic characterization and/or glaze. Methods: Sixty (60) zirconia discs (12 × 1.2 mm) were obtained, sintered, and randomly distributed among three groups (n = 20) according to the surface finishing protocol: C (control), C + G (extrinsic characterization followed by a glaze layer), and G (glaze layer). The surface roughness (Ra) was analyzed with a contact profilometer. Subsequently, the specimens were subjected to a fatigue load profile starting at 120 N during 20,000 cycles at 4 Hz frequency, with a 5% increase at each step until failure. The failed specimens were evaluated under a stereomicroscope. Surface roughness analysis was evaluated by using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests (95%); while fatigue survival probability was analyzed with Kaplan-Meier and Mantel-Cox (log- rank, 95%). Results: One-way ANOVA revealed that surface roughness was affected by the finishing protocol, where C + G showed the highest mean value (0.46 ± 0.18 µm)A followed by G (0.30 ± 0.10 µm)B, and C (0.19 ± 0.02 µm)C. While for fatigue strength, the G protocol presented a higher mean value (243.00, and 222.36-263.63)A, followed by C + G (192.75 and 186.61-198.88)B and C (172.50 and 159.43-185.56)C. Conclusion: Surface finishing protocols modify the surface roughness and fatigue strength of high-translucent zirconia. Regardless of the surface roughness, both glazing protocols improved the ceramic fatigue strength, favoring the restoration's long-term survival.

Effect of surface treatment on flexural strength and subcritical crack growth of lithium disilicate: an in vitro study

Alternative surface treatments have been proposed for the cementation of lithium disilicate ceramics aiming to improve adhesive and flexural strength under fatigue. This study aimed to evaluate the slow crack growth (SCG) parameters of the lithium disilicate ceramic after hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching or air abrasion (AB) as surface treatments. Ceramic discs were treated with HF (5%, 20 s) or AB (30 µm silica-modified alumina particles, 2.8 bar, 10 mm distance, 15 s), and received a layer of resin cement. The surface roughness after surface treatment was evaluated (n = 5). Samples were tested in a piston-on-three-ball assembly to evaluate the flexural strength (n = 20), inert strength (n = 25), and to determine SCG parameters n and D (n = 35). The highest roughness (p < 0.01) was observed in the AB group, with the highest reliability according to the Weibull analysis, but the lowest SCG susceptibility. Flexural (p = 0.03) and inert strength (p < 0.01) were the greatest in the HF group. Despite exhibiting lower strength than 5% HF, air abrasion may be an alternative for the surface treatment of lithium disilicate surfaces, indicating the best prognosis over time.

Wear of dental ceramics / Desgaste das cerâmicas odontológicas

Com base no desenvolvimento da odontologia adesiva, restaurações minimamente invasivas em cerâmica são utilizadas como alternativas para restaurar um dente. As cerâmicas odontológicas são amplamente aplicadas na área odontológica principalmente devido à sua estética e resistência mecânica. Uma das propriedades da cerâmica a ser bem conhecida antes de seu uso, é a resistência ao desgaste que deve ser compatível com o comportamento de desgaste do antagonista para evitar desempenhos indesejados. Portanto, vários métodos têm sido realizados para avaliar o comportamento do desgaste dos materiais cerâmicos considerando diferentes condições presentes no complexo meio oral. Este estudo teve como objetivo compilar os métodos utilizados para investigar o desgaste das cerâmicas odontológicas e descrever os mecanismos de desgaste envolvidos nos mesmos. A obtenção e análise de dados também é abordada para discutir os resultados obtidos a partir de diferentes métodos, bem como a análise clínica do desgaste e perspectivas futuras sobre esse tema. Em conclusão, muitas metodologias estão disponíveis para medir o desgaste cerâmico. Portanto, os métodos devem ser selecionados com base na relevência clínica de cada estudo e devem seguir parâmetros previamente relatados para padronização, permitindo a comparação da literatura (AU)

Based on the development of adhesive dentistry, minimally invasive restorations in ceramics are used as alternatives to restore a tooth. Dental ceramics are largely applied in the dentistry field mainly due to their esthetic and mechanical strength. One of the ceramic properties to be well known before its use is the wear resistance that should be compatible with the antagonist wear behavior to avoid unwanted performance. Therefore, several methods have been performed to assess the ceramic materials wear behavior considering different conditions present in the complex oral medium. This study aimed to compile the methods used to investigate dental ceramics wear and to describe the wear mechanisms involved on them. Obtaining and analyzing data is also addressed to discuss the results obtained from different methods, as well as the clinical analysis of wear and future perspectives on this topic. In conclusion, many methodologies are available to measure the ceramic wear. Therefore, the methods must be selected based on the clinical significance of each study and should follow previously reported parameters for standardization, allowing literature comparison. (AU)

Silica infiltration on translucent zirconia restorations: Effects on the antagonist wear and survivability.

OBJECTIVE: To assess potential antagonist wear and survival probability of silica-infiltrated zirconia compared to glass-graded, glazed, and polished zirconia. METHODS: Table top restorations made of 3Y-TZP (3Y), 5Y-PSZ (5Y), and lithium disilicate (LD) were bonded onto epoxy resin preparations. Each zirconia was divided into five groups according to the surface treatment: polishing; glaze; polishing-glaze; glass infiltration; and silica infiltration. The LD restorations received a glaze layer. Specimens were subjected to sliding fatigue wear using a steatite antagonist (1.25 ×106 cycles, 200 N). The presence of cracks, fractures, and/or debonding was checked every one/third of the total number of cycles was completed. Roughness, microstructural, Scanning electron microscopy, wear and residual stress analyses were conducted. Kaplan-Meier, Mantel-Cox (log-rank) and ANOVA tests were performed for statistical analyses. RESULTS: The survival probability was different among the groups. Silica infiltration and polishing-glaze led to lower volume loss than glaze and glass-infiltration. Difference was observed for roughness among the zirconia and surface treatment, while lithium disilicate presented similar roughness compared to both glazed zirconia. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the removal of the surface treatment after sliding fatigue wear in all groups. Compressive stress was detected on 3Y surfaces, while tensile stress was observed on 5Y. SIGNIFICANCE: 3Y and 5Y zirconia behaved similarly regarding antagonist wear, presenting higher antagonist wear than the glass ceramic. Silica-infiltrated and polished-glazed zirconia produced lower antagonist volume loss than glazed and glass-infiltrated zirconia. Silica-infiltrated 3Y and lithium disilicate restorations were the only groups to show survival probabilities lower than 85%.

Influence of the Peek Abutments on Mechanical Behavior of the Internal Connections Single Implant.

The present study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of PEEK abutments with different heights on single titanium implants. To investigate the implant surface, different tests (scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, and X-ray diffraction) were adopted. Herein, 20 implants received the 4.5 × 4.0 mm PEEK short abutment (SA) and 20 received the 4.5 × 5.5 mm PEEK long abutment (LA). The abutments were installed using dual-cure resin cement. To determine the fatigue test, two specimens from each group were submitted to the single load fracture test. For this, the samples were submitted to a compressive load of (0.5 mm/min; 30°) in a universal testing machine. For the fatigue test, the samples received 2,000,000 cycles (2 Hz; 30°). The number of cycles and the load test was analyzed by the reliability software SPSS statistics using Kaplan-Meier and Mantel-Cox tests (log-rank) (p < 0.05). The maximum load showed no statistically significant differences (p = 0.189) for the SA group (64.1 kgf) and the LA group (56.5 kgf). The study groups were statistically different regarding the number of cycles (p = 0.022) and fracture strength (p = 0.001). PEEK abutments can be indicated with caution for implant-supported rehabilitation and may be suitable as temporary rehabilitation.

Effect of Surface-Etching Treatment, Glaze, and the Antagonist on Roughness of a Hybrid Ceramic after Two-Body Wear.

Stains and glaze are effective procedures for achieving an aesthetic smoothness on indirect restorations. Thus, the effect of surface-etching treatments previous to the stain layer and the glaze application on the occlusal and antagonist wear of a hybrid ceramic were evaluated against different antagonists. Disc-shaped samples were prepared from polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN) blocks. The specimens were divided into eight groups, according to the surface-etching treatment and glaze application: P (polished specimens); PG (polishing plus glaze); E (hydrofluoric acid etching plus stain); EG (acid etching plus stain plus glaze); A (aluminum oxide sandblasting plus stain); AG (sandblasting plus stain plus glaze); S (self-etching primer plus stain); SG (self-etching primer plus stain plus glaze). Half of the samples were subjected to a wear simulation with a steatite antagonist, and the other half was tested using a PICN antagonist. The test parameters were: 15 N, 1.7 Hz, 6 mm of horizontal sliding, 5000 cycles. The discs and the antagonists' masses were measured before and after the wear tests. The average roughness and spacing defects were evaluated. The etching treatment affected the surface and antagonist mass loss when tested against steatite. AG showed the highest mass loss. This influence was not detected when using the PICN antagonist. The glaze application after staining ensures a smoother surface and avoids antagonist wear.

Influence of Abutment Design on Biomechanical Behavior to Support a Screw-Retained 3-Unit Fixed Partial Denture.

This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of Morse taper implants using different abutments (CMN abutment [(CMN Group] and miniconical abutments [MC Group]), indicated to support a screw-retained 3-unit fixed partial denture. For the in vitro test, polyurethane blocks were fabricated for both groups (n = 10) and received three implants in the "offset" configuration and their respective abutments (CMN or MC) with a 3-unit fixed partial denture. Four strain gauges were bonded to the surface of each block. For the finite element analysis, 3D models of both groups were created and exported to the analysis software to perform static structural analysis. All structures were considered homogeneous, isotropic, and elastic. The contacts were considered non-linear with a friction coefficient of 0.3 between metallic structures and considered bonded between the implant and substrate. An axial load of 300 N was applied in three points (A, B, and C) for both methods. The microstrain and the maximum principal stress were considered as analysis criteria. The obtained data were submitted to the Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn's multiple comparison test (α = 5%). The results obtained by strain gauge showed no statistical difference (p = 0.879) between the CMN (645.3 ± 309.2 µÎµ) and MC (639.3 ± 278.8 µÎµ) and allowed the validation of computational models with a difference of 6.3% and 6.4% for the microstrains in the CMN and MC groups, respectively. Similarly, the results presented by the computational models showed no statistical difference (p = 0.932) for the CMN (605.1 ± 358.6 µÎµ) and MC (598.7 ± 357.9 µÎµ) groups. The study concluded that under favorable conditions the use of CMN or MP abutments to support a fixed partial denture can be indicated.

Interfacial Fracture Energy Between New Translucent Zirconias and a Resin Cement.

PURPOSE: To determine the interfacial fracture energy (IFE) and stress distribution of Brazil-nut-shaped specimens made of translucent zirconia and resin cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three types of translucent zirconia were used: 3Y-TZP (high, Vita YZ HT), 4Y-TZP (super, Vita YZ ST), and 5Y-TZP (extra, Vita YZ XT). The adhesive surfaces were air abraded and 10-MDP-based resin cement was used. The cemented Brazil-nut-shaped specimens, with an elliptical defect in the center (as in real Brazil nuts), were thermally aged (5°C-55°C; 40,000 cycles). The IFE test was conducted with a piston to apply compression on the specimen, while the adhesive interface was positioned at four different angles (0, 10, 20, and 30 degrees) to measure the IFE during tensile, shear, and mixed failure modes. All adhesive interfaces were observed to determine failure patterns. The finite element analysis (FEA) was used to calculate tensile and shear stress distributions according to inclinations. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post-hoc tests (95%), as well as the Mann-Whitney test (95%) was applied to compare each group regarding the aging factor. RESULTS: According to Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post-hoc tests, there were no statistically significant differences between non-aged (p > 0.05) and aged materials (p > 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between aged and non-aged materials for all inclinations (p < 0.05) (Mann-Whitney test). According to the FEA, the compressive loading of Brazil-nut-shaped specimens at different angles showed a predominance of tensile stress at 0 degrees and shear stress at 30 degrees. CONCLUSION: The IFE under predominantly shear stresses is higher than when specimens are subjected only to tensile stresses, which allows the interpretation that failures in the oral environmental will probably occur preferentially under tensile stresses, because less energy is needed. All translucent zirconia bonded to resin cement has similar IFE, and thermal aging negatively affects these bonding interfaces.

Biomechanical evaluation of 3-unit fixed partial dentures on monotype and two-piece zirconia dental implants.

This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior, stress distributions and bone microstrain of fixed partial dentures (FPD) with ceramic abutments supported on monotype zirconia implants, titanium implants and two-piece zirconia implants, using finite element analysis. A three-dimensional model of the jaw was simulated containing 1.0 mm thick cortical bone and cancellous bone tissue. A FPD and implant models (4.1 x 10 mm) were modeled containing a cement-retained implant abutment. These models were replicated in three groups with similar geometries: Titanium Implant and Zirconia Abutment (Ti-Zr); Zirconia Implant and Zirconia Abutment (Zr-Zr) and Monotype Zirconia Implant (Zr-S). An axial load of 300 N was applied to the center of the first premolar. The microstrain (µÎµ) and the Von-Mises stress (MPa) were assumed as failures criteria. For the three groups, a higher stress concentration was observed in the region of FPD connectors. The Ti-Zr group showed a higher stress concentration in the prosthesis and implant when compared to the other groups. However, the smaller elastic modulus of the titanium implant, in relation to the zirconia, provided a lower stress in the abutment and in the prosthetic screw. The monotype implant system allowed a more homogeneous stress distribution and its strain were predominantly located in the cervical region of the peri-implant bone tissue. Monotype or two-piece zirconia implants can be used for rehabilitation with FPD. However, the absence of separation between implant and abutment in the monotype system avoids the stress concentration in the prosthetic screw and reduced the peri-implant bone strain.

Fatigue behavior and stress distribution of molars restored with MOD inlays with and without deep margin elevation.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effect of deep margin elevation (DME) and restorative materials (leucite-reinforced glass-ceramics [C] vs. indirect resin composite [R]) on the fatigue behavior and stress distribution of maxillary molars with 2-mm deep proximal margins restored with MOD inlay. METHODS: Fifty-two extracted human third molars were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 13): C; DME + C; R; and DME + R. Inlays were fabricated in CAD-CAM and bonded to all teeth. The fatigue behavior was assessed with the stepwise stress test (10,000 cycles/step; step = 50 N; 20 Hz; initial load = 200 N). Fatigue failure loads and the number of cycles were analyzed with 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05) and Kaplan-Meier survival plots. The stress distribution was assessed with finite element analysis. The models were considered isotropic, linear, and homogeneous, and presented bonded contacts. A tripod axial load (400 N) was applied to the occlusal surface. The stress distribution was analyzed with the maximum principal stress criterion. RESULTS: For fatigue, there was no difference for DME factor (p > 0.05). For the material factor, the load and number of cycles for failure were statistically higher in the R groups (p < 0.05). The finite element analysis showed that resin composite inlays concentrated more stress in the tooth structure, while ceramic inlays concentrated more stress in the restoration. Non-reparable failures were more frequent in the resin composite inlays groups. CONCLUSIONS: DME was not negative for fatigue and biomechanical behaviors. Resin composite inlays were more resistant to the fatigue test, although the failure mode was more aggressive. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: DME does not impair mechanical behavior. Resin composite inlays failed at higher loads but with a more aggressive failure mode.

Posterior rehabilitation using 3D-printed dental implants and synthetic regenerative biomaterials / Reabilitação posterior com implantes impressos e biomateriais sintéticos

Aim: To describe through a clinical case report the surgical sequence of rehabilitation with 3D-printed implants associated with maxillary sinus floor lift with synthetic regenerative materials, including biphasic bioceramic. Case Report: Patient had an agenesis of the upper left premolars (#12 and #13), a vertical bone deficiency caused by maxillary sinus' pneumatization, and a horizontal alveolar resorption around the missing teeth area. During the surgical procedures, incisions, detachment, and osteotomy were performed in the lateral region of the maxillary sinus. The sinus membrane was detached and lifted 10 mm. Then, a thick poly(dioxanone)-based synthetic resorbable membrane (Plenum) was inserted and adapted inside the sinus to protect the sinus membrane. After the osteotomies with sub-instrumentation, 3D-printed implants (Plenum) were installed in the #12 area (3.5mm x 11.5 mm; 30N) and #13 area (4.0mm x 10mm; 20N). The maxillary sinus was entirely filled with a biphasic bioceramic, HA/ß-TCP (70:30) 500-1000 µm (Plenum) and covered by the same synthetic resorbable membrane. Connective tissue graft from the palatal area was positioned internally to the flap and stabilized with sutures to improve the vestibular tissue architecture. The entire surgical wound was sutured, and the tissues stabilized. No complications occurred in the postoperative period. Conclusion: The use of synthetic regenerative memberane and 3D-printed implants seems to be a promising option in areas of deficient bone remnants (AU)

Objetivo: Descrever por meio de um relato de caso clínico a sequência cirúrgica de reabilitação com implantes obtidos por impressão 3D associados à elevação do assoalho do seio maxilar com materiais regenerativos sintéticos, incluindo uma biocerâmica bifásica. Relato de Caso: Paciente apresentava agenesia dos pré-molares superiores esquerdos (24 e 25), deficiência óssea vertical causada pela pneumatização do seio maxilar e reabsorção alveolar horizontal ao redor da área dos dentes ausentes. Durante os procedimentos cirúrgicos foram realizados incisões, descolamento e osteotomia na região lateral do seio maxilar. A membrana sinusal foi descolada e elevada 10 mm. Em seguida, uma membrana reabsorvível sintética à base de poli(dioxanona) espessa (Plenum) foi inserida e adaptada dentro do seio para proteger a membrana do seio. Após as osteotomias com subinstrumentação, implantes impressos em 3D (Plenum) foram instalados na área do 24 (3,5mm x 11,5mm; 30N) e na área do 25 (4,0mm x 10mm; 20N). O seio maxilar foi inteiramente preenchido com biocerâmica bifásica, HA/ß-TCP (70:30)500-1000 µm (Plenum) e recoberto pela mesma membrana sintética reabsorvível. O tecido conjuntivo da região palatina foi posicionado internamente ao retalho e estabilizado com suturas para melhorar a arquitetura do tecido vestibular. Toda a ferida cirúrgica foi suturada e os tecidos estabilizados. Não ocorreram complicações no pós-operatório. Conclusão:A utilização de biomateriais regenerativos sintéticos e implantes impressos parece ser uma opção promissora em áreas de remanescentes ósseos deficientes.(AU)

Feldspathic and Lithium Disilicate Onlays with a 2-Year Follow-Up: Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial.

The present study was a prospective, controlled, randomized, clinical short-term trial aiming to evaluate the clinical performance of adhesively luted, lithium disilicate and feldspathic glass-ceramics onlays over a period up to 2 years. A total of 11 patients (7 female, 4 male; age range: 18-60 years, mean age: 39 years) were selected for this study. Each patient received a maximum of two restorations per group in a split-mouth-design. LD: Eleven onlays, performed with lithium disilicate-based ceramic (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), and FP: Eleven onlays, performed with feldspathic ceramic (Vita Mark II, Vita Zanhfabrik, Bad Säckingen). Recalls were performed at 2 weeks (baseline = R1), 1 year (R2) and 2 years (R3) after the cementation by three calibrated blinded independent investigators using mirrors, magnifying eyeglasses, probes and bitewing radiographs. The postoperative sensitivity, secondary caries, marginal integrity, marginal discoloration, color match, surface roughness, tooth integrity, and restoration integrity were evaluated. The Friedman test was used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference in time-to-time comparison of the parameters in the ceramics restorations. A total of 95.4% of the restorations were clinically acceptable at the 2-year recall, without a difference for any evaluation parameter for both ceramic materials. Based on the 2-year data, the CAD-CAM onlays manufactured with feldspathic and lithium-disilicate based ceramics showed similar clinical performance.

Feldspathic and Lithium Disilicate Onlays with a 2-Year Follow-Up: Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract The present study was a prospective, controlled, randomized, clinical short-term trial aiming to evaluate the clinical performance of adhesively luted, lithium disilicate and feldspathic glass-ceramics onlays over a period up to 2 years. A total of 11 patients (7 female, 4 male; age range: 18-60 years, mean age: 39 years) were selected for this study. Each patient received a maximum of two restorations per group in a split-mouth-design. LD: Eleven onlays, performed with lithium disilicate-based ceramic (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), and FP: Eleven onlays, performed with feldspathic ceramic (Vita Mark II, Vita Zanhfabrik, Bad Säckingen). Recalls were performed at 2 weeks (baseline = R1), 1 year (R2) and 2 years (R3) after the cementation by three calibrated blinded independent investigators using mirrors, magnifying eyeglasses, probes and bitewing radiographs. The postoperative sensitivity, secondary caries, marginal integrity, marginal discoloration, color match, surface roughness, tooth integrity, and restoration integrity were evaluated. The Friedman test was used to determine if there was a statistically significant difference in time-to-time comparison of the parameters in the ceramics restorations. A total of 95.4% of the restorations were clinically acceptable at the 2-year recall, without a difference for any evaluation parameter for both ceramic materials. Based on the 2-year data, the CAD-CAM onlays manufactured with feldspathic and lithium-disilicate based ceramics showed similar clinical performance.

Resumo O presente estudo é um estudo clínico prospectivo, controlado, randomizado e de longo curto prazo, com o objetivo de avaliar o desempenho clínico de restauraç ões adesivas cerâmica vítrea reforçada com dissilicato de lítio e cerâmica feldspática por um período de até 2 anos. Um total de 11 pacientes (7 mulheres, 4 homens; faixa etária: 18-60 anos, idade média: 39 anos) foram inseridas para este estudo. Cada paciente recebeu duas restaurações por grupo em um delineamento de boca dividida. LD: Onze onlays, realizados com cerâmica à base de dissilicato de lítio (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein); e FP: Onze onlays, realizados com cerâmica feldspática (Vita Mark II, Vita Zanhfabrik, Bad Säckingen). Os retornos foram realizados em 2 semanas (linha de base = R1), 1 ano (R2) e 2 anos (R3) após a cimentação, por três investigadores independentes, cegos e calibrados, usando espelhos, óculos de aumento, sondas e radiografias interproximais. Foram avaliadas a sensibilidade pós-operatória, cárie secundária, integridade marginal, descoloração marginal, correspondência de cores, rugosidade da superfície, integridade dentária e integridade da restauração. O teste de Friedman (95%) foi utilizado para determinar se havia uma diferença estatisticamente significante na comparação periódica dos parâmetros nas restaurações cerâmicas. Um total de 95,4% das restaurações estava clinicamente aceitável no retorno de 2 anos, sem diferença para qualquer parâmetro de avaliação para ambos os materiais cerâmicos. Com base nos dados de 2 anos, as restaurações CAD-CAM fabricados com cerâmica feldspática e à base de dissilicato de lítio apresentaram desempenho clínico semelhante.

Novel speed sintered zirconia by microwave technology.

OBJECTIVE: Continuous efforts have been made to hasten the zirconia densification process without compromising properties. This study evaluated the long-term structural durability of microwave speed-sintered zirconia (MWZ) relative to a conventionally sintered zirconia (CZ). METHODS: As-machined dental 3Y-TZP discs (Ø12 × 1.2 mm) were speed sintered at 1450 °C for 15 min using an industrial microwave oven, while conventional sintering was conducted in a standard dental furnace at 1530 °C for 2 h. Both were followed by natural cooling. The total sintering time was 105 min for MWZ and 600 min for CZ. Groups were compared regarding density, grain size, phase composition, and fracture resistance. Structural durability was investigated employing two fatigue protocols, step-stress and dynamic fatigue. RESULTS: Compared to CZ, MWZ exhibited a slightly lower density (MWZ = 5.98 g/cm3, CZ = 6.03 g/cm3), but significantly smaller grain sizes (MWZ = 0.53 ± 0.09 µm, CZ = 0.89 ± 0.10 µm), lower cubic-zirconia contents (MWZ = 15.3%, CZ = 22.7%), and poorer translucency properties (TP) (MWZ = 13 ± 1, CZ = 29 ± 0.8). However, the two materials showed similar flexural strength (MWZ = 978 ± 112 MPa, CZ = 1044 ± 161 MPa). Additionally, step-stress testing failed to capture the fatigue effect in 3Y-TZP, whereas dynamic fatigue revealed structural degradation due to moisture-assisted slow-crack-growth (SCG). Finally, MWZ possessed a slightly higher Weibull modulus (MWZ = 7.9, CZ = 6.7) but similar resistance to SCG (MWZ = 27.5, CZ = 24.1) relative to CZ. SIGNIFICANCE: Dental 3Y-TZP with similar structural durability can be fabricated six-times faster by microwave than conventional sintering.

Mechanical behavior and microstructural characterization of different zirconia polycrystals in different thicknesses.

PURPOSE: To characterize the microstructure of three yttria partially stabilized zirconia ceramics and to compare their hardness, indentation fracture resistance (IFR), biaxial flexural strength (BFS), and fatigue flexural strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Disc-shaped specimens were obtained from 3Y-TZP (Vita YZ HT), 4Y-PSZ (Vita YZ ST) and 5Y-PSZ (Vita YZ XT), following the ISO 6872/2015 guidelines for BFS testing (final dimensions of 12 mm in diameter, 0.7 and 1.2 ± 0.1 mm in thicknesses). Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were performed, and mechanical properties were assessed by Vickers hardness, IFR, quasi-static BFS and fatigue tests. RESULTS: All ceramics showed similar chemical compositions, but mainly differed in the amount of yttria, which was higher as the amount of cubic phase in the diffractogram (5Y-PSZ > 4Y-PSZ > 3Y-TZP). The 4Y- and 5Y-PSZ specimens showed surface defects under SEM, while 3Y-TZP exhibited greater grain uniformity on the surface. 5Y-PSZ and 3Y-TZP presented the highest hardness values, while 3Y-TZP was higher than 4Y- and 5Y-PSZ with regard to the IFR. The 5Y-PSZ specimen (0.7 and 1.2 mm) showed the worst mechanical performance (fatigue BFS and cycles until failure), while 3Y-TZP and 4Y-PSZ presented statistically similar values, higher than 5Y-PSZ for both thicknesses (0.7 and 1.2 mm). Moreover, 3Y-TZP showed the highest (1.2 mm group) and the lowest (0.7 mm group) degradation percentage, and 5Y-PSZ had higher strength degradation than 4Y-PSZ group. CONCLUSION: Despite the microstructural differences, 4Y-PSZ and 3Y-TZP had similar fatigue behavior regardless of thickness. 5Y-PSZ had the lowest mechanical performance.

Failure Probability, Stress Distribution and Fracture Analysis of Experimental Screw for Micro Conical Abutment.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the failure probability of two types of abutment screws after compressive load and to analyze the stress distribution with finite element method. Sixty (60) single-tooth implant restorations were assembled on titanium implants (e-fix, A.S. Technology - Titanium Fix). The groups were divided into Conventional screw (Screw neck 1.5 ø mm) and Experimental screw (Screw neck constricted with 1.2 ø mm). Specimens were subjected to single load to failure with compressive test according ISO 14801. The fractured specimens were subjected to stereomicroscopy for measurement of remaining screws inside the implant and characterization of fracture origin. Representative specimens were analyzed by scanning electronic microscopy. For finite element method (FEM), an identical 3D model of the two in vitro test groups were used with similar conditions (30º, 100 N load). The stress in the abutment screw was analyzed by von-Mises criteria. The results of strength means were 4132.5 ± 76 MPa and 4528.2 ± 127.2 for conventional and experimental groups, respectively. During microscopy, the mean (mm) of the remaining screw piece inside the implants were 0.97 ± 0.23 and 1.32 ± 0.12 for conventional and experimental groups, respectively. In FEM, the conventional group showed stress concentered in an unfavorable region (peak of 39.23 MPa), while the experimental group showed more stress areas but less concentration than the conventional group (36.6 MPa). In using the tested experimental geometry, the abutment screw can have its strength improved, and the origin of failure can be more favorable to clinical resolution.

Efeito de infiltrações de sílica pelo método sol-gel em uma zircônia odontológica: microestrutura, propriedades mecânicas, resistência de união e energia interfacial para fratura / Effect of silica infiltrations by the sol-gel method on a dental zirconia: microstructure, mechanical properties and interfacial fracture energy

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar os efeitos de diferentes infiltrações de sílica pelo método sol-gel realizado com a presença de catalisadores nas propriedades mecânicas, microestrutura, características de superfície de uma zircônia Y-TZP, e na resistência de união entre a zircônia e um cimento resinoso, bem como avaliar a energia interfacial (tenacidade à fratura) na união de zircônia infiltrada por sílica ou vidro ao cimento resinoso. O estudo foi segmentado em duas partes, na parte A foram confeccionados 210 discos de Zircônia Y-TZP e divididos em 6 grupos, infiltrados por ácido silícico obtido por TEOS, infiltrados por ácido silícico obtido por metassilicato de sódio (Na2SiO3): sem catalisador, com catalisador, com duas e três imersões, e o grupo não infiltrado (controle). Os discos foram caracterizados com DRX, FT-IR e MEV, e depois foram submetidos ao ensaio de resistência à flexão biaxial. Os dados foram analisados com a estatística descritiva, ANOVA 1-fator e Teste de Tukey (95%), e também com a Análise de Weibull para determinar a homogeneidade estrutural. Adicionalmente foram produzidos espécimes retangulares de zircônia, que foram divididos da mesma forma que os grupos citados acima, para a realização do teste de resistência de união. Os espécimes infiltrados foram tratados com ácido fluorídrico 2% por 10 segundos e depois silanizados. Uma matriz de silicone foi adaptada com cera sobre as superfícies tratadas da zircônia e o cimento resinoso foi inserido dentro da matriz e fotopolimerizado. Metade das amostras foram ensaiadas após 24 horas da cimentação e a outra metade foi termociclada por 6x103 ciclos térmicos (5°C-55°C) e ensaiadas ao final. Foi realizado o teste de cisalhamento com fio numa máquina de ensaios universal. Os dados foram analisados com ANOVA 1-fator e Teste de Tukey (95%). Na parte B deste trabalho, foram confeccionados espécimes Brazil nut para realizar o teste de tenacidade à fratura interfacial. As amostras foram usinadas e divididas em 3 grupos: não infiltradas (controle), infiltradas com ácido silícico obtido pelo metasilicato de sódio com catalisador com duas imersões e infiltradas com vidro pelo método proposto por Zhang e Kim (2009). As amostras do grupo controle foram jateadas com óxido de alumínio, as amostras infiltradas com ácido silícico e por vidro foram condicionadas com ácido fluorídrico. Todas as amostras foram silanizadas e cimentadas. Os espécimes foram armazenados por sete dias em uma estufa. Metade das amostras foram ensaiadas e a outra metade foi envelhecida por 4x104 ciclos térmicos (5°C-55°C) e ensaiadas ao final. Foi realizado um teste de compressão com os espécimes colocados em 5 diferentes angulações (0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 25°), dessa forma foram obtidas fraturas em tração pura, cisalhamento puro ou em ambos os modos. Foi calculada a energia interfacial para fratura da interface adesiva. Todas as superfícies dos espécimes foram observadas em estereomicroscópio e MEV para determinar as características de fratura (caminho percorrido pela trinca). Nas imagens de MEV das superfícies dos discos foi possível observar a presença da camada de sílica entremeada aos grãos de zircônia. No grupo infiltrado por TEOS a infiltração ocorreu de forma menos homogênea. Os espectros de DRX mostraram a formação de uma fase cristalina intermediária de silicato de zircônia em todos os espécimes infiltrados. Em relação as propriedades mecânicas, os resultados mostraram que as infiltrações foram efetivas e houve a formação de multicamadas de sílica sobre a zircônia. O grupo infiltrado por três vezes consecutivas e controle mostraram a maior resistência à flexão, já o grupo infiltrado por duas vezes consecutivas mostrou a maior homogeneidade estrutural. Os resultados da parte B do estudo mostraram que a zircônia infiltrada por vidro aderida com cimento resinoso à base de monômeros fosfatados tem o maior valor de tenacidade interfacial, mesmo após o envelhecimento. Os grupos controle e sol-gel foram estatisticamente semelhantes. O envelhecimento não afetou os grupos sol-gel e infiltrado por vidro, mas causou uma diminuição nos valores de Gc do grupo controle. As análises de fratura mostraram que as falhas coesivas de cimento foram predominantes no grupo infiltrado por vidro, já as falhas adesivas foram observadas em todos os grupos. A duas infiltrações, sol-gel e por vidro, preveniram a transformação de fase da zircônia, enquanto o grupo controle mostrou um aumento de 6% de fase monoclínica após o envelhecimento. Assim, pode-se concluir que as infiltrações de sílica são efetivas e geram um material mais homogêneo e mais susceptível à adesão ao cimento resinoso, e que o melhor padrão foi encontrado ao infiltrar sílica obtida através do metassilicato de sódio com duas imersões. O método de infiltração por vidro aumenta a tenacidade à fratura interfacial da zircônia cimentada com cimento resinoso à base de monômeros fosfatados, e o envelhecimento não afeta a tenacidade à fratura interfacial de ambas as infiltrações (sílica e vidro).(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different silica infiltrations by the sol-gel method performed with catalyst on the mechanical properties, microstructure, surface characteristics of a Y-TZP zirconia, and the bond strength between zirconia and a resin cement. Also evaluate the fracture toughness at the junction of zirconia infiltrated by silica or glass to the resin cement. 210 Zirconia Y-TZP discs were prepared and divided into 6 groups, infiltrated by silicic acid obtained by TEOS, infiltrated by silicic acid obtained by sodium metasilicate (Na2SiO3): without catalyst, with catalyst, with two and three immersions, and non-infiltrated group (control). The disks were characterized with XRD and SEM, and were then subjected to the biaxial flexural strength test. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, 1-way ANOVA and Tukey Test (95%), and also with Weibull Analysis to determine the structural homogeneity. Additionally, rectangular zirconia specimens were produced which were divided as the groups cited above for the bond strength test. The infiltrated specimens were treated with hydrofluoric acid, then all specimens were silanized. A silicon matrix was waxed onto the zirconia treated surfaces and the resin cement was inserted into the matrix and photopolymerized. Half of the samples were tested after 24 hours of cementation and the other half was thermocycled by 6x103 thermal cycles (5°C-55°C) and tested at the end. The wire shear test was performed on a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed with 1-way ANOVA and Tukey Test (95%). In the second part of this work, Brazil nut specimens were made to perform the interfacial fracture toughness test. The samples were machined and divided into 3 groups: non-infiltrated (control), infiltrated with silicic acid obtained by sodium metasilicate with catalyst and two immersions, and infiltrated with glass by the method proposed by Zhang and Kim (2009). The samples from the control group were sandblasted with aluminum oxide, the samples infiltrated with silicic acid and glass were conditioned with hydrofluoric acid. All samples were silanized and cemented. The specimens were stored for seven days, half of the samples were tested and the other half was aged for 4x104 thermal cycles (5°C-55°C) and tested at the end. A compression test was performed with the specimens placed at 5 different angles (0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, 25°), thus obtaining fractures in pure traction, pure shear or in mixity modes. The interfacial energy was calculated for fracture of the adhesive interface. All surfaces of the specimens were observed in stereomicroscope and SEM to determine the fracture characteristics. In the SEM images of the disc surfaces it was possible to observe the presence of the silica layer dispersed with the zirconia grains. In the group infiltrated by TEOS, the infiltration was less homogeneously. XRD spectra showed the formation of an intermediate crystalline phase of zirconia silicate in all infiltrated specimens. In relation to the mechanical properties, the results showed that the infiltrations were effective and formed silica multilayers on zirconia The group infiltrated for three consecutive times showed the greatest flexural strength and was similar to the control group, but the infiltrated group by two consecutive times showed the greatest structural homogeneity. The part B results showed that glass-infiltrated zirconia had the highest interfacial toughness value even after aging. The control and sol-gel groups were statistically similar. Aging did not affect the sol-gel and glassinfiltrated groups, but caused a decrease in interfacial toughness values of the control group. The fracture analysis showed that the cohesive defects of cement were predominant in the glass-infiltrated group, and adhesive failures were observed in all groups. Both infiltrations, sol-gel and glass, prevented the phase transformation of zirconia, while the control group showed a 6% increase in monoclinic phase content after aging. Thus, it can be concluded that silica infiltrations are effective and generate a more homogeneous material and more susceptible to adhesion to the resin cement, and that the best standard to infiltrate was found using silica obtained through sodium metasilicate with two immersions. The glass infiltration method increases the interfacial fracture toughness of the zirconia, and aging does not affect the interfacial fracture toughness of both infiltrations (silica and glass)(AU)

Microstructure characterization and SCG of newly engineered dental ceramics.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to characterize the microstructure of four dental CAD-CAM ceramics and evaluate their susceptibility to stress corrosion. METHODS: SEM and EDS were performed for microstructural characterization. For evaluation of the pattern of crystallization of the ceramics and the molecular composition, XRD and FTIR, respectively, were used. Elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio, density and fracture toughness were also measured. The specimens were subjected to biaxial flexure under five stress rates (0.006, 0.06, 0.6, 6 and 60MPa/s) to determine the subcritical crack growth parameters (n and D). Twenty-five specimens were further tested in mineral oil for determination of Weibull parameters. Two hundred forty ceramic discs (12mm diameter and 1.2mm thick) were made from four ceramics: feldspathic ceramic - FEL (Vita Mark II, Vita Zahnfabrik), ceramic-infiltrated polymer - PIC (Vita Enamic, Vita Zahnfabrik), lithium disilicate - LD (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate - LS (Vita Suprinity, Vita Zahnfabrik). RESULTS: PIC discs presented organic and inorganic phases (n=29.1±7.7) and Weibull modulus (m) of 8.96. The FEL discs showed n=36.6±6.8 and m=8.02. The LD discs showed a structure with needle-like disilicate grains in a glassy matrix and had the lowest value of n (8.4±0.8) and m=6.19. The ZLS discs showed similar rod-like grains, n=11.2±1.4 and m=9.98. SIGNIFICANCE: The FEL and PIC discs showed the lowest susceptibility to slow crack growth (SCG), whereas the LD and ZLS discs presented the highest. PIC presented the lowest elastic modulus and no crystals in its composition, while ZLS presented tetragonal zirconia. The overall strength and SCG of the new materials did not benefit from the additional phase or microconstituents present in them.