Influence of various fabrication techniques and porcelain firing on the accuracy of metal-ceramic crowns.

BACKGROUND: The fit of a metal-ceramic restoration is essential to its long-term durability. Regarding marginal and internal fit, there is not enough information about the technologies used in the production of metal-ceramic restorations. The aim of this in vitro study is to compare, both before and after porcelain firing, the marginal, axial, axio-occlusal, and occlusal fit of metal-ceramic restorations manufactured using casting, additive or subtractive computer-aided design, and computer-aided manufacturing techniques (CAD/CAM). METHODS: CAD/CAM were used to create 50 prepared maxillary first molar-shaped Co-Cr die models, which were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 10). Cobalt-chrome copings were produced by casting (C), hard metal milling (HM), soft metal milling (SM), selective laser melting (SLM), and selective laser sintering (SLS) techniques. Before and after porcelain firing, discrepancies of the copings were measured using the silicone replica technique. The data obtained by measurements with a stereomicroscope at x80 magnification were analyzed statistically in the SPSS program. The ROBUST three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) method was used to compare the discrepancy values. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences among fabrication methods (P < .001). The HM method showed the highest discrepancy (90.1 µm), and the C (63 µm) method showed the lowest discrepancy in terms of the die model- crown fit. The C, SLS, and SM methods (63 µm; 61.6 µm; 67.7 µm) were statistically similar (P > .001). The highest discrepancy was observed on the occlusal area (87.1 µm), and the lowest discrepancy was observed on the axial area (47.7 µm) of the coping. Porcelain firing had a decrease in the discrepancy values (P = .001). CONCLUSION: All CAD/CAM techniques are appropriate for clinical use; selective laser sintering and soft milling can be the more recommended methods for the compatibility of metal-porcelain restorations, as they have lower discrepancy values than the SLM and HM methods.

Evaluation of fracture resistance and marginal fit of implant-supported interim crowns fabricated by conventional, additive and subtractive methods.

BACKGROUND: Interim crowns are utilized for restoring implants during and after the process of osseointegration. However, studies on adaptation and fracture strength of implant-supported interim crowns are rare. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of this in vitro study is evaluating marginal fit and fracture resistance of conventional, subtractive, and additive methods of fabricating implant-supported interim crowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An implant was placed in an epoxy resin model with a missing first molar. A scan body was attached, and scanned with an intraoral scanner (IOS), the STL file was used to fabricate eighteen master models with standardized implant digital analogue spaces. The digital analogues and their corresponding abutments were attached to the master models and scanned with the IOS, the STL files were used to fabricate eighteen crowns using three different techniques (n = 6): conventional (CR); from Autopolymerizing composite resin, subtractive (SM); milled from PMMA resin blanks, and additive (AM); from 3D printed resin material. The crowns were fitted and cemented on their corresponding abutments and subjected to cyclic loading and thermocycling. The marginal fit was evaluated using a stereomicroscope. The crowns were then loaded until fractured in a universal testing machine. The Shapiro-Wilk and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests revealed that data of Marginal gap was non-parametric. Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Dunn test was used (α = 0.05). While data of Fracture resistance test was parametric. ANOVA (F-test) was used followed by the Tukey test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: For marginal gap, a significant difference was shown between the study groups (P = .001) according to Kruskal-Wallis test. Groups SM and AM had significantly lower marginal gap values compared to group CR (P = .003). No significant difference was found between groups SM and AM (P = .994). For fracture resistance, One-way ANOVA revealed a significant difference in fracture resistance between study groups (P < .001). Group SM had significantly higher fracture strength followed by group AM and group CR (P = .001). CONCLUSIONS: Group SM and AM showed better marginal adaptation than group CR. Group SM showed superior fracture resistance compared to other groups. All study groups showed acceptable marginal gap and fracture resistance.

A comparative evaluation of marginal fit and microleakage of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing-milled zirconia and prefabricated posterior occlusal veneers: An in vitrostudy.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to compare the marginal fit of prefabricated occlusal veneers with computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM)-milled zirconia occlusal veneers in the posterior teeth. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Forty extracted human maxillary premolars were divided into two groups of 20 each. Group 1 was prepared to receive prefabricated occlusal veneers, and Group 2 was prepared to receive CAD-CAM-milled zirconia occlusal veneers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prefabricated samples (Edelweiss) were selected for Group 1, whereas for Group 2, the tooth preparations were scanned, and occlusal veneers were fabricated using Exocad designing software and milling machine. After luting, both the groups were submerged in dye, sectioned, and evaluated for marginal fit and microleakage under a stereomicroscope using the microscope imaging software and its measurement tool. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS 27.0. Intragroup and intergroup comparison was done using the Mann-Whitney U test. The Chi-square test was applied to check the depth of penetration of dye based on percentages. RESULTS: The marginal gap of zirconia occlusal veneers fabricated with CAD-CAM is higher compared to that of prefabricated occlusal veneers. Similarly, the depth of penetration of dye is higher in CAD-CAM-milled zirconia occlusal veneers than prefabricated occlusal veneers. CONCLUSION: The marginal fit of prefabricated occlusal veneer is better than the marginal fit of zirconia occlusal veneers fabricated with CAD-CAM. Similarly, it can also be concluded that the microleakage of prefabricated occlusal veneer is less compared to the CAD-CAM-milled zirconia occlusal veneers.

Marginal integrity of prototype bioactive glass-doped resin composites in class II cavities.

OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study examined the marginal integrity of experimental composite materials doped with bioactive glass (BG). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Class-II MOD cavities were prepared and restored with one of the following composite materials: a commercial composite material as a reference (Filtek Supreme XTE), an experimental composite doped with BG 45S5 (C-20), and an experimental composite doped with a fluoride-containing BG (F-20). Six experimental groups (n = 8) were used, as each of the three composites was applied with (+) or without (-) a universal adhesive (Adper Scotchbond Multipurpose). All specimens were subjected to thermocycling (10,000 x, 5-55 °C) and then additionally stored in artificial saliva for eight weeks. Scanning electron micrographs of the mesial and the distal box were taken at three time points (initial, after thermocycling, and after eight weeks of storage in artificial saliva). The margins were classified as "continuous" and "non-continuous" and the percentage of continuous margins (PCM) was statistically analyzed (α = 0.05). RESULTS: In most experimental groups, thermocycling led to a significant decrease in PCM, while the additional 8-week aging had no significant effect. F-20 + performed significantly better (p = 0.005) after 8 weeks storage in artificial saliva than the reference material with adhesive, while no statistically significant differences were observed at the other two time points. C-20 + exhibited significantly better PCM than the reference material with adhesive after thermocycling (p = 0.026) and after 8 weeks (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the experimental composites with BG showed at least as good marginal adaptation as the commercial reference, with an indication of possible re-sealing of marginal gaps. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Maintaining or improving the marginal integrity of composite restorations is important to prevent microleakage and its likely consequences such as pulp irritation and secondary caries.

Influence of fabrication method on the marginal fit of temporary restorations.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology allows the use of different manufacturing techniques. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the marginal fit of temporary restorations manufactured using conventional chairside methods, milling, and three-dimensional printing. Fifteen 3-element temporary restorations specimens were produced and categorized into three groups: non-digital, obtained using the conventional chairside method (GC); milled (GM); and three-dimensionally printed (GP). Marginal fit was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) performed under two conditions: one with only the central screw tightened, and the other with all three screws tightened. Horizontal misfit values were categorized as over-, equal-, and under-extended and qualitatively analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using the Tukey-Kramer test (α=0.05). In the vertical assessment, three-dimensionally printed restorations demonstrated greater misfit than restorations obtained by milling and the conventional chairside method (P<0.05). In the horizontal assessment, the misfit in the GP group was significantly higher than that in the GM and GC groups. Restorations obtained using the conventional chairside method and milled provisional restorations showed more favorable results than three-dimensionally printed restorations.

An In Vitro Study of Retention and Marginal Adaptation of Endocrowns With Different Intracoronal Depths.

BACKGROUND: Marginal adaptation and retention of endocrowns are crucial for the success and survival of endocrowns. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different materials and intracoronal depth on the retention and marginal adaptation of CAD/CAM fabricated all-ceramic endocrowns. METHODS: Thirty-six mandibular premolar teeth with an average surface area of 64.49 mm2 were prepared to receive CAM/CAM fabricated endocrowns. Samples were divided randomly and equally into groups of lithium disilicate with 2 mm intracoronal depth (LD2), lithium disilicate with 4 mm intracoronal depth (LD4), polymer infiltrated ceramic network with 2 mm intracoronal depth (PICN2) and polymer infiltrated ceramic network with 4 mm intracoronal depth (PICN4). All endocrowns were cemented using ParaCore resin cement with 14N pressure and cured for 20 seconds. Fifty measurements of absolute marginal discrepancy (AMD) were done using a stereomicroscope after cementation. After 24 hours, all samples were subjected to thermocycling before the retention test. This involved using a universal testing machine with a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min and applying a load of 500N. The maximum force to detach the crown was recorded in newtons and the mode of failure was identified. RESULTS: Two-way ANOVA revealed that the AMD for PICN was statistically significantly better than lithium disilicate (p=0.01). No statistically significant difference was detected in the AMD between the two intracoronal depths (p=0.72). PICN and endocrowns with 4 mm intracoronal depth had statistically significant better retention (p<0.05). 72.22% of the sample suffered from cohesive failures and 10 LD endocrowns suffered adhesive failures. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this study, we found that different materials and intracoronal depths can indeed influence the retention of CAD/CAM fabricated endocrowns. Based on the controlled setting findings, PICN was found to have better retention and better marginal adaptation than similar lithium disilicate premolar endocrowns.

Impact of Cut-out-rescan and Data Exchange by Over-scanning Techniques on Marginal Fit of CAD/CAM Lithium Disilicate Crowns.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the impact of adjustment procedures - cut-out-rescan (COR) and data exchange by over-scanning (DEOS) techniques - through CAD/CAM software on the marginal fit outcome of ceramic crowns. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty-eight de-identified teeth were adapted in a mandibular typodont set. Tooth #19 was prepared for a lithium disilicate crown and seven groups, G0 to G6 (n=10), were created based on the rescanned areas (mesial and/or buccal) on the typodont using an intraoral scanner through COR or DEOS techniques. A digital workflow was used to design and mill 70 crowns according to the groups. Each crown was temporarily cemented on tooth #19 and scanned with micro-computed tomography to measure the marginal fit. The data were analyzed statistically by the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Mann-Whitney test to compare the groups pairwise as a post-hoc (α=0.05). RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found for vertical misfit (µm) between the groups for Marginal Gap Buccal (MGB) and Marginal Gap Mesial (MGM) (p=0.003 and p=0.029, respectively). No significant difference was found for Finish Line Buccal (FLB) and Finish Line Mesial (FLM) (p=0.062 and p=0.092, respectively). G3 (COR buccal and mesial) had the highest MGB (57.75 µm), statistically different from all other groups. G4 (DEOS buccal) (41.60 µm) was different from G6 (DEOS buccal and mesial) (44.21 µm) (p=0.023). For MGM, G0 (control) (53.96 µm) was different from G5 (DEOS mesial) (45.76 µm) and G6 (DEOS buccal and mesial) (48.56 vm) (p=0.013 and p=0.041, respectively) and G2 (COR mesial) (58.43 µm) was different from G5 (DEOS mesial) (45.76 µm) (p=0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Despite a statistically significant difference in certain groups for both techniques, COR and DEOS techniques are viable options for image editing during acquisition. Lithium disilicate crowns can be produced with satisfactory marginal gap values utilizing a chairside CAD/CAM system.

Comparative evaluation of marginal adaptation and fatigue resistance of endodontically treated premolars restored with direct and indirect coronal restorations: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: An optimum restoration for reconstructing endodontically treated teeth should provide excellent marginal adaptation, high fracture resistance as well as maximum tooth structure conservation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the marginal adaptation and fatigue resistance of different coronal restorations in endodontically treated premolars. METHODS: Thirty sound maxillary first premolars were endodontically treated and received MOD cavities. Teeth were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 10) according to the type of coronal restoration: Group R: polyethylene fibers (ribbond), fibers-reinforced composite (everX posterior) and final layer of nano-hybrid composite. Group O: indirect lithium disilicate overlay and Group C: fiber-post, resin composite restoration, and lithium disilicate crown. Marginal gap assessment was performed before and after thermocycling (5000 cycles) using stereomicroscope. Samples were subjected to stepwise-stress loading starting at 200 N, and increased by 100 N in each step until failure occurred. Statistical analysis was done by One-way ANOVA followed Tukey`s Post Hoc test for multiple comparison. Paired t test was used to compare the marginal adaptation before and after thermocycling. Survival probability was evaluated by Life table survival analysis. Failure mode analysis was performed with Chi-square test. RESULTS: Marginal gap was significantly the lowest in group R (37.49 ± 5.05) and (42.68 ± 2.38), while being the highest in group C (59.78 ± 5.67) and (71.52 ± 5.18) in before and after thermocycling respectively (P < 0.0001). Fatigue resistance was the highest for group O (1310.8 ± 196.7), and the lowest for group R (905.4 ± 170.51) with a significant difference between groups (P < 0.0001). Crown group had the highest percentage (80%) of catastrophic failure, while, overlay group exhibited the lowest (20%). CONCLUSIONS: Direct restoration without cuspal coverage using ribbon fibers with short FRC provided better marginal adaptation than indirect overlays and crowns, but fatigue resistance wasn't significantly improved. Adhesive ceramic overlays showed the best fatigue performance and the least catastrophic failure rate compared to both direct fiber-reinforced composite and indirect ceramic full coverage restorations. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Indirect adhesive overlays are a suitable, more conservative restorative option for endodontically treated teeth than full coverage restorations, especially when tooth structure is severely compromised.

The effect of different deep margin elevation methods on the fracture strength of CAD-CAM restorations.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of two resin composites (with different viscosities) and the elevation amount on fracture strength and fracture behavior of molars with and without deep margin elevations (DME). METHODS: 70 extracted, caries-free human molars were selected. All teeth were prepared as MOD onlay cavities with a margin 2 mm below the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) on the mesial and buccal sides and 2 mm above the CEJ on the distal side. The teeth were divided into two groups according to the type of resin composite used in margin elevation, elevated with flowable composite (Universal Flo) or condensable composite (G-Aenial Posterior). These two groups were further subdivided into subgroups in which the elevation was 2, 3, or 4 mm, and a control group in which the non-elevated indirect restoration was directly bonded to the subgingival margin, making a total of seven groups (n= 10). After elevations, the restorations were completed using a nanoceramic CAD-CAM block (Cerasmart A3 HT) and as adhesive cement, G-Cem Link Force. Static force was applied to the restored teeth using a universal testing machine at an angle of 15° until fracture occurred. Fracture strength values were recorded, and fracture types were examined under 6x magnification. One-way ANOVA was carried out to determine the effect of DME on the fracture strength. A two-way ANOVA was conducted to investigate main and interaction effects of the material type used in the elevation and the amount of elevation made on the fracture strength (P< 0.05). RESULTS: Using flowable or condensable composite as elevation material did not affect the fracture strength of CAD-CAM restorations. Flowable and condensable composites of 2, 3, or 4 mm did not significantly affect fracture strength values for either material. Specimen margins with and without elevation exhibited similar fracture strength values. The type of material used in the elevation and the amount did not affect the fracture strength of teeth. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The deep margin elevation technique for teeth with carious lesions extending subgingivally, may be useful in routine practice.

Manufacturing Accuracy, Intaglio Surface Adaptation, and Survival of Additively and Subtractively Manufactured Definitive Resin Crowns After Cyclic Loading: An In Vitro Study.

PURPOSE: To assess the manufacturing accuracy, intaglio surface adaptation, and survival of resin-based CAD/CAM definitive crowns created via additive manufacturing (AM) or subtractive manufacturing (SM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A maxillary right first molar crown was digitally designed and manufactured using AM hybrid resin composite (VarseoSmile Crown Plus, Bego [AM-HRC]), AM glass filler-reinforced resin composite (Crowntec, Saremco Dental [AM-RC]), and SM polymer-infiltrated ceramic (Vita Enamic, VITA Zahnfabrik [SM-PICN]). Manufacturing accuracy (trueness and precision) was assessed by computing the root mean square (RMS) error (in µm; n = 15 per material). Intaglio surface adaptation was assessed by calculating the average gap distance (µm). Ten crowns from each group were cemented on fiberglass-reinforced epoxy resin dies and cyclically loaded to simulate 5 years of functional loading. One-way ANOVA, post hoc Bonferroni comparison tests, and Levene's test were used to analyze the data (α = .05). RESULTS: AM-RC had higher overall trueness than AM-HRC and SM-PICN (P ≤ .05), whereas the trueness of AM-RC on the external surface was similar to that of SM-PICN (P = .99) and higher than AM-HRC (P = .001). SM-PICN had lower precision than AM-RC and AM-HRC overall and at internal occlusal surfaces (P ≤ .05). Overall intaglio surface adaptation was similar between all groups (P = .531). However, for the axial intaglio surface, AM-RC and AM-HRC had higher adaptation than SM-PICN (P ≤ .05). All tested crowns survived the cyclic loading simulation of 5 years clinical use. CONCLUSIONS: AM-RC showed high manufacturing accuracy and adaptation. The tested resin-based CAD/CAM materials demonstrated clinically acceptable manufacturing accuracy and simulated medium-term durability, justifying the initiation of clinical investigations to determine their potential implementation in daily clinical practice.

Effect of light-, chemical-, and dual-cured universal adhesives on the internal adaptation of resin composites to pulpal and gingival internal walls.

PURPOSE: To compare the internal adaptation of restorative systems bonded to mid-coronal and gingival dentin using light-cured, chemical-cured, and dual-cured adhesives, both immediately and after aging. METHODS: 60 molars were selected and received occluso-mesial preparations with dentin gingival margins. Restorations were performed using different restorative systems with light-cured, chemical-cured, and dual-cured adhesives. Internal adaptation was assessed by examining the percentage of continuous margin (%CM) at the pulpal and gingival dentin under a scanning electron microscope at x200 magnification. Half of the teeth were stored in sterile water for 24 hours, while the other half underwent 10,000 thermal cycles. Micro-morphological analysis was conducted on representative samples at x1,000 magnification. RESULTS: The restorative system with light-cured adhesive exhibited significantly lower %CM values at the gingival dentin, particularly after aging. Aging had a negative impact on the %CM values of the pulpal and gingival dentin in restorative systems with light-cured and dual-cured adhesives. Regional dentin variations influenced the %CM values, especially after aging, regardless of the restorative system used. The tested restorative system with chemical-cured adhesive is preferable for achieving improved internal adaptation when bonding to both mid-coronal and gingival dentin, compared to the other tested systems. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The study highlights the variations in adhesive performance between different regional dentin areas using the tested restorative systems.

Diagnostic Strategies for Restorations Management: A 70-Month RCT.

We aimed to evaluate the impact of 2 visual diagnostic strategies for assessing secondary caries and managing permanent posterior restorations on long-term survival. We conducted a diagnostic cluster-randomized clinical trial with 2 parallel groups using different diagnostic strategies: (C+AS) based on caries assessment, marginal adaptation, and marginal staining aspects of the FDI (World Dental Federation) criteria and (C) based on caries assessment using the Caries Associated with Restorations or Sealants (CARS) criteria described by the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS). The treatment for the restoration was conducted based on the decision made following the allocated diagnostic strategy. The restorations were then clinically reevaluated for up to 71 mo. The primary outcome was restoration failure (including tooth-level failure: pain, endodontic treatment, and extraction). Cox regression analyses with shared frailty were conducted in the intention-to-treat population, and hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were derived. We included 727 restorations from 185 participants and reassessed 502 (69.1%) restorations during follow-up. The evaluations occurred between 6 and 71 mo. At baseline, C led to almost 4 times fewer interventions compared with the C+AS strategy. A total of 371 restorations were assessed in the C group, from which 31 (8.4%) were repaired or replaced. In contrast, the C+AS group had 356 restorations assessed, from which 113 (31.7%) were repaired or replaced. During follow-up, 34 (9.2%) failures were detected in the restorations allocated to the C group and 30 (8.4%) allocated to the C+AS group in the intention-to-treat population, with no significant difference between the groups (HR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.51 to 1.38; P = 0.435, C+AS as reference). In conclusion, a diagnostic strategy focusing on marginal defects results in more initial interventions but does not improve longevity over the caries-focused strategy, suggesting the need for more conservative approaches.

Influence of the Manufacturing Trinomial (Technology, Printer, and Material) on the Marginal and Internal Discrepancies of Printed Metal Frameworks for the Fabrication of Tooth-Supported Prostheses: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the influence of fabrication method (conventional, subtractive, and additive procedures) and manufacturing trinomial (technology, printer, and material combination) on the marginal and internal fit of cobaltchromium (Co-Cr) tooth-supported frameworks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic systematic review was performed in five data bases: MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, World of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus. Studies that reported the marginal and internal discrepancies of tooth-supported Co-Cr additive manufacturing (AM) frameworks were included. Two authors independently completed the quality assessment of the studies by applying the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Quasi-Experimental Studies. A third examiner was consulted to resolve lack of consensus. RESULTS: A total of 31 articles were included and classified based on the evaluation method: manufacturing accuracy, the dual- or triple-scan method, stereomicroscope, optical coordinate measurement machine, microCT, profilometer, and silicone replica. Six subgroups were created: 3D Systems, Bego, Concept Laser, EOS, Kulzer, and Sisma. Due to the heterogeneity and limited data available, only the silicone replica group was considered for meta-analysis. The metaanalysis showed a mean marginal discrepancy of 91.09 µm (I2 = 95%, P < .001) in the conventional group, 77.48 µm (I2 = 99%, P < .001) in the milling group, and 82.92 µm (I2 = 98%, P < .001) in the printing group. Additionally, a mean internal discrepancy of 111.29 µm (I2 = 94%, P < .001) was obtained in the conventional casting group, 121.96 µm (I2 = 100%, P < .001) in the milling group, and 121.25 µm (I2 = 99%, P < .001) in the printing group. CONCLUSIONS: Manufacturing method and selective laser melting (SLM) metal manufacturing trinomial did not impact the marginal and internal discrepancies of Co-Cr frameworks for the fabrication of tooth-supported restorations.

Deep margin elevation in restorative dentistry: A scoping review.

OBJECTIVES: Deep margin elevation (DME) is a restorative approach offering the possibility of performing stepwise elevation of deep proximal cavities to create more favourable margins for direct or indirect restorations. The objectives of this scoping review were to explore what is known or unknown about DME by describing a wide ranging evidence base including peer reviewed literature and non-traditionally published information on the web. DATA: Data were extracted from the included evidence in order to describe the following: the extent and nature of the evidence base; the situations which are appropriate for DME; the materials and techniques which are used; the outcomes which have been measured in empirical studies; the risks which have been reported; and the findings which have been reported in studies which compared DME to surgical crown lengthening. SOURCES: This scoping review included a wide range of published evidence and extensive web searching for grey literature, including CPD, training and multimedia information. STUDY SELECTION: The findings revealed a range of published literature as well as freely available, online information advising practitioners about DME. Most empirical evidence was based on in vitro studies, and there were few clinical studies comparing DME to crown lengthening. Online information included recent, multimedia sources. CONCLUSIONS: DME is a technique that can be used with motivated patients with good oral hygiene if rubber dam isolation is achieved, if there is no invasion of the connective tissue space, and if a strict restorative protocol is adhered to. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: With phasing out of amalgam and adhesive dentistry increasing in popularity, DME addresses multiple clinical problems associated with sub-gingival margins prior to restoration.

Clinical performance of posterior restorations using a universal adhesive over moist and dry dentin: A 36-month double-blind split-mouth randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the influence of dentin moisture on the clinical behavior of a universal adhesive on posterior teeth after 36 months of follow-up. METHODS: Forty-five patients participated in this study. Following a split-mouth design, three operators placed 90 Class I/Class II restorations over moist dentin (MD) or dry (DD) (n = 45) with resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill) and a universal adhesive used in the etch-and-rinse mode (Single Bond Universal). Each restoration was evaluated according to the FDI and USPHS criteria (postoperative sensitivity, fracture and retention, marginal staining, marginal adaptation, and recurrence of caries) at baseline and after 6-, 12-, and 36 months. For statistical analysis, Kruskal Wallis analysis of variance rank (α = 0.05) and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used. RESULTS: No significant difference between groups was observed in each FDI criterion after 36 months of clinical evaluation (p > 0.05). The retention rates (confidence interval 95 %) were 97.37 % (86.5 - 99.5) for both MD and DD without significant difference between them (p > 0.05). Eight restorations (MD = 4; DD = 4) showed minimal marginal staining defects (p > 0.05). Two restorations were lost (MD = 1; DD = 1). Fifteen restorations (MD = 8; DD = 7) presented minor marginal discrepancies according to the FDI criteria (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The clinical performance of the universal adhesive when applied in etch-and-rinse mode was not influenced by dentin moisture in posterior bulk-fill composite restorations. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The level of dentin moisture appears not to influence the clinical efficacy of a universal adhesive when applied using the etch-and-rinse technique in posterior composite resin restorations.

3D-printed short-span hybrid composite implant-supported restorations fabricated through tilting stereolithography: A retrospective clinical study on 85 patients with 1 year of follow-up.

PURPOSE: To report the clinical results obtained with fixed short-span (single crowns [SCs] and fixed partial prostheses [FPPs]) implant-supported hybrid composite restorations fabricated through tilting stereolithography (TSLA). METHODS: This retrospective clinical study included 85 patients who had been restored with 95 fixed short-span implant-supported hybrid composite (Irix Max®, DWS Systems) restorations (70 SCs and 25 FPPs up to three units) fabricated with TSLA. The full-digital model-free workflow was based on intraoral implant scanning, computer-assisted design (CAD) and 3D printing using TSLA (Dfab®, DWS Systems). The primary outcomes were the marginal adaptation, the quality of the occlusal and interproximal contact points, and the chromatic integration of the restorations, assessed independently by two experienced operators (a prosthodontist and a periodontist). A score from 1 to 5 (with 5 as the highest value, 4 for satisfactory quality, 3 for acceptable quality, and 2 and 1 as the lowest values, expressing unsatisfactory quality) was assigned by each operator to each restoration at delivery. The secondary outcomes were the survival and success of the restorations at the 1-year follow-up. The restoration was defined as successful in the absence of any complications throughout the follow-up period. A statistical analysis was conducted. RESULTS: For the quality of the marginal closure and occlusal and interproximal contact points, the 3D-printed hybrid composite restorations scored highly; the aesthetic integration was satisfactory. One year after placement, all restorations survived, with a low incidence (4.2 % overall, 5.7 % SCs) of complications (two abutment screw loosenings, two decementation of the restorations, and one upper portion of the hybrid abutment decemented from the titanium base), for a success rate of 95.8 %. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limits of this study (retrospective design, follow-up limited to 1 year from the delivery, and only cemented restorations included) fixed short-span implant-supported hybrid composite crowns and bridges fabricated through TSLA were clinically precise, presenting a low incidence of complications at 1 year. STATEMENT OF CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of TSLA printing technology can open new perspectives for the treatment of small edentulous gaps with definitive implant-supported prosthetic restorations.

Accuracy, adaptation and margin quality of monolithic zirconia crowns fabricated by 3D printing versus subtractive manufacturing technique: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro studies.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the accuracy (trueness and precision), marginal and internal adaptation, and margin quality of zirconia crowns made by additive manufacturing compared to subtractive manufacturing technology. METHODS: The investigation adhered to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for systematic reviews and was registered at the Prospero database (n°CRD42023452927). Four electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science and manual search was conducted to find relevant studies published until September 2023. In vitro studies that assessed the trueness and precision, marginal and internal adaptation, and margin quality of printed crowns compared to milled ones were included. Studies on crowns over implants, pontics, temporary restorations, laminates, or exclusively experimental materials were excluded. RESULTS: A total of 9 studies were included in the descriptive reporting and 7 for meta-analysis. The global meta-analysis of the trueness (P<0.74,I2=90 %) and the margin quality (P<0.61,I2=0 %) indicated no significant difference between the root mean square of printed and milled zirconia crowns. The subgroup analysis for the printing system showed a significant effect (P<0.01). The meta-analysis of the crown areas indicated no significant difference in most of the areas, except for the marginal (favoring milled crowns) and axial (favoring printed crowns) areas. For precision and adaptation, both methods showed a clinically acceptable level. CONCLUSIONS: Additive manufacturing technology produces crowns with trueness and margin quality comparable to subtractive manufacturing. Both techniques have demonstrated the ability to produce crowns with precision levels, internal discrepancy, and marginal fit within clinically acceptable limits. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: 3D printing emerges as a promising and potentially applicable alternative method for manufacturing zirconia crowns, as it shows trueness and margin quality comparable to restorations produced by the subtractive method.

Bond strength and marginal adaptation of resin composites and correlations with clinical results.

OBJECTIVES: Due to innumerable confounding factors and a high number of types and brands of dental restorative materials, the clinical performance of restorative materials are sought predicted by various in vitro tests. However, only few such tests have been found to correlate well with clinical findings. Thus, the present study determined the in vitro dentin bond strength and marginal adaptation of Class II restorations and correlated the results to their clinical outcomes. METHODS: Dentin bond strength (µTBS and µSBS) and marginal gap formation of Class II restorations (replica technique and SEM) were measured after 24 h and 6 m water storage using eight combinations of adhesive and resin composite. Clinical outcomes (mean survival time, Hazard Ratio, annual failure rate; n = 10.695) were gained from a data set of a retrospective multicenter study of direct restorations. RESULTS: Significant differences were found for dentin bond strength and marginal gap formation between the restorative material groups, and negative effects of long-term storage were observed. µTBS correlated significantly with certain clinical outcomes of Class I restorations, while µSBS correlated with certain clinical outcomes of Class II, III, IV and V restorations. Marginal gap formation in enamel and number of paramarginal fractures correlated with certain clinical outcomes of Class II restorations. SIGNIFICANCE: Using the same restorative materials in vitro as in vivo, gave significant, but weak correlations between in vitro bond strength or marginal adaptation and clinical outcomes, lending support to the use of in vitro tests in early stages of material selection.

Assessments of polymerization shrinkage by optical coherence tomography-based digital image correlation analysis-Part II: Effects of restorative composites.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the polymerization shrinkage of different resin-based composite (RBC) restorations using optical coherence tomography (OCT) image-based digital image correlation (DIC) analysis. METHODS: The refractive index (RI) of three RBCs, Filtek Z350XT (Z350), Z350Flowable (Z350F), and BulkFill Posterior (Bulkfill), was measured before and after polymerization to calibrate their axial dimensions under OCT. Class I cavities were prepared in bovine incisors and individually filled with these RBCs under nonbonded and bonded conditions. A series of OCT images of these restorations were captured during 20-s light polymerization and then input into DIC software to analyze their shrinkage behaviors. The interfacial adaptation was also examined using these OCT images. RESULTS: The RI of the three composites ranged from 1.52 to 1.53, and photopolymerization caused neglectable increases in the RI values. For nonbonded restorations, Z350F showed maximal vertical displacements on the top surfaces (-16.75 µm), followed by Bulkfill (-8.81 µm) and Z350 (-5.97 µm). In their bonded conditions, all showed increased displacements. High variations were observed in displacement measurements on the bottom surfaces. In the temporal analysis, the shrinkage of nonbonded Z350F and Bulkfill decelerated after 6-10 s. However, Z350 showed a rebounding upward displacement after 8.2 s. Significant interfacial gaps were found in nonbonded Z350 and Z350F restorations. SIGNIFICANCE: The novel OCT image-based DIC analysis provided a comprehensive examination of the shrinkage behaviors and debonding of the composite restorations throughout the polymerization process. The flowable composite showed the highest shrinkage displacements. Changes in the shrinkage direction may occur in nonbonded conventional composite restorations.

Deep Margin Elevation - A Retrospective Clinical Study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the short- to mid-term restorative and periodontal outcome of deep margin elevation (DME) performed using resin composite. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight teeth treated with DME and indirect adhesive restorations were followed-up for a mean of 25.4 months (minimum: 12 months). Clinical and radiographic examination assessed the adaptation of the DME material and indirect restorations, presence of recurrent caries or discoloration, periodontal health at DME and non-DME sites, and periapical health. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 96.6%. One tooth showed signs and symptoms of apical pathology after 34 months following DME. No caries, discoloration, or periodontal pockets were detected in any of the treated teeth. DME had no detrimental effect on the gingival/periodontal health or plaque accumulation. There was no correlation between the distance from the DME material to the marginal bone level and pocket depth, gingival inflammation, and plaque accumulation (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Deep margin elevation might be considered a safe procedure for teeth with deep subgingival proximal caries in the short- and mid-term.