Residual stress estimated by nanoindentation in pontics and abutments of veneered zirconia fixed dental prostheses.

Glass ceramics' fractures in zirconia fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) remains a clinical challenge since it has higher fracture rates than the gold standard, metal ceramic FDP. Nanoindentation has been shown a reliable tool to determine residual stress of ceramic systems, which can ultimately correlate to failure-proneness. OBJECTIVES: To assess residual tensile stress using nanoindentation in veneered three-unit zirconia FDPs at different surfaces of pontics and abutments. METHODOLOGY: Three composite resin replicas of the maxillary first premolar and crown-prepared abutment first molar were made to obtain three-unit FDPs. The FDPs were veneered with glass ceramic containing fluorapatite crystals and resin cemented on the replicas, embedded in epoxy resin, sectioned, and polished. Each specimen was subjected to nanoindentation in the following regions of interest: 1) Mesial premolar abutment (MPMa); 2) Distal premolar abutment (DPMa); 3) Buccal premolar abutment (BPMa); 4) Lingual premolar abutment (LPMa); 5) Mesial premolar pontic (MPMp); 6) Distal premolar pontic (DPMp); 7) Buccal premolar pontic (BPMp); 8) Lingual premolar pontic (LPMp); 9) Mesial molar abutment (MMa); 10) Distal molar abutment (DMa); 11) Buccal molar abutment (BMa); and 12) Lingual molar abutment (LMa). Data were assessed using Linear Mixed Model and Least Significant Difference (95%) tests. RESULTS: Pontics had significantly higher hardness values than premolar (p=0.001) and molar (p=0.007) abutments, suggesting lower residual stress levels. Marginal ridges yielded higher hardness values for connectors (DPMa, MMa, MPMp and DPMp) than for outer proximal surfaces of abutments (MPMa and DMa). The mesial marginal ridge of the premolar abutment (MPMa) had the lowest hardness values, suggesting higher residual stress concentration. CONCLUSIONS: Residual stress in three-unit FDPs was lower in pontics than in abutments. The outer proximal surfaces of the abutments had the highest residual stress concentration.

Effect of different tightening protocols on the probability of survival of screw-retained implant-supported crowns.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the effect of different tightening protocols on the probability of survival of screw-retained implant-supported anterior crowns. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two implants with internal conical connections (4.0 × 10mm, Ti-6Al-4V, Colosso, Emfils) were divided into four groups (n = 18 each): 1) Manufacturer's recommendations torque (25 N.cm for abutment's screw and 30 N.cm for crown's screw) (MaT); 2) Retightening after 10 min (ReT); 3) Torque 16% below recommended to simulate an uncalibrated wrench (AgT), and; 4) Temporary crown simulation (TeT), where crowns were torqued to 13 N.cm to simulate manual tightening, subjected to 11,200 cycles to simulate temporary crown treatment time (190 N), and then retightened to manufacturer torque (TeT). All specimens were subjected to cyclic fatigue in distilled water with a load of 190 N until 250,000 cycles or failure. The probability of survival (reliability) to complete a mission of 50,000 cycles was calculated and plotted using the Weibull 2-Parameter analysis. Weibull modulus and number of cycles at which 62.3% of the specimens would fail were also calculated and plotted. The failure mode was characterized in stereo and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). RESULTS: The probability of survival was 69.3% for MaT, 70% for ReT, 54.8% for AgT, and 40.3% for TeT, all with no statistically significant difference. Weibull modulus was approximately 1.0 for all groups. The characteristic number of cycles for failure was 105,000 cycles for MaT, 123,000 for ReT, 82,000 cycles for AgT, and 54,900 cycles for TeT, with no significant difference between groups. The chief failure mode for MaT, ReT, AgT groups was crown screw fracture, whereas abutment screw fracture was the chief failure mode for the TeT group. CONCLUSION: Tightening protocol did not influence the probability of survival of the screw-retained anterior crowns supported by internal conical implants (Ti-6Al-4V, Colosso, Emfils).

Residual stress estimated by nanoindentation in pontics and abutments of veneered zirconia fixed dental prostheses

Abstract Glass ceramics' fractures in zirconia fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) remains a clinical challenge since it has higher fracture rates than the gold standard, metal ceramic FDP. Nanoindentation has been shown a reliable tool to determine residual stress of ceramic systems, which can ultimately correlate to failure-proneness. Objectives: To assess residual tensile stress using nanoindentation in veneered three-unit zirconia FDPs at different surfaces of pontics and abutments. Methodology: Three composite resin replicas of the maxillary first premolar and crown-prepared abutment first molar were made to obtain three-unit FDPs. The FDPs were veneered with glass ceramic containing fluorapatite crystals and resin cemented on the replicas, embedded in epoxy resin, sectioned, and polished. Each specimen was subjected to nanoindentation in the following regions of interest: 1) Mesial premolar abutment (MPMa); 2) Distal premolar abutment (DPMa); 3) Buccal premolar abutment (BPMa); 4) Lingual premolar abutment (LPMa); 5) Mesial premolar pontic (MPMp); 6) Distal premolar pontic (DPMp); 7) Buccal premolar pontic (BPMp); 8) Lingual premolar pontic (LPMp); 9) Mesial molar abutment (MMa); 10) Distal molar abutment (DMa); 11) Buccal molar abutment (BMa); and 12) Lingual molar abutment (LMa). Data were assessed using Linear Mixed Model and Least Significant Difference (95%) tests. Results: Pontics had significantly higher hardness values than premolar (p=0.001) and molar (p=0.007) abutments, suggesting lower residual stress levels. Marginal ridges yielded higher hardness values for connectors (DPMa, MMa, MPMp and DPMp) than for outer proximal surfaces of abutments (MPMa and DMa). The mesial marginal ridge of the premolar abutment (MPMa) had the lowest hardness values, suggesting higher residual stress concentration. Conclusions: Residual stress in three-unit FDPs was lower in pontics than in abutments. The outer proximal surfaces of the abutments had the highest residual stress concentration.

Survival of implant-supported resin-matrix ceramic crowns: In silico and fatigue analyses.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the fatigue survival, failure mode, and maximum principal stress (MP Stress) and strain (MP Strain) of resin-matrix ceramic systems used for implant-supported crowns. METHODS: Identical molar crowns were milled using four resin-matrix ceramics (n = 21/material): (i) Shofu Hard, (ii) Cerasmart (iii) Enamic, and (iv) Shofu HC. Crowns were cemented on the abutments, and the assembly underwent step-stress accelerated-life testing. Use level probability Weibull curves at 300 N were plotted and the reliability at 300, 500 and 800 N was calculated for a mission of 50,000 cycles. Fractographic analysis was performed using stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope. MP Stress and MP Strain were determined by finite element analysis. RESULTS: While fatigue dictated failures for Cerasmart (ß > 1), material strength controlled Shofu Hard, Enamic, and Shofu HC failures (ß < 1). Shofu HC presented lower reliability at 300 N (79%) and 500 N (59%) than other systems (>90%), statistically different at 500 N. Enamic (57%) exhibited a significant reduction in the probability of survival at 800 N, significantly lower than Shofu Hard and Cerasmart; however, higher than Shofu HC (12%). Shofu Hard and Cerasmart (>93%) demonstrated no significant difference for any calculated mission (300-800 N). Failure mode predominantly involved resin-matrix ceramic fracture originated from occlusal cracks, corroborating with the MP Stress and Strain location, propagating through the proximal and cervical margins. SIGNIFICANCE: All resin-matrix ceramics crowns demonstrated high probability of survival in a physiological molar load, whereas Shofu Hard and Cerasmart outperformed Enamic and Shofu HC at higher loads. Material fracture comprised the main failure mode.

Effect of indenter material on reliability of all-ceramic crowns.

OBJECTIVES: Controversy exists about whether the elastic modulus (E) mismatch between the loading indenter and ceramic materials influences fatigue testing results. The research hypotheses were that for porcelain veneered Y-TZP crowns 1) A low modulus Steatite indenter (SB) leads to higher fatigue reliability compared to a high modulus tungsten carbide indenter (WC); 2) Different surface damage patterns are expected between low and high modulus indenters after sliding contact fatigue testing. All ceramic crowns will exhibit similar step-stress accelerated life testing (SSALT) contact fatigue reliability (hypothesis 1) and failure characteristics (hypothesis 2) when using high stiffness tungsten carbide (WC, E = 600 GPa) vs. enamel like steatite (SB, E = 90 GPa) indenters. METHODS: Manufacturer (3M Oral Care) prepared Y-TZP-veneered all-ceramic molar crowns were bonded to aged resin composite reproductions of a standard tooth preparation and subjected to mouth-motion SSALT fatigue (n = 18 per indenter type). Failure was defined either as initial inner cone crack (IC), or final fracture (FF) when porcelain fractured (chipping). Selected IC specimens that did not progress to FF were embedded in epoxy resin and sectioned for fractographic analysis. RESULTS: The distribution of failures across the load and cycle profiles lead to similar calculated Weibull Use Level Probability Plots with overlap of the 2-sided 90% confidence bounds. The calculated reliability for IC and FF was equivalent at a mission of 300 N or 700 N load and 50,000 cycles, although the WC indenter had a trend for lower reliability for IC at 700 N. Both indenters produced similar patterns of wear and cracking on crown surfaces. Fractographic landmarks showed competing failure modes, but sliding contact partial inner cone cracks were the most dominant for both groups. SIGNIFICANCE: The more compliant Steatite indenter had similar veneered crown fatigue reliability and failure modes to those found with use of a high stiffness tungsten carbide indenter (hypotheses 1 and 2 rejected).

Lifetime prediction of veneered versus monolithic lithium disilicate crowns loaded on marginal ridges.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the probability of survival of monolithic and porcelain veneered lithium disilicate crowns comprised by a conventional or modified core when loaded on marginal ridges. METHODS: Lithium disilicate molar crowns (n=30) were fabricated to be tested at mesial and distal marginal ridges and were divided as follows: (1) bilayered crowns with even-thickness 0.5mm framework (Bi-EV); (2) bilayered crowns with modified core design (Bi-M-lingual collar connected to proximal struts), and: (3) monolithic crowns (MON). After adhesively cemented onto composite-resin prepared replicas, mesial and distal marginal ridges of each crown (n=20) were individually cyclic loaded in water (30-300N) with a ceramic indenter at 2Hz until fracture. The 2-parameter Weibull was used to calculate the probability of survival (reliability) (90% 2-sided confidence bounds) at 1, 2, and 3 million cycles and mean life. RESULTS: The reliability at 1 and 2 million cycles was significantly higher for MON (47% and 19%) compared to Bi-EV (20% and 4%) and Bi-M (17% and 2%). No statistical difference was found between bilayered groups. Only the MON group presented crown survival (7%) at 3 million cycles. The mean life was highest for MON (1.73E+06), lowest for Bi-M (573,384) and intermediate for Bi-E (619,774). Fractographic analysis showed that the fracture originated at the occlusal surface. The highest reliability was found for MON crowns. The modified framework design did not improve the fatigue life of crowns. SIGNIFICANCE: Monolithic lithium disilicate crowns presented higher probability of survival and mean life than bilayered crowns with modified framework design when loaded at marginal ridges.

Residual stress of porcelain-fused to zirconia 3-unit fixed dental prostheses measured by nanoindentation.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the residual stress (nanoindentation based on hardness) of fatigued porcelain-fused to zirconia 3-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDP) with different framework designs. METHODS: Twenty maxillary 3-unit FDP replacing second-premolar (pontic) were fabricated with conventional framework-design (even-thickness of 0.5mm and 9mm2 connector area) and modified framework-design (thickness of 0.5mm presenting lingual collar connected to proximal struts and 12mm2 connector area). Connector marginal ridges were loaded and the fractured and suspended FDPs were divided (n=3/each) into: (1) Fractured zirconia even-thickness (ZrEvenF); (2) Suspended zirconia even-thickness (ZrEvenS); (3) Fractured zirconia with modified framework (ZrModF); (4) Suspended zirconia with modified framework (ZrModS); (5) Non-fatigued FDP with conventional framework design (Control). The FDPs were nanoindented at 0.03mm (Region of Interest (ROI) 1), 0.35mm (ROI 2) and 1.05mm (ROI 3) distances from porcelain veneer outer surface with peak load 4000µN. The Linear Mixed Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Model on ranks and Least Significant Difference Test on ranks (95%) were used. RESULTS: Highest rank hardness values were found for Control group and ZrModS, whereas the lowest values were found in ZrModF. Statistical differences (p=0.000) were found among all groups except for comparison between ZrModS and Control group (p=0.371). Hardness between ROIs were statistically significant different (p<0.001) where ROI 1 presented the lowest values. SIGNIFICANCE: Framework-design modification did not influence the residual stress of porcelain-fused to zirconia fatigued 3-unit FDP. Whereas fractured FDPs showed the highest residual stress compared to suspended and control FDPs. Residual stress increased as nanoindented away from framework.

Effect of Mechanical Fatigue on the Bond Between Zirconia and Composite Cement.

PURPOSE: To examine the effect of mechanical fatigue on the bond strength of resin composite cemented to silica-coated yttria-tetragonal zirconia polycrystal ceramic (Y-TZP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten Y-TZP blocks were polished down to 600-grit silicon carbide paper. Specimens were silica coated by airborne-particle abrasion with 30-µm silica-modified Al2O3 particles. Blocks were cleaned in an ultrasonic bath, and a dental adhesive was applied and light cured for 20 s. Pre-cured composite blocks were luted to treated Y-TZP surfaces with a dual-curing resin cement. Half of the samples (n = 5) were subjected to mechanical fatigue before trimming (fatigue group) and the other half tested 24 h after bonding procedures (control group). Forty-five beam-shaped samples with an approximately 1 mm2 cross-sectional area were prepared for each group and tested in microtensile mode at 0.5 mm/min. Fractographic analysis was performed by optical and scanning electron microscopy. Only specimens that failed at the interface area were considered for statistical analysis. Weibull distribution (95% confidence bounds) was used to determine the characteristic strength (σ0 in MPa) and Weibull modulus (m) for each group. Probability of survival was calculated over the range of loads until specimens failed. RESULTS: The control group showed σ0 = 45.91 MPa and m = 7.98, and the fatigue group σ0 = 43.94 MPa and m = 6.44 (p > 0.05). The probability of survival did not differ significantly between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Fatigue did not affect the bond strength between silica-treated Y-TZP intaglio surfaces and composite cement under these experimental conditions.

Seven-Year Follow-up of Full-Arch Prostheses Supported by Four Implants: A Prospective Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate biologic and prosthetic outcomes of implant-supported mandibular full-arch fixed prostheses treated with the All-on-4 treatment concept after 7 years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients were selected to receive full-arch fixed immediate prostheses supported by four implants up to 72 hours after surgery. The following biologic aspects were evaluated: Plaque Index (PI) and Bleeding Index (BI), implant stability by resonance frequency, and marginal bone loss (MBL) measured with the aid of periapical radiographs. The prosthetic complications evaluated were related to screw loosening, framework or acrylic teeth fractures, or fractures of implants. The means of implant stability and MBL were subjected to analysis of variance and the Tukey test (P < .05). For PI and BI, the Friedmann test was used (P < .05). RESULTS: Sixteen patients (12 women and 4 men; mean age: 59.1 years) received 64 implants, and in all patients, two implants were positioned axially at the incisor region and two distally tilted implants at the region of the second premolars or molars. Patients were evaluated immediately after surgery and at 1, 2, and 7 years. Fifteen patients attended the recall after 2 years; one patient could not attend the scheduled follow-up visit and was excluded from the sample. In the 7-year evaluation, the sample size decreased to 12 patients; one could not attend because of a severe disease, and two were deceased. The cumulative implant survival rate was 100%. There was a significant (P < .0162) decrease in PI at the 1- and 7-year evaluations (71.87% and 47.92%, respectively), while the BI was the same at 1 and 7 years (43.75%). There was no statistical difference in MBL (P = .12) and implant stability (P = .48) between axial and tilted implants (P = .48). The survival rate of prostheses was 100%. The following technical complications were observed: tooth fracture occurred in one patient (6.25%); loosening of prosthetic screws and abutments were observed in three patients (18.75%); after 5 years, three patients (18.75%) had changed the denture acrylic teeth because of the replacement of the removable total maxillary prostheses with fixed implant prostheses. CONCLUSION: For the 12 patients who attended the recall after 7 years, implant loss was not found, the implant stability was high, MBL was low, and prosthetic complications were easily solved. Thus, it can be concluded that rehabilitation with implant-supported mandibular full-arch fixed prostheses with four implants has proved to be a treatment with a high survival rate.

Resin composite repair for implant-supported crowns.

This study evaluated the reliability of implant-supported crowns repaired with resin composites. Fifty-four titanium abutments were divided in three groups (n = 18 each) to support resin nanoceramic molar crowns, as follows: (LU) (Lava Ultimate, 3M ESPE); LU repaired with either a direct or an indirect resin composite. Samples were subjected to mouth-motion accelerated-life testing in water (n = 18). Cumulative damage with a use stress of 300 N was used to plot Weibull curves for group comparison. Reliability was calculated for a mission of 100,000 cycles at 400 N load. Beta values were 0.83 for LU, 0.31 and 0.27 for LU repaired with Filtek and Ceramage, respectively. Weibull modulus for LU was 9.5 and η = 1047 N, m = 6.85, and η = 1002 N for LU repaired with Ceramage, and m = 4.65 and η = 766 N for LU repaired with Filtek (p < 0.10 between LU and LU repaired with Filtek). Reliability at 400 N was 100% for both LU and LU repaired with Ceramage which were significantly higher than LU Filtek repair (32%). LU restored crowns failed cohesively. Fractures were confined within the restored material, and detailed fractography is presented. The performance of resin nanoceramic material repaired with an indirect composite was maintained after accelerated-life testing compared to unrepaired controls. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1481-1489, 2017.

Lifetime prediction of zirconia and metal ceramic crowns loaded on marginal ridges.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the fatigue life of zirconia-veneered and metal-ceramic crowns comprised by an even thickness or a modified framework design when loaded on marginal ridges. METHODS: Eighty marginal ridges were present after fabrication of forty molar crowns cemented onto composite-resin replicas and divided (n=20/each), in the following groups: metal-ceramic with even thickness (MCev) or with a modified framework design (MCm, lingual collar with proximal struts); porcelain-fused to zirconia with even thickness (PFZev) or with the modified framework design (PFZm). Each marginal ridge (mesial and distal) was subjected to cyclic loading separately with a lithium disilicate indenter for 106 cycles or until fracture. Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon matched pair test (p<0.05) evaluated both marginal ridges. Every 125,000 cycles, the test was interrupted for damage inspection. Weibull distribution (90% confidence bounds) determined the probability of survival (reliability). RESULTS: Weibull 2-parameter contour-plot showed significantly higher fatigue life for PFZev compared to MC, and comparable with PFZm. A significant decrease in reliability was observed between groups from 625,000 until 106 cycles. Metal-ceramic groups presented significantly lower probability of survival at 106 cycles (MCev=0.66% and MCm=4.73%) compared to PFZm (23.41%) and PFZev (36.68%). Fractographic marks showed a consistent fracture origin and direction of crack propagation. Reliability was higher for porcelain-fused to zirconia than for metal ceramic crowns, regardless of framework design. SIGNIFICANCE: Zirconia-veneered crowns presented decreased fracture rates compared to metal ceramics, even when loaded at marginal ridges, regardless of framework design.

Conceito all-on-four em maxila atrófica ­ análise pelo método dos elementos finitos 3D (3D-MEF) / All-on-four concept for atrophic maxillae ­ 3D finite element analisys (3D-FEA)

Objetivo: avaliar o comportamento biomecânico de uma prótese fixa com quatro implantes unidos em uma maxila edêntula atrófica, pelo método dos elementos finitos (MEF). Material e métodos: em uma mandíbula totalmente desdentada, foram colocados dois implantes posteriores, inclinados, seguindo a parede anterior do seio maxilar, e dois implantes paralelos na região anterior. Estes quatro implantes foram ligados por uma barra rígida simulando uma prótese fixa, com ou sem extensão distal de 10 mm. As análises foram feitas variando a intensidade do carregamento (100 N, 50 N e 25 N), a direção de aplicação (axial e não axial), bem como a presença ou ausência de cortical em volta dos implantes, simulando carga tardia e carga imediata, respectivamente. Resultados: os resultados mostraram não haver diferenças em relação à presença ou ausência da lâmina dura. A presença da extensão distal na prótese fixa (cantiléver) aumentou significativamente a quantidade de tensão (156,6 MPa), comparado ao modelo sem a extensão distal (52 MPa). Conclusão: a presença do cantiléver em prótese na maxila pelo conceito all-on-four sofre uma deformação em toda a prótese três vezes maior do que na sua ausência. Próteses fixas implantossuportadas imediatas e/ou mediatas mostraram comportamentos semelhantes, quando unidas por uma estrutura rígida.

Objective: to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of a fixed prosthesis over 4 dental implants splinted in the edentulous maxilla using the finite element analysis (FEA). Material and Methods: using a completely edentulous maxillary model, two inclined posterior implants were placed following the maxillary sinus wall, whereas two anterior implants were parallel to each other. A rigid bar was designed to connect these four implants, simulating a fixed prosthesis with a 10 mm distal extension. The analyses were made varying the load intensities (100 N, 50 N, and 25 N), load direction (axial, non-axial), to simulate delayed and immediate loading protocols, respectively. Results: no differences were seen for the presence (delayed) or absence (immediate) of lamina dura. The presence of cantilever (distal extension) significantly increased the amount of maximum tension (156.6 MPa) when compared with models without cantilever (52 MPa). Conclusion: the cantilever extension in the all-on-four concept has a deformation three times higher than in the lack of it. Immediate/mediate implant-supported fixed prostheses demonstrated similar behavior when splinted by a rigid bar type.

Probability of survival of implant-supported metal ceramic and CAD/CAM resin nanoceramic crowns.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the probability of survival and failure modes of implant-supported resin nanoceramic relative to metal-ceramic crowns. METHODS: Resin nanoceramic molar crowns (LU) (Lava Ultimate, 3M ESPE, USA) were milled and metal-ceramic (MC) (Co-Cr alloy, Wirobond C+, Bego, USA) with identical anatomy were fabricated (n=21). The metal coping and a burnout-resin veneer were created by CAD/CAM, using an abutment (Stealth-abutment, Bicon LLC, USA) and a milled crown from the LU group as models for porcelain hot-pressing (GC-Initial IQ-Press, GC, USA). Crowns were cemented, the implants (n=42, Bicon) embedded in acrylic-resin for mechanical testing, and subjected to single-load to fracture (SLF, n=3 each) for determination of step-stress profiles for accelerated-life testing in water (n=18 each). Weibull curves (50,000 cycles at 200N, 90% CI) were plotted. Weibull modulus (m) and characteristic strength (η) were calculated and a contour plot used (m versus η) for determining differences between groups. Fractography was performed in SEM and polarized-light microscopy. RESULTS: SLF mean values were 1871N (±54.03) for MC and 1748N (±50.71) for LU. Beta values were 0.11 for MC and 0.49 for LU. Weibull modulus was 9.56 and η=1038.8N for LU, and m=4.57 and η=945.42N for MC (p>0.10). Probability of survival (50,000 and 100,000 cycles at 200 and 300N) was 100% for LU and 99% for MC. Failures were cohesive within LU. In MC crowns, porcelain veneer fractures frequently extended to the supporting metal coping. CONCLUSION: Probability of survival was not different between crown materials, but failure modes differed. SIGNIFICANCE: In load bearing regions, similar reliability should be expected for metal ceramics, known as the gold standard, and resin nanoceramic crowns over implants. Failure modes involving porcelain veneer fracture and delamination in MC crowns are less likely to be successfully repaired compared to cohesive failures in resin nanoceramic material.

Digitally produced fiber-reinforced composite substructures for three-unit implant-supported fixed dental prostheses.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the probability of survival, Weibull modulus, characteristic strength, and failure modes of computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacture (CAD/CAM) fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) substructures used for implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (ISFDPs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three-unit ISFDPs (first molar pontic) fabricated as a monolithic composite piece or as composite veneered on a CAD/CAM FRC substructure with either a 12-mm² or 3-mm² connector area (n = 18 each) were subjected to step-stress accelerated life testing in water. Use-level probability Weibull curves and the probability of survival were calculated. Fractographic analysis was performed under polarized light and scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: Fatigue did not accelerate the failure of any group, whereas prosthesis strength was the main factor in increased failure (ß < 1). The probability Weibull contour plot showed no differences between the ISFDPs with 12 mm² and the monolithic composite ISFDP in characteristic strength (η = 643.5 N and 742.7 N, respectively) or Weibull modulus (6.7 and 5.8, respectively), whereas both were significantly higher than 3 mm² (444.91 N and 9.57). The probability of survival was not statistically different between groups at 100,000 mission cycles at 300 N. Differences were observed in fatigue failures above 800 N; monolithic composite ISFDPs failed catastrophically, whereas those with CAD/CAM FRC substructures presented veneer/composite cohesive or adhesive failures. Cracks evolved from the occlusal contact toward the margins of the cohesively failed composite, and in CAD/CAM FRC prostheses, competing failure modes of cracks developing at the connector area with those at the indentation contact were observed. CONCLUSION: The probability of survival did not differ between CAD/CAM FRC with either 3-mm² or 12-mm² connector areas, monolithic composite, or metal-ceramic ISFDPs previously tested under the same methodology. However, differences in failure modes were detected between groups.

Slow cooling protocol improves fatigue life of zirconia crowns.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the fatigue life and damage modes of zirconia crowns fabricated with and without framework design modification when porcelain veneered using a fast or slow cooling protocol. METHODS: Composite resin replicas of a first molar full crown preparation were fabricated. Zirconia copings were milled as conventional (0.5mm even thickness, Zr-C, n=20,) or modified (lingual margin of 1.0mm thickness, 2.0mm height connected to two proximal struts of 3.5mm height, Zr-M, n=20). These groups were subdivided (n=10 each) according to the veneer cooling protocol employed: fast cooling (Zr-CFast and Zr-MFast) and slow cooling (Zr-CSlow and Zr-MSlow). Crowns were cemented and fatigued for 10(6) cycles in water. The number of cycles to failure was recorded and used to determine the interval databased 2-parameter probability Weibull distribution parameter Beta (ß) and characteristic life value Eta (η). RESULTS: 2-parameter Weibull calculation presented ß=5.53 and ß=4.38 for Zr-MFast and Zr-CFast, respectively. Slow cooled crowns did not fail by completion of 10(6) cycles, thereby Weibayes calculation was applied. Increased fatigue life was observed for slow cooled crowns compared to fast cooled ones. Groups Zr-MFast and Zr-MSlow presented no statistical difference. Porcelain cohesive fractures were mainly observed in fast cooled groups. Slow cooled crowns presented in some instances inner cone cracks not reaching the zirconia/veneer interface. SIGNIFICANCE: Improved fatigue life in tandem with the absence of porcelain fractures were observed in slow cooled crowns, regardless of framework design. Crowns fast cooled chiefly failed by porcelain cohesive fractures.

MicroCT analysis of a retrieved root restored with a bonded fiber-reinforced composite dowel: a pilot study.

PURPOSE: This evaluation aimed to (1) validate micro-computed tomography (microCT) findings using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging, and (2) quantify the volume of voids and the bonded surface area resulting from fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) dowel cementation technique using microCT scanning technology/3D reconstructing software. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A fiberglass dowel was cemented in a condemned maxillary lateral incisor prior to its extraction. A microCT scan was performed of the extracted tooth creating a large volume of data in DICOM format. This set of images was imported to image-processing software to inspect the internal architecture of structures. RESULTS: The outer surface and the spatial relationship of dentin, FRC dowel, cement layer, and voids were reconstructed. Three-dimensional spatial architecture of structures and volumetric analysis revealed that 9.89% of the resin cement was composed of voids and that the bonded area between root dentin and cement was 60.63% larger than that between cement and FRC dowel. CONCLUSIONS: SEM imaging demonstrated the presence of voids similarly observed using microCT technology (aim 1). MicroCT technology was able to nondestructively measure the volume of voids within the cement layer and the bonded surface area at the root/cement/FRC interfaces (aim 2). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The interfaces at the root dentin/cement/dowel represent a timely and relevant topic where several efforts have been conducted in the past few years to understand their inherent features. MicroCT technology combined with 3D reconstruction allows for not only inspecting the internal arrangement rendered by fiberglass adhesively bonded to root dentin, but also estimating the volume of voids and contacted bond area between the dentin and cement layer.

Internal fit of two all-ceramic systems and metal-ceramic crowns.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the internal fit (IF) of glass-infiltrated alumina (ICA--In-Ceram Alumina), yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP--IPS e.max ZirCAD), and metal-ceramic (MC--Ni-Cr alloy) crowns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty standardized resin-tooth replicas of a maxillary first molar were produced for crown placement and divided into 3 groups (n=20 each) according to the core material used (metal, ICA or Y-TZP). The IF of the crowns was measured using the replica technique, which employs a light body polyvinyl siloxane impression material to simulate the cement layer thickness. The data were analyzed according to the surfaces obtained for the occlusal space (OS), axial space (AS) and total mean (TM) using two-way ANOVA with Tukey's multiple comparison test (p<0.05). RESULTS: No differences among the different areas were detected in the MC group. For the Y-TZP and ICA groups, AS was statistically lower than both OS and TM. No differences in AS were observed among the groups. However, OS and TM showed significantly higher values for ICA and Y-TZP groups than MC group. Comparisons of ICA and Y-TZP revealed that OS was significantly lower for Y-TZP group, whereas no differences were observed for TM. CONCLUSIONS: The total mean achieved by all groups was within the range of clinical acceptability. However, the metal-ceramic group demonstrated significantly lower values than the all-ceramic groups, especially in OS.

Internal fit of two all-ceramic systems and metal-ceramic crowns

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the internal fit (IF) of glass-infiltrated alumina (ICA - In-Ceram Alumina), yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP - IPS e.max ZirCAD), and metal-ceramic (MC - Ni-Cr alloy) crowns. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty standardized resin-tooth replicas of a maxillary first molar were produced for crown placement and divided into 3 groups (n=20 each) according to the core material used (metal, ICA or Y-TZP). The IF of the crowns was measured using the replica technique, which employs a light body polyvinyl siloxane impression material to simulate the cement layer thickness. The data were analyzed according to the surfaces obtained for the occlusal space (OS), axial space (AS) and total mean (TM) using two-way ANOVA with Tukey ’s multiple comparison test (p<0.05). RESULTS: No differences among the different areas were detected in the MC group. For the Y-TZP and ICA groups, AS was statistically lower than both OS and TM. No differences in AS were observed among the groups. However, OS and TM showed significantly higher values for ICA and Y-TZP groups than MC group. Comparisons of ICA and Y-TZP revealed that OS was significantly lower for Y-TZP group, whereas no differences were observed for TM. CONCLUSIONS: The total mean achieved by all groups was within the range of clinical acceptability. However, the metal-ceramic group demonstrated significantly lower values than the all-ceramic groups, especially in OS.

Próteses parciais removíveis não convencionais parte II / Non-conventional removable partial denture part II

Dentes perdidos podem ser melhores substituídosempregando próteses fixas (dento ouimplanto suportadas). Contudo, algumas limitaçõescomo fatores econômicos, culturais, sociais,distribuição dos dentes, extensão do espaçoprotético e espessura do rebordo, podemlimitar o emprego dessas próteses. Dessa forma,a prótese parcial removível (PPR) torna-se umaalternativa segura e confiável quando a prótesefixa não pode ser indicada. Embora apresentedesvantagens, a PPR convencional preenche todosos requisitos para reabilitar qualquer áreaedêntula, pois recupera dentes e estruturas associadasperdidas (osso e tecidos moles). Entretanto,algumas alterações como modificaçõesdo desenho da infraestrutura, mudança do eixode inserção, tipo de dente usado na prótese(artificial ou natural), dentre outras, podem serrealizadas para melhorar o conforto, satisfaçãoe estética do paciente. Nesses casos, há a transformaçãoda PPR convencional em não convencional.Este trabalho tem objetivo de revisaras categorias de PPR não convencionais, assimcomo suas vantagens, desvantagens, indicaçõese contraindicações, na esperança que mais dentistaspossam considerar seu uso quando a situaçãoaparecer.

Fixed partial prostheses (tooth or implant based)are considerated as the best choice to replacemissing teeth. However, some clinical (teethdistribution, prosthetic space extension and residualbone thickness) or individual (economical,cultural and social factors) conditions may limitits indication. In such situations, the removablepartial denture (RPD) is a reliable alternative.Although the conventional RPD shows somedisadvantages, it presents all requirements torehabilitate any edentulous space. Moreover,RPD replaces both teeth and adjacent structures(soft and hard tissues) missed. Nevertheless,in order to delivery esthetic, comfort andself-confidence to patient, some specific clinicalconditions require a non-conventional RPD. Thisprosthesis is characterized by presenting a changedframework design, or a different insertionpath, or due to its association with implants,among others. Thus, understanding the nonconventionalRPDs concept is a subject matterimportant and pertinent. The present studysought to review the relevant literature aboutnon-conventional RPDs, including vantages, disadvantages,indications and contraindications,expecting that more dentists may consider thenon-conventional RPD as a treatment option.

Próteses parciais removíveis não convencionais - parte I / Non conventional removable partial denture - part I

Dentes perdidos podem ser melhor substituídos empregando próteses fixas dento ou implanto suportadas. Contudo, algumas limitações como fatores econômicos, culturais, sociais, saúde geral, distribuição dos dentes, extensão do espaço protético e espessura do rebordo, podem limitar o emprego dessas próteses. Desta forma, a prótese parcial removível (PPR) torna-se uma alternativa segura e confiável quando a prótese fixa não pode ser indicada. Embora apresente desvantagens, a PPR convencional preenche todos os requisitos para reabilitar qualquer área edêntula, pois recupera dentes e estruturas associadas perdidas (osso e tecidos moles). Entretanto, algumas alterações como modificações do desenho da infraestrutura, mudança do eixo de inserção, combinação com implantes, tipo de dentes utilizados na prótese (artificial ou natural), dentre outras, podem ser realizadas para melhorar o conforto, satisfação e estética do paciente. Nesses casos há a transformação da PPR convencional em não convencional. Este trabalho tem como objetivo revisar os tipos de PPRs não convencionais, assim como suas vantagens, desvantagens, indicações e contra-indicações, na esperança de que mais cirurgiões-dentistas (CD) possam considerar seu uso quando a situação aparecer

Fixed partial prostheses (tooth or implant based) are considered as the best choice to replace missing teeth. However, some clinical (teeth distribution, prosthetic space extension and residual bone thickness) or individual (economical, cultural and social factors) conditions may limit its indication. In such situations, the removable partial denture (RPD) is a reliable alternative. Although the conventional RPD shows some disadvantages, it presents all requirements to rehabilitate any edentulous space. Moreover, RPD replaces both teeth and adjacent structures (soft and hard tissues) missed. Nevertheless, in order to delivery esthetic, comfort and self-confidence to patient, some specific clinical conditions require a non-conventional RPD. This prosthesis is characterized by presenting a changed framework design, or a different insertion path, or due to its association with implants, among others. Thus, understanding the non-conventional RPDs concept is a subject matter important and pertinent. The present study sought to review the relevant literature about non-conventional RPDs, including vantages, disadvantages, indications and contraindications, expecting that more dentists may consider the non conventional RPD as a treatment option