Internal adaptation of cast titanium crowns

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Materials Science
• Casting Technology

Background:

• Titanium crowns are widely used in restorative dentistry due to their biocompatibility and mechanical properties.
• Ensuring a precise fit of dental prosthetics is crucial for long-term success and preventing complications.
• The Rematitan Plus investment material is specifically designed for titanium casting, but its efficacy in achieving optimal crown adaptation requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of investment liquid concentration and mold temperature on the internal misfit of commercially pure titanium crowns.
• To determine the optimal parameters for casting titanium crowns using the Rematitan Plus investment material to minimize internal discrepancies.

Main Methods:

• Commercially pure titanium crowns were cast using the Rematitan Plus investment material.
• Two concentrations of the specific investment liquid (100% and 75%) were tested.
• Three mold temperatures (430°C, 515°C, and 600°C) were employed during the casting process.
• Internal misfit was quantified by measuring the cement layer area between the crown and die using image analysis software.

Main Results:

• Neither the dilution of the investment liquid nor the increase in mold temperature significantly affected the internal fit of the cast titanium crowns.
• The lowest mean internal misfit values were observed in groups using 100% liquid concentration at 430°C (7.25 mm² ± 1.59) and 600°C (8.8 mm² ± 2.25).
• These two conditions (430°C/100% and 600°C/100%) showed statistically similar levels of internal misfit.

Conclusions:

• The tested variations in investment liquid concentration and mold temperature do not significantly impact the internal fit of titanium crowns cast with Rematitan Plus.
• Further research may be needed to explore other factors influencing the adaptation of titanium castings.
• Clinicians can consider using 100% liquid concentration with mold temperatures of 430°C or 600°C, as they yield comparable and acceptable internal misfit levels.