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Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Quasistatic Mechanical Testing for Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Occlusal Veneers Cemented to Milled Dentin Analog Material
Published on: December 20, 2024
Effect of firing protocols on cohesive failure of all-ceramic crowns
Stefan Rues1, Elke Kröger, Denise Müller
1Department of Prosthodontics, Dental School, University of Heidelberg, MZK II - Prothetik, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
Objectives:
The mechanical properties of veneering material in all-ceramic restorations are inferior to those of high-strength ceramics. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of three different firing protocols (different cooling times) on cohesive failure of veneered all-ceramic crowns using a newly developed in vitro test design.
Methods:
A prepared anterior maxillary incisor was used to produce geometrically identical crowns (n=68) with a zirconia framework 0.4mm thick veneered with two different ceramics and prepared by use of three different firing protocols. Twenty crowns were loaded until fracture without artificial ageing; the other crowns underwent thermocycling and chewing simulation before ultimate-load testing. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests.
Results:
The results showed that a reduced temperature decrease after firing led to better performance of all-ceramic anterior crowns in the in vitro tests. A significant difference with regard to firing protocol (p=0.006) was observed for one veneering ceramic material only, however.
Conclusion:
It can therefore be concluded that the test design presented enabled sensitive measurement of the effect of firing protocol on cohesive failure of all-ceramic crowns. The modified firing protocol with 6min additional cooling time resulted in greater resistance.
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