Reliability of nonretentive all-ceramic CAD/CAM overlays

Area of Science:

• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Intracoronal restorations carry a risk of cusp fracture, influenced by remaining tooth structure.
• All-ceramic restorations with cusp-supporting designs present a potentially durable alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical reliability and long-term survival of occlusal veneers.
• To compare the efficacy of occlusal veneers against intracoronal restorations in the posterior region.

Main Methods:

• 286 occlusal veneers made of Vita Mark II ceramic were placed in 244 patients using the Cerec method.
• These restorations featured an optimized ceramic design and were monitored over time.
• Clinical reliability was assessed through periodic re-assessments and fracture rate analysis.

Main Results:

• The study observed a fracture rate over 93 months of follow-up.
• The calculated probability of survival for these occlusal veneers was 99.3%.
• This demonstrates the excellent practical suitability and longevity of the Cerec method for occlusal veneers.

Conclusions:

• Occlusal veneers fabricated with the Cerec method exhibit high clinical reliability and survival rates.
• The findings suggest that occlusal veneers are a viable and long-lasting treatment option.
• Reconsideration of intracoronal restorations versus occlusal veneers for posterior teeth is warranted.