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Published on: December 20, 2024
Clinically relevant fracture testing of all-ceramic crowns
Marit Øilo1, Ketil Kvam, John E Tibballs
1Department of Clinical Dentistry - Biomaterials, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Norway. marit.oilo@iko.uib.no
Summary
This study developed an in vitro method to simulate all-ceramic crown fractures, finding that occlusal loading without contact damage closely matched clinical fracture modes and loads.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Restorative Dentistry
Background:
- All-ceramic crowns are prone to clinical fractures despite in vitro strength tests.
- Observed clinical fracture modes differ from conventional laboratory testing.
- A need exists for in vitro methods that accurately replicate clinical fracture behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an in vitro testing method for all-ceramic crowns.
- To simulate clinical fracture modes and loads accurately.
- To improve the understanding of all-ceramic restoration failures.
Main Methods:
- Thirty alumina-core all-ceramic crowns were fabricated and divided into three experimental groups.
- Group 1: Occlusal loading without contact damage on epoxy abutments.
- Group 2: Fracture via expanding cement; Group 3: Abutment distortion during loading. Fractographic analysis compared to clinical fractures.
Main Results:
- In vitro fracture modes closely resembled those observed in clinical failures.
- Group 1, utilizing occlusal loading without contact damage, showed the highest similarity to clinical fractures.
- Fractures in Group 1 occurred at clinically relevant load levels.
Conclusions:
- Laboratory simulation of abutment distortion during occlusal loading, without direct contact damage, effectively replicates clinical fractures in all-ceramic crowns.
- This method offers a more accurate in vitro assessment of all-ceramic crown durability.
- Findings can inform the design and clinical application of all-ceramic restorations.
