Residual stress in several ceramometal systems

Residual stress caused by a mismatch of alloy-porcelain thermal contraction can contribute to clinical failure of a ceramometal restoration. This investigation assessed thermal compatibility of three ceramometal alloys and two opaque porcelains. Thermal expansions of the alloys and porcelains were measured by using a straight push-rod dilatometer. Porcelain glass transition temperatures and expansion values were derived from length-versus-temperature curves. Residual stress states in alloy-porcelain pairs were assessed by comparing expansion values of the components at the porcelain glass transition temperatures. Above that temperature the porcelain viscosity is low and stress relief is possible, whereas below the glass transition the porcelain acts as a stress-supporting solid. Expansion values were in general agreement and glass transition temperatures were slightly lower than values previously reported for similar materials. Alloy-porcelain thermal compatibility for the materials tested appeared more dependent on the opaque porcelain than the alloy.