The Cracking Behavior of Two Dental Composite Materials Validated through Multifractal Analyzes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Dental composite resins are widely used for tooth restoration.
• Understanding their mechanical properties is crucial for clinical longevity.
• Filtek Supreme XT and Filtek Z250 are common composite materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally and theoretically analyze the mechanical behavior of Filtek Supreme XT and Filtek Z250 dental composites.
• To compare the compressive strength and fracture characteristics of the two materials.
• To develop a theoretical model correlating with experimental findings.

Main Methods:

• In vitro testing of composite resin samples (Filtek Supreme XT and Filtek Z250).
• Experimental analysis included compressive strength and fracture behavior determination.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for fractured surface evaluation.
• Theoretical analysis using holographic implementations and a Hooke-type equation.

Main Results:

• Compressive stress-compressive strain analysis indicated Filtek Supreme XT exhibited more cracking prior to fracture than Filtek Z250.
• SEM revealed distinct fracture surface characteristics for each composite.
• A differential Hooke-type equation was formulated to link theoretical and experimental data.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights significant differences in the mechanical behavior and fracture patterns of Filtek Supreme XT and Filtek Z250.
• The developed theoretical model provides a framework for understanding composite material responses.
• Findings contribute to the selection and application of dental composites for improved restoration outcomes.