The Influence of Extra-Fine Milling Protocol on the Internal Fit of CAD/CAM Composite and Ceramic Crowns

This study aimed to evaluate the marginal and internal adaptation of CAD/CAM crowns milled using two different milling protocols (fine or extra-fine) within a 4-axis milling machine. The crowns were fabricated from lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max CAD) and resin composite (Tetric CAD), assessing their fit in various regions. The crowns (N = 40, n = 10) were milled from lithium disilicate and resin composite using a CEREC Primemill unit. Four groups were formed based on the material and milling protocol: EFLD (extra-fine lithium disilicate), FLD (fine lithium disilicate), EFRC (extra-fine resin composite), and FRC (fine resin composite). The crowns were measured using the replica technique, evaluating internal and marginal adaptation in 18 measuring points per specimen. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test. Resin composite crowns demonstrated a significantly better internal fit compared to lithium disilicate (p < 0.001). Marginal and internal measurements for resin composites were consistently smaller across regions compared to lithium disilicate. No significant differences were found between milling protocols except for the axial wall region (p = 0.001), where extra-fine milling resulted in smaller values. Resin composite crowns exhibited superior internal fit compared to lithium disilicate, regardless of milling protocol. Both the fine and extra-fine milling protocols had minimal impact on adaptation, except at the axial wall region, with both protocols promoting adequate results overall.