Effect of Aging on Marginal Adaptation of Different Resin-Matrix Ceramics Inlays: In Vitro Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Restorative Dentistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Marginal adaptation is crucial for the longevity of indirect dental restorations.
• Resin-matrix ceramics offer aesthetic and mechanical advantages but their marginal integrity over time requires evaluation.
• Understanding the impact of aging on marginal adaptation is essential for clinical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the marginal adaptation of polymer-infiltrated ceramic (Vita Enamic) and resin nano-ceramic (Lava Ultimate) inlays.
• To assess the influence of aging on the marginal adaptation of these two resin-matrix ceramic materials.

Main Methods:

• Fourteen mandibular second molars were prepared for CAD/CAM inlays (Vita Enamic or Lava Ultimate).
• Inlays were cemented with dual-cure self-adhesive resin cement and subjected to 1-year aging (artificial saliva and thermocycles).
• Marginal adaptation (marginal gap width and percentage of continuous margin) was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy before and after aging.

Main Results:

• Aging significantly increased marginal gap width (MGW) for both materials.
• Gingival margins exhibited significantly larger gaps compared to occlusal and proximal surfaces.
• While material type did not significantly affect MGW, polymer-infiltrated ceramics showed a trend towards wider gaps than resin nano-ceramics.

Conclusions:

• Both tested resin-matrix ceramics demonstrated clinically acceptable marginal integrity.
• Aging negatively impacts marginal seal, particularly at the gingival margins.
• Material selection and meticulous clinical procedures are vital for ensuring long-term restoration success, especially in challenging areas like gingival margins.