Seating accuracy and fracture strength of vented and nonvented ceramic crowns luted with three cements

Methods to facilitate the seating of artificial crowns can improve the gingival margins and ensure longevity. This study examined the effects of venting and different luting agents on the seating accuracy and compressive strength of Dicor ceramic crowns. Vented and unaltered anterior restorations were tested using zinc phosphate cement (ZnPO4), glass ionomer, and composite resin cement. Rexillium metal dies of a tooth preparation of a maxillary canine were provided and standardized crowns were fabricated. The artificial crowns were evaluated for adaptation of the finish line before and after cementation, then were compressively loaded to failure. Under the conditions of this study, neither the design of the artificial crown nor the luting agent had a significant effect on the compressive strength. Composite resinous cement appeared to enhance seating of the crown, whereas ZnPO4 cement inhibited seating.