Design and technique variables affecting fracture resistance of metal-ceramic restorations

An attempt was made in this study to make a clinically meaningful measure of fracture resistance in metal-ceramic restorations. Forty-four solid metal-ceramic crown forms were fabricated and subjected to compressive load testings. Variables included the presence or absence of a metal coating agent, the type of metal preparation (using stones of different abrasives), and three designs of the underlying metal. The following conclusions were arrived at: (1) The design of the underlying metal structure had a significant relation to the ultimate fracture strength. (2) A design with a definite acuteness of the underlying metal structure failed at significantly lower ultimate fracture strengths. (3) A metal conditioning agent did not decrease fracture resistance if applied properly. (4) Fracture strength was severely decreased when (a) improper thickness of the coating agent was used and (b) porcelain was fused to an unoxidized metal surface. (5) Bond strength, although a contributing factor, may not be as important as metal design and proper manipulation of materials during fabrication of the restoration.