Luting composite thickness of two ceramic inlay systems

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Restorative Dentistry

Background:

• Accurate luting composite thickness is crucial for the longevity and fit of indirect and direct ceramic restorations.
• Evaluating different ceramic inlay systems is essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in restorative dentistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the luting composite thickness between a direct chairside ceramic inlay system (Cerec, CAD/CAM) and an indirect laboratory inlay system (IPS Empress).
• To assess the marginal and internal fit of these two ceramic inlay systems.

Main Methods:

• In vitro evaluation of luting composite thickness at specific areas: approximal margin, inner axial wall, and occlusal cavosurface.
• Comparison of inlay fit, particularly at distal proximal margins, between the Cerec and IPS Empress systems.

Main Results:

• IPS Empress inlays exhibited smaller luting composite thickness at occlusal margins and inner axial walls compared to Cerec.
• Poorer overall fit was observed in IPS Empress inlays at distal proximal margins.
• Cerec inlays showed potential displacement during cementation due to inaccurate inner fit, impacting overall fit.

Conclusions:

• While IPS Empress may offer thinner cement lines in certain areas, its fit at distal proximal margins is inferior.
• The findings suggest that the fit characteristics of ceramic inlay systems significantly influence cementation outcomes and restoration success.
• Further investigation into the factors affecting inner fit accuracy for both systems is warranted.