The effect of surface grinding and sandblasting on flexural strength and reliability of Y-TZP zirconia ceramic

OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of grinding and sandblasting on the microstructure, biaxial flexural strength and reliability of two yttria stabilized tetragonal zirconia (Y-TZP) ceramics. METHODS: Two Y-TZP powders were used to produce fine grained and coarse grained microstructures. Sixty discs from each material were randomly divided into six groups of ten. For each group, a different surface treatment was applied: dry grinding, wet grinding, sandblasting, dry grinding + sandblasting, sandblasting + dry grinding and a control group. Biaxial flexural strength was determined and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's HSD test (p < 0.05). In addition, Weibull statistics was used to analyze the variability of flexural strength. The relative amount of transformed monoclinic zirconia, corresponding transformed zone depth (TZD) and the mean critical defect size Ccr were calculated. RESULTS: There was no difference in mean strength between the as sintered fine and coarse grained Y-TZP. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between the control group and ground fine grained material for both wet and dry grinding. Sandblasting significantly increased the strength in fine and coarse grained materials. All surface treatment procedures reduced the Weibull modulus of Y-TZP. For both materials, the highest amount of the monoclinic phase and the largest TZD was found after sandblasting. Lower amounts of the monoclinic phase were obtained after both grinding procedures, where the highest mean critical defect size Ccr was also calculated. SIGNIFICANCE: Our results indicate that sandblasting may provide a powerful technique for strengthening Y-TZP in clinical practice. In contrast, grinding may lead to substantial strength degradation and reduced reliability of prefabricated zirconia elements, therefore, sandblasting of ground surfaces is suggested.     

Effect of high-speed sintering on the flexural strength of hydrothermal and thermo-mechanically aged zirconia materials

ObjectiveTo investigate the influence of high-speed and conventional sintering on the flexural strength (FS) of three zirconia materials initial and after artificial aging.MethodsMilled zirconia specimens (3Y-TZP: ZI and Zolid; 4Y-TZP: Zolid HT+; Amann Girrbach AG; N = 288, n = 96/group) were sintered in a high-speed sintering protocol (final temperature 1580 °C, n = 48/subgroup) or a conventional sintering protocol (control group, final temperature 1450 °C, n = 48/subgroup). FS was tested initially and after artificial aging (10 h in an autoclave or 1,200,000 chewing cycles; n = 16/subgroup). Univariate ANOVAs, post-hoc Scheffé, partial eta-squared, Kolmogorov–Smirnov-, Kruskal–Wallis- and Mann–Whitney-U-test were performed (p < 0.05).ResultsZI showed the highest and HT+ the lowest FS, regardless of the sintering protocols and aging regimens (p < 0.001). High-speed sintered HT+ showed higher initial FS than the control group (p < 0.001). ZI (p < 0.001–0.004) and Zolid (p < 0.001–0.007) showed higher FS after thermo-mechanical aging. High-speed sintered HT+ showed higher FS in the initial stage (p < 0.001). The Weibull modulus of the three thermo-mechanically aged materials was negatively influenced by high-speed sintering.SignificanceAs shorter sintering times represent a cost and time efficient alternative, high-speed sintering is a valid alternative to conventional sintering protocols.     

Influence of a surface conditioner to pre-sintered zirconia on the biaxial flexural strength and phase transformation

Objectives

To assess the influence of a surface conditioner applied to pre-sintered yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) on the biaxial flexural strength and phase transformation.

Pressed ceramics onto zirconia. Part 1: Comparison of crystalline phases present, adhesion to a zirconia system and flexural strength

Objectives

To compare the crystalline phases present, quantify the adhesion to zirconia and measure the mechanical properties of four commercially available pressed ceramics suitable for zirconia substructures.Materials and methods This study compares the X-ray diffraction response and the mechanical properties of four different pressed ceramics (Noritake CZR Press, Vita PM9, Wieland PressXzr and IPS e.max ZirPress) to Vita In-Ceram YZ zirconia substrate. The adhesion was determined using the interfacial strain energy release rate fracture mechanics approach; in addition biaxial flexural strength values of each material was determined.

Results

X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that Noritake CZR Press and Vita PM9 contain leucite whereas IPS e.max ZirPress and Wieland PressXzr are non-leucite amorphous materials.The strain energy release rate results revealed that the pressed ceramics with leucite have better adhesion than non-leucite ceramics to zirconia. Differences were observed between biaxial strength results for the pressed ceramics from bilayer compared with monolayer specimens.

Conclusions

Pressed ceramics compatible with zirconia tested in this study were of two types; leucite containing and non-leucite containing essentially glass ceramics. Leucite containing pressable ceramics appears to have better adhesion to zirconia.     

Biaxial flexural strength of bilayered zirconia using various veneering ceramics

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biaxial flexural strength (BFS) of one zirconia-based ceramic used with various veneering ceramics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Zirconia core material (Katana) and five veneering ceramics (Cerabien ZR; CZR, Lava Ceram; LV, Cercon Ceram Kiss; CC, IPS e.max Ceram; EM and VITA VM9; VT) were selected. Using the powder/liquid layering technique, bilayered disk specimens (diameter: 12.50 mm, thickness: 1.50 mm) were prepared to follow ISO standard 6872:2008 into five groups according to veneering ceramics as follows; Katana zirconia veneering with CZR (K/CZR), Katana zirconia veneering with LV (K/LV), Katana zirconia veneering with CC (K/CC), Katana zirconia veneering with EM (K/EM) and Katana zirconia veneering with VT (K/VT). After 20,000 thermocycling, load tests were conducted using a universal testing machine (Instron). The BFS were calculated and analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD (α=0.05). The Weibull analysis was performed for reliability of strength. The mode of fracture and fractured surface were observed by SEM.

RESULTS

It showed that K/CC had significantly the highest BFS, followed by K/LV. BFS of K/CZR, K/EM and K/VT were not significantly different from each other, but were significantly lower than the other two groups. Weibull distribution reported the same trend of reliability as the BFS results.

CONCLUSION

From the result of this study, the BFS of the bilayered zirconia/veneer composite did not only depend on the Young''s modulus value of the materials. Further studies regarding interfacial strength and sintering factors are necessary to achieve the optimal strength.     

Impact of different pretreatments and aging procedures on the flexural strength and phase structure of zirconia ceramics

ObjectiveTo test the impact of zirconia pretreatment and aging on flexural strength and phase structure.MethodsFor flexural strength measurements, 180 3Y-TZP_0.25 specimens were fabricated and pretreated: (i) air-abraded (105-μm alumina, 0.25 MPa), (ii) air-abraded (50-μm alumina, 0.25 MPa), (iii) air-abraded (30-μm silica-coated alumina, 0.28 MPa) (iv) non-pretreated. Each pretreated group (n = 15) was aged: (a) hydrothermal (134 °C, 0.23 MPa, 2 h) (b) in a mastication simulator (1,200,000×, 5/55 °C) and (c) not aged. The fractured specimens were stored dry for 5 years (23 °C) for analysis of phase transformation. Additionally, specimens were fabricated from 3Y-TZP_0.25 (n = 12) and 3Y-TZP_0.05 (n = 8), pretreated (i, ii, iii, iv), and hydrothermally aged. Each air-abrasion method was alternated using 0.05, 0.25 and 0.4 MPa pressure. The phase transformation was examined by Raman spectroscopy and surface topography by scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using univariate ANOVA with the Scheffé post hoc test and partial-eta-squared (?_p²) (α = 0.05).ResultsThe highest impact on flexural strength was exerted by the pretreatment (η_P² = 0.261, p < 0.001), followed by interactions between pretreatment and aging (η_P² = 0.077, p = 0.033). Non-pretreated and non-aged specimens showed the lowest monoclinic percentage. Hydrothermal aging and 5 years of storage at room temperature increased the monolithic percentage of 3Y-TZP_0.25. The highest phase transformation was observed in groups air-abraded with 105-μm alumina particles. Increasing pressure during the air-abrading process increased the content of the monoclinic phase in zirconia surfaces.SignificanceAir-abrasion with 30-μm silica-coated alumina powder can be recommended for pretreatment of 3Y-TZP_0.25 and 3Y-TZP_0.05. For air-abrasion using alumina powder lower pressure should be used.     

氧化锆和纳米金刚石比例对核树脂挠曲强度的影响

目的 探讨二氧化锆、纳米金刚石比例对核树脂挠曲强度的影响.方法 采用双酚A-甲基丙烯酸缩水甘油酯(Bis-GMA)和二甲基丙烯酸三甘醇酯(TEGDMA)为树脂基质, 钡玻璃粉(BG)为主填料, 选择不同比例的微米或纳米级二氧化锆,纳米金刚石作为功能填料, 采用原位聚合法生成光固化牙科核树脂,万能材料试验机测定其挠曲强度.结果 含60wt%钡玻璃粉、0.2wt%纳米金刚石的树脂中,加入纳米级或微米级的二氧化锆含量分别为2wt%、3.5wt%、5wt%,3.5wt%相应核树脂挠曲强度最高;含70wt%钡玻璃粉、0.1wt%纳米金刚石的树脂中,加入40 nm的二氧化锆含量为0wt%、2wt%、3.5wt%、5wt%,2wt%质量百分比相应核树脂挠曲强度最高.结论 适当比例填料的核树脂挠曲强度能达到相应的国家标准及ISO标准的规定,能满足临床需要.     

Impact of post printing cleaning methods on geometry,transmission, roughness parameters,and flexural strength of 3D-printed zirconia

ObjectiveTo analyze the impact of different post printing cleaning methods on geometry, transmission, roughness parameters, and flexural strength of additively manufactured zirconia.MethodsDisc-shaped specimens (N = 100) were 3D-printed from 3 mol%-yttria-stabilized zirconia (material: LithaCon 3Y 210; printer: CeraFab 7500, Lithoz) and were cleaned with five different methods (n = 20): (A) 25 s of airbrushing with the dedicated cleaning solution (LithaSol 30®, Lithoz) and 1-week storage in a drying oven (40 °C); (B) 25 s airbrushing (LithaSol 30®) without drying oven; (C) 30 s ultrasonic bath (US) filled with Lithasol30®; (D) 300 s US filled with LithaSol 30®; (E) 30 s US filled with LithaSol 30® followed by 40 s of airbrushing (LithaSol 30®). After cleaning, the samples were sintered. Geometry, transmission, roughness (R_a, R_z), characteristic strengths (σ₀), and Weibull moduli (m) were analyzed. Statistical analyses were performed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov-, t-, Kruskal-Wallis-, and Mann-Whitney-U-tests (α < 0.05).ResultsShort US (C) resulted in the thickest and widest samples. Highest transmission was found for US combined with airbrushing (E, p ≤ 0.004), followed by D and B (same range, p = 0.070). Roughness was lowest for US combined with airbrushing (E, p ≤ 0.039), followed by A and B (same range, p = 0.172). A (σ₀ = 1030 MPa, m = 8.2), B (σ₀ = 1165 MPa, m = 9.8), and E (σ₀ = 1146 MPa, m = 8.3) were significantly stronger (p < 0.001) and substantially more reliable than C (σ₀ = 480 MPa, m = 1.9) and D (σ₀ = 486 MPa, m = 2.1).SignificanceFor 3D-printed zirconia, cleaning strategy selection is important. Airbrushing (B) and short US combined with airbrushing (E) were most favorable regarding transmission, roughness, and strength. Ultrasonic cleaning alone was ineffective (short duration) or detrimental (long duration). Strategy E could be particularly promising for hollow or porous structures.     

Effect of in vitro aging on the flexural strength and probability to fracture of Y-TZP zirconia ceramics for all-ceramic restorations

ObjectivesDental zirconia restorations should present long-term clinical survival and be in service within the oral environment for many years. However, low temperature degradation could affect their mechanical properties and survival. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of in vitro aging on the flexural strength of yttrium-stabilized (Y-TZP) zirconia ceramics for ceramic restorations.MethodsOne hundred twenty bar-shaped specimens were prepared from two ceramics (ZENO Zr (WI) and IPS e.max^® ZirCAD (IV)), and loaded until fracture according to ISO 6872. The specimens from each ceramic (n_x = 60) were divided in three groups (control, aged for 5 h, aged for 10 h). One-way ANOVA was used to assess statistically significant differences among flexural strength values (P < 0.05). The variability of the flexural strength values was analyzed using the two-parameter Weibull distribution function, which was applied for the estimation of Weibull modulus (m) and characteristic strength (σ₀). The crystalline phase polymorphs of the materials (tetragonal, t, and monoclinic, m, zirconia) were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.ResultsA slight increase of the flexural strength after 5 h, and a decrease after 10 h of aging, was recorded for both ceramics, however statistically significant was for the WI group (P < 0.05). Both ceramics presented a t → m phase transformation, with the m-phase increasing from 4 to 5% at 5 h to around 15% after 10 h.SignificanceThe significant reduction of the flexural strength after 10 h of in vitro aging, suggests high fracture probability for one of the zirconia ceramics tested.     

Effect of acidic media on flexural strength and fatigue of CAD-CAM dental materials

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of acidic media, including beverages and gastric fluids on flexural strength and fatigue of CAD-CAM materials.MethodsFour CAD-CAM materials (high-translucency zirconia (Ceramill Zolid HT+), lithium disilicate (IPS e-max CAD), hybrid ceramic (Vita Enamic), and nanohybrid resin composite (Grandio Blocs) were prepared and immersed in one of five media (gastric HCl, white wine, Coca-Cola, orange juice, and artificial saliva) in an incubator (37 ℃, 24 h). Surface topography and roughness were obtained using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a stylus contact profilometer, respectively. Initial 3-point flexural strength was measured for half of the bars (n = 20/gp) using a universal testing machine (0.5 mm/min). The other bars underwent 10⁶ cyclic fatigue loadings before measurement of residual 3-point flexural strength. Data were statistically analyzed (two-way and three-way ANOVA, Tukey’s post-hoc, p < 0.05). Weibull distributions were plotted for reliability analysis.ResultsZirconia bars has the highest initial flexural strengths followed by lithium disilicate, while resin composite and hybrid ceramic groups had the lowest strength regardless of the erosive medium. Cyclic fatigue significantly reduced initial flexural strengths for all materials except for hybrid ceramic and resin composite. Weibull moduli were the highest for zirconia, lithium disilicate and resin composite and lowest for hybrid ceramic.SignificanceErosive media significantly changed surface roughness of CAD-CAM materials except for zirconia and resin composite without jeopardizing the flexural strength of the CAD-CAM materials. Despite the higher flexural strengths for zirconia and lithium disilicate, resin composite and hybrid ceramic were more resistant to cyclic fatigue.     

Biaxial flexural strength of zirconia: A round robin test with 12 laboratories

ObjectiveThe aim of this interlaboratory round robin test was to prove the robustness of the DIN EN ISO 6872:2019 and to identify the influence of processing and testing variations.MethodsEach of the 12 laboratories participated (A–L) received 60 (n = 720) assigned zirconia specimens. All participants seperated the specimens from the blanks, sintered them, polished half of all specimens and performed the biaxial flexural test (DIN EN ISO 6872:2019). The surface roughness was determined by using tactile measuring device. Fractographic examination was performed under scanning-electron-microscopy (SEM). Data was analysed using Kolmogorov–Smirnov-, Kruskal–Wallis-, Mann–Whitney-U-test and two-parametric Weibull statistic (p < 0.05).ResultsThe results for both preparation methods (as-fired and polished) showed significant differences for some participants. The values for as-fired groups ranged between 513 (I) and 659 (E) MPa. H showed higher Weibull modulus than C, E and I. Within polished groups flexural strengths values from 465 (L) to 1212 (E) MPa were observed, with a tendency to clustered groups A, I, J, L (465–689 MPa) and remaining groups (877–1212 MPa). E presented the highest and H the lowest Weibull modulus. Within A and J, no impact of the preparation method on flexural strength values was observed. Within L, as-fired specimens showed higher flexural strength than polished ones. The flexural strength increase did only associate to a certain extent with measured surface roughness. Fractography showed defect populations depending on polishing techniques, associated to the strength level, especially for polished groups. Reduced strength is related to machining defects, regardless of the surface state.SignificanceDIN EN ISO 6872:2019 can be seen as guidance to biaxial flexural strength testing but additional effort is necessary to ensure interlaboratory comparability. Calibrated furnaces and reliable sintering conditions are mandatory requirements together with detailed specifications on finishing or polishing procedures. Biaxial flexural testing is really a matter of understanding specimen preparation, alignment and mechanical testing by itself.DIN EN ISO 6872:2019 should further recommend reporting of mean surface roughness along with any biaxial flexural strength data. Fractography is a mandatory tool in interpretation and understanding of strength data.     

Impact of different layers within a blank on mechanical properties of multi-layered zirconia ceramics before and after thermal aging

ObjectivesTo compare the mechanical properties of different layers of multi-layered zirconia materials.Methods720 cylindric test plates were fabricated from four defined layers of three multi-layered zirconia ceramics (IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime, Optimill Multilayer 3D; Ceramill zolid fx multilayer) and divided into two equal groups. One group underwent thermal cycling (5–55 °C, 10 000 cycles; “TC”) and one did not (“no TC”), before density, flexural strength, Weibull modulus, and Vickers hardness were evaluated. EDX analysis was conducted using an additional cylinder of each material. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests. Statistical analysis was performed with Bonferroni correction (α < 0.001).ResultsAfter aging, ZirCAD layer 4 showed the overall highest density (6.04 ± 0.02 g/cm³), which was significantly higher than density of layer 4 of Optimill (6.02 ± 0.06 g/cm³) and Ceramill (5.80 ± 1.08 g/cm³) (both p < 0.001). Flexural strength of ZirCAD and Optimill increased consecutively after thermal aging. ZirCAD layer 4 had the overall highest flexural strength before and after artificial aging. After thermal cycling, the Weibull modulus ranged between 4.32 (ZirCAD layer 1) and 13.58 (Ceramill layer 4). ZirCAD had the overall highest Vickers hardness: in layer 1 (1579.18 ± 47.14 HV) before aging, and in layer 2 (1607.1 ± 149.71 HV) after aging. Flexural strength and Vickers hardness differed significantly between the four ZirCAD layers (p < 0.001). Thermal ageing had no significant impact on mechanical properties (p > 0.001).SignificanceMechanical properties were affected by plate position within the blank. When nesting a restoration within a multi-layered zirconia blank, the mechanical properties required should be considered.     

Nucleation efficacy and flexural strength of novel leucite glass-ceramics

ObjectivesTo optimize the nucleation mechanism in leucite glass-ceramics to allow more efficacious glass-ceramic manufacture and improvements in microstructure and mechanical reliability.Materials and methodsAn alumino-silicate glass was designed and synthesized using melt quench methods. The glass was crushed and milled using various milling times (48–93 h) and spray drying. Nucleation and growth heat treatment schedules were applied to synthesize glass-ceramics. Glass/glass-ceramic powders and frit specimens were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MAS-NMR) and X-ray diffraction analyses (XRD). Glass-ceramic specimens were tested using the biaxial flexural strength test (BFS).ResultsApplication of defined nucleation heat treatments resulted in the synthesis of Na/Ca titanates. NMR indicated changes to the ²³Na glass spectra in the nucleated glass and TEM/EDX the presence of Na/Ca/Ti domains (<200 nm) within the leucite crystals and associated with the nucleation of the leucite phase. XRD confirmed the presence of a bulk leucite phase in the glass-ceramics. SEM/TEM confirmed the crystallization of the leucite phase (65.5–69.3%) in a thermally matched glass, in conjunction with the nano Na/Ca titanate phase. The leucite glass-ceramics resulted in a high BFS (255–268 MPa), with reduction in powder milling time prior to heat treatments having no significant effect on flexural strength and reliability (p > 0.05).SignificanceNa/Ca titanates were synthesized in leucite glass-ceramics for the first time and associated with its nucleation and efficacious growth. This nucleation optimization provides opportunities for more efficient manufacturing and microstructural/mechanical reliability improvements. Improved synthesis of high strength/reliable leucite glass-ceramics is useful for construction of esthetic minimally invasive restorations.     

代型材料力学性能对磨牙氧化锆全瓷冠断裂失效行为的影响

目的研究不同力学性能代型材料对磨牙氧化锆全瓷冠断裂失效行为的影响。 方法制作弹性模量与牙本质（18.6 GPa）近似的复合树脂和多孔钛标准试件（n = 40）,测定其维氏硬度、挠曲强度和断裂韧性值。分别用离体牙及上述复合树脂和多孔钛制作代型（n = 10）,制作30个单层瓷结构的全锆（M-Zir）冠,采用随机数字表法分为3组,分别粘接于离体牙预备体及多孔钛和复合树脂代型上。所有试件行抗折破坏试验,记录最大断裂载荷（N）及失效模式,并采用扫描电镜行断口形貌学分析。使用SPSS 20.0软件对代型材料的力学性能测定结果进行独立样本t检验,抗折破坏试验进行单因素方差分析和LSD-t检验。 结果多孔钛与P60复合树脂的弹性模量分别为（18.50 ± 1.65）和（17.48 ± 1.70）GPa,两组间差异无统计学意义（t = 1.358,P = 0.191）。多孔钛材料的维氏硬度（165.60 ± 11.17）HV、挠曲强度（522.47 ± 52.46）MPa和断裂韧性（3.67 ± 1.18）MPa·m^1/2显著高于复合树脂（P<0.001）。离体牙组、多孔钛代型组、复合树脂代型组M-Zir冠的平均断裂载荷分别为（5 306 ± 467）、（5 273 ± 447）和（4 695 ± 583）N,3组差异有统计学意义（F = 4.253,P = 0.025）。多孔钛代型组与离体牙组差异无统计学意义（P = 0.890）,复合树脂代型组显著低于离体牙组（P = 0.015）及多孔钛代型组（P = 0.021）。全瓷冠断裂模式分析显示,3组的M-Zir冠断裂模式无明显差异,均为瓷全层折裂为颊颚侧2块,裂纹通过中央窝沟向近远中牙尖三角嵴方向扩展。同时,离体牙组试件多伴有预备体的损伤,复合树脂代型组全部试件均伴有代型折裂,多孔钛代型组全部试件均完整。 结论多孔钛的维氏硬度、挠曲强度及断裂韧性优于复合树脂材料。使用复合树脂材料作为代型时M-Zir冠断裂载荷偏低,但对其断裂模式无明显影响。多孔钛代型较复合树脂代型更适用于高强度氧化锆全瓷修复体的体外研究。     

Effects of thickness,processing technique,and cooling rate protocol on the flexural strength of a bilayer ceramic system

Objective

To determine whether the thickness, processing technique, and cooling protocol of veneer ceramic influence the flexural strength of a bilayer ceramic system.

Materials and methods

Sixty-four bar-shaped specimens (20 mm × 4 mm × 1 mm) of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia (Vita In-Ceram YZ, Vita) were fabricated (ISO 6872) and randomly divided into 8 groups (n = 8) according to the factors “processing technique” (P – PM9 and V – VM9), “thickness” (1 mm and 3 mm), and “cooling protocol” (S – slow and F – fast). The veneer ceramics were applied only over one side of the bar-shaped specimens. All specimens were mechanically cycled (2 × 10⁶ cycles, 84 N, 3.4 Hz, in water), with the veneer ceramic under tension. Then, the specimens were tested in 4-point bending (1 mm/min, load 100 kgf, in water), also with the veneer ceramic under tension, and the maximum load was recorded at first sign of fracture. The flexural strength (σ) was calculated, and the mode of failure was determined by stereomicroscopy (30×). The data (MPa) were analyzed statistically by 3-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

ANOVA revealed that the factor “thickness” (p = 0.0001) was statistically significant, unlike the factors “processing technique” (p = 0.6025) and “cooling protocol” (p = 0.4199). The predominant mode of failure was cracking.

Significance

The thickness of the veneer ceramic has an influence on the mechanical strength of the bilayer ceramic system, regardless of processing technique and cooling protocol of the veneer ceramic.     

The effect of preparation order on the crystal structure of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal and the shear bond strength of dental resin cements

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of preparation order on the crystal structure of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) and the shear bond strength of dental resin cements.

Methods

One-hundred fifty pre-sintered Y-TZP cylinders (Ø 9 mm × 13.5 mm) were prepared and divided into three groups (control group, SBS group and SAS group). Specimens in control group were not treated. Specimens in SBS group were sandblasted and then densely sintered, and specimens in SAS group were sintered in advance, and then sandblasted. The specimens were analyzed by X-ray diffractometry, confocal laser scanning microscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy before and after sandblasting. All specimens were embedded in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) molds using PMMA and each group was divided into five subgroups. The mixed resin cements (Clearfil SA luting cement, Zirconite, Superbond C&B, Rely-X Unicem, and Multilink) were placed onto the Y-TZP surfaces using PTFE molds with Ø 3 mm × 3 mm, followed by storage in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h, and thermocycling (5000 cycles at 5 °C and 55 °C with a 30 s dwelling time). All specimens were tested for the shear bond strengths with a universal testing machine, and fractured surfaces were evaluated by SEM. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Scheffé comparison with α = .05.

Results

Sandblasting of the zirconia significantly increased shear bond strength of resin cements, but the preparation order had no significant influence on the shear bond strength in both test groups. In SEM observation, the natures of the surface faceting of the zirconia grains were totally different between SBS and SAS groups. SBS group exhibited less monoclinic structures than SAS group.

Significance

Sandblasting of pre-sintered Y-TZP and then sintering may induce favorable proportion of tetragonal structures. This might have positive effect on the clinical performance of zirconia restorations.     

Impact of varying step-stress protocols on the fatigue behavior of 3Y-TZP, 4Y-TZP and 5Y-TZP ceramic

ObjectiveTo test the impact of three varying step-stress protocols on the fatigue behavior of two 3Y-TZP, one 4Y-TZP and one 5Y-TZP zirconia materials.MethodsEight specimens per zirconia material (N = 32) were selected for static testing to determine the start load for dynamic tests (30% of the mean value of static fracture load). 45 specimens per material (N = 180) were used for dynamic load tests using three step-stress protocols: 1. 50 N/5000 cycles; 2. 5% of static load/5000 cycles, and 3. 10 N/1000 cycles. Following materials were tested: 3Y-TZP_{(<0.25 Al2O3)} (O: opaque) 3Y-TZP_{(<0.05 Al2O3)} (T: translucent), 4Y-TZP_{(<0.01 Al2O3)} (ET: extra translucent) and 5Y-TZP_{(<0.01 Al2O3)} (HT: high translucent). The specimens (4 ± 0.02 × 3 ± 0.02 × 45 mm) were placed centrally on the support rolls and the load was applied perpendicularly over the 4 mm specimen side (～4-point flexural strength according to the DIN 6872:2019). Data was analyzed with Kolmogorov–Smirnov-test, t-test, one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Scheffé-test, Chi-square-test, Kaplan–Meier with Log-Rank-test and two-parametric Weibull analysis (p < 0.05).ResultsThe step-stress protocols showed no impact on the fracture load or Weibull modulus within one zirconia material. However, the zirconia materials T, ET and HT showed differences in cycle number to fracture between the step-stress protocols (T: 3 > 2 > 1; ET: 2 > 3 > 1; HT: 2, 3 > 1) with lowest cycle number to fracture for protocol 1. Within one step-stress protocol, the cycle number to fracture varied according to the zirconia material as follows: 1: T, O ≥ O, ET > HT; 2: ET > O, T, HT; 3: O, T, ET > HT. Cracking started at the tensile side of the specimens at all times. All specimens showed typical compression curls (single or double). Fragmentation patterns were similar for all materials with a lot of crack branching and fragmentation due to secondary cracks indicating high energy fractures.SignificanceDynamic fatigue tests seem to provide important information on the long-term stability of zirconia materials. Zirconia materials with higher opacity seem to be more robust towards varying step-stress protocols than translucent zirconia materials. Regarding expenditure of time, a step-stress protocol with a load increase of 50 N every 5000 cycles seems favorable to gain information on the long-term stability of zirconia materials.     

In vitro evaluation of fracture strength of zirconia restoration veneered with various ceramic materials

PURPOSE

Fracture of the veneering material of zirconia restorations frequently occurs in clinical situations. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the fracture strengths of zirconia crowns veneered with various ceramic materials by various techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 1.2 mm, 360° chamfer preparation and occlusal reduction of 2 mm were performed on a first mandibular molar, and 45 model dies were fabricated in a titanium alloy by CAD/CAM system. Forty-five zirconia copings were fabricated and divided into three groups. In the first group (LT) zirconia copings were veneered with feldspathic porcelain by the layering technique. In the second group (HT) the glass ceramic was heat-pressed on the zirconia coping, and for the third group (ST) a CAD/CAM-fabricated high-strength anatomically shaped veneering cap was sintered onto the zirconia coping. All crowns were cemented onto their titanium dies with Rely X™ Unicem (3M ESPE) and loaded with a universal testing machine (Instron 5583) until failure. The mean fracture values were compared by an one-way ANOVA and a multiple comparison post-hoc test (α=0.05). Scanning electron microscope was used to investigate the fractured interface.

RESULTS

Mean fracture load and standard deviation was 4263.8±1110.8 N for Group LT, 5070.8±1016.4 for Group HT and 6242.0±1759.5 N for Group ST. The values of Group ST were significantly higher than those of the other groups.

CONCLUSION

Zirconia crowns veneered with CAD/CAM generated glass ceramics by the sintering technique are superior to those veneered with feldspathic porcelain by the layering technique or veneered with glass ceramics by the heat-pressing technique in terms of fracture strength.     

Mechanical properties of zirconia after different surface treatments and repeated firings

PURPOSE

This study investigated the influence of surface conditioning procedures and repeated firings on monoclinic content and strength of zirconia before cementation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sintered bar-shaped zirconia specimens were subjected to no surface treatment (control), air abrasion, or grinding (n=21). Their roughness was evaluated using a profilometer, and microscope analysis was performed on one specimen of each group. Then, 2 or 10 repeated firings (n=10) were executed, the monoclinic content of specimens was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, and a three-point flexural strength test was performed. Surface roughness values were compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) tests, the monoclinic content values were tested using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests, and the flexural strength values were tested using two-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests (P=.05). Spearman''s correlation test was performed to define relationships among measured parameters.

RESULTS

Surface-treated specimens were rougher than untreated specimens and had a higher monoclinic content (P<.005), and the relationship between roughness and monoclinic content was significant (P<.000). Neither surface treatment nor firing significantly affected the flexural strength, but Weibull analysis showed that for the air-abraded samples the characteristic strength was significantly lower after the 10^th firing than after the 2^nd firing.

CONCLUSION

After firing, a negligible amount of monoclinic content remained on the zirconia surfaces, and rougher surfaces had higher monoclinic contents than untreated surfaces. Multiple firings could be performed if necessary, but the fracture probability could increase after multiple firings for rougher surfaces.     

Effect of different veneering techniques on the fracture strength of metal and zirconia frameworks

PURPOSE

To determine whether the fracture strengths and failure types differed between metal and zirconia frameworks veneered with pressable or layering ceramics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A phantom molar tooth was prepared and duplicated in 40 cobalt-chromium abutments. Twenty metal (IPS d.SIGN 15, Ivoclar, Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein) and 20 zirconia (IPS e.max ZirCAD, Ivoclar) frameworks were fabricated on the abutments. Each framework group was randomly divided into 2 subgroups according to the veneering material: pressable and layering ceramics (n=10). Forty molar crowns were fabricated, cemented onto the corresponding abutments and then thermocycled (5-55℃, 10,000 cycles). A load was applied in a universal testing machine until a fracture occurred on the crowns. In addition, failure types were examined using a stereomicroscope. Fracture load data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post-hoc tests at a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

The highest strength value was seen in metal-pressable (MP) group, whereas zirconia-pressable (ZP) group exhibited the lowest one. Moreover, group MP showed significantly higher fracture loads than group ZP (P=.015) and zirconia-layering (ZL) (P=.038) group. No significant difference in fracture strength was detected between groups MP and ML, and groups ZP and ZL (P>.05). Predominant fracture types were cohesive for metal groups and adhesive for zirconia groups.

CONCLUSION

Fracture strength of a restoration with a metal or a zirconia framework was independent of the veneering techniques. However, the pressing technique over metal frameworks resisted significantly higher fracture loads than zirconia frameworks.