Comparison of marginal and internal fit of pressed lithium disilicate veneers fabricated via a manual waxing technique versus a 3D printed technique.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the marginal and internal fit of pressed lithium disilicate veneers fabricated from a 3D printed castable wax resin versus a manual waxing technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A typodont model central incisor was prepared for a porcelain veneer. Following stone model fabrication from a polyvinyl siloxane impression, the model was digitized using a laboratory scanner. Group 1 veneers were designed digitally and 3D printed with a castable wax resin, then pressed. Group 2 veneers were fabricated using a manual wax and press approach. Veneers from both groups were bonded to printed dies. Following measurements of marginal adaptation under a stereo microscope, the dies were sectioned and measurements were made for internal adaption. Statistical analysis included a Kolmogorov test and a Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Average marginal gap (μm) for Group 1 was 40.37 ± 11.75 and 50.63 ± 16.99 for Group 2 (p = 0.51). Average internal gap (μm) for Group 1 was 61.21 ± 18.20 and 68.03 ± 14.07 for Group 2 (p = 0.178).

CONCLUSION

There was no difference in marginal fit or internal fit between pressed lithium disilicate veneers fabricated with a 3D printed castable resin and those fabricated with a manual waxing technique. The use of digital technologies and 3D printing provide significant advantages in the fabrication of pressed glass ceramic veneers, with marginal and internal adaptation comparable to manual wax and press techniques.