Effect of the CAD-CAM and lost-wax framework fabrication techniques on the fracture strength of porcelain in metal-ceramic restorations.

BACKGROUND

Ceramic fracture is a common problem in metal-ceramic restorations (MCRs). The advent of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology eliminated the lost-wax technique, which was responsible for many of the problems associated with framework fabrication. However, the role of the CAD-CAM technology in decreasing porcelain fracture is not yet known.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present in vitro study was to compare the fracture strength of porcelain in MCRs with metal frameworks fabricated with the use of the lost-wax and CAD-CAM techniques.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty metal dies were prepared with a deep chamfer finish line, with a depth of 1.2 mm and the occlusal taper of the walls of 8°, a 2-millimeter occlusal reduction of the functional cusp, a 1.5-millimeter occlusal reduction of the nonfunctional cusp, and the functional cusp bevel. Ten frameworks were fabricated using the CAD-CAM system and 10 with the lost-wax technique. After porcelain veneering, the specimens underwent thermocycling and cyclic loading to simulate the aging process. The load test was then performed. The fracture strength of porcelain was compared between the 2 groups, and the mode of failure was also determined using a stereomicroscope.

RESULTS

Two specimens were excluded from the CAD-CAM group. Thus, 18 specimens were statistically analyzed. The results revealed no significant difference in fracture strength between the 2 groups (p > 0.05). The mode of failure was mixed in all specimens from both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that the fracture strength of porcelain and the mode of failure did not depend on the metal framework fabrication technique (lost-wax or CAD-CAM).