Influence of ceramic inlays and composite fillings on fracture resistance of premolars in vitro.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the resistance of fracture of mesio-occlusal-distal (MOD) ceramic inlays and composite fillings in premolars and to compare fracture modes between the groups.

Material And Methods: Twenty seven extracted intact human premolars were selected and divided into three groups: I - intact teeth (control group), II - MOD cavities restored with indirect ceramic inlays (Finesse, Dentsply Ceramco, USA), III - MOD cavities restored with direct composite fillings (Filtek P60, 3M ESPE, USA). The fracture resistance (N) was assessed under axial compressive loading with a metal cylinder 3.