Overlays or ceramic fragments for tooth restoration: an analysis of fracture resistance.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the mode of fracture and resistance of partial ceramic restorations of posterior teeth.

Materials And Methods: Thirty healthy upper premolars were selected and divided into three groups (n = 10): Group 1- control, healthy unrestored teeth, group 2-teeth restored with ceramic fragments; and group 3-teeth restored with ceramic overlays. The restorations were manufactured with feldspathic ceramic and cemented with RelyX ARC resin cement. After being stored in distilled water for 7 days, the teeth were subjected to axial compression mechanical testing with a universal testing machine. Force was applied to the long axis of the tooth at a speed of 0.5 mm/min until fracture. The data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (5%). The mode of fracture was scored according to the degree of involvement of the tooth structure and the type of restoration.

Results: A significant difference (p < 0.05) was showed between groups 2 (1155 N) and 3 (846.6 N), but there was no significant difference between group 1 and the other groups (1046 N), More extensive fractures were prevalent in the healthy teeth group (Group 1), which had no occlusal coverage; less severe fractures were found in groups 2 and 3.

Conclusion: We conclude that teeth restored with ceramic fragments may offer greater resistance to fractures compared to teeth that have overlay restorations.