Shear bond strength of different materials used as core build-up to ceramic.

Purpose: To determine the performance of a resin composite material specially developed for core build-ups in comparison with conventional restorative materials.

Methods: 90 roughened ceramic blocs were divided into three groups; one group (n=30) was used for the core build-up material (Gradia Core) and the other two groups (n=30, each) were used for two conventional restorative materials (Tetric EvoCeram, Compoglass F). After adhesive fixation, specimens of each material were subdivided in accordance with the storage conditions (thermocycling or water storage). Shear bond strength was measured and fracture behavior was analyzed.

Results: Gradia Core presented significantly higher shear bond strength values than the conventional restorative material Tetric EvoCeram, both after 24 hours water storage as well as after thermocycling. Compoglass F did not show any statistically significant differences compared to the other materials, independent of the storage condition. However, Compoglass F resulted in numerically higher shear bond values than Tetric EvoCeram, but lower shear bond values than Gradia Core. Within the same materials, no statistically significant differences occurred regarding the storage conditions.

Clinical Significance: The specific core build-up material provided stronger bonding properties when luted to feldspar ceramic than conventional restorative materials, making it a suitable supporting material when high-quality esthetic restorations are needed for restoring decayed, but vital teeth.