Longevity of ceramic restoring materials in the confection of endocrowns restorations: an in vitro study on surface roughness and mechanical strength

Abstract

Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the longevity of ceramic restorative materials in the manufacture of endocrown restorations, through an in vitro study on surface roughness and mechanical strength. Methods: Three restorative materials were evaluated and assigned to experimental groups (n=10 disc specimens): Leucite Reinforced Ceramic, Lithium Disilicate and Nanoceramic Resin. These restorative materials were evaluated for surface before and after aging (n=02 specimens) under a stereomicroscope. The specimens were submitted to the average surface roughness test (Ra) (n=10) in a contact roughness meter before and after aging. As well as the biaxial flexural strength test (n=10), after aging, up to a test speed of 0.5 mm/min. Aging was carried out in a thermocycler, with 5,000 cycles with baths of 5 °C ± 1 ° and 55 °C ± 1 °. Fragments after fracture were observed under a stereomicroscope. The data obtained were tabulated and analyzed using the Minitab statistical program. Results: The surfaces of the specimens do not show changes between the restorative materials and also in relation to aging. For the roughness data, the restorative material factors (p=0.867) and aging (p=0.321) were not statistically significant. The DIS group presented the highest values of fracture resistance (p=0.000), in relation to the LEU and REN groups, which were statistically similar. The same statistical pattern was identified for post-fracture fragment data (p=0.030). Conclusions: The aging factors and restorative material do not interfere with the surface roughness performance. However, the mechanical performance and number of fragments after fracture is affected by the restorative material.