FACTORS AFFECTING STRENGTH OF ALL-CERAMIC RESTORATIONS

The increasing demand for esthetics combined with health has stimulated dental research in metal-free tooth-colored restorations. Developments in ceramic materials have allowed more widespread application of all-ceramic restorations over the past 10 years. The most important disadvantage of all-ceramics is the susceptibility to fracture. The literature shows that fracture of the ceramic material is the most frequently reported complication resulting in failure. The strength of an all-ceramic restoration depends on the characteristics of the supporting material, ceramic material used, core-veneer bond strength, crown thickness, design of the restoration and also cementation techniques. Succesful application of all-ceramic restorations is possible with the clinician’s appropriate material choice as well as accurate manufacturing and cementation techniques. The aim of this study was to make suggestions in order to improve the strength of restorations and to guide the clinicians to determine the accurate cementation technique based on recently published all-ceramic based literature. Additional clinical research results are required to improve the treatment success with all-ceramic systems.