Effect of loading method on the fracture mechanics of two layered all-ceramic restorative systems

Objective. The aim of this research was to evaluate both the fracture and impact strength of two core veneered all-ceramic systems and to reveal whether the speed of loading affects fracture mechanism. Methods. The absorbed energy by (IPS)Empress-Eris crowns and Cercon-Ceram S crowns in a fracture strength test was compared by the energy absorbed in an impact strength test. The principles of fractography were used to identify fracture origin and dimensions and to calculate the stress at failure. Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to rationalize the results. Results. For the (IPS)Empress 2-Eris crowns, there was a significant difference in the energy absorbed for the fracture test and the impact test, where for the Cercon-Ceram S, there was no significant difference. Despite the high strength of the zirconia cores there was no significant difference in the energy absorbed between the two systems in the impact strength test. The dominant mode of failure of layered all-ceramic restorations under occlusal loading is cone cracking in the veneering ceramic. Significance. It was concluded that to exploit the high strength of the zirconia cores the strength of the veneering ceramic has to improve as delamination and cone cracking of the veneer are the most expected failure modes. (c) 2006 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.