A comparative evaluation of fracture resistance of tooth restoration complex restored with PEEK and Lithium disilicate endocrowns

Purpose

This in vitro study was conducted to compare the fracture resistance of tooth restoration complex restored with polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and lithium disilicate endocrowns.

Materials and Methods

A total of 46 extracted premolars were collected and treated endodontically. The teeth were mounted in cylindrical molds using autopolymerizing resin and were prepared for endocrown restoration. Specimens were divided into 2 groups (n = 23) to receive endocrowns made with 2 different materials (polyetheretherketone and lithium disilicate). All the specimens were subjected to thermal cycling. The fracture resistance test was carried out using a Universal Testing Machine. Fractographic analysis was carried out using stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope after load test. The values obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Inter group comparison (2 groups) was performed using t test. Comparison of frequencies of categories of variables with groups was performed using chi square test.

Results

Fracture resistance test showed a statistically significant difference in values between the two groups (p<0.01). High fracture resistance values were seen with lithium disilicate endocrowns. Failure mode analysis showed that both the groups exhibited majority of catastrophic failure. There were no significant differences in frequencies of the type of fracture between the groups.

Conclusion

The fracture resistance of endocrowns fabricated with lithium disilicate material was found to be significantly higher than polyetheretherketone (PEEK) material. Hence, lithium disilicate material is superior for endocrowns.

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