The Effect of Finish Line Form and Luting Agent on the Breaking Strength of Dicor Crowns

Molar teeth were prepared to a standardized cylindric form using a lathe. Dicor crowns were luted on these preparations using zinc phosphate, glass-ionomer, and resin cements. The crowns were thermocycled and subjected to fracture loading to compare the effect of the different luting agents on fracture strength. Five finishing lines were used to determine if resin cement and associated bonding procedures could counteract the negative effect certain finish lines produce on all-ceramic crowns. When resin cement was used in conjunction with restoration and tooth precementation bonding treatments, the crowns were significantly stronger than when glass-ionomer or zinc phosphate cements were used. No difference in strength was found between the five finish lines when the crowns were cemented with resin and associated bonding procedures.