Effect of Cement Type on Zirconia and Metal-Ceramic Tooth-Supported Crowns – A Retrospective Journal Survey

Abstract: Background: The golden standard for single unit crowns has for long been porcelain fused to metal (PFM). However, demands for improved esthetic materials has driven the development of zirconia which has increased in popularity due to its eminent mechanical and esthetic properties. Long term follow-up of zirconia is lacking and no consensus regarding which luting agent to use has yet been established. Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the longevity of single unit crowns in relation to luting cements used and to investigate if any shift in the choice of crown materials could be seen over time. Methods: A retrospective journal survey with inclusion criteria being patients treated with tooth supported single crowns at the students’ clinic at the Umea University School of Dentistry. Extracted data were focused on 8 factors regarding information about the patient and materials used in the crown treatment. Statistical analyses were made with GraphPad.com and Microsoft Excel 2010. Results: Core reinforced zirconia crowns luted with RelyX showed a statistically significant higher success rate (95%) compared to crowns luted with zinc oxide phosphate (60%) (p<0.05). The most common complications were loss of retention and chipping of the veneering porcelain. Conclusion: The choice of luting agent seems to be of importance for core reinforced zirconia crowns. No statistically significant difference in success rate could be seen for PFM and monolithic zirconia. A shift in the choice of crown material could be seen. Monolithic ZR had increased, while PFM and ZR core had decreased.