Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the compatibility of Ce-TZP/Al2O3 nanocomposite (CTA) frameworks and veneering porcelains using the Schwickerath crack initiation test and clarify the effects on debonding/crack initiation strength (DIS) of both surface pretreatment (include heat treatment) of the frameworks, type of veneering porcelain varying the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), and surface roughness of the frameworks. The surfaces of Ce-TZP/Al2O3 plates were mechanically treated and followed by post-heat treatment. The liner and body porcelains were built up and fired according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Surface analyses of the fractured plates showed compatibility with liner porcelains. Since no statistically difference in the DIS was found amongst the different surface treatments, post-heat treatments don’t be mandatory. Whereas, since differences in DIS were found when different porcelains with different CTE were used, we concluded the matching of CTE of the porcelain with that of Ce-TZP/Al2O3 was important for successful all-ceramic restorations using Ce-TZP/Al2O3 frameworks.
