Wear evaluation of the human enamel opposing different Y-TZP dental ceramics and other porcelains

Purpose: This study examined the wear resistance of human enamel and feldspathic porcelain after simulated mastication against 3 zirconia ceramics, heat-pressed ceramic and conventional feldspathic porcelain. Materials and methods: Human teeth and feldspathic porcelain cusp were tested against ceramic discs. 5 brands were tested - 3 monolithic zirconia, Prettau, Lava, and Rainbow, one lithium disilicate, IPS e.max Press, and one feldspathic porcelain, Vita-Omega 900. The surface was polished using a 600 grit and 1200 grit SiC paper. Each group was loaded for 300,000 cycles in a chewing simulator. The wear resistance was analyzed by measuring the volume of substance lost. The wear surfaces were observed by scanning electron microscopy to determine the wear characteristics. Results: Vita-Omega 900 led to the greatest amount of enamel wears followed by IPS e.max Press, Prettau, Lava and Rainbow. There was a significant difference between Vita-Omega 900 and IPS e.max Press (p < 0.05). The wear values for human enamel were significantly greater than those for feldspathic porcelain, regardless of the surface roughness of the ceramic specimens (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The wear behaviour of human enamel and feldspathic porcelain varies according to the type of substrate materials. On the other hand, 3 zirconia ceramics caused less wear in the abrader than the conventional ceramic. Clinical significance: Dental professionals should be aware of the wear effect of dental restorations on the opposing teeth or restorations. The amount of enamel wear was highest in feldspathic porcelains whereas zirconia ceramics caused less wear on the opposing teeth.