Comparative Evaluation of the Durability of CAD/CAM Fabricated Crowns Using Two Materials, PEEK and High-Strength Ceramic: An Original Research Study

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the durability of CAD/CAM fabricated crowns using two materials, PEEK and high-strength ceramic.

Materials and Methods: This study examines the durability of CAD/CAM fabricated crowns made from two materials: PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone) and high-strength ceramics. Sixty crowns were produced, split into two groups of 30 each. Group 1 consists of PEEK crowns, known for strength and biocompatibility, while Group 2 includes high-strength ceramic crowns, valued for aesthetics and resistance to force. Both groups underwent systematic testing using a universal testing machine to simulate real-life stresses. The crowns were created from standardized epoxy resin dies, replicating a mandibular first molar, with designs generated using CAD software Exocad and milled from BioHPP and IPS e.max CAD materials. After being cemented with a controlled force of 40N, the crowns underwent mechanical aging and thermocycling. Their durability was then tested by applying a compressive load until failure.

Statistical Analysis and Results: This study analyzes the durability of 60 CAD/CAM crowns across two materials. Group 1 features PEEK (polyetheretherketone) crowns, known for their strength and biocompatibility, demonstrating impressive resilience under various conditions. Group 2 consists of high-strength ceramic crowns, prized for their aesthetic properties and durability. The study evaluated the performance of two groups of materials: Group 1 consisted of PEEK with a sample size of 30, while Group 2 comprised ceramics, also with 30 samples. The findings revealed that PEEK exhibited superior mechanical properties, including a durability of 809 N (±35.96), fracture strength of 810 N (±95.18), and a compressive strength of 825 N (±69.15). In contrast, the ceramics group demonstrated lower values, with durability measured at 712 N (±112.24), fracture strength at 724 N (±198.36), and compressive strength at 803 N (±29.58). Statistical analyses, including the Pearson Chi-Square test and one-way ANOVA, indicated significant differences in the strengths and weaknesses of these materials, highlighting the advantages of PEEK over ceramics.

Conclusion: The study concluded that high-strength ceramics like Zirconia had superior fracture resistance and longevity in high-stress areas, while PEEK effectively absorbed stress, reducing wear on opposing teeth and enhancing overall durability.