STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Base metal alloys present high values of strength and hardness, which have been associated with the greater abrasion resistance and polishing of metal-ceramic restorations. However, surface hardness has been shown to be a poor indicator of abrasion resistance. PURPOSE: The study aimed to compare the hardness and abrasion resistance of Ni-Cr alloys and determine whether there is a correlation between these 2 properties. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two Ni-Cr alloys for metal-ceramic restorations with different hardness values were subjected to the following procedures: (1) initial measurement of Vickers hardness, (2) a series of abrasion cycles, (3) measurement of mass loss after each cycle, and (4) Vickers hardness measurements after each cycle. RESULTS: For each alloy, linear regression revealed a negative correlation between hardness and reduction in mass. The higher hardness of alloy A was associated with higher mass loss during abrasion when compared with alloy B. CONCLUSION: There was no significant correlation between hardness and mass loss for either alloy.
STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Base metal alloys present high values of strength and hardness, which have been associated with the greater abrasion resistance and polishing of metal-ceramic restorations. However, surface hardness has been shown to be a poor indicator of abrasion resistance. PURPOSE: The study aimed to compare the hardness and abrasion resistance of Ni-Cr alloys and determine whether there is a correlation between these 2 properties. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two Ni-Cr alloys for metal-ceramic restorations with different hardness values were subjected to the following procedures: (1) initial measurement of Vickers hardness, (2) a series of abrasion cycles, (3) measurement of mass loss after each cycle, and (4) Vickers hardness measurements after each cycle. RESULTS: For each alloy, linear regression revealed a negative correlation between hardness and reduction in mass. The higher hardness of alloy A was associated with higher mass loss during abrasion when compared with alloy B. CONCLUSION: There was no significant correlation between hardness and mass loss for either alloy.