Analysis of the relationship between the surface hardness and wear resistance of indirect composites used as veneer materials.

This study evaluated the surface hardness and wear resistance of indirect composites (Artglass and Solidex) and the existence of a correlation between these properties. Twenty-four specimens (12 per material) were fabricated using a polytetrafluoroethylene matrix (5.0 mm in diameter; 7.0 mm high) following an incremental technique. Polymerization was done with a xenon stroboscopic light curing unit. After polishing, the specimens were stored in water at 37 degrees C during either 1 day (n=6 per material) or 55 days (n=6 per material), after which Vickers surface hardness and wear resistance were assessed. Data were analyzed statistically by unpaired Student t-test, two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. SURFACE HARDNESS: Artglass had higher surface hardness than Solidex after 1-day immersion period (p<0.01), but after 55 days there was no significant difference between the materials (p>0.05). Comparing the materials at both periods, Artglass means differed significantly to each other (p<0.01), while no significant difference was found between Solidex means (p>0.05). WEAR RESISTANCE: Solidex had higher wear than Artglass after 1-day immersion period (p<0.01), but no significant difference was found between the materials after 55 days (p>0.05). Comparing the materials at both periods, Artglass means differed significantly to each other (p<0.01), with higher wear at 55-day period, but no difference was found between Solidex means (p>0.05). These results suggest that Artglass was better than Solidex in terms of hardness and wear resistance after 1-day water immersion. However, it was more susceptible to degradation, showing greater wear after 55 days. In conclusion, there was an inverse correlation between surface hardness and wear resistance for both Artglass and Solidex indirect composites, that is the higher the hardness, the lower the wear.