OBJECTIVES: Partially yttria stabilized zirconium oxide was introduced as core material for core-veneered full ceramic dental restorations, because of its biological inertness, high mechanical strength, and toughness. In order to improve the esthetical possibilities pigments in the core are introduced, that might influence the stabilization by yttrium. METHODS: Double torsion tests were performed to study the influence of the pigments in the core ceramics on its fracture toughness. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed in the stress intensity factor (K(10)) as well as in the R-curve behavior between the ceramic with and without pigment. SIGNIFICANCE: The lower stress intensity factor for the ceramic with pigment could affect the clinical performance of dental zirconia restorations with this material. Copyright Â
OBJECTIVES: Partially yttria stabilized zirconium oxide was introduced as core material for core-veneered full ceramic dental restorations, because of its biological inertness, high mechanical strength, and toughness. In order to improve the esthetical possibilities pigments in the core are introduced, that might influence the stabilization by yttrium. METHODS: Double torsion tests were performed to study the influence of the pigments in the core ceramics on its fracture toughness. RESULTS: A significant difference was observed in the stress intensity factor (K(10)) as well as in the R-curve behavior between the ceramic with and without pigment. SIGNIFICANCE: The lower stress intensity factor for the ceramic with pigment could affect the clinical performance of dental zirconia restorations with this material. Copyright Â