A comparison of the microstructure and properties of the IPS Empress 2 and the IPS Empress glass-ceramics.
The aim of this report is to analyze the microstructures of glass-ceramics of the IPS Empress 2 and IPS Empress systems by scanning electron microscopy. The main properties of the glass-ceramics were determined and compared to each other. The flexural strength of the pressed glass-ceramic (core material) was improved by a factor of more than three for IPS Empress 2 (lithium disilicate glass-ceramic) in comparison with IPS Empress (leucite glass-ceramic). For the fracture toughness, the K(IC) value was measured as 3.3 +/- 0.3 MPa. m(0.5) for IPS Empress 2 and 1.3 +/- 0.1 MPa. m(0.5) for IPS Empress. Abrasion behavior, chemical durability, and optical properties such as translucency of all glass-ceramics fulfill the dental standards. The authors concluded that IPS Empress 2 can be used to fabricate 3-unit bridges up to the second premolar.
Höland
W
W
Ivoclar Ltd., Schaan, Principality of Liechtenstein. wolfram.hoeland@ivoclar.com
Schweiger
M
M
Frank
M
M
Rheinberger
V
V
D002516:Ceramics; D003764:Dental Materials; D006801:Humans; D013499:Surface Properties
D003764:Dental Materials; C023506:Glass ceramics