Fit of titanium and a base metal alloy metal-ceramic crown☆

Abstract 

Statement of problem. Titanium has been widely used in dental implantology. However, problems remain for use of titanium in prosthodontics. Purpose. This study evaluated the marginal and inner fit of metal-ceramic restorations and frameworks made with a nickel-chromium alloy (Remanium CS) and a commercially pure titanium (Rematitan). Fit was compared with SEM before and after firing of ceramic materials. Material and methods. Sixteen metal frameworks were cast with each casting material, 8 frameworks were used directly to evaluate measurements for fit (RCS: Remanium CS frameworks and TI: Rematitan frameworks). Porcelain was applied on the other 8 frameworks (RCSP: Remanium CS-porcelain and TIP: Rematitan-porcelain), fired, and then the fit was measured. Measurements were recorded at 3 points for marginal fit evaluation and at 3 points for inner fit. Results. Significant differences were recorded among the occlusal (JK) values of groups tested (P <.05). Marginal fit and inner fit of Remanium CS frameworks were better than Rematitan frameworks. However, there were no substantial differences detected among groups after firing the ceramic superstructures. Conclusion. The fit of the base metal alloy metal-ceramic crowns was better than the commercially pure titanium metal-ceramic crowns. However, both artificial crowns were clinically acceptable. (J Prosthet Dent 2000;83:314-8.)