Vanishree B K

Title: Comparative evaluation of micro hardness and compressive strength and EDAX of bio flex crown, zirconia crown and stainless steel crown- An invitro study

Abstract

In vitro study was carried out at the Private Dental Materials Research Centre in Pune. Total 60 preformed crowns of second primary mandibular molar different commercial brands (a total of 180 crowns) are 3M Stainless Steel (SSCs) Primary Molar Crowns (ESPE, St. Paul, USA); Nusmile zirconia (Inc., Houston, TX, USA); and Bioflex Kid-e-dental crowns (India) were evaluated in this study. Teeth were washed and stored in saline water. Then these extracted molars were mounted in an acrylic resin block, followed by tooth preparation according to crown manufacturer guidelines, and crowns were filled with Plus Resin Modified Glass Ionomer Cement (3M Espe Relyx Luting 2) and cemented on the tooth. To perform microhardness tests, the specimens were mounted horizontally with the mesial surface upward to give the indenter the best possible smooth level. For compressive strength, the epoxy resin dye used to make specimens and were installed in the universal testing machine (ACME Engineers, India., Model). EDAX is an analytical method used for the analysis of the chemical characteristics of a specimen. Crowns from each group (SSCs, ZCs, and BFC) were used to determine the weight and percent of elements in the crowns. The investigation was performed by analyzing energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the images were taken. All analyses were made at the central area of the occlusal surface of the crowns. Zirconia possess the highest and most consistent microhardness, followed by SSCs, with Bioflex being significantly softer and more variable in hardness. Stainless Steel crowns exhibit the highest mean compressive strength, followed by Bio flex crowns and then Zirconia crowns. The only common element is aluminum, with Zirconia containing 0.22%, SSCs containing 2.31%, and Bioflex containing 0.23% by EDAX analytical method.

The audience take away from presentation:

1.The study provides valuable insights into the performance characteristics of SSCs, zirconia, and Bioflex crowns, helping clinicians make informed decisions based on the specific needs and conditions of their pediatric patients.

2.Understanding the hardness and compressive strength of different crown materials helps in choosing the right crown based on the anticipated functional load and patient-specific factors, ensuring long-term success and durability.

3.Based on the study results, if aesthetic concerns are a priority, Bioflex is a better choice as it requires moderate preparation, whereas zirconia requires more aggressive preparation. Zirconia crowns exhibited the highest microhardness, suggesting superior resistance to wear and deformation. This makes zirconia an excellent choice for patients with high masticatory forces or those who require durable restorations.

4.The study’s findings pave the way for further research into the development of new dental crown materials and techniques, aiming to improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in pediatric dentistry.