Abstract
Purpose: Metal-ceramic fixed partial dentures (FPDs) are limited in actual application due to the aesthetic appearance; in fact, they do not satisfy the current market demands for increased aesthetics. In contrast, new ceramics, such as Cercon (R), meet these market needs for FPDs. The use of Cercon FPDs has increased substantially to avoid the aesthetics problem associated with metal-ceramic restorations. Methods: The present study was designed to evaluate a new generation of zircon-ceramic material (i.e., Cercon (R)) recommended for three-and four-unit FPDs. More specifically, marginal accuracy, fracture strength, and the nature of interaction between the resin cement and the zirconia core material were investigated. Results: The results revealed no significant difference in the marginal gap between the premolar and molar in the case of three-and four-unit FPD. However, a significant difference was observed in the interaction of the gap distance between the molars in three-and four-unit FPDs. Moreover, the fracture strength was increased by sandblasting the Cercon (R) material. Conclusions: In this in-vitro study, we concluded that Cercon FPDs can be easily milled with marginal accuracy and sandblasting the Cercon FPDs increase the fracture strength than treating the material with phosphoric acid.