By Gordon J. Christensen, DDS, MSD, PhD
This retrospective clinical study accomplished in a general practice evaluated the success of lithium disilicate all-ceramic restorations in anterior and posterior situations over a 10-year period (IPS Empress II, Ivoclar Vivadent). 101 anterior restorations and 160 posterior restorations were observed in the study. The restorations were cemented with an adhesive bonding technique, using Variolink II resin cement.
Over the period of the study, six crowns failed and were replaced, four because of chipping and two due to core fracture, for a survival rate of 95.5%.
Dr. Gordon Christensen comments: Currently, you are seeing IPS Empress e.max advertised in many publications. This is the current name of the lithium disilicate product being distributed by Ivoclar Vivadent. Reports from the field and from scientific studies are looking very promising for single-unit restorations. However, time is still needed for long-term verification of the clinical acceptability of this concept. Too many types of all-ceramic restorations have come and gone in the last few decades, causing frustration and significant financial loss for both dentists and patients.
Vol. 15, Issue 4
