Designs of bond strength tests for metal-ceramic complexes: review of the literature.

Abstract

Despite the popularity of metal-ceramic restorations, the bonding mechanism remains the subject of theoretical discussion. Different experimental designs to evaluate bond strengths at the metal-ceramic interface are described. The effects of various stresses with each design are also discussed. A predictive experimental design should minimize variables and result in the least residual inter-facial stresses. Dentists and dental technicians should benefit from comparisons of existing tests, and the discussion encourages introduction of more comprehensive approaches.