Influence of translucence/opacity and shade in the flexural strength of lithium disilicate ceramics

BACKGROUND: Lithium disilicate ceramic system consists of glass ceramic ingots with different grades of translucence which may influence its flexural strength. AIMS: To assess the three-point flexural strength of the different lithium disilicate-based ceramic ingots (IPS e.max Press/Ivoclar Vivadent) with different levels of translucence and shade. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six groups of ceramic ingots were selected to represent different levels of translucence and shade (HTA1, HTBL2, LTA2, LTB2, MO2, and HO). They measured 25 mm × 5 mm × 2 mm (n = 10), according to ISO 6872 specifications, and tested on a universal test machine (EMIC). STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The results (in MPa) were: HTA1 = 392.98; HTBL2 = 390.74; LTA2 = 390.46; LTB2 = 389.92; MO2 = 390.43; HO = 391.96. ANOVA showed no significant difference among groups (P = 0.1528). CONCLUSIONS: Different levels of translucence, opacity and shade of ingots did not affect their mechanical strength, and the use of these ceramics should be guided by the esthetic demands of each clinical situation.