DESIGNS OF BOND STRENGTH TESTS FOR METAL-CERAMIC COMPLEXES - REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Despite the popularity of metal-ceramic restorations, the bonding mech anism remains the subject of theoretical discussion. Different experim ental designs to evaluate bond strengths at the metal-ceramic interfac e are described. The effects of various stresses with each design are also discussed. A predictive experimental design should minimize varia bles and result in the least residual interfacial stresses. Dentists a nd dental technicians should benefit from comparisons of existing test s, and the discussion encourages introduction of more comprehensive ap proaches.