The effects of spure and invents on the casting accuracy and porosity of ti-ni castings

Cho, Lee Ra; Yi, Yang Jin; Park, Chan Jin

Abstract

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Titanium-Nickel alloy might be used in various prosthetic restorations since it has a unique property such as super-elasticity and high fatigue resistance. However, little is known about the casting ability of this alloy. PURPOSE: This in vitro study compared the casting accuracy and the porosity made with different investments and various sprue designs to ascertain what casting condition would be better for the fabrication of Ti-Ni cast restorations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 70 Ti-Ni alloy crowns were made and divided into 7 groups of 10 copings on a metal master die. For measuring the effect of the sprue numbers, two groups with one and two 8-gauge sprues were compared. Moreover, the results of the conventional sprue and the double thickness sprues were compared. Three investments were used; carbon free phosphate bonded investment, titanium investment and gypsum bonded investment. The cast restorations were evaluated at 48 points on the entire circumferential margin with a stereomicroscope measuring in micrometers. Each crown was radiographically examined for casting defects and porosity. Data on casting accuracy were analyzed using two-way and Post hoc Scheffe's comparison to determine whether significant differences existed at the 95% confidence level. Student-Newman-Keuls test were performed to identify significant differences in the number of voids. RESULTS: The double sprueing group and double thickness group had significantly less marginal discrepancy than the single sprueing group (P<.05 and P<.01, respectively). The castings with phosphate bonded investment showed the least marginal discrepancy and the smoothest surface. The castings invested in the gypsum bonded investment had the greatest gaps in margin and the largest failure rate. The double sprueing group and phosphate bonded investment group had significantly smaller void numbers and smaller void size than the other groups. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the casting accuracy of the groups using thicker, double sprue design and the phosphate bonded investment was significantly superior. Moreover, void number and size were less than other groups.