In Vitro Comparative Evaluation Of Tensile Bond Strength Of PEEK Restorations In Short Crowns With And Without Grooves And Endocrowns

Background: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has emerged as a promising biomaterial in prosthodontics due to its favorable mechanical and biological properties. However, its bonding behavior with different preparation designs remains under investigation. Aim: To comparatively evaluate the tensile bond strength of PEEK restorations in short crowns with grooves, without grooves, and endocrowns. Materials and Methods: Thirty caries-free molars were divided into three groups (n=10): short crowns without grooves (SC), short crowns with grooves (SCG), and short endocrowns (SE). Standardized tooth preparation, CAD-CAM fabrication of PEEK copings, surface treatment, and cementation using resin cement were performed. Tensile bond strength was assessed using a universal testing machine. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. Results: The highest mean tensile bond strength was observed in SC (146.37±23.31 N), followed by SE (109.72±15.23 N), and SCG (95.57±29.01 N). Differences between groups were statistically significant (p=0.000). Conclusion: Short crowns without grooves exhibited superior tensile bond strength. Incorporation of grooves did not enhance bonding in short clinical crowns. Endocrowns showed intermediate performance due to circumferential enamel bonding