1. Application and limitations of configuration factor (C-factor) in stress analysis of dental restorations.
- Author
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Zhou, Zixuan, Guo, Di, Watts, David C., Fischer, Nicholas G., and Fu, Jing
- Subjects
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DENTAL fillings , *STRAINS & stresses (Mechanics) , *LITERATURE reviews , *SCIENCE databases , *WEB databases - Abstract
The configuration factor (C-factor) is an index used to evaluate the relationship between cavity configuration and the development of polymerization shrinkage stress in dental restorations. Although C-factor has been widely researched, its correlation with stress analysis in dental restorations remains controversial. This review aims to discuss the application and limitations of C-factor and define the restricted conditions under which the C-factor "rule of thumb" is applicable. A thorough literature review was conducted on the application and limitations of C-factor in stress analysis of dental restorations. This was principally based on MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science databases and a review of the relevant studies and publications in scientific papers in international peer-reviewed journals for the specific topic of C-factor and polymerization shrinkage. The C-factor alone cannot provide an accurate prediction of the shrinkage stress of restorations and the mechanical behavior of material-tooth interfaces. C-factor is only applicable under one condition not typically seen in clinical practice: low, near-rigid compliance. Conditions for the application of C-factor have been explicitly defined. A more accurate and precise understanding and utilization of the C-factor is of benefit as it contributes to better understanding of polymerization shrinkage behavior of restorations. [Display omitted] • The configuration factor (C-factor) "rule of thumb" works only in low, near-rigid compliance. • C-factor was introduced to predict shrinkage stress of materials. • C-factor cannot represent the biomechanical behavior of dental restorations. • Unlike polymerization shrinkage, shrinkage stress is not a material property. • New mathematical models have been developed to refine C-factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
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