Introduction:
Pathological tooth wear is an increasing social problem. Occlusal veneers can be an alternative to traditional prosthetic restorations of dental occlusal surfaces. Unlike veneers, conventional crowns, inlays and onlays require extensive preparation of healthy tissues. Occlusive veneers are made of various ceramics and composites. Which of these materials are the most mechanically advantageous and will ensure permanent restoration of the teeth?

Aim of the study:
To compare the fracture resistance of occlusal veneers made of various materials.

Material and methods:
Forty occlusal veneers were tested. Ten restorations each, with a thickness of 1.5 mm, were made of leucite ceramics (IPS Empress Esthetic), hybrid ceramics (Vita Enamic), lithium disilicate (IPS e.max Press) and zirconium oxide (Ceramill Zolid HT). The restorations were cemented with dual composite cement (All Bond Universal) on the same abutments, duplicated from the prepared phantom tooth 35 (KaVo). The samples prepared in this way were tested for compressive strength in a universal testing machine. The results were analysed statistically.

Results:
Average fracture resistance of occlusal veneers made of zirconium oxide ceramics was 1640 N ± 200.33 N, lithium disilicate ceramics 658.9 N ± 99.52 N, hybrid ceramics 509.1 N ± 42.35 N, leucite ceramics 424.3 N ± 82.9 N.

Conclusions:
The highest fracture resistance was found in restorations made of transparent zirconium oxide ceramics, and the lowest one in veneers made of leucite ceramics. The choice of the material significantly impacts fracture resistance of occlusal veneers.