Influence of Margin Configuration on the Mechanical Performance of Occlusal Veneers

AbstractBackground: Occlusal veneers have emerged as a conservative restorative option for posterior teeth. However, the influence of margin configuration on their mechanical performance remains controversial. Objective: To systematically evaluate the effect of different margin configurations on the mechanical performance of occlusal veneers. Methods: A search of the literature was electronically performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley, Ovid, and SAGE to find reports published until the year 2023. Inclusion criteria were English in vitro studies assessing the mechanical behavior of posterior ceramic occlusal veneers with various margin designs. The search and screening of studies were conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. Titles and abstracts of relevant papers were screened and subsequently full articles were assessed according to pre-defined eligibility criteria. Two reviewers extracted data independently by using a standardized data extraction form, and the findings were presented in qualitative manner. The quality of the met included studies was assessed, and the risk of bias was independently appraised by two authors through a modified Mini-Nutritional assessment of Risk for Sarcopenia (MINORS) scale.Any modifications were settled through discussions and consensu. Results: The included studies demonstrated that margin configuration influenced fracture resistance and failure behavior. Butt-joint designs generally showed higher fracture resistance compared with chamfer or feather-edge margins; however, variations in materials and testing protocols limited direct comparisons. Conclusion: Margin configuration affects the mechanical performance of occlusal veneers. Butt-joint margins appear to provide favorable mechanical outcomes, although further standardized studies are required. Keywords: Occlusal veneers; Margin configuration; Fracture resistance; Mechanical performance; Conservative dentistry.