Coefficient of Thermal Expansion
A material property expressing the rate at which a dental material expands or contracts per unit of temperature change, critical for ensuring compatibility between restorative materials and tooth structure.
Full Definition
The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) quantifies the fractional change in length or volume of a material per degree of temperature change, expressed in units of 10⁻⁶/°C (parts per million per degree Celsius). In dental materials science, CTE matching between restorative materials—such as veneering ceramics and their substructures—and between restorations and tooth tissue is essential to minimise thermally induced interfacial stresses that can cause debonding or fracture. Editors should ensure the abbreviation 'CTE' is defined at first use and that units are expressed consistently throughout a document. It appears in ISO standards testing protocols and materials science research.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate to CTE after first full use. Ensure units (10⁻⁶/°C or ppm/°C) are stated and consistent throughout the manuscript.
In Context
- "A mismatch in coefficient of thermal expansion between the zirconia core and veneering ceramic was linked to the observed chipping failures." — Failure analysis report
- "The authors reported the CTE of the experimental ceramic as 9.5 × 10⁻⁶/°C." — Materials characterisation study