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Biostatistics & Research · single question

A new zirconia crown has statistically significantly better flexural strength than an old type. What conclusion can be drawn?

  1. The new crown should replace all older zirconia crowns immediately
  2. The new crown will perform better short-term clinically
  3. Clinical significance CANNOT be inferred based on flexural strength alone
  4. The new crown will perform better long-term clinically
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Clinical significance CANNOT be inferred based on flexural strength alone

  • A. Incorrect. Replacing existing crowns based solely on lab flexural data is not justified.
  • B. Incorrect. A lab measurement of flexural strength does not directly translate to short-term clinical performance.
  • C. Correct. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE CANNOT BE INFERRED from a lab (in vitro) flexural strength measurement alone. Statistical significance means the difference in flexural strength is unlikely due to chance — but it says nothing about whether this difference translates to meaningful clinical benefits (fewer fractures, longer survival) in real patients under real oral conditions.
  • D. Incorrect. Statistical significance in flexural strength testing does not predict long-term clinical outcomes.

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