How to Bond Zirconia: The APC Concept

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Ceramic Restorations

Background:

• High-translucent zirconia ceramics are increasingly popular in dentistry due to their aesthetic and mechanical properties.
• These materials are used for monolithic full-contour restorations in both anterior and posterior teeth.
• Reliable cementation protocols are essential for the long-term clinical success of indirect zirconia restorations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the development of high-translucent zirconia and the importance of proper cementation.
• To explain the scientific rationale behind a simplified zirconia-bonding concept.
• To present a clinical case illustrating the application of the bonding concept.

Main Methods:

• Review of the history and development of high-translucent zirconia.
• Explanation of the APC zirconia-bonding concept: Air-particle abrasion, Zirconia primer, Adhesive composite resin.
• Clinical case presentation demonstrating the bonding protocol.

Main Results:

• The APC zirconia-bonding concept is presented as a practical, three-step protocol.
• The concept aims to achieve high and long-term durable bond strengths to high-strength ceramics.
• Clinical application demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of the protocol.

Conclusions:

• Proper cementation is fundamental for the clinical success of indirect zirconia restorations.
• The APC zirconia-bonding concept provides a scientifically-backed, simplified approach to achieving durable resin bonds.
• This protocol supports ceramic restorations, essential for various dental prostheses.