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Published on: December 20, 2024
Microstructural analysis and reliability of monolithic zirconia after simulated adjustment protocols
Eliseo Pablo Chun1, Lilian Costa Anami1, Estevam Augusto Bonfante2
1Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Science and Technology, Av. Eng. Fco. José Longo, 777, São José dos Campos, SP, 12245-000, Brazil.
High translucency zirconia (Y-TZP) shows improved survival rates when glazed after diamond bur adjustment or finished with a polishing kit. These adjustments enhance the reliability of monolithic zirconia restorations.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Ceramic Engineering
Background:
- Monolithic zirconia restorations offer high strength and aesthetics.
- Clinical adjustments can compromise the reliability of yttrium oxide-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP).
- Understanding the impact of post-sintering treatments on Y-TZP is crucial for long-term clinical success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microstructural properties and reliability of high translucency Y-TZP (Vita YZ HT) after simulated clinical adjustment protocols.
- To compare the survival probability and surface characteristics of Y-TZP under different finishing and glazing procedures.
Main Methods:
- 162 Y-TZP discs underwent simulated adjustments: as-sintered, glazed, diamond bur adjusted then glazed, diamond bur adjusted, diamond bur and polishing kit adjusted then glazed, and diamond bur and polishing kit adjusted.
- Specimens were subjected to biaxial flexure and step-stress accelerated life testing.
- Microstructure, surface roughness (Ra), and Weibull reliability were analyzed.
Main Results:
- As-sintered Y-TZP exhibited lower survival probability compared to diamond bur adjusted and glazed (DbG) or polishing kit finished (GDbDr) Y-TZP.
- Final polishing with a diamond rubber kit (GDbDr) yielded a more homogeneous surface than glazing alone.
- DbG and GDbDr treatments significantly improved Y-TZP survival rates.
Conclusions:
- Glazing after diamond bur adjustments (DbG) or finishing with a polishing kit (GDbDr) enhances the survival probability of HT zirconia.
- Surface homogeneity is improved with final polishing using a diamond rubber kit.
- Optimized adjustment protocols are essential for maintaining the reliability of monolithic Y-TZP restorations.
