Effect of air-powder abrasive instrument on porcelain

The effects of an air-powder abrasive instrument on porcelain were evaluated. Sample disks made from two commercial porcelains and three porcelain stains were treated for 30 seconds with this instrument. Although there was no visible change in the stain or glaze of the samples, scanning electron microscopy revealed severe pitting of all of the Vita porcelain/Vita stain samples, moderate pitting of all of the Vita porcelain/Ceramco stain samples, and no pitting or effects on Willceram porcelain/Crystar stain samples. It is recommended that the air-powder abrasive instrument be used cautiously or not at all on porcelain restorations, especially those with staining and/or specific characterizations. Pitting of the surface could be a result of this treatment.