The Effect of Surface Modification of the Zirconia Abutment on Its Physicochemical Properties

Nowadays aesthetic plays a very important role in prosthetic restorations. Over the past several years the metal restorations are being replaced by full ceramic restorations. Dental crowns built on the foundation of the zirconia are characterized by high aesthetics and high bending strength in comparison to other available materials. Ceramics, as a bio-compatible material, are very willingly used in dental prosthetics. Longterm clinical observations have shown that the restorations on the zirconia abutments are often accompanied by destructive incidents such as chipping and cracking of the ceramics or fractures in the abutments. The appropriate connection of the porcelain with abutment can be achieved by modifying the outer surface of the ceramics. The aim of the project was to define the influence of the sandblasting and etching with hydrofluoric acid (HF) on the physicochemical properties of the surface of the zirconia abutment. The study consisted of the wettability angle measurement, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The research has shown that the process of sandblasting and HF acid-etching influences the change on physicochemical properties of zirconia surface, its topography and wettability. After conducting the sandblasting and acid-etching manipulation of the zirconia surface, the wettability angle corresponds with poorly wettable materials, which are characterized by hydrophobic properties. The biggest variations on the zirconia surface were obtained after etching with hydrofluoric acid.