Purpose: To evaluate the effects of airborne-particle abrasion and MDP (methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate)-based primer treatment on the strength of resin bonds to highly translucent zirconia.
Materials and Methods: Eight groups (n = 20 per group) of specimens were prepared with airborne-particle abrasion treatments (0.1-, 0.3-, or 0.6-MPa pressure) or not (untreated control) and MDP-based primer (treated) or not (untreated). Shear bond strength (SBS) tests were performed on the composite-to-ceramic bonded specimens either with or without thermocycling. After airborne-particle abrasion, the surface topography was evaluated by white light interferometry, and a phase analysis was conducted with x-ray diffraction (XRD). Surface roughness (Ra), surface energy (SE), and SBS measurements were statistically analyzed using either Tukey’s HSD or the Kruskal-Wallis test, based on applicability. Lastly, the failure mode was observed by optical microscope and scanning electron microscope.
Results: Airborne-particle abrasion resulted in significantly larger Ra (p < 0.05), especially with higher treatment pressures. Treatment with MDP-based primer caused significantly higher SE and SBS than airborne-particle abrasion alone (p < 0.05), both with and without aging.
Conclusion: MDP-based primer can enhance the bond strength and reduce hydrolytic aging of the bonded interface for highly translucent zirconia, exceeding the effects of airborne-particle abrasion. It is recommended that MDP-based primer treatment be applied with a composite cement containing adhesive phosphate monomer.