Zirconia Surface Treatment — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: D — Airborne-particle abrasion with small alumina particles, followed by an MDP-containing zirconia primer
The best answer is D. Controlled alumina airborne-particle abrasion, undertaken according to the zirconia manufacturer's instructions, provides micromechanical retention and improves surface wettability. An MDP-containing primer then provides chemical interaction between its phosphate group and zirconium oxide, improving bond durability. Conventional hydrofluoric acid followed by silane is primarily a glass-ceramic protocol: zirconia lacks the silica-rich glass phase required for predictable conventional HF conditioning and silanisation. Phosphoric acid does not create a retentive zirconia surface and may leave phosphate contamination that interferes with subsequent MDP bonding. Silane alone is ineffective on an untreated, silica-free zirconia surface. Cleaning without mechanical conditioning or a functional phosphate monomer generally produces a less durable resin bond.
Reference: Li X et al. Different surface treatments and adhesive monomers for zirconia-resin bonds: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Japanese Dental Science Review. 2024;60:175–189. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38938474/