Before You Cement: Zirconia’s Critical Steps
Cementation Protocol for Zirconia Crowns (3Y/4Y/5Y/6Y)I. Laboratory Preparation (Prior to Clinical Appointment)Sandblasting (Air Abrasion)Indicated for:3Y and 4Y zirconia onlyProcedure:Sandblast the intaglio surface at 2 bar pressure using 50 µm aluminum oxide particles.Contraindicated for:5Y and 6Y zirconia (high-translucency types) – avoid sandblasting due to increased risk of surface microcracks and fracture.Ultrasonic CleaningPlace the crown in an ultrasonic cleaner with distilled water or ethanol for 10 minutes to remove residual particles and contaminants.II. Clinical Procedure (Chairside at the Office)Try-In PhaseSeat the crown on the tooth to check:Occlusion (static and dynamic contacts)Proximal contact pointsFit and marginal adaptationDecontamination of the Intaglio SurfaceRemove contamination from saliva and phosphate ions (which inhibit bonding):Use a zirconia-compatible ceramic cleaner (e.g., Ivoclean or similar).Apply as per manufacturer’s instructions, then rinse and dry thoroughly.Application of Functional MonomerApply a primer containing 10-MDP (10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate):Promotes chemical adhesion to the zirconia surface.Allow to dwell per manufacturer’s instructions before air-drying.
By Radek Mounajjed
Free course on Cicero dental education platform.
Topics: 10MDP, Ceramic Cleaner, Zirconia, Crown