Effect of sandblasting and MDP based primer application on the surface topography and shear bond strength of zirconia: An in vitro study

Background: Recently, prosthodontic utilization of zirconia-based materials has increased. There is insufficient research on the impact of MDP primers on zirconia bonding. This research was conceptualized to understand the impact of various surface preparation techniques, utilizing different abrasive powders and MDP primers, on the adhesive strength offered by zirconia copings. Methods: Discs composed of 3Y-TZP zirconia measuring 18 mm in diameter and 4 mm in thickness were fabricated by milling fully sintered zirconia blanks that had been isostatically pressed. The samples were then classified into three categories. Group A, MDP primer; Group B, sandblasting with aluminum oxide; Group C, MDP priming and sandblasting with aluminum oxide. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, shear bond strength tests, and mode of failure analyses were performed. Results: Thirty samples were analyzed. The shear bond strength test results showed that Group A had an average score of 8.62 ± 3.18 Group B had a lower value of 5.50 ± 1.78, and Group C had the highest value of 16.05 ± 8.91. The mode of failure among the three groups was found to have no statistically significant changes. Conclusion: The application of MDP primers after air abrasion markedly enhanced the shear bond strength and surface roughness of zirconia, as opposed to the effects of each isolated method.