The application potential of self-glazed zirconia crowns confirmed by easy grinding and polishing of the enamel-like surface

The surface profile roughness (Ra), surface area roughness (Sa), and surface topography of newly developed as-prepared, ground, and polished self-glazed zirconia (SGZ) were evaluated using a profilometer, 3D optical surface profiler, and SEM, with conventional dry-milled zirconia (CZ) as a reference. A statistical analysis was conducted using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Bonferroni test (α = .05). Results revealed that the material (p = .005), clinical adjustment procedure (p < .001), and interaction between factors (p < .001) had statistically significant effects on the Ra values. SGZ showed lower Sa values than CZ during the same period. Ten patient cases involving the restoration of the monolithic anatomic contour SGZ crowns were investigated. All crowns remained functional until the latest clinical follow-up and no further antagonist wear was observed. Thus, SGZ had relatively lower surface roughness, which was also more easily altered than that of CZ.