Protocol on ZIRCONIA (internal surface)
- Cleaning
- specific cleaner (Ivoclean — Ivoclar Vivadent)
- Air dry
- Airborne-particle abrasion (sandblasting)
- Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃)
- 30–50 µm
- Pressure: ~1–2 bar
- Post-abrasion cleaning
- MDP primer / adhesive — according to manufacturer
Protocol on the TOOTH
If enamel
- Phosphoric acid etching — 15–30 s
- Rinse — 15 s
- Dry — 15 s
- Adhesive — according to manufacturer
- Light curing depends on the system; in many indirect protocols it is avoided to prevent thickness
If dentin
- Etching (if total-etch) — 10–15 s
- Rinse — 15 s
- Keep dentin moist
- Adhesive — according to manufacturer
- Active application
- Air drying 10–15 s
- Follow manufacturer instructions
- Generally do not light cure before cementation
Cementation
- Resin cement:
- Dual-cure (recommended)
- Self-adhesive (valid option)
- Seat restoration
- Remove excess
- Light cure
Key points
- Zirconia must not be etched with hydrofluoric acid
- Bonding is based on:
- Mechanical retention (sandblasting)
- Chemical bonding (MDP)
Common mistakes
- Using hydrofluoric acid
- Not sandblasting
- Not using MDP
- Contamination without proper cleaning
- Light-curing adhesive creating thickness
Expected result
- Stable bonding
- High strength
- Clinical longevity
