Biofilm Adhesion and Micromorphology Analysis after Professional Oral Hygiene Procedures on CAD/CAM Milled and Veneered Zirconia Restorations: In Vitro Study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surface texture and biofilm adhesion of veneered or CAD/CAM milled zirconia (partially stabilized with yttrium) after professional oral hygiene procedures. The samples (4 × 4 mm, thickness 2 mm; n  =  72) were separated from zirconia blanks (3Y-TZP-LA). One group was veenered with ceramics, and the other group of samples was CAD/CAM milled. Each group had two subgroups: polished and glazed. The samples were subjected to simulated strokes of professional brushing using abrasive paste and ultrasonic scaling. The parameters of surface micromorphology and receptivity to biofilm were calculated before and after simulating the given methods of the professional maintenance of oral hygiene. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate zirconia surface properties. Microbial (bacterial/fungal) species (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sanguinis and Candida albicans) were used and cultured on respective sterilized zirconia surfaces. Colony-forming unit (CFU) counts were used to quantify the amount of biofilm formation on zirconia samples surfaces. Results: The SEM analysis showed the greatest change in surface microtopography after the use of ultrasonic scaling on glazed zirconia samples. Less formation of colonies on the surfaces of CAD/CAM milled zirconia restorations was observed. Conclusion: Routine methods of oral hygiene professional maintenance can damage the surfaces of glazed zirconia restorations.