A Review of the Low-Temperature Degradation of Dental Zirconia

Abstract

The use of tetragonal zirconia as a dental restorative material has recently increased because of its unique mechanical and optical properties, as well as high biological compatibility with the oral cavity environment. However, the mechanical properties of zirconia can be severely degraded, which leads to the failure of dental restorations. This review focuses on the low-temperature degradation of dental zirconia and its effects on the properties of zirconia and on the oral environment. The purpose is to show the importance of this negative phenomenon and suggest guidelines for minimizing the aging of zirconia that is used as a dental restoration material.