Investigating the Effect of Different Surface Treatments on Vickers Hardness and Flexural Strength of Zirconium and Lithium Disilicate Ceramics

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of different surface treatments on Vickers hardness and flexural strength of zirconia and lithium disilicate ceramics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 50 zirconia and 50 lithium disilicate ceramic specimens were used. After identifying one group as the control, grinding, sandblasting, CoJet, and Er:YAG laser were applied on the surface of specimens (n = 10). After applying Vickers hardness test to specimens, flexural strength test was performed. The data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple comparisons tests. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences found between surface treatment groups in terms of Vickers hardness of zirconia and lithium disilicate ceramics (p < 0.001), but there were no statistically significant differences found between surface treatment groups in terms of flexural strength (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Surface treatments could affect the hardness of ceramics. Therefore, was zirconia found to be harder and more durable than lithium disilicate ceramics.