Strength of a Zirconia-Reinforced Glass-Ceramic After Diamond Bur Adjustment

Introduction: Adjustments with diamond burs on the ceramic surface can affect its roughness and decrease flexural strength. This study evaluated the effect of polishing or glazing on the surface roughness and biaxial flexural strength of a zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate glass-ceramic upon adjustment with diamond burs. Methods: Seventy disks were prepared according to ISO 6872 and divided into seven groups (n = 10) according to different adjustments and finishing processes. Surface roughness was measured prior to biaxial flexural strength testing. The topography was analyzed using an atomic force microscope, fracture markings were identified using a stereomicroscope and representative specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. Results: The use of diamond burs significantly increased the surface roughness and decreased the strength of the evaluated ceramic (p<0.05). Polishing reduced the ceramic’s roughness but resulted in flexural strength similar to that of the groups with wear (p>0.05). The glaze-treated specimens showed flexural strength statistically similar to the control group (p>0.05) but higher roughness, similar to those with wear. Conclusions: Polishing reduced the surface roughness but did not affect the biaxial flexural strength of the ZLS ceramic. At the same time, the application of glaze after wear increased the strength.