An evaluation of the effects of different polishing agents on the surface roughness of porcelain

Abstract EN

Background : Rough porcelain surface due to faulty glazing technique or occlusal adjustment can cause grinding of opposing structure and tissue irritation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of different polishing agents on the surface roughness of adjusted porcelain in comparison to applied glaze.

Methods and Materials : Thirty five porcelain specimens resembling flat-back facing (metal porcelain buttons) were fabricated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The specimens were randomly divided into five groups according to the type of surface treatment tested.

Each group consisted of seven specimens and the groups were distributed as follows : Group I : Applied glazed ; Group II : Polished porcelain using dental pumice ; Group III : Polished porcelain using Dent alloy polishing paste ; Group IV : Polished porcelain using Dent aurum universal polishing paste and Group V : Polished porcelain using Al203 paste.

The surface roughness evaluation of the specimens was carried out by a surface roughness analyzer device (profilometer).

Results : Statistical analysis showed no significance between porcelain samples polished by Dent aurum universal polishing paste and those subjected to applied glaze.

Both techniques provided better smoothness than the rest polishing procedures.

Conclusion : Final polishing of rough porcelain surface by Dent aurum universal polishing paste can be considered as an alternative to realizing adjusted surfaces of porcelain restorations regarding the technique sensitivity and time consuming related to the latter procedure.