Zirconia Surface Treatment by Different Output Powers of Er: YAG Laser and Sandblasting: SEM Evaluation

[Background]Application of zirconia in dentistry has increased due to its good properties. Since zirconia is not possible to be etched, evaluation of the other methods of surface treatment is important.[Objectives]The aim of this study was to evaluate zirconia surfaces treated by different output powers of Er: YAG laser and sandblasting technique by scanning electron microscope (SEM).[Materials and Methods]15 specimens were prepared of 3Y-TZP ceramic material. After polishing of all the samples, divided into 5 groups; control group, 1.5 W Er: YAG laser irradiated group, 2.5W Er: YAG laser irradiated group, 3.5 W Er: YAG laser irradiated and sandblasted group. Then SEM image of each group were prepared and analyzed.[Results]The SEM images of study groups showed there is no significant difference between control group and laser groups at × 3000, but at the more magnifications (× 15000 and × 60000), with increasing laser power, surface roughness and deformation of crystals increases. SEM of Sandblasted group showed a change in surface texture with the formation of microretentive grooves and deformation of zirconia crystals shape.[Conclusions]By increasing the Er: YAG laser power on zirconia ceramics, the surface roughness increases but not impressive. Application of sandblasting technique on zirconia provides greater surface roughness than Er: YAG laser treatment. 1.5 W (150 mJ) Er: YAG laser radiation has no significant effect on surface morphology of zirconia but 2.5 W (250 mJ) and 3.5 W (350 mJ) outputs, change the surface morphology.