The effect of coloring liquids on the translucency of zirconia framework

PURPOSE: Translucency of all-ceramic restorations is an important factor which affects the final appearance and esthetic outcome of the restoration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the shade of coloring liquid on the translucency of zirconia framework. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty zirconium oxide core plate (15 × 12 × 0.5 mm) were divided into 6 groups of 5 plates each. Each group was classified according to the shade of coloring liquid based on Vita Classic Scale (A2, A3, B1, C2, and D2), and each sample was immersed in coloring liquid for 3 seconds as recommended by the manufacturer, except for the control group. Contrast ratio, as a translucency parameter, was calculated using a spectrophotometer and the data were analyzed with oneway analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's honestly significant differences (HSD) tests (α=.05). RESULTS: Significant differences in translucency among the control and test groups, and the B1 shaded group and other shades was observed. There were no significant differences among A2, A3, C2, and D2 shaded groups. CONCLUSION: The translucency of the zirconium oxide cores was affected by the coloring procedure and significant differences in the translucency measurements were identified between specific shades.