Effect of sintering parameters on the mechanical properties of monolithic zirconia

Background. Zirconia restorations with high mechanical properties are the current treatment options for fixed restorations with advantages of high biocompatibility and low pulp irritation. Although the effect of sintering time and temperature on the optical and mechanical properties of zirconia core material were investigated, the effect of these parameters on the translucent monolithic zirconia is still uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the changes in sintering temperature and holding time on the mechanical and structural properties of monolithic zirconia. Methods. Totally, 340 self-colored (A2) zirconia specimens from two different monolithic zirconia groups (n=170) were prepared, measuring 15.5×12.5×1.2 mm. Then, 17 subgroups (n=10), including the control groups, were sintered according to sintering parameters. XRD analysis was used to determine phase transformations. The surface roughness of the specimens was evaluated using profilometry, and the flexural strength of the specimens was evaluated by the three-point bending test. The data were analyzed using three-way ANOVA and post hoc multiple comparison test with Bonferroni correction (a=0.05) at a significance level of 0.05. Independent-samples t-test was used to compare the subgroups between the control groups (P˂0.05). Results. No tetragonal-to-monoclinic phase transformation was observed in the groups. Changes in the sintering parameters did not significantly affect the surface roughness and flexural strength of monolithic zirconia. Surface roughness values for all the subgroups were above the clinically critical limit. Conclusion. According to the results of this study, changes in the sintering parameters did not affect the surface phase transformation, surface roughness, and flexural strength of monolithic zirconia.