Laboratory and clinical considerations on prosthetic zirconia infrastructures for implants.

Zirconia is a ceramic material that is used for constructing prosthetic infrastructures and implant abutments using CAD/CAM techniques. Although good initial mechanical properties are obtained with zirconia that is partially stabilized by yttrium, it may age in a moist environment, compromising such properties and, consequently, the longevity of the restorative work. To optimize the longevity of this material, it is essential that the clinician and laboratory technician understand its mechanical properties and limitations and take specific precautions needed to maintain its mechanical properties and ensure long-term performance especially in implant prosthetics. This article presents a clinical case where these precautions were taken, emphasizing the key surface treatments advocated for zirconia.