Acid-etched monolithic translucent zirconia laminate veneer for restoring a discolored anterior tooth: A case report.

RATIONALE

Laminate veneers have become the treatment of choice for restoring tooth esthetics and function conservatively. However, due to their thin nature, the esthetic rehabilitation of discolored teeth following pulp necrosis can be challenging. Translucent zirconia offers a favorable balance between masking ability and optical translucency while maintaining high durability. To enhance the bonding strength between zirconia and adhesive agents, the treatment of the zirconia surface with strong acids has been extensively investigated in laboratory settings. However, the clinical application of this technique has not yet been published.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A discolored anterior incisor that had undergone endodontic treatment.

DIAGNOSIS

Discolored anterior incisor following pulp necrosis.

INTERVENTIONS

Restoration of the discolored anterior incisor with an acid-etched translucent zirconia veneer.

OUTCOMES

The monolithic translucent zirconia veneer successfully restored the discolored anterior tooth. A 2-year follow-up demonstrated that the acid-etched surface ensured the long-term survival of the restoration.

LESSONS

Enhancing bond strength through micromechanical retention created by strong acid etching has proven effective in ensuring a secure bond between the veneer and adhesive cement, contributing to the long-term success of translucent zirconia veneers.