Before cementation, how should the interior of a porcelain crown be treated?

Roughening the interior of a porcelain crown using air abrasion is important for enhancing the bonding surface, which plays a crucial role in the retention of the crown when it's cemented onto the tooth. This technique increases the surface area and creates micro-retentive features that improve the mechanical interlocking between the ceramic material and the dental cement.

By applying air abrasion, any potential contaminants that could inhibit bonding, such as residuals from the manufacturing process, can also be removed. This treatment ensures that the cement adheres effectively, providing a stable and durable bond that contributes to the longevity of the restoration.

While options like cleaning with alcohol may be beneficial for removing surface contaminants, they do not enhance the surface texture for better retention. Similarly, simply leaving the crown untreated would not adequately prepare it for cementation, and smoothing it with a diamond bur might reduce the effectiveness of the bond rather than improve it.