Objective:To observe the micro-morphologic of the zirconia surface treated with different roughening methods and test roughness of these surface. Methods:Zirconia blocks were manufactured and divided into four groups receiving different treatments (A,alumina sandblasting;B,tribochemical silica coating;C,hot H2SO4/(NH4)2SO4 etching;D,hot HF/HNO3 etching). An scanning electron microscope (SEM),and an atomic force microscope (AFM) were used to address the treated zirconia surface. The roughness values of the four groups were statistically analyzed. Results:Specimens of group A and B showed similar micro-morphologic,while group C and D presented a better roughening structure. The micron-scale roughness values were ranked as group C>groups A and B> group D (P < 0.05),while the nano-scale roughness value of the two hot acid etching groups were statistically higher than that of the other two groups (P < 0.05). Conclusion:Etching zirconia with hot acids provided a better roughening structure and higher nano-scale roughness.