Avaliação da sorção e solubilidade de água em cimentos de ionômero de vidro com e sem agente de proteção / Evaluation of water sorption and solubility in glass ionomer cements with and without protective agent

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de um protetor de superfície na sorção e solubilidade de cimentos de ionômero de vidro. Materiais e Métodos: Quatro materiais foram selecionados: ionômero modificado por resina encapsulado (Riva Light Cure); modificado por resina pó/líquido (Vitremer); convencional encapsulado (Equia Forte) e convencional pó/líquido (Fuji IX). Foram confeccionados 20 espécimes de cada, sendo metade com proteção superficial do Equia Forte Coat. As amostras foram mantidas em estufa a 37°C em repouso por 5 dias. Em seguida, esses foram pesados em intervalos de 24 horas. A espessura e o diâmetro foram medidos com um paquímetro digital para o cálculo do volume. Novas pesagens foram realizadas para a obtenção da massa intermediária. Em seguida, as amostras foram mantidas em repouso por 5 dias a 37°C e realizada nova pesagem. Resultados: Os dados obtidos de sorção e solubilidade foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA dois fatores, material e protetor de superfície) e teste Tukey ( =0,05). Para sorção, houve diferença significativa apenas para o fator material (p<0,05), Vitremer > Equia Forte > Riva Light Cure > Fuji IX. O ionômero Fuji IX apresentou os menores valores de sorção, diferindo significativamente dos demais materiais, independentemente do uso do protetor superficial. Não houve diferença significativa para o fator proteção de superfície (p>0,05). Para solubilidade não houve diferença significativa no fator material, protetor de superfície ou interação material*protetor. Conclusão: O uso do protetor superficial não influenciou nos valores de sorção e solubilidade dos ionômeros avaliados e o ionômero convencional Fuji IX apresentou menores taxas de sorção.

Objective: evaluate the effect of a surface coating agents on the sorption and glass ionomer cements solubility. Materials and Methods: Four materials were selected: Encapsulated resin-modified ionomer (Riva Light Cure); Powder/liquid Encapsulated resin-modified (Vitremer); Encapsulated conventional (Equia Forte) and powder/ liquid conventional (Fuji IX). Twenty samples of each were made, half with surface protection of Equia Forte Coat. The samples were kept in an oven for 5 days. These were then weighed at 24-hour intervals. The thickness and diameter were measured using a digital caliper to calculate their volume. New weightings were performed to obtain the intermediate mass. Then, the samples were kept at rest for 5 days and weighed again. Results: The sorption and solubility data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA, material and surface coating agents) and Tukey test ( =0.05). For sorption, there was a significant difference only for the material factor (p<0.05), Vitremer > Equia Forte > Riva Light Cure > Fuji IX. The Fuji IX ionomer showed the lowest sorption values, differing significantly from the other materials, regardless of the use of surface coating agents. There was no significant difference for the surface protection factor (p>0.05). For solubility there was no significant difference for the material factor, surface coating agents or material*surface coating agent interaction. Conclusion: The use of surface coating agents did not influence the sorption and solubility values of the evaluated ionomers and the conventional Fuji IX ionomer showed lower sorption rates.

Ultra-processed food intake and diet carbon and water footprints: a national study in Brazil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To study the association between ultra-processed food consumption and carbon and water footprints of the Brazilian diet. METHODS Cross-sectional analysis on data collected in 2008-2009 on a probabilistic sample of the Brazilian population aged ≥ 10 years (n = 32,886). Individual food intake was assessed using two 24-hour food records, on non-consecutive days. The environmental impact of individual diets was calculated by multiplying the amount of each food by coefficients that quantify the atmospheric emissions of greenhouse gases in grams of carbon dioxide equivalent (carbon footprint) and freshwater use in liters (water footprint), both per gram or milliliter of food. The two coefficients consider the food life cycle 'from farm to fork.' Crude and adjusted linear regression models and tests for linear trends assessed the association between the ultra-processed food contribution to total energy intake (quintiles) and the diet carbon and water footprints. Potential confounders included age, sex, education, income, and region. Total energy intake was assessed as a potential mediation variable. RESULTS In the crude models, the dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods was linearly associated with the carbon and water footprints of the Brazilian diet. After adjustment for potential confounders, the association remained significant only regarding the diet water footprint, which increased by 10.1% between the lowest and highest quintile of the contribution of ultra-processed foods. Additional adjustment for total energy intake eliminated this association indicating that the dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods increases the diet water footprint by increasing energy intake. CONCLUSIONS The negative impact of ultra-processed foods on the diet water footprint, shown for the first time in this study, adds to the negative impacts of these foods, already demonstrated regarding dietary nutrient profiles and the risk for several chronic non-communicable diseases. This reinforces the recommendation to avoid ultra-processed foods made in the official Brazilian Dietary Guidelines and increasingly in dietary guidelines of other countries.

Thiourethane-functionalized fillers: biological properties and degradation resistance

Abstract This study determined the effect of thiourethane-functionalized fillers (TU) on the antimicrobial properties, cytotoxicity, degree of conversion (DC), water sorption (Wsp) and solubility (Wsl) of experimental composites. TU-modified fillers were added at different ratios in experimental composites: 0 (Control-TU0), 25% (TU25), 50% (TU50), 75% (TU75) and 100wt% (TU100). The antimicrobial properties were detected through the exhaustion test and counting of Streptococus mutans colonies for biofilm formation. Cytotoxicity to human gingival fibroblasts was evaluated in three different parameters: XTT (2,3-Bis-(2-Methoxy-4-Nitro-5-Sulfophenyl)-2H-Tetrazolium-5-Carboxanilide), NRU (Neutral Red Uptake assay) and CVDE (Crystal Violet Dye Exclusion test)) at the same cells. ELISA was used to measure the IL-6 and b-FGF biomarkers. DC was determined by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, while Wsp and Wsl by mass variations. Inhibitory capacity of biofilm formation was not observed for any material. All groups presented at least 70% of cell survival within the observed periods (24h and 7 days). Positive control (toxic) had high IL-6 values and low b-FGF values. No significant variations in DC, Wsp, and Wsl were observed among the experimental groups. The use of thiourethane did not present antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity and the tested materials presented equivalent properties to those conventionally used in dentistry.

Physicochemical properties of a bioceramic repair material - biomta

Abstract This study aimed to assess the physicochemical properties of a repair material in the Brazilian market, BioMTA, in comparison to other two materials currently in use (Biodentine and MTA Angelus). The initial setting time was evaluated using Gillmore needle. The pH was measured with a pH-meter after 24 h, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days. The radiopacity was determined using the equivalence in millimeters of aluminum (mm Al) from digitized occlusal radiographs. Solubility was determined after immersion in water for 7 days. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (a=0.05). The BioMTA initial setting time (5.2 min) was lower than the other materials (p<0.05). All materials showed an alkaline pH at 21 days. At 24 h, BioMTA was the most alkaline material (p<0.05); and at 3, 7, 14 and 21 days there was no difference between BioMTA and Biodentine (p>0.05), both being more alkaline than MTA Angelus (p<0.05). The radiopacity of BioMTA (4.2 mm Al) was significantly higher compared to Biodentine (p<0.05) and lower than MTA Angelus (p<0.05). The solubility of the materials was -4.2%, -1.6% and 4.1% for BioMTA, MTA Angelus and Biodentine, respectively, with a significant difference between them (p<0.05). Therefore, it can be concluded that BioMTA displayed a shorter setting time, an alkaline pH, a higher radiopacity, and a gain in mass.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas de um material reparador disponível no mercado brasileiro, BioMTA, em comparação com outros dois materiais atualmente em uso (Biodentine e MTA Angelus). O tempo de presa inicial foi avaliado usando a agulha de Gillmore. O pH foi medido com um pH-metro após 24 h, 3, 7, 14 e 21 dias. A radiopacidade foi determinada aplicando a equivalência em milímetros de alumínio (mm Al) de radiografias oclusais digitalizadas. A solubilidade foi determinada após imersão em água por 7 dias. Os dados foram analisados ​​por meio dos testes ANOVA de uma via e Tukey (a=0,05). O tempo de presa inicial do BioMTA (5,2 min) foi menor do que os outros materiais (p<0,05). Todos os materiais apresentaram pH alcalino aos 21 dias. Às 24 h, o BioMTA foi o material mais alcalino (p<0,05); e aos 3, 7, 14 e 21 dias não houve diferença entre BioMTA e Biodentine (p>0,05), sendo ambos mais alcalinos que MTA Angelus (p<0,05). A radiopacidade do BioMTA (4,2 mm Al) foi significativamente maior em comparação ao Biodentine (p<0,05) e menor que o MTA Angelus (p<0,05). A solubilidade dos materiais foi de -4,2%, -1,6% e 4,1% para BioMTA, MTA Angelus e Biodentine, respectivamente, havendo diferença significativa entre eles (p<0,05). Portanto, pode-se concluir que o BioMTA apresentou um menor tempo de presa, pH alcalino, uma alta radiopacidade e um ganho em massa.

Evaluation of the physical and antifungal effects of chlorhexidine diacetate incorporated into polymethyl methacrylate

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the physical properties and antifungal activities of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic resins after the incorporation of chlorhexidine diacetate salt (CDA). Methodology: First, acrylic resin specimens were fabricated with Vipi Cor® and DuraLay® resins with and without the incorporation of 0.5%, 1.0% or 2.0% CDA. The residual monomer and CDA release were measured at intervals ranging from 2 hours to 28 days using ultraviolet spectrometry combined with high-performance liquid chromatography. The antifungal activity against C. albicans was evaluated with the agar diffusion method. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze the degree of resin conversion. Finally, the water sorption values of the resins were also measured. Results: The incorporated CDA concentration significantly changed the rate of CDA release (p<0.0001); however, the brand of the material appeared to have no significant influence on drug release. Subsequently, the inhibition zones were compared between the tested groups and within the same brand, and only the comparisons between the CDA 2% and CDA 1% groups and between the CDA 1% and CDA 0.5% groups failed to yield significant differences. Regarding the degrees of conversion, the differences were not significant and were lower only in the CDA 2% groups. Water sorption was significantly increased at the 1.0% and 2.0% concentrations. Conclusions: We concluded that the incorporation of CDA into PMMA-based resins enabled the inhibition of C. albicans growth rate, did not alter the degrees of conversion of the tested resins and did not change the release of residual monomers.

Avaliação da solubilidade e sorção em água de alguns materiais restauradores diretos / Evaluation of solubility and sorption in water of some direct restorative materials

Resumo Introdução A solubilidade e sorção dos materiais restauradores são considerados fatores críticos, pois podem interferir na qualidade e durabilidade das restaurações. Objetivo Avaliar a solubilidade e sorção de água de alguns materiais restauradores. Material e método Foram confeccionados quatorze espécimes de cada um dos seguintes materiais: Equia® Forte, Z100, Fuji IX/ e Vidrion R, os quais foram levados a uma dessecadora e pesados diariamente até estabilização. Em seguida, foram inseridos em recipientes individuais contendo 40 mL de água destilada cada e divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o tempo de armazenagem: 7 ou 30 dias. Ao final de cada período, os espécimes foram retirados da água, pesados, levados à dessecadora e pesados novamente até estabilização. Os resultados foram analisados estatisticamente utilizando os testes ANOVA 2 critérios e Tukey. Resultado Com exceção do Equia® Forte e Z100, os demais materiais, apresentaram uma variação significativa da solubilidade ao longo do tempo. Quanto à sorção, observa-se que apenas o material Z100 não apresentou diferença significativa em relação ao tempo de armazenagem, mas, na comparação entre os materiais, todos apresentaram diferenças significativas em ambos os períodos. Conclusão Após os períodos de armazenagem de 7 e 30 dias em água, os materiais restauradores Equia® Forte e Z100 não apresentam variação significativa da solubilidade, sendo mais estáveis que os materiais Fuji IX e Vidrion R. Os materiais à base de ionômero de vidro, Equia® Forte, Fuji IX e Vidrion R, sofrem mais sorção em água quando comparados ao material Z100 em ambos os períodos.

Abstract Introduction The solubility and sorption parameters of restorative materials are considered critical factors since they may interfere with the quality and durability of restorations. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the solubility and water sorption of some restorative materials. Material and method Fourteen specimens were made (10.0 mm x 2.0 mm) of each of the following material: Equia® Forte, Z100, Fuji IX/ e Vidrion R, then taken to a desiccator and weighed daily until stabilized. They were then placed in individual containers with 40mL of distilled water each and divided into two groups according to the storage time: 7 or 30 days. At the end of each period, the specimens were removed from the water, weighed, taken to the desiccator and weighed again until stabilized. The results were analyzed statistically with two-way ANOVA and Tukey. Result Except for Equia® Forte and Z100, the other materials presented a significant variation of solubility over time. As for sorption, it was noticed that only Z100 presented no significant difference in relation to the storage time, but in comparison of the materials, all had significant differences in both 7 and 30 days periods. Conclusion After storage periods of 7 and 30 days in water, the restorative materials Equia® Forte and Z100 do not present significant variation of solubility, being more stable than the materials Fuji IX and Vidrion R. The glass ionomer-based materials, Equia® Forte, Fuji IX and Vidrion R, suffer more sorption in water when compared to Z100 material in both periods.

Fluoride release and uptake in enhanced bioactivity glass ionomer cement ("glass carbomer™") compared with conventional and resin-modified glass ionomer cements

Abstract Objectives To study the fluoride uptake and release properties of glass carbomer dental cements and compare them with those of conventional and resin-modified glass ionomers. Materials and Methods Three materials were used, as follows: glass carbomer (Glass Fill), conventional glass ionomer (Chemfil Rock) and resin-modified glass ionomer (Fuji II LC). For all materials, specimens (sets of six) were matured at room temperature for time intervals of 10 minutes, 1 hour and 6 weeks, then exposed to either deionized water or sodium fluoride solution (1000 ppm in fluoride) for 24 hours. Following this, all specimens were placed in deionized water for additional 24 hours and fluoride release was measured. Results Storage in water led to increase in mass in all cases due to water uptake, with uptake varying with maturing time and material type. Storage in aqueous NaF led to variable results. Glass carbomer showed mass losses at all maturing times, whereas the conventional glass ionomer gained mass for some maturing times, and the resin-modified glass ionomer gained mass for all maturing times. All materials released fluoride into deionized water, with glass carbomer showing the highest release. For both types of glass ionomer, uptake of fluoride led to enhanced fluoride release into deionized water. In contrast, uptake by glass carbomer did not lead to increased fluoride release, although it was substantially higher than the uptake by both types of glass ionomer. Conclusions Glass carbomer resembles glass ionomer cements in its fluoride uptake behavior but differs when considering that its fluoride uptake does not lead to increased fluoride release.

Doxycycline release and antibacterial activity from PMMA/PEO electrospun fiber mats

Abstract Objective: To investigate the use of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) electrospun fiber mats containing different amounts of polyethylene oxide (PEO) as a doxycycline delivery system and to test antibacterial activity against an oral pathogen. Methodology: PMMA powders or PEO (mol wt 200 Kd) (10,20,30% w/w/) were dissolved in N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) to obtain a final polymer concentration of 15% in DMF (w/v). 2% Doxycycline monohydrate was added to the solutions and submitted to vortex mixing. The solution was transferred to a plastic syringe and fit into a nanofiber electrospinning unit. The parameters applied were: voltage at 17.2 kV; distance of 20 cm between the needle tip and the collector plate; target speed at 2 m/min; and transverse speed at 1cm/min. Syringe pump speed was 0.15 mm/min. The drug release analysis was performed by removing aliquots of the drug-containing solution (in PBS) at specific periods. Doxycycline release was quantified using RP-HPLC. Fiber mats from all groups had their antibacterial action tested against S. mutans based on inhibition halos formed around the specimens. The experiments were performed in triplicate. Gravimetric analysis at specific periods was performed to determine any polymer loss. Morphological characterization of the electrospun fibers was completed under an optical microscope followed by SEM analysis. Results: The addition of PEO to the PMMA fibers did not affect the appearance and diameter of fibers. However, increasing the %PEO caused higher doxycycline release in the first 24 h. Fibers containing 30% PEO showed statistically significant higher release when compared with the other groups. Doxycycline released from the fibers containing 20% or 30% of PEO showed effective against S. mutans. Conclusion: The incorporation of PEO at 20% and 30% into PMMA fiber mat resulted in effective drug release systems, with detected antibacterial activity against S. mutans.

Surface and vertical dimensional changes of mineral trioxide aggregate and biodentine in different environmental conditions

Abstract Surface changes in biological environments are critical for the evaluation of physical and biological activity of biomaterials. Objective: This study investigated surface alterations of calcium silicate-based cements after exposure to different environments. Material and Methods: Forty-eight cylindrical cavities were prepared on root surfaces. The cavities were filled using ProRoot MTA or Biodentine and assigned to four subgroups (n=6): dry, wet, acidic, and blood. Surface topographies were evaluated using an optical profilometer for 28 days, and the roughness of the material surfaces was quantified. Vertical dimensional change was measured by determining the height difference between the material surface and the flat tooth surface. Data were compared with a two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni tests. Results: In dry condition, the surface roughness of MTA or Biodentine was constant up to 3 days (p>0.05) but decreased after 28 days (p<0.05). In dry condition, ProRoot MTA presented constant surface level through time, while Biodentine showed decreased surface level after 28 days. In wet condition, the roughness and the surface levels of both materials increased after 1 day (p<0.05). Neither the surface roughness nor the levels of the materials showed significant changes in acidic conditions (p>0.05). Both materials showed the highest roughness in blood conditions on the 1st day (p<0.05), while the surface roughness in blood decreased dramatically after 28 days. The roughness of Biodentine was higher in wet conditions up to 3 days compared with ProRoot MTA (p<0.05). Likewise, in blood condition, Biodentine showed higher roughness on the 28th day than ProRoot MTA (p<0.05). Conclusions: Dry, wet, and blood conditions had a time-dependent effect on the surface roughness and vertical dimensional changes of the materials. However, acidic conditions did not affect the roughness and the surface level of the materials.

Surface morphology and mechanical properties of conventional and self-adhesive resin cements after aqueous aging

Abstract The stable long-term performance of resin cement under oral environmental conditions is a crucial factor to obtain a satisfactory success of the allceramic dental restoration. Objective: This study aimed at evaluating and comparing the surface morphology and mechanical property of conventional and self-adhesive resin cement after aqueous aging. Materials and Methods: Disc-shaped specimens of 3 conventional (C1: Multilink N, C2: Duolink, C3: Nexus 3) and 3 self-adhesive (S1: Multilink Speed, S2: Biscem, S3: Maxcem) types of resin cements were subjected to irradiation. After 24 h, the Knoop microhardness of each resin cement was evaluated. The specimens were immersed separately in distilled water and maintained at 37°C. A total of 5 specimens of each resin cement were collected at the following time intervals of immersion: 1, 6, 12 and 18 months. The samples were used to evaluate the Knoop parameters of microhardness, sorption and solubility. The surface morphology of the specimens after 18 months of immersion was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The sorption and solubility data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA. The Knoop microhardness was tested by the ANOVA repeated measures (P<0.05). Results: The sorption and solubility parameters of C1 and S1 exhibited significant fluctuations during the aqueous aging. The hardness of the S1 and S2 specimens decreased significantly after an 18-month water immersion. The S1, S2 and S3 specimens indicated higher filler exposure and stripping and apparent pores and cracks compared to specimens C1, C2 and C3, respectively. Conclusion: The surface of selfadhesive resin cements is more susceptible to aqueous damage than that of the conventional resin cements.

Effect of diode laser irradiation on the bond strength of polymerized non-simplified adhesive systems after 12 months of water storage

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the bonding strength of non-simplified dentin bonding systems (DBS) to dentin irradiated with a diode laser (970 nm) immediately and after 12 months of water storage following either primer or bond application. Material and methods: The experimental design included three different factors: DBS type [AdperTM Scotchbond Multipurpose (MP) and Clearfil™ SE Bond (CSE)], irradiation [without irradiation - control (C), irradiation after primer application (AP), and irradiation after bond application (AB)], and time [initial (I) and after 12 months of water storage (12 m)]. Sixty sound human third molars (n = 10) were obtained, and their flat occlusal dentin areas were prepared and standardized. Laser irradiation was performed in the contact mode perpendicular to the dental surface over an automatically selected scanning area at a pulse energy of 0.8 W, frequency of 10 Hz, and energy density of 66.67 J/cm2. After 7 days of treatment, the specimens were cut, and half of them were subjected to microtensile testing (500 N/0.05 mm/min), whereas the remaining sticks were examined after 12 months of water storage. The obtained data were analyzed by three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by a Tukey test (p<0.05). The observed fracture modes were investigated using a portable digital microscope with a magnification of 40x. Results: Among the utilized DBS, MP generally exhibited higher bond strengths, but did not always differ from CSE under similar conditions. The irradiation factor was statistically significant only for the MP/AB groups. After 12 months of storage, all groups demonstrated a significant reduction in the bond strength, whereas the results of fracture analysis showed a predominance of the adhesive type. Conclusions: The laser treatment of non-simplified DBS was not able to stabilize their bonding characteristics after 12 months.

Effect of radiant exposure and UV accelerated aging on physico-chemical and mechanical properties of composite resins

Abstract Currently, there is no consensus in terms of defining the minimum radiant exposure values necessary for achieving adequate properties of composite resin. In addition, the long-term influence that radiant exposure has on the properties of composite resins is still questionable. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of radiant exposure and UV accelerated aging on the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of micro-hybrid and nanofilled composite resins. Material and Methods: A nanofilled (Filtek Supreme; 3M ESPE) and a micro-hybrid composite resin (Filtek Z250; 3M ESPE) were investigated under different radiant exposures (3.75, 9, and 24 J/cm2) and UV accelerated aging protocols (0, 500, 1000, and 1500 aging hours). The degree of conversion (DC), flexural strength (FS), modulus (M), water sorption (WS), and solubility (WL) were evaluated. The results obtained were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. Comparisons were performed using a significance level of α=0.05. Results: The DC, FS, and M were found to be significantly influenced by both radiant exposure and accelerated aging time. The DC and EM increased with radiant exposure in the no-aging group (0-hour aging) for both micro-hybrid and nanofilled composites, whereas no correlation was found after accelerated aging protocols. WS and WL of micro-hybrid and nanofilled composite resins were scarcely affected by radiant exposure (p>0.05), whereas they were significantly reduced by accelerated aging (p<0.001). Conclusions: Although increasing radiant exposure affected the degree of conversion and mechanical properties of micro-hybrid and nanofilled composites, no influence on the hydrolytic degradation of the material was observed. In contrast, UV accelerated aging affected both the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of the composites.

Mechanical-physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of catechin-incorporated adhesive resins

Abstract Several anti-proteolytic dentin therapies are being exhaustively studied in an attempt to reduce dentin bond degradation and improve clinical performance and longevity of adhesive restorations. Objectives This study assessed the effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on long-term bond strength when incorporated into adhesives. Material and Methods Adhesive systems were formulated with EGCG concentrations of 0 wt%: (no EGCG; control); 0.5 wt% EGCG; 1.0 wt% EGCG, and 1.5 wt% EGCG. Flexural strength (FS), modulus of elasticity (ME), modulus of resilience (MR), compressive strength (CS), degree of conversion (DC), polymerization shrinkage (PS), percentage of water sorption (%WS), percentage of water solubility (%WL) and cytotoxicity properties were tested. Dentin microtensile bond strength (µTBS) was evaluated after 24 h and again after 6 months of water storage. The adhesive interface was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results No significant differences were found among the groups in terms of FS, ME, MR, CS and PS. EGCG-doped adhesives increased the DC relative to the control group. EGCG concentrations of 1.0 wt% and 0.5 wt% decreased the WS of adhesives. WL decreased in all cases in which EGCG was added to adhesives, regardless of the concentration. EGCG concentrations of 1.0 wt% and 0.5 wt% reduced cytotoxicity. EGCG concentrations of 1.0 wt% and 0.5 wt% preserved µTBS after 6 months of storage, while 1.5 wt% EGCG significantly decreased µTBS. SEM: the integrity of the hybrid layer was maintained in the 0.5 wt% and 1.0 wt% EGCG groups. Conclusion EGCG concentrations of 1.0 wt% and 0.5 wt% showed better biological and mechanical performance, preserved bond strength and adhesive interface, and reduced cytotoxicity.

Physicochemical properties of calcium silicate-based formulations MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem

Abstract Objective This study aimed to analyze the following physicochemical properties: radiopacity, final setting time, calcium release, pH change, solubility, water sorption, porosity, surface morphology, and apatite-forming ability of two calcium silicate-based materials. Material and methods We tested MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem in comparison with conventional MTA, analyzing radiopacity and final setting time. Water absorption, interconnected pores and apparent porosity were measured after 24-h immersion in deionized water at 37°C. Calcium and pH were tested up to 28 d in deionized water. We analyzed data using two-way ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls tests (p<0.05). We performed morphological and chemical analyses of the material surfaces using ESEM/EDX after 28 d in HBSS. Results MTA Repair HP showed similar radiopacity to that of conventional MTA. All materials showed a marked alkalinizing activity within 3 h, which continued for 28 d. MTA Repair HP showed the highest calcium release at 28 d (p<0.05). MTA Vitalcem showed statistically higher water sorption and solubility values (p<0.05). All materials showed the ability to nucleate calcium phosphate on their surface after 28 d in HBSS. Conclusions MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem had extended alkalinizing activity and calcium release that favored calcium phosphate nucleation. The presence of the plasticizer in MTA HP might increase its solubility and porosity. The radiopacifier calcium tungstate can be used to replace bismuth oxide.

Hygroscopic expansion of bulk fill composites: A three-month report / Expansão higroscópica de compósitos "bulk fill": um relato de três meses

Polymer networks are considered to be largely affected by water and chemical absorption from environment. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the hygroscopic expansion of bulk-fill composite. Material and Methods: Fifteen disks (5 in each group) with different thickness(4mm/2mm) of Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill composite(TB) and Tetric N-Ceram composite(TN) were made according to the manufacturer's instruction and stored in deionized water. The length of each specimen was recorded using a digital micrometer at baseline and at the end of 24 h, 1, 2, 4, 12 weeks intervals. Repeated measure ANOVA and Tukey HSD were used to determine the effect of variables. At 12 weeks, the mean hygroscopic expansion after water immersion ranged between 0. 33±0.09mm for TN to 0.41±0.07mm for TB with 2mm thickness. Repeated measure ANOVA revealed a significant increase in hygroscopic expansion over time (P <0.05). Results: The results indicated that at 24hours and 2weeks there was a significant difference among TN and TB with 4mm thickness (p=0.007 and p=0.023, respectively). The other differences were not significant. Hygroscopic expansion affected by the type of composite and the passing of time. Conclusion: The results showed that the time taken to reach stabilization in hygroscopic expansion was shorter for TN in comparison with TB. For 2mm thickness equilibrium was attained earlier. (AU)

Considera-se que as redes de ligações intrínsecas de polímeros são amplamente afetadas pela absorção de água e produtos químicos do meio ambiente. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a expansão higroscópica do compósito bulk-fill. Material e Métodos: Quinze discos (5 em cada grupo) com diferentes espessuras (4mm / 2mm) de compósito Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill (TB) e Tetric N-Ceram (TN) foram confeccionados de acordo com as instruções do fabricante e armazenados em água deionizada. O comprimento de cada espécime foi registrado usando um micrômetro digital no início e no final de 24 h, 1, 2, 4, 12 semanas de intervalo. O teste de medidas repetidas ANOVA e Tukey foram usados para determinar o efeito das variáveis. Às 12 semanas, a expansão higroscópica média após imersão em água variou entre 0,33 ± 0,09mm para NT a 0,41 ± 0,07mm para TB com 2mm de espessura. ANOVA revelou um aumento significativo na expansão higroscópica ao longo do tempo (P <0,05). Resultados: Os resultados indicaram que às 24h e 2 semanas houve diferença significativa entre TN e TB com 4mm de espessura (p=0,007 e p=0,023, respectivamente). As outras diferenças não foram significativas. A expansão higroscópica foi afetada pelo tipo de compósito e pelo tempo. Conclusão: Os resultados mostraram que o tempo necessário para alcançar a estabilização na expansão higroscópica foi menor para TN em comparação com TB. Para 2 mm de espessura o equilíbrio foi atingido mais cedo. (AU)

Long-term microwaving of denture base materials: effects on dimensional, color and translucency stability

Abstract While the combined effect of microwave irradiation with cleansing solutions on denture base materials has been investigated, the effects of only using microwave irradiation and, more importantly, in a long-term basis, was not studied yet. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a long-term repeated microwaving on the dimensional, color and translucency stability of acrylic and polyamide denture base materials. Material and Methods Thirty two specimens (32 mm x 10 mm x 2.5 mm) from polyamide (Valplast) and PMMA (Vertex Rapid Simplified) denture base materials were made. Eight specimens from each material were immersed in distilled water (control) and 8 were subjected to microwave exposure at 450 W for 3 minutes for a period simulating 224 days of daily disinfection. Linear dimension, color change (ΔE*) and translucency parameter (TP) were measured at baseline and after certain intervals up to 224 cycles of immersion, using a digital calliper and a portable colorimeter. The results were analysed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA to estimate possible differences among predetermined cycles and material type. Regression analysis was also performed to estimate the trend of changes with time. Statistical evaluations performed at a significance level of 5%. Results Data analysis showed significant changes in length at baseline with an increasing number of cycles (p<0.05) and a significant interaction of cycle-material (p<0.001). The ΔΕ* parameter was significantly higher with a higher number of cycles (p<0.001), but it did not vary between materials (p>0.05). TP decreased similarly in both materials following microwave action but in a significantly higher level for Valplast (p<0.001). Conclusions The results indicated that long-term repeated microwaving affects linear dimensional, color and translucency changes of both materials. Differences between PMMA and polyamide material were noted only in dimension and translucency changes.

Demetallization of Enterococcus faecalis biofilm: a preliminary study

Abstract Objectives To determine the concentration of calcium, iron, manganese and zinc ions after the application of chelator to Enterococcus faecalis biofilms. Material and Methods Fifty bovine maxillary central incisors were prepared and inoculated with E. faecalis for 60 days. The following were used as irrigation solutions: 17% EDTA (pH 3, 7 and 10), 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) combined with 17% EDTA (pH 3, 7 and 10), distilled water (pH 3, 7 and 10), and 2.5% NaOCl. Each solution was kept in the root canal for five minutes. Fifteen uncontaminated root canals were irrigated with 17% EDTA (pH 3, 7 and 10). Six teeth were used as bacterial control. The number of calcium, iron, manganese and zinc ions was determined using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) values were used for descriptive statistics. Results Calcium chelation using 17% EDTA at pH 7 was higher than at pH 3 and 10, regardless of whether bacterial biofilm was present. The highest concentration of iron occurred at pH 3 in the presence of bacterial biofilm. The highest concentration of manganese found was 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA at pH 7 in the presence of bacterial biofilm. Zinc levels were not detectable. Conclusions The pH of chelating agents affected the removal of calcium, iron, and manganese ions. The concentration of iron ions in root canals with bacterial biofilm was higher after the use of 17% EDTA at pH 3 than after the use of the other solutions at all pH levels.

Solubility, porosity and fluid uptake of calcium silicate-based cements

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the absorption/fluid uptake, solubility and porosity of White mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) Angelus, Biodentine (BIO), and zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE). Material and Methods: Solubility was evaluated after immersion in distilled water for 7 and 30 days. Porosity was evaluated using digital inverted microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). For the fluid uptake test, specimens were immersed in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) for 1, 7, 14 and 28 days. Fluid absorption, solubility and porosity of the materials were measured after each period. Statistical evaluation was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests, with a significance level at 5%. Results: After 7 and 30 days, BIO showed the highest solubility (p<0.05). All methods demonstrated that MTA had total porosity higher than BIO and ZOE (p<0.05). Micro-CT analysis showed that MTA had the highest porosity at the initial period, after its setting time (p<0.05). After 7 and 30 days, ZOE had porosity lower than MTA and BIO (p<0.05). Absorption was similar among the materials (p>0.05), and higher fluid uptake and solubility were observed for MTA in the fluid uptake test (p<0.05). Conclusions: BIO had the highest solubility in the conventional test and MTA had higher porosity and fluid uptake. ZOE had lower values of solubility, porosity and fluid uptake. Solubility, porosity and fluid uptake are related, and the tests used provided complementary data.

Model resin composites incorporating ZnO-NP: activity against S. mutans and physicochemical properties characterization

Abstract Although resin composites are widely used in the clinical practice, the development of recurrent caries at composite-tooth interface still remains as one of the principal shortcomings to be overcome in this field. Objectives To evaluate the activity against S. mutans biofilm of model resin composites incorporating different concentrations of ZnO-nanoparticles (ZnO-NP) and characterize their physicochemical properties. Materials and Methods Different concentrations of ZnO-NP (wt.%): E1=0, E2=0.5, E3=1, E4=2, E5=5 and E6=10 were incorporated into a model resin composite consisting of Bis-GMA-TEGDMA and barium borosilicate particles. The activity against S. mutans biofilm was evaluated by metabolic activity and lactic acid production. The following physicochemical properties were characterized: degree of conversion (DC%), flexural strength (FS), elastic modulus (EM), hardness (KHN), water sorption (Wsp), water solubility (Wsl) and translucency (TP). Results E3, E4, E5 and E6 decreased the biofilm metabolic activity and E5 and E6 decreased the lactic acid production (p<0.05). E6 presented the lowest DC% (p<0.05). No significant difference in FS and EM was found for all resin composites (p>0.05). E5 and E6 presented the lowest values of KHN (p<0.05). E6 presented a higher Wsp than E1 (p<0.05) and the highest Wsl (p<0.05). The translucency significantly decreased as the ZnO- NP concentration increased (p<0.05). Conclusions The incorporation of 2 - 5 wt.% of ZnO-NP could endow antibacterial activity to resin composites, without jeopardizing their physicochemical properties.

Porosity, water sorption and solubility of denture base acrylic resins polymerized conventionally or in microwave

Abstract The proper selection of polymerization cycle is important to prevent overheating of the monomer that could cause degradation, porosity and, consequently, deleterious effects on the denture base properties. Objective This study evaluated the porosity, water sorption and solubility of acrylic resins (Vipi Cril-VC and Vipi Wave-VW) after conventional or microwave polymerization cycles. Material and Methods Specimens (n = 10) were made and cured: 1-WB = 65°C during 90 min + boiling during 90 min (VC cycle - control group); 2-M25 = 10 min at 270 W + 5 min at 0 W + 10 min at 360 W (VW cycle); 3-M3 = 3 min at 550 W; and 4-M5 = 5 min at 650 W. Afterward, they were polished and dried in a dessicator until a constant mass was reached. Specimens were then immersed in distilled water at 37°C and weighed regularly until a constant mass was achieved. For porosity, an additional weight was made with the specimen immediately immersed in distilled water. For water sorption and solubility, the specimens were dried again until equilibrium was reached. Data were submitted to 2 way-ANOVA and Tukey HSD (α=0.05). Results Porosity mean values below 1.52% with no significant difference among groups for both materials were observed. Resins showed water sorption and solubility values without a significant difference. However, there was a significant difference among groups for these both properties (P<0.013). The highest sorption (2.43%) and solubility (0.13%) values were obtained for WB and M3, respectively. Conclusions The conventional acrylic resin could be polymerized in a microwave since both the materials showed similar performance in the evaluated properties. Shorter microwave cycles could be used for both the materials without any detectable increase in volume porosity.