Antibacterial Activity of a Bioactive Tooth-Coating Material Containing Surface Pre-Reacted Glass in a Complex Multispecies Subgingival Biofilm.

Bioactive materials were developed with the ability to release fluoride and provide some antimicrobial potential, to be widely used in dentistry today. However, few scientific studies have evaluated the antimicrobial activity of bioactive surface pre-reacted glass (S-PRG) coatings (PRG Barrier Coat, Shofu, Kyoto, Japan) on periodontopathogenic biofilms. This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of S-PRG fillers on the microbial profile of multispecies subgingival biofilms. A Calgary Biofilm Device (CBD) was used to grow a 33-species biofilm related to periodontitis for 7 days. The S-PRG coating was applied on CBD pins from the test group and photo-activated (PRG Barrier Coat, Shofu), while the control group received no coating. Seven days after treatment, the total bacterial counts, metabolic activity, and microbial profile of the biofilms were observed using a colorimetric assay and DNA-DNA hybridization. Statistical analyses were applied; namely, the Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn's post hoc tests. The bacterial activity of the test group was reduced by 25.7% compared with that of the control group. A statistically significant reduction was observed for the counts of 15 species: A. naeslundii, A. odontolyticus, V. parvula, C. ochracea, C. sputigena, E. corrodens, C. gracilis, F. nucleatum polymorphum, F. nucleatum vincentii, F. periodonticum, P. intermedia, P. gingivalis, G. morbillorum, S. anginosus, and S. noxia (p ≤ 0.05). The bioactive coating containing S-PRG modified the composition of the subgingival biofilm in vitro, thereby decreasing colonization by pathogens.

Espaços Formativos e de Sensibilização Quanto às Práticas Integrativas e Complementares em uma Unidade de Saúde da Família: Potencialidades e Desafios

Diante do contexto do Sistema Único de Saúde e das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para os Cursos de Medicina, o Módulo Horizontal A-2 traz uma proposta de conectar os aprendizados teóricos e a prática na rede de saúde. Com objetivos de construção de conhecimentos em práticas educativas em saúde, foram realizados dois cursos de Práticas Integrativas centrados em princípios da educação popular e em uma construção horizontal do conhecimento. Esses cursos foram realizados na Unidade de Saúde da Família - Vila Saúde e a sua construção deu-se em conjunto com a equipe e usuários da mesma. Os participantes entraram em contato com diversas práticas como a fitoterapia, terapia floral, biodança e vivências teatrais. Nesse contexto, foi possível identificar muitas potencialidades e dificuldades no desenvolvimento desses cursos, como a importância do interesse dos participantes e os problemas de infraestrutura na Unidade. Durante os cursos, o conhecimento construído permitiu um contato maior dos participantes com as práticas integrativas e uma visão ampliada sobre o cuidado. Além disso, os profissionais puderam se capacitar e conhecer novas práticas, o que possibilita uma melhoria no atendimento realizado. Para os estudantes, o curso trouxe uma visão ampla do sistema e da importância da educação em saúde no Sistema Único de Saúde.

Espaços Formativos de Cuidado em Auriculoterapia na Atenção Primária à Saúde: Potencialidades e Desafios de uma Experiência

O objetivo do estudo é descrever a experiência de graduandos do segundo semestre do curso de medicina da UFPB durante o desenvolvimento de dois cursos de formação em Auriculoterapia oferecidos à comunidade da USF-Vila Saúde do bairro Cristo Redentor na cidade de João Pessoa/PB. Foi constituído a partir da experiência dos organizadores, associados a consulta documental, vídeos contendo depoimentos dos participantes e palestrantes sobre as avaliações sobre o andamento das atividades. Seguiu-se também o referencial teórico e metodológico da sistematização de experiências de Oscar Jara. No que tange à promoção de espaços formativos em Auriculoterapia na APS atualmente, elencamos alguns desafios e potencialidades evidenciados a partir das experiências vivenciadas. Os desafios relacionam-se a estrutura das unidades de saúde, que não oferecem infraestrutura adequada para tais atividades em grupo, com falta de materiais e insumos para organização da atividade, fato que foi sanado no segundo curso, transferindo-o para o salão paroquial da comunidade. Enquanto aspectos positivos destacamos o acesso a conhecimentos sobre Auriculoterapia e outras PICS na comunidade, tornando acessível esta prática na comunidade e fomentando o protagonismo comunitário relacionado às práticas integrativas para a promoção da saúde. Nesse sentido, o curso surge como uma tentativa de efetivar uma prática integral e complementar em saúde Bairro. A estruturação de espaços formativos trouxe grandes benefícios para usuários e profissionais de saúde e discentes. A criação e fomento de espaços dialógicos e pedagógicos como esse é de suma importância para a efetivação de práticas humanizadas e dialógicas no contexto da APS.

In vitro determination of potentially bioavailable fluoride in diet and toothpaste after ingestion

Aim: To propose a new method to determine in vitro potentially bioavailable fluoride (F) in diet and toothpaste after ingestion. Methods: Diet samples (D) were obtained from 15 portions of a meal served to children in a day care centre. To simulate the ingestion of toothpaste during brushing after meals, a specific amount of toothpaste was added to the diet samples (D + T). F was determined in D and D + T after incubation in a solution that simulated "gastric juice" (0.01 M hydrochloric acid) at 37oC for 30, 60 and 120 min. Microdiffusion facilitated by HMDS was used to determine the total F concentrations in samples D and D + T. The analyses were performed using an ion specific electrode. Results: For D samples, incubation in "gastric juice" for 30, 60 and 120 min resulted in F concentrations (µg F/mL) of 0.75 ± 0.06c, 0.77 ± 0.07c and 0.91 ± 0.09b, corresponding to 75.3, 77.3 and 90.7% of the total F (1.02 ± 0.12a), respectively (p = 0.0001; ANOVA + Tukey). For D + T samples, these values of F concentrations (µg F/mL) were 2.55 ± 0.46b, 2.83 ± 0.44ab and 3.15 ± 0.37a, corresponding to 86.9, 94.8 and 106.7% of the total F (2.99 ± 0.34a), respectively (p = 0.0023; ANOVA + Tukey). Conclusion: Then, it can be concluded that the proposed method of "gastric juice" is a promising protocol for determining potentially bioavailable fluoride in the diet and toothpaste after ingestion. However, additional studies are desirable

Análise da microdureza de diferentes materiais restauradores

Objetivo: realizar um ensaio in vitro de microdureza em diferentes materiais restauradores. Métodos: Para cada material restaurador (FUJI IX - Cimento de Ionômero de Vidro; Tetric - resina composta convencional; Beautifil II; resina composta bioativa) foram confeccionadas 10 restaurações em dentes incisivos bovinos, cavitados por uma ponta diamantada 2092 KG Sonrensen, seguindo as recomendações de cada fabricante. O ensaio de microdureza foi realizado em diferentes profundidades (superfície, 0.4mm, 1.0mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm e 4.0mm) e em dois momentos, imediatamente e 24h após a fotoativação. Os dados foram analisados pelo teste de análise de variância (ANOVA) e teste Tukey. Resultados: As médias de microdureza diminuíram significativamente com o aumento da profundidade, com valores mais baixos no primeiro momento avaliado. A resina composta bioativa apresentou as maiores médias de microdureza. Conclusão: os materiais testados apresentaram diminuição gradual da microdureza com o aumento da profundidade, sendo mais acentuada em profundidades acima de 2.0mm. Em todos os materiais restauradores, as médias de microdureza mais altas foram registradas 24 horas após a fotoativação. A resina composta bioativa apresentou os melhores resultados nas diferentes profundidades avaliadas.

Influência da polimerização na estabilidade de cor de resinas compostas

Objetivo: Avaliar a influência da polimerização na estabilidade de cor de resinas compostas. Métodos: Avaliou-se o efeito da polimerização na cor de 14 resinas compostas: Empress Direct - A2E; Empress Direct - A2D; Empress Direct - Trans Opal; Vittra - EA2; Vittra - DA2; Vittra - Trans OPL; Essentia ­ LE; Essentia ­ LD; Essentia - OM; Filtek ­ AE2; Filtek - A2D; Filtek ­AT; Grandioso - A2; FillMagic - B2 Dentin. As resinas compostas foram inseridas em incremento único (n=5) em matrizes de 5X2mm (diâmetro x altura). Foi realizada a avaliação de cor pelos parâmetros CIE L*a*B* (AC) em triplicata com um espectrofotômetro (Easy Shade, Vita). As resinas compostas foram ativadas de acordo com as recomendações dos fabricantes e avaliadas imediatamente e após 24h em estufa a 37oC. Foi calculado o ΔE, analisado por 2-way ANOVA e teste de Bonferroni (p<0,05). Resultados: Observou-se interação significativa entre resina*tempo, todas resinas compostas apresentaram mudança de cor após a polimerização. Conclusão: Pode-se concluir que há mudança de cor após a ativação das resinas compostas e essa cor pode mudar após 24h em umidade.

Mechanical Properties of the Mandible in Postmenopausal Women Under Aledronate Treatment.

AIMS: This study evaluated the mechanical properties of mandibular bone tissue retrieved from postmenopausal women under alendronate treatment. METHODS: Twenty postmenopausal women were divided into two groups: healthy postmenopausal subjects (control group) and osteoporotic subjects treated with alendronate (alendronate group). Mandibular bone samples were retrieved with a trephine bur at the time of dental implant placement and fixed in 4% formalin. Samples were processed for hard tissue histology, and the bone surface was analyzed for nanohardness measurement. Nanohardness and elastic modulus were evaluated by using a Berkovich tip with elastic modulus of 1.016x106 MPa, Poisson coefficient of 0.3, and a load of 100 mN. Each cycle was configured with a load time of 18 seconds (speed of 1 mN/second), the discharge time of 18 seconds, and a rest time of 5 seconds during indentation at a depth of 10 µm. RESULTS: The control group presented the highest values for nanohardness and elastic modulus (p less than 0.05) in relation to the osteoporotic subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that treatment with alendronate negatively influenced the mechanical properties of mandibular bone in postmenopausal women by reducing bone nanohardness and elastic modulus.

In vitro evaluation of enamel surface roughness and morphology after orthodontic debonding: Traditional cleanup systems versus polymer bur.

INTRODUCTION: The primary aim of this randomized in vitro study was to compare the effectiveness of carbide, fibreglass and polymer burs on resinous remnant removal after bracket debonding, by the evaluation of enamel surface roughness and morphology. The secondary objective was to compare the time dispended on the procedures. METHODS: The buccal surfaces of 28 bovine incisors were analysed by a profilometer to initial roughness measurement (Ra-T1). Brackets were bonded with a light-cured resin and debonded with a debonding plier. The samples were randomly divided into four groups, according to the bur used (n=7): A-Tungsten carbide; B-Fibreglass; C-Polymer; D-Polymer with 75% ethanol pre-treatment. The second roughness measurements were made after resin removal (Ra-T2). Time for removal procedures was also recorded. The third measurements were made after polishing (Ra-T3). Scanning Electronic Microscopy was performed in two samples of each group: after resin removal and after polishing. Results of roughness and time measurements were statically analysed by analysis of variance with post-hoc Bonferroni. RESULTS: After polishing, tungsten carbide (P=0.1555) and fibreglass burs provided final surface roughness statistically similar to the baseline condition (P=1.0000). Yet, polymer burs, associated (P<0.0001) or not to alcohol (P<0.0001), provided surface roughness significantly higher when compared to baseline values. Polymer burs were more time-consuming on resinous remnant removal than tungsten carbide and fibreglass burs (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Polymer burs were less effective and more time-consuming to remove the remaining resin than tungsten carbide and fibreglass burs. The polishing step created smoother surfaces regardless of the burs used for resin removal.

Clinical Evaluation of In-Office Dental Bleaching Using a Violet Light-Emitted Diode.

Objective: To clinically evaluate the effect of the violet light-emitted diode (LED) light (405-410 nm) associated to in-office dental bleaching with 35% carbamide peroxide, on tooth color change and sensitivity. Participant's satisfaction after treatment was also evaluated. Materials and methods: A total of 50 participants were selected and randomized into a treatment group (n = 25): G1-two bleaching sessions of 30 min each, with 7-day interval (D0 and D7); G2-two bleaching sessions (same protocol as G1) associated with violet LED light, 30 min each session. The color evaluation was performed before and after 7 days of the second session (D0 and D14); the medium third of buccal surface of canine and central incisor teeth were evaluated under VITA Shade Guide and spectrophotometry (subjective and objective). Tooth sensitivity was evaluated immediately after the treatment and after 48 h of each bleaching session (D0, D2, D7, and D9), and a self-perception questionnaire was applied on D14. Results: Data were subjected to nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and both canine and central incisor teeth presented color change. Group G2 showed significantly more change than G1. Fisher's exact test showed no statistically significant dental sensitivity differences between groups. Both groups reported a high level of satisfaction but chi-square test showed statistically higher satisfied patients with dental bleaching in G2 than G1. Conclusions: The violet LED light (405-410 nm) could improve dental bleaching effectiveness, without sensitivity increase.

Effect of different power settings of Er,Cr:YSGG laser before or after tribosilicatization on the microshear bond strength between zirconia and two types of cements.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different output powers of Er,Cr:YSGG laser and the association with tribochemical silica coating on the bond strength between zirconia ceramic and two resin cements. One hundred ninety-two zirconia ceramic bars (IPS e-max ZirCAD Ivoclar Vivadent-) were sectioned (6 × 6 × 4 mm), sintered, and randomly divided into 12 groups for each cement system according to the surface treatment (n = 8): C-without treatment (control); R-tribochemical coating + resin cement (control); 2L-laser (2.0 W) + resin cement; 2LR-laser (2.0 W) + tribochemical coating + resin cement; R2L-tribochemical coating + laser (2.0 W) + resin cement; 2.5L-laser (2.5 W) + resin cement; 2.5LR-laser (2.5 W) + tribochemical coating + resin cement; R2.5L-tribochemical coating + laser (2.5 W) + resin cement; 3L-laser (3.0 W) + resin cement; 3LR-laser (3.0 W) + tribochemical coating + resin cement, R3L-tribochemical coating + laser (3.0 W) + resin cement; and RPHO-tribochemical + resin cement + photoactivation (control). After the surface treatment, the respective primers were applied, and resin cements, Multilink N, Ivoclar Vivadent (M), and Panavia F 2.0, Kuraray Medical Inc. (P), were inserted into Tygon molds which were bonded to the zirconia bars. Each specimen received two cements bars. After 24 h of storage in a relative humidity (100%) at 37 °C, they were evaluated by the microshear test speed of 1 mm/min. The microshear values were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). ANOVA showed statistically significant differences among the evaluated groups. The highest bond strength was observed in RPHO, which statistically differed from all groups. The lowest bond strength was observed in M2.5L (Multilink N) and in P3LR (Panavia F 2.0). It can be concluded that the lowest power output tested was suitable and showed bond strength values similar to tribochemical silica deposition. The light curing is important to adhesion and the tribosilicatizated surface achieves similar microshear values to untreated surface in absence of light.

Er,Cr:YSGG Laser Energy Delivery: Pulse and Power Effects on Enamel Surface and Erosive Resistance.

BACKGROUND: High power lasers have been suggested as a useful tool for dental caries and erosion prevention due to the increase of enamel acid resistance. OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the effect of Er,Cr:YSGG (erbium,chromium:yttrium, scandium, gallium, garnet) laser irradiation pulse frequency and power on enamel surface and acid erosion resistance. METHODS: By combining pulse frequency (5-75 Hz) and power settings (0.10-1.00 W), 20 irradiated groups and one nonirradiated control group were tested. A total of 63 bovine enamel blocks (n = 3/group) were prepared for surface hardness and roughness evaluation, performed in three phases: baseline, after irradiation, and after erosive challenge. Enamel blocks were irradiated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser with MZ8 tip (iPlus; Waterlase, Biolase, CA) for 30 sec according to experimental group and submitted. Erosive challenge consisted of four cycles alternating immersion in 0.01 M HCl (5 mL/mm2; 2 min; at 37°C) and immersion in artificial saliva for 3 h. Analysis of variance (three-way ANOVA), Tukey's test, and Pearson correlation were performed for the statistical analysis (p < 0.05). RESULTS: After irradiation, groups irradiated with pulse frequency of 10 and 15 Hz showed a decrease in surface hardness. After erosive challenge, 5 and 75 W groups showed increase in surface hardness; 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 W groups showed minor alterations in surface roughness. CONCLUSIONS: the irradiation of Er,Cr:YSGG laser with different parameters of power and pulse frequency settings may alter enamel surface and erosive resistance differently. Pulse frequency of 30 Hz and power of 0.50 W was considered the best parameter to prevent enamel acid erosion.

Efficiency of polymerization of bulk-fill composite resins: a systematic review.

This systematic review assessed the literature to evaluate the efficiency of polymerization of bulk-fill composite resins at 4 mm restoration depth. PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched with no restrictions on year, publication status, or article's language. Selection criteria included studies that evaluated bulk-fill composite resin when inserted in a minimum thickness of 4 mm, followed by curing according to the manufacturers' instructions; presented sound statistical data; and comparison with a control group and/or a reference measurement of quality of polymerization. The evidence level was evaluated by qualitative scoring system and classified as high-, moderate- and low- evidence level. A total of 534 articles were retrieved in the initial search. After the review process, only 10 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria. Most articles included (80%) were classified as high evidence level. Among several techniques, microhardness was the most frequently method performed by the studies included in this systematic review. Irrespective to the "in vitro" method performed, bulk fill RBCs were partially likely to fulfill the important requirement regarding properly curing in 4 mm of cavity depth measured by depth of cure and / or degree of conversion. In general, low viscosities BFCs performed better regarding polymerization efficiency compared to the high viscosities BFCs.

Comparing depth-dependent curing radiant exposure and time of curing of regular and flow bulk-fill composites.

The effect of restoration depth on the curing time of a conventional and two bulk-fill composite resins by measuring microhardness and the respective radiosity of the bottom surface of the specimen was investigated. 1-, 3- and 5-mm thick washers were filled with Surefil SDR Flow-U (SDR), Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill-IVA (TEC) or Esthet-X HD-B1 (EHD), and cured with Bluephase® G2 for 40s. Additional 1-mm washers were filled with SDR, TEC or EHD, placed above the light sensor of MARC®, stacked with pre-cured 1-, 3- or 5-mm washer of respective material, and cured for 2.5~60s to mimic 2-, 4- and 6-mm thick composite curing. The sensor measured the radiosity (EB) at the bottom of specimen stacks. Vickers hardness (VH) was measured immediately at 5 locations with triplicate specimens. Nonlinear regression of VH vs EB by VH=α[1-exp(-EB/ß)] with all thickness shows that the values of α, maximum hardness, are 21.6±1.0 kg/mm2 for SDR, 38.3±0.6 kg/mm2 for TEC and 45.3±2.6 kg/mm2 for EHD, and the values of ß, rate parameter, are 0.40±0.06 J/cm2 for SDR, 0.77±0.04 J/cm2 for TEC and 0.58±0.09 J/cm2 for EHD. The radiosity of the bottom surface was calculated when the bottom surface of each material attained 80% of α of each material. The curing times for each material are in agreement with manufacturer recommendation for thickness. It is possible to estimate time needed to cure composite resin of known depth adequately by the radiosity and microhardness of the bottom surface.

Efficiency of polymerization of bulk-fill composite resins: a systematic review

Abstract This systematic review assessed the literature to evaluate the efficiency of polymerization of bulk-fill composite resins at 4 mm restoration depth. PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched with no restrictions on year, publication status, or article's language. Selection criteria included studies that evaluated bulk-fill composite resin when inserted in a minimum thickness of 4 mm, followed by curing according to the manufacturers' instructions; presented sound statistical data; and comparison with a control group and/or a reference measurement of quality of polymerization. The evidence level was evaluated by qualitative scoring system and classified as high-, moderate- and low- evidence level. A total of 534 articles were retrieved in the initial search. After the review process, only 10 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria. Most articles included (80%) were classified as high evidence level. Among several techniques, microhardness was the most frequently method performed by the studies included in this systematic review. Irrespective to the "in vitro" method performed, bulk fill RBCs were partially likely to fulfill the important requirement regarding properly curing in 4 mm of cavity depth measured by depth of cure and / or degree of conversion. In general, low viscosities BFCs performed better regarding polymerization efficiency compared to the high viscosities BFCs.

Analysis of Human Tooth Pulp Chamber Temperature After 670 nm Laser Irradiation: In Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVE: One of the limiting factors of employing laser radiation on dental therapies is the potential of causing thermal injuries to pulp tissues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate intra-chamber temperature increase on extracted human teeth exposed to 670 nm wavelength InGaAlP laser diode radiation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In vitro intra-chamber temperature measurements of 12 standardized human teeth (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars; n = 3) were taken both before and after laser radiation. A type-K thermocouple fast-response thermocouple wire with a 0.5 mm diameter probe was inserted into the tooth pulp chamber (ICEL-Manaus-brand). The laser device Lasotronic-brand InGaAlP laser diode was used to irradiate tooth enamel, perpendicularly to the external surface for 30 sec, with power of levels of 340, 272, 204, 136, and 68 mW. The measurements were taken at three time points: 0, 30 sec, and 3 min after the laser irradiation. Measurements were repeated 24 h after removal and reinsertion of the probe in the pulp chamber. The temperature gradient (ΔT in °C) was calculated (ΔT = final temperature-initial temperature) for each group. Data of ΔT were statistically analyzed by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the 95% confidence level and compared by Tukey post hoc test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: ANOVA showed statistically significant differences to the interaction of factors (p < 0.05). The highest ΔT values obtained were observed to incisors with 340 mW, 272 mW; 204 mW of power (respectively 4.7°C, 4.2°C, and 3.1°C); and canines presented the lowest ΔT (0.8°C-0.3°C) with no influence of power output. CONCLUSIONS: Since the thermal increase was observed in this study, especially in incisors, attention should be paid to avoid pulpal damage.

Effects of radiant exposure values using second and third generation light curing units on the degree of conversion of a lucirin-based resin composite.

OBJECTIVE: Using Fourier transform infrared analysis (FTIR) in vitro, the effects of varying radiant exposure (RE) values generated by second and third generation LED LCUs on the degree of conversion (DC) and maximum rate of polymerization (Rpmax) of an experimental Lucirin TPO-based RC were evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 1 mm or 2 mm thick silicon molds were positioned on a horizontal attenuated total reflectance (ATR) unit attached to an infrared spectroscope. The RC was inserted into the molds and exposed to varying REs (18, 36 and 56 J/cm2) using second (Radii Plus, SDI) and third generation LED LCUs (Bluephase G2/Ivoclar Vivadent) or a quartz tungsten based LCU (Optilux 501/SDS Kerr). FTIR spectra (n=7) were recorded for 10 min (1 spectrum/s, 16 scans/spectrum, resolution 4 cm-1) immediately after their application to the ATR. The DC was calculated using standard techniques for observing changes in aliphatic to aromatic peak ratios both prior to, and 10 min after curing, as well as during each 1 second interval. DC and Rpmax data were analyzed using 3-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (p=0.05). RESULTS: No significant difference in DC or Rpmax was observed between the 1 mm or 2 mm thick specimens when RE values were delivered by Optilux 501 or when the 1 mm thick composites were exposed to light emitted by Bluephase G2, which in turn promoted a lower DC when 18 J/cm2 (13 s) were delivered to the 2 mm thick specimens. Radii Plus promoted DC and Rpmax values close to zero under most conditions, while the delivery of 56 J/cm2 (40 s) resulted in low DC values. CONCLUSIONS: The third generation LCU provided an optimal polymerization of Lucirin TPO-based RC under most tested conditions, whereas the second generation LED-curing unit was useless regardless of the RE.

Effects of radiant exposure values using second and third generation light curing units on the degree of conversion of a lucirin-based resin composite

Abstract Alternative photoinitiators with different absorption wavelengths have been used in resin composites (RCs), so it is crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of light-curing units (LCUs) on these products. Objective Using Fourier transform infrared analysis (FTIR) in vitro, the effects of varying radiant exposure (RE) values generated by second and third generation LED LCUs on the degree of conversion (DC) and maximum rate of polymerization (Rpmax) of an experimental Lucirin TPO-based RC were evaluated. Material and Methods 1 mm or 2 mm thick silicon molds were positioned on a horizontal attenuated total reflectance (ATR) unit attached to an infrared spectroscope. The RC was inserted into the molds and exposed to varying REs (18, 36 and 56 J/cm2) using second (Radii Plus, SDI) and third generation LED LCUs (Bluephase G2/Ivoclar Vivadent) or a quartz tungsten based LCU (Optilux 501/SDS Kerr). FTIR spectra (n=7) were recorded for 10 min (1 spectrum/s, 16 scans/spectrum, resolution 4 cm-1) immediately after their application to the ATR. The DC was calculated using standard techniques for observing changes in aliphatic to aromatic peak ratios both prior to, and 10 min after curing, as well as during each 1 second interval. DC and Rpmax data were analyzed using 3-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test (p=0.05). Results No significant difference in DC or Rpmax was observed between the 1 mm or 2 mm thick specimens when RE values were delivered by Optilux 501 or when the 1 mm thick composites were exposed to light emitted by Bluephase G2, which in turn promoted a lower DC when 18 J/cm2 (13 s) were delivered to the 2 mm thick specimens. Radii Plus promoted DC and Rpmax values close to zero under most conditions, while the delivery of 56 J/cm2 (40 s) resulted in low DC values. Conclusions The third generation LCU provided an optimal polymerization of Lucirin TPO-based RC under most tested conditions, whereas the second generation LED-curing unit was useless regardless of the RE.

Microwave radiation is effective at disinfecting dental stone surfaces without changing their physical properties.

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of different microwave radiation regimens for disinfection of type IV dental stone surfaces and to assess the influence of these regimens on surface roughness and dimensional change following disinfection. Three hundred cylindrical (20 × 2-mm) test specimens were made in type IV stone and divided into subgroups of 20 according to the microorganisms tested (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, or Candida albicans) and the 900-W microwave radiation protocol (cycles of 3, 5, or 7 minutes; a positive control; or a negative control). To test physical changes, 80 test specimens were made with the same dimensions except that they had 2 parallel and symmetrical indentations measuring 8 × 4 mm. These specimens were divided into 4 subgroups of 20 each (a subgroup for each radiation time and a negative control). The mean dimensional change and roughness data were analyzed by mixed models for repeated measures and Tukey-Kramer tests. Disinfection was analyzed with descriptive statistics. For E coli and C albicans, all radiation times proved effective at sterilizing the test specimens. For S aureus, sterilization was achieved with 5 and 7 minutes of exposure; however, colonies were observed in 10 Petri dishes (50%) exposed to 3 minutes of microwave radiation. No statistically significant difference in dimensional change or surface roughness was observed for any radiation regimen (P > 0.05).

The effect of dilution on the erosive potential of maltodextrin-containing sports drinks / Efeito da diluição no potencial erosivo de bebidas esportivas contendo maltodextrina

Introduction: The increasing consumption of maltodextrin-containing sports drinks, usually acidic, during physical activity may cause dental erosion. Objective: To evaluate the effect of dilution on the erosive potential of maltodextrin-containing sports drinks. Methodology: Five samples of five maltodextrin-containing sports drinks [Sports Nutrition (SN), Body Action (BA), New Millen (NM), Athletica Nutrition (AN), Integral Medica (IM)] were diluted with distilled water in three different proportions: as recommended by manufacturer (rec), with 20% more powder (20+) and with 20% less powder (20-) than recommended. Their pH and titratable acidity (volume of 1N NaOH necessary to raise pH to 5.5) were determined. Result: The pH and titratable acidity differed among the products, and pH values differed among the dilutions. All sports drinks showed pH below the critical pH for dental enamel demineralization. There was a significant negative correlation between pH and titratable acidity (p <0.01; r = -0.795). Conclusion: Changes in the dilution of maltodextrin-containing sports drinks affected their pH, but not their titratable acidity.

Introdução: O consumo de bebidas esportivas contendo maltodextrina durante a atividade física tem aumentado. Geralmente elas são ácidas, podendo causar erosão dentária. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da diluição sobre o potencial erosivo de bebidas esportivas contendo maltodextrina. Metodologia: Cinco amostras de cinco bebidas esportivas contendo maltodextrina [Sports Nutrition (SN), Body Action (BA), New Millen (NM), Atlhetica Nutrition (AN), Integral Medica (IM)] foram diluídas com água destilada em três diferentes proporções: como recomendado pelo fabricante (REC), com 20% a mais de pó (20+) e com 20% a menos de pó (20-) do que o recomendado. Foram determinados o seu pH e titrabilidade ácida (volume de NaOH 1N necessário para elevar o pH para 5,5). Resultado: O pH e titrabilidade ácida foram diferentes entre os produtos. Os valores de pH foram diferentes entre as diluições. Todas as bebidas esportivas apresentaram pH abaixo do pH crítico para a desmineralização do esmalte dental. Houve uma correlação negativa significativa entre o pH e a titrabilidade ácida (p <0,01; r = -0,795). Conclusão: Pequenas alterações na diluição de bebidas esportivas contendo maltodextrina podem afetar o seu pH, mas não a sua titrabilidade ácida.

Comparing depth-dependent curing radiant exposure and time of curing of regular and flow bulk-fill composites

Abstract The effect of restoration depth on the curing time of a conventional and two bulk-fill composite resins by measuring microhardness and the respective radiosity of the bottom surface of the specimen was investigated. 1-, 3- and 5-mm thick washers were filled with Surefil SDR Flow-U (SDR), Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill-IVA (TEC) or Esthet-X HD-B1 (EHD), and cured with Bluephase® G2 for 40s. Additional 1-mm washers were filled with SDR, TEC or EHD, placed above the light sensor of MARC®, stacked with pre-cured 1-, 3- or 5-mm washer of respective material, and cured for 2.5~60s to mimic 2-, 4- and 6-mm thick composite curing. The sensor measured the radiosity (EB) at the bottom of specimen stacks. Vickers hardness (VH) was measured immediately at 5 locations with triplicate specimens. Nonlinear regression of VH vs EB by VH=α[1-exp(-EB/β)] with all thickness shows that the values of α, maximum hardness, are 21.6±1.0 kg/mm2 for SDR, 38.3±0.6 kg/mm2 for TEC and 45.3±2.6 kg/mm2 for EHD, and the values of β, rate parameter, are 0.40±0.06 J/cm2 for SDR, 0.77±0.04 J/cm2 for TEC and 0.58±0.09 J/cm2 for EHD. The radiosity of the bottom surface was calculated when the bottom surface of each material attained 80% of α of each material. The curing times for each material are in agreement with manufacturer recommendation for thickness. It is possible to estimate time needed to cure composite resin of known depth adequately by the radiosity and microhardness of the bottom surface.