Modeler liquids: Effect on the cohesive strength, color and staining resistance of stratified resin composite restorations.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of filled and unfilled modeler liquids on the cohesive strength and color stability when applied in between the resin composite layers in the stratification technique and on the uppermost surface layer. METHODS: For the cohesive strength test (n= 10), 30 cylindrical samples were packed into a Teflon mold (6x2 mm) in 2 mm increments. Firstly, a dentin-shade resin composite (Empress Direct) was placed, followed by the accommodation of a body-shade resin composite (Filtek Z350 XT) and an enamel-shade resin composite (Estelite Omega). Before photoactivation of each increment, an unfilled (Signum Liquid) or filled (Modeling Resin) modeler liquid was applied between the first and second layers and on the uppermost surface layer. The control group (n= 10) did not receive modeler liquid. Cohesive strength was measured in a universal testing machine. For the color test (n= 10), the other 30 samples were fabricated for the cohesive strength test, except for the difference in the diameter (6x6 mm). Before and after the staining of the samples, color was measured using the CIEL*a*b* system with a spectrophotometer (EasyShade). Data were submitted to ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis test, or Mann-Whitney test (α= 5%). RESULTS: Modeler liquids significantly increased cohesive strength (P= 0.008), while ΔEab (P= 0.003) and ΔE00 (P= 0.005) values presented significantly lower changes for the groups that received modeler liquids, with no significant difference between unfilled and filled modeler liquids. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Apart from increasing the interfacial strength of stratified restorations, modeler liquids minimized staining.

Salivary, acidic and enzymatic degradation of resin composite subjected to different finishing and polishing systems.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different finishing and polishing systems on the surface roughness of a resin composite subjected to simulated saliva-, acid-, and enzyme-induced degradation. METHODS: 160 specimens (n= 40) were fabricated with Filtek Z350 XT nanofilled composite and analyzed for average surface roughness (Ra). The specimens were finished and polished using: AD - Al2O3-impreginated rubberized discs (medium, fine, and superfine grit, Sof-Lex); SD - silicon carbide and Al2O3-impregnated rubberized discs (coarse, medium and fine grit, Jiffy,); MB - 12- and 30-multiblade burs. The control group (CT) (n= 40) comprised specimens with a Mylar-strip-created surface. Specimens from each group were immersed in 1 mL of one of the degradation methods (n= 10): artificial saliva (ArS: pH 6.75), cariogenic challenge (CaC: pH 4.3), erosive challenge (ErC: 0.05M citric acid, pH 2.3) or enzymatic challenge (EzC: artificial saliva with 700 µg/mL of albumin, pH 6.75). The immersion period simulated a time frame of 180 days. Ra measurements were also performed at the post-polishing and post-degradation time points. The data were evaluated by three-way ANOVA for repeated measures and the Tukey tests. RESULTS: There was significant interaction between the finishing/polishing system and the degradation method (P= 0.001). AD presented the greatest smoothness, followed by SD. After degradation, CT, AD and SD groups became significantly rougher, but not the MB group, which presented no difference in roughness before or after degradation. CT and AD groups showed greater roughness in CaC, ErC and EzC than in ArS. The SD group showed no difference in roughness when the specimens were polished with CaC, EzC or ArS, but those treated with ErC had greater roughness. In the MB group, the lower roughness values were found after using CaC and EzC, while the higher values were found using ErC or ArS. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: As far as degradation resistance of nanofilled composite to hydrolysis, bacterial and dietary acids and enzymatic reactions is concerned, restorations that had been finished and polished with Al2O3-impregnated discs had the smoothest surfaces.

Effects of in vitro erosion on surface texture, microhardness, and color stability of resin composite with S-PRG fillers.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of acid erosion on different physical properties of resin composite with S-PRG (surface pre-reacted glass) fillers, by conducting simulations of intrinsic and extrinsic sources. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cylindrical samples (Ø6 vs. 2 mm) of a conventional nanohybrid resin composite (Forma, Ultradent) and of a nanohybrid resin composite with S-PRG filler (Beautifil II, Shofu) were exposed to erosive cycling (5 days), based on (n=12) remineralizing solution (control); 0.3% citric acid (pH=2.6); or 0.01 M hydrochloric acid (pH=2). Roughness (Ra), microhardness (KHN), and color (CIEL*a*b*, CIEDE2000, and Vita scale (SGU)) factors were analyzed at the initial and final time points, and the general color changes (ΔEab, ΔE00, ΔSGU) were calculated. Final images were obtained using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The data were evaluated by generalized models, Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn tests (α=0.05). RESULTS: Regarding KHN, there was no difference between the groups or the time periods (p = 0.74). As for Ra, there was a significant increase in the Ra of both composites after cycling with hydrochloric acid, but only the resin composite with S-PRG filler showed a change in Ra after cycling with citric acid (p = 0.003). After cycling with citric and hydrochloric acid, the highest Ra values were found for the resin composite with S-PRG filler (p < 0.0001), corroborating the result of images (SEM) indicating loss of filler and porosities in this material. The resin composite with S-PRG filler showed higher ΔEab and ΔE00, in addition to more negative ΔSGU values and lower L* values after exposure to both acids, compared to the control (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The acidic conditions altered the roughness and color stability of the materials tested, pointing out that the resin composite containing S-PRG filler showed greater degradation of its physical properties than the conventional resin composite. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Bioactive materials are relevant, considering that their properties interact with dental hard tissues; however, the S-PRG-based resin composite showed greater degradation under acidic conditions than the conventional resin composite.

Titanium dioxide nanotubes in a hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching agent: physicochemical properties and effectiveness of dental bleaching under the influence of a poliwave led light activation.

OBJECTIVES: The effects of different concentrations of titanium dioxide (TiO2) into 40% hydrogen peroxide (HP) were evaluated as regards the effectiveness of dental color change either associated with activation by polywave LED light or not. MATERIALS AND METHODS: TiO2 (0, 1, 5, or 10%) was incorporated into HP to be applied during in-office bleaching (3 sessions/40 min each). Polywave LED light (Valo Corded/Ultradent) was applied or not in activation cycles of 15 s (total time of 2 min). The color of 80 third molars separated into groups according to TiO2 concentration and light activation (n = 10) was evaluated at baseline and at time intervals after the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd bleaching sessions. RESULTS: WID value was significantly higher when using HP with 5% TiO2 in the 2nd session than the values in the other groups (p < 0.05). After the 2nd and 3rd sessions, the ΔEab value was significantly higher when activated with light (p < 0.05) for all agents containing TiO2 or not. Zeta potential and pH of the agents were not modified by incorporating TiO2 at the different concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: The 5% TiO2 in the bleaching agent could enhance tooth bleaching, even without light application. Association with polywave LED light potentiated the color change, irrespective of the presence of TiO2 in the bleaching gel. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: HP with 5% TiO2 could lead to a greater tooth bleaching response in the 2nd clinical session, as well as the polywave light can enhance color change.

Smoothness provided by a one-step finishing and polishing system and its maintenance after 12-month aging.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the smoothness provided by a one-step finishing and polishing system and its maintenance after hydrothermal aging and brushing of a nanofilled resin composite. METHODS: 96 samples of the nanofilled composite Filtek Z350 XT were fabricated, which, after initial average roughness (Ra) analysis, were randomly distributed into three groups, according to the selected finishing and polishing system. The multi-step systems Sof-Lex (aluminum oxide discs) and Jiffy (bullet-shaped abrasive rubbers), and the one-step system OneGloss (bullet-shaped abrasive rubber) were used. After finishing and polishing, a new Ra measurement was performed, and then half of the samples from each group were stored in artificial saliva for 12 months, while the other half underwent aging processes associating hydrothermal cycles (10,000 cycles at 5-55°C) followed by brushing (5,500 strokes), with a mid-abrasive (Crest Cavity Protection) dentifrice slurry, simulating a 12-month period in the oral cavity. Final Ra measurements were performed, and data were analyzed by generalized linear model and Tukey's test (α= 5%). RESULTS: There was interaction between finishing and polishing system and aging (P< 0.001). The one-step abrasive rubber point provided significantly higher Ra values compared to the multi-step systems, and with the discs there was higher smoothness than with the rubber point sequence. This result was maintained after 12 months in artificial saliva, but after hydrothermal cycles followed by brushing, one-step and multi-step abrasive rubber points no longer significantly differed from each other. Only for the one-step system, hydrothermal cycles followed by brushing significantly reduced Ra. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Although hydrothermal cycles followed by brushing may have increased the smoothness of nanofilled composite finished and polished with the one-step system, only the multi-step system provided a surface within the roughness threshold to avoid biofilm retention.

Effect of simplified or multi-step polishing techniques on roughness and color stability of resin composites.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the impact of simplified or multi-step polishing techniques on the roughness, color, and susceptibility to staining of different resin composites. METHODS: Discs (Ø6 mm x 2 mm) were obtained from different resin composites [nanofilled (Z350XT), suprananofilled (Estelite Omega), and nanohybrid (Forma)]. The specimens (n= 15) were submitted to a simplified protocol using abrasive discs (Sof-Lex) and spiral discs (Diacomp Plus Twist), or a multi-step protocol using abrasive discs (Sof-Lex), abrasive points (Jiffy), silicon carbide brush and felt disc with diamond pastes (Diamond Polish). The specimens were evaluated initially for roughness (Ra) and color (CIEL*a*b*, CIEDE 2000), after completing the polishing protocol, and after exposure to a coffee solution (pH= 5.01). The data were analyzed according to the variables, using generalized linear models, and the Friedman, Nemenyi, Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, and Mann-Whitney tests (α= 0.05). RESULTS: The nanohybrid resin composite showed an increase in Ra following use of both polishing methods (P= 0.038). Both techniques promoted an increase in L* values after polishing; however, the general color changes (ΔEab and ΔE00) were greater after the multi-step polishing (P< 0.05). After immersion in coffee, the multi-step polished groups of the nanohybrid and suprananofilled resin composite showed higher L* values than the simplified polishing groups (P= 0.023), and the nanofilled resin composite showed higher ΔEab and ΔE00 values than the other resin composites, regardless of the polishing technique (P< 0.05). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The choice of the resin composite had a greater effect on roughness, color stability and susceptibility to staining than the polishing technique. However, luminosity after coffee staining was higher with the multi-step polishing technique.

Varnish with S-PRG filler reduces dentin permeability after erosive/abrasive challenge.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different varnishes on dentin permeability to erosive/abrasive challenges. METHODS: 60 superficial dentin discs were randomly allocated to six groups (n=10): Duraphat, PRG Barrier Coat, Clinpro XT, Profluorid, Fluor Protector S and untreated (control). Permeability tests were carried out: after acid conditioning, after treatment, and after abrasive/erosive challenges. The abrasive-erosive challenges were performed for 5 days (citric acid and in remineralizing saliva), as well as abrasion with toothpaste slurry (Colgate Total 12). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images were obtained of the dentin surfaces (5,000x) after the treatments, and after the erosive/abrasive challenges. RESULTS: Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests showed that all the varnishes promoted a decrease in dentin permeability directly after application, with Clinpro XT showing the highest percentage (69.52%) of dentin sealing (P= 0.0188). After the erosive/abrasive challenge, only PRG Barrier Coat varnish showed dentin sealing ability with reduced dentin permeability (42.16%) (P= 0.0014). However, none of the applied varnishes promoted a statistically significant difference in the percentage of dentin sealing, compared with the control group (P> 0.05). Clinpro XT showed a higher percentage of dentin sealing, while only PRG Barrier Coat showed reduced dentin permeability after the erosive/abrasive challenge. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Varnish containing S-PRG filler has the efficacy needed to be used as a coating material to reduce dentin permeability in situations of erosive/abrasive challenges.

Long-term bond strength of ormocer-based resin composites using a universal adhesive used in different adhesive strategies.

PURPOSE: To evaluate over time the bond strength to dentin of different resin composites (RBCs) associated with the universal adhesive system applied with self-etching or total-etching strategies. METHODS: 60 human third molars were obtained, randomly divided into experimental groups (n= 10) according to RBCs: methacrylate-based nanofilled (Z350 XT); low-viscosity Ormocer-based bulk-fill (Admira Fusion X-base Universal); or high-viscosity Ormocer-based bulk-fill composite (Admira Fusion X-tra). The adhesion procedure was performed using a universal adhesive (Futurabond U) applied in self-etching or total-etching mode. Occlusal preparations (Class I) were made, measuring 4 mm in mesiodistal length, 4 mm in depth, and 3 mm in buccolingual height. The cavities were restored considering the RBCs and adhesive strategies, and the light curing was performed using a LED unit (BluePhase) as recommended by the manufacturers. For this, the nanofilled RBCs were inserted by the oblique incremental technique while the bulk-fill RBCs were inserted in single increments. The samples were stored in water for 24 hours in an oven; to be sectioned, the sticks were randomly separated, stored in distilled water for 24 hours (immediate) or 12 months (long-term), and taken to the universal machine for a microtensile test (MPa). The fractured sticks were examined to classify the type of fracture. The results were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α= 0.05). RESULTS: The MPa values of methacrylate-based nanofilled or high-viscosity Ormocer-based RBC were not affected by the strategy used to apply the universal adhesive system (P> 0.05). However, for the low-viscosity Ormocer-based RBC, higher values were obtained when the total-etching strategy was used compared to the self-etching mode (P< 0.05). After 12 months, when using the total-etching strategy low-viscosity Ormocer-based RBC, higher MPa values were obtained compared to the other materials (P< 0.05). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Regardless of the adhesive strategy used, the high-viscosity RBCs, whether based on methacrylate or Ormocer, showed similar adhesive behavior. Low-viscosity Ormocer-based RBC showed greater long-term bond strength associated with the universal adhesive applied in the total-etching strategy.

Influence of alveolar bone height on the biomechanical behavior of roots restored with custom-made posts-and-cores.

OBJETIVE: This study evaluated the influence of alveolar bone height and post type on compressive force resistance, fracture pattern, and stress distribution in endodontically treated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine roots were endodontically treated and divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to alveolar bone height (normal alveolar bone and alveolar bone loss - 2 and 5 mm from the margin of the crown, respectively) and post type (prefabricated glass fiber post, anatomic glass fiber post, customized milled glass fiber post-and-core and customized milled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post-and-core). Mechanical fatigue was simulated (300.000 cycles/50 N/1.2 Hz). Compression force resistance (N) was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Fracture patterns were described as percentages. Stress distribution was analyzed by finite element analysis. RESULTS: Significant diferences were found for alveolar bone height (P < 0.0001): normal alveolar bone groups showed higher mean values of compression force resistance compared to alveolar bone loss groups, while no significant differences were found for post type (P = 0.4551), and there was no double interaction between them (P = 0.5837). Reparable fractures were more predominant in normal alveolar bone groups, especially in the milled glass fiber and PEEK post-and-core groups. Stress distribution was similar in groups with prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled PEEK posts-and-cores, and the alveolar bone loss condition significantly increased stress concentration and strain values, mainly on apical dentin. CONCLUSIONS: Alveolar bone loss due to physiological aging and/or periodontal disease may lead to increased risk of restored tooth failure, although milled glass fiber and PEEK posts-and-cores provide more reparable fractures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Custom-made glass fiber and PEEK post-and-cores are interesting options, since they enable clinicians to work with a single-body post-and-core system that avoid several materials interfaces and fits well in the root canal provided promising results to improve the failure behavior of restored roots, as they offer more reparable fractures even in situations of alveolar bone loss.

Biomechanical behavior of weakened roots restored with custom-made post-and-cores of glass fiber and polyetheretherketone.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of post type and mechanical aging on compression force resistance, fracture pattern, and stress distribution in weakened roots. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine roots were endodontically treated and widened-and randomly divided into 8 groups (n = 10) according to post type (prefabricated glass fiber post and customized anatomic glass fiber post, milled glass fiber post-and-core, and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-core) and mechanical aging (without and with mechanical aging). Three hundred thousand cycles of mechanical fatigue were performed and compression force resistance (N) was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Fracture patterns were reported and stress distribution was analyzed by finite elements analysis. RESULTS: There was a significant effect of post type (p = 0.032) and mechanical aging (p = 0.009), but no double interaction (p = 0.879). Higher values were recorded in the milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-core groups compared to the prefabricated glass fiber post groups, and no significant difference was found among anatomic glass fiber post groups and other groups. Reparable fractures were predominant in the milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-core groups. Prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-cores showed similar stress distribution. CONCLUSIONS: Post type and mechanical aging influence the compression force resistance and fracture pattern of weakened roots. Milled glass fiber and polyetheretherketone post-and-cores exhibited higher compression force resistance and more reparable fractures compared to prefabricated glass fiber posts. Prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled polyetheretherketone post-and-cores showed similar stress distribution.

Effect of different polishing systems and staining solution on surface roughness and color stability of bulk fill resin composites.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of polishing systems (discs or rubbers) on surface roughness (Ra) and color change (ΔE) of two bulk fill and one conventional resin composite after immersion in a dye solution. METHODS: 180 samples (10 mm x 2 mm) were separated into three groups: (1) Resin composite: Filtek One Bulk Fill (FO), Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill (TNC), Filtek Z350 XT (FXT) (n= 60); (2) polishing system: unpolished (control); aluminum oxide discs (Sof-Lex, AOD); cup-shaped abrasive rubber polishers (Astropol, CSA) (n= 20), and (3) immersion solutions: coffee or distilled water (n= 10). Immersion was under 5 mL of each solution for 3 hours daily, for 30 days. Measurement of Ra and ∆E was made considering two times: initial (after polishing) and final (after immersion), in addition to surface analysis by scanning electron microscopy at the end. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney, and Dunn (α= 0.05) was used. RESULTS: For the unpolished samples after immersion in coffee, TNC (P= 0.007) showed lower ΔE than FXT and FO. For polished samples with CSA and immersed in coffee, TNC followed by FXT showed lower ΔE than in the absence of polishing. Polishing with AOD and immersed in coffee: FO had smaller ΔE than when not polished. For Ra, TNC and FO had lower values after using AOD, whereas for FXT lower Ra was noted with CSA. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The roughness and color stability of resin composites are mediated by the polished material, polishing system and dye solution. The best results were found for Tetric N-Ceram polished with aluminum oxide discs.

Dental implant-abutment fracture resistance and wear induced by single-unit screw-retained CAD components fabricated by four CAM methods after mechanical cycling.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) methodologies allow the fabrication of custom dental implant abutments with a variety of materials and techniques. Studies on the mechanical strength of such components and the wear induced at their coupling interface during mechanical cycling are sparse. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to measure the wear patterns at the hexagonal platform of dental implants induced by the installation and mechanical cycling of custom abutments fabricated by using 4 different CAD-CAM methods and to determine the compressive static resistance of the implant-abutment combinations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A CAD software program was used to design a custom abutment for a single-unit screw-retained external hexagon dental implant crown. The same design file was used to manufacture with 4 CAM methods (N=40): milling and sintering of zirconium dioxide (ZO), cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) sintered by selective laser melting (SLM), fully sintered machined Co-Cr alloy (MM), and machined and sintered agglutinated Co-Cr alloy powder (AM). Prefabricated titanium abutments were used as a control (TI). Each abutment was installed onto a dental implant (4.1×11 mm), and the specimens were mechanically aged (1 million cycles, 2 Hz, 100N, 37 °C). After mechanical cycling, the hexagonal connection of the dental implants was examined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and unused dental implants (NI) were examined as a control (n=10). The images were analyzed with a software program to quantify the areas that showed wear. The implant-abutment combinations were reassembled and submitted to a compression test (1mm/min) with a universal testing machine. The data obtained were submitted to 1-way ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: The mean ±standard deviation fracture load (N) of the specimens of each group were 1005 ±187 (ZO), 1074 ±123 (SLM), 1033 ±109 (MM), 1019 ±149 (AM), and 923 ±129 (TI). These values were statistically similar (P=.213). The mean ±standard deviation wear of the implants in squared-pixels were 1.1 ±0.38×105 (ZO), 2.0 ±0.29×105 (SLM), 1.0 ±0.38×105 (MM), 1.1 ±0.27×105 (AM), 1.1 ±0.33×105 (TI), and 0.51 ±0.29×105 (NI). The results indicated that, although significantly higher than those in in the control group (NI), the wear values found in the groups TI, ZO, MM, and AM were significantly lower than in the SLM group (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: The CAD-CAM abutments presented the same mechanical fracture load and wear measurements as the TI group, except for the SLM material, which showed increased wear. The failure mode from the load bearing test was the fracture of the abutments for the ZO group. The implants permanently deformed or fractured for the metal abutment groups.

Influence of calcium lactate and fluoride solution mouthrinses on tooth sensitivity and effectiveness of color change during in-office bleaching: A randomized clinical trial.

PURPOSE: To conduct a clinical evaluation of calcium lactate and sodium fluoride mouthrinses in reducing sensitivity and efficacy of color change during in-office bleaching. METHODS: 75 participants were selected and divided into three groups (n= 25), according to the type of desensitizing treatment tested: calcium lactate mouthrinse prior to sodium fluoride mouthrinse before each bleaching session; daily mouthrinse with sodium fluoride; control (absence of mouthrinse). Each mouthrinse was used for 1 minute. Bleaching was performed following the same protocol in all groups, with 40% hydrogen peroxide (Opalescence Boost), in three 40-minute sessions, with a 48-hour interval between sessions. Clinical parameters such as sensitivity, gingival irritation and mouthrinse acceptability were assessed using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and clinical examination at two timepoints: baseline (before any treatment) and 48 hours after the end of treatment. The color was evaluated with a spectrophotometer (VITA Classical scale guide, 3D Master guide and CIEL*a*b*). The data were analyzed by generalized linear models and by one-way ANOVA. RESULTS: There was significant color change in all groups according to the VITA Classical scale guide (P< 0.001). There was no significant difference among the groups for ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* and ΔE over time (P> 0.05). The control group presented a significant increase in sensitivity (P= 0.008). The other groups showed no significant difference between initial and final timepoints (P> 0.05). No symptoms of gingival irritation were observed in any of the groups evaluated. All desensitizing treatments presented high acceptability. Bleaching treatment was effective, regardless of association with desensitizing treatments. No treatment prevented bleaching sensitivity, but the absence of a combined desensitizing treatment led to increased sensitivity. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Although bleaching sensitivity during in-office bleaching treatment cannot be avoided, daily fluoridated mouthrinse or calcium lactate used prior to fluoridated mouthrinse prevented its increase.

Impact of infant protein supply and other early life factors on plasma metabolome at 5.5 and 8 years of age: a randomized trial.

OBJECTIVES: A high dairy protein intake in infancy, maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, and delivery mode are documented early programming factors that modulate the later risk of obesity and other health outcomes, but the mechanisms of action are not understood. METHODS: The Childhood Obesity Project is a European multicenter, double-blind, randomized clinical trial that enrolled healthy infants. Participating infants were either breastfed (BF) or randomized to receive higher (HP) or lower protein (LP) content formula in the first year of life. At the ages 5.5 years (n = 276) and 8 years (n = 232), we determined plasma metabolites by liquid chromatography tandem-mass-spectrometry of which 226 and 185 passed quality control at 5.5 years and 8 years, respectively. We assessed the effects of infant feeding, maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, smoking in pregnancy, delivery mode, parity, birth weight and length, and weight gain (0-24 months) on the metabolome at 5.5 and 8 years. RESULTS: At 5.5 years, plasma alpha-ketoglutarate and the acylcarnitine/BCAA ratios tended to be higher in the HP than in the LP group, but no metabolite reached statistical significance (Pbonferroni>0.09). There were no group differences at 8 years. Quantification of the impact of early programming factors revealed that the intervention group explained 0.6% of metabolome variance at both time points. Except for country of residence that explained 16% and 12% at 5.5 years and 8 years, respectively, none of the other factors explained considerably more variance than expected by chance. CONCLUSIONS: Plasma metabolome was largely unaffected by feeding choice and other early programming factors and we could not prove the existence of a long term programming effect of the plasma metabolome.

Clinical and radiographic evaluation of high viscosity bulk-fill resin composite restorations.

PURPOSE: To perform a clinical and radiographic evaluation comparing Filtek Bulk Fill high viscosity bulk-fill resins with Filtek Z350 XT nanoparticulate for 1 year. METHODS: 58 restorations were performed for each material (bulk-fill and nanoparticulate), for a total of 116 restorations. Among these, 42 Class I and 16 Class II restorations were performed for each group, in molars and premolars. Clinical evaluation was performed 7 days (baseline), 6 months and 1 year after restorations, using the World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria. Radiographs were obtained at 7 days and 1 year after the restoration was placed and the radiopacity was measured using Image J software at the same time interval. RESULTS: Of the 70 restorations available for evaluation at 1 year, the Mann-Whitney and Friedman tests showed no statistically significant difference for the FDI criteria analyzed. Greater radiopacity was observed for bulk-fill resin compared to nanoparticulate (two-way ANOVA, P= 0.022). This same test showed no difference in radiopacity between the groups in the two evaluation periods (P= 0.062). The high viscosity bulk-fill resin composite presented similar clinical performance to nanoparticulate resin in this evaluation period and higher radiopacity was observed for this material when compared to nanoparticulate resin, in both time periods. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The high viscosity bulk-fill resin composite showed similar performance to the nanoparticulate resin during the evaluation period of 1 year. Radiopacity showed high values for the bulk-fill resin when compared to nanoparticulate resin. The bulk-fill resin has potential to be used in posterior teeth.

Are All Breast-fed Infants Equal? Clustering Metabolomics Data to Identify Predictive Risk Clusters for Childhood Obesity.

OBJECTIVES: Fetal and early life represent a period of developmental plasticity during which metabolic pathways are modified by environmental and nutritional cues. Little is known on the pathways underlying this multifactorial complex. We explored whether 6 months old breast-fed infants could be clustered into metabolically similar groups and that those metabotypes could be used to predict later obesity risk. METHODS: Plasma samples were obtained from 183 breast-fed infants aged 6 months participating in the European multicenter Childhood Obesity Project study. We measured amino acids along with polar lipid concentrations (acylcarnitines, lysophosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylcholines, sphingomyelins). We determined the metabotypes using a Bayesian agglomerative clustering method and investigated the properties of these clusters with respect to clinical, programming, and metabolic factors up to 6 years of age. RESULTS: We identified 20 metabolite clusters comprising 1 to 39 children. Phosphatidylcholines predominantly influenced the clustering process. In the largest clusters (n ≥ 14), large differences existed for birth length (unadjusted P < 0.0001) and length and weight at 6 months (unadjusted P < 0.0001 and P = 0.012, respectively). Infants tended to cluster together by country (unadjusted P < 0.001). The body mass index (BMI) z score at 6 years of age tended to differ (unadjusted P = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS: Our exploratory study provided evidence that breast-fed infants are not metabolically homogeneous and that variation in metabolic profiles among infants may provide insight into later development and health. This work highlights the potential of metabotypes for identifying inter-individual differences that may form the basis for developing personalized early preventive strategies.

Effect of sucralfate against hydrochloric acid-induced dental erosion.

OBJECTIVE: Devising effective measures for the prevention of hydrochloric acid (HCl)-induced erosion is of great significance. This is even more important in dentine, in which products have limited diffusion. Therefore, agents that can bind to proteins forming an acid-resistant gel-like coat, such as sucralfate, may stand out as a promising alternative. This study investigated the protective effect of sucralfate suspensions against HCl-induced dental erosion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the first experiment, hydroxyapatite (HAp) crystals were pre-treated with a commercial sucralfate suspension (CoSS, pH 5.9), a stannous-containing sodium fluoride solution (NaF/SnCl2 pH 4.5), two prepared sucralfate suspensions (PrSS, pH 5.9 and 4.5), or deionized water (DI, control). HAp dissolution was measured using a pH-stat system. In a subsequent experiment, embedded/polished enamel and root dentine slabs were allocated into five groups to be treated with one of the tested substances prior to and during erosion-remineralization cycles (HCl-2 min + artificial saliva 60 min, two times per day, 5 days). Surface loss was assessed profilometrically. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's tests. RESULTS: HAp dissolution was as follows: NaF/SnCl2 < CoSS < PrSS/pH 4.5, while PrSS/pH 5.9 = DI and both did not differ from CoSS and PrSS/pH 4.5. In enamel, surface loss did not differ between CoSS and PrSS/pH 4.5, with both having lower surface loss than PrSS/pH 5.9 and DI and NaF/SnCl2 differing only from DI. In root dentine, surface loss was as follows: CoSS < PrSS/pH 5.9 < (NaF/SnCl2 = DI), while PrSS/pH 4.5 = CoSS = PrSS/pH 5.9. CONCLUSION: Sucralfate suspension provided anti-erosive protection to HCl-induced erosion. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Sucralfate may protect teeth against erosion caused by gastric acid.

Influence of ceramic laminate on water sorption, solubility, color stability, and microhardness of resin cements.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of ceramic laminate on color stability, surface microhardness, water sorption, and solubility of resin luting agents. METHODS: Disk-shaped specimens (10 × 2 mm) of dual-cured resin cements (RelyX ARC or RelyX Ultimate) were obtained, and a light-cured luting agent (RelyX Veneer) was used. In Experiment 1, disk-shaped resin cements (n = 10) were submitted to: I) polymerization with or without ceramic laminate (0.7 mm), and II) immersion in distilled water or coffee, 3 hours daily for 20 days. The surface microhardness loss (%SML) was determined, and the color variables were assessed by the CIE L*a*b* system (ΔE, ΔL*) and the shade guide units (ΔSGU). In Experiment 2, other disk-shaped specimens (n = 5) were submitted to polymerization with or without ceramic laminate to assess their water sorption (WS) and solubility (S). Statistical analysis was performed using 3-way ANOVA and Tukey's test for ΔE, ΔL* and %SML; Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn's tests for ΔSGU; and 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test for WS and S. The significance level was set at 5%. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences among the resin cements was observed for %SML, WS, or S, regardless of stain exposure or presence of ceramic laminate during light activation. Coffee caused a significant decrease in ΔL* values. All the resin cements presented visually detectable color alteration for ΔE; however, RelyX Ultimate showed less color change after coffee exposure. RelyX ARC showed the greatest color change in water. RelyX Veneer presented the highest values of ΔSGU, compared with the other resin cements. The WS, S, and %SML of resin cements were not influenced by the staining solution or the presence of ceramic laminate during light activation; however, RelyX Ultimate resin cement presented the best color stability. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Resin cements can present color changes over time, affecting the long-term esthetic success of laminate ceramic restorations. RelyX Ultimate resin cement presented the best color stability, thus making it a suitable indication for cementing ceramic laminates.

At-home, in-office and combined dental bleaching techniques using hydrogen peroxide: Randomized clinical trial evaluation of effectiveness, clinical parameters and enamel mineral content.

PURPOSE: To conduct a clinical evaluation of dental bleaching techniques using hydrogen peroxide (HP), regarding tooth sensitivity, gingival irritation, subject's perception of color change, and calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) concentrations in enamel. METHODS: 75 volunteers were distributed according to the bleaching technique (n=25): (a) at-home: 10%HP (Opalescence GO) for 15 days of continuous use (1 hour per day); (b) in-office: 40%HP (Opalescence Boost) in three clinical sessions (40 minutes each session); (c) combined: one initial session with 40%HP, and the rest with 10%HP for 15 days of continuous use. Clinical evaluations and Ca and P concentration collections were obtained before, during bleaching treatment, and 15 days after conclusion of treatment. The generalized linear models were used to evaluate the data for VITA Classical scale, CIELAB, tooth sensitivity, degree of acceptability of the technique, Ca and P concentrations and to determine the ΔE variables and color change perception. Gingival irritation was analyzed by Fisher's Exact test. The total frequencies for each time interval (regardless of bleaching technique) were compared at 50% by the chi-square test. RESULTS: The in-office technique presented the lowest tooth sensitivity, but all techniques caused an increase in sensitivity over time (P< 0.0001). All techniques resulted in lower Ca and P concentrations in enamel at each time point, compared with the baseline concentrations. Calcium concentrations did not differ significantly among the treatments (P= 0.9360). Phosphorus concentration at the 8th day was higher for the in-office technique group (P< 0.05). All the bleaching techniques were effective in altering color, with ΔE values higher than 3.3, without any significant differences (P= 0.3255). Higher occurrence of gingival irritation was observed for at-home and combined techniques. The combined technique seemed to promote a color change faster than the other techniques. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: All the dental bleaching techniques proved equally effective in promoting tooth color change. These techniques may reduce calcium and phosphorous content in enamel. The at-home and the combined techniques may cause greater dental sensitivity than the in-office technique, and led to a higher prevalence of gingival irritation.

Incorporation of ZnCl2 into an etch-and-rinse adhesive system on flexural strength, degree of conversion and bond durability to caries-affected dentin.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of a zinc chloride (ZnCl2) solution (2% wt), incorporated into a two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system (AS), on microtensile bond strength (µTBS) to caries-affected dentin (CAD). METHODS: First, the degree of conversion (DC) of the AS with and without the ZnCl2 solution was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Second, beam-shaped samples (7 mm × 2 mm × 1 mm) were prepared with the AS containing the ZnCl2 solution to perform flexural strength (FS) tests. For µTBS testing purposes, CAD surfaces were etched with phosphoric acid and randomly divided into three groups (n=10) : ZnCl2- AS with ZnCl2; NT (no treatment)- AS without ZnCl2; and CHX - pretreatment with 2% chlorhexidine solution. AS (Adper Single Bond 2) was applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and resin composite restorations were built up. After 24 hours, the resin-dentin blocks were sectioned into specimens (0.8 mm2), and then subjected to micro;TBS testing immediately following, or after 6 or 12 months of water storage (WS). The adhesive interface was evaluated by scanning electron microscope. Both µTBS and FS tests were performed using a universal testing machine ( 0.5 mm/minute). FS and DC data were submitted to the Student t-test, and µTBS data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α= 0.05). RESULTS: DC was not affected by ZnCl2 incorporation into AS (P= 0.2527). Higher FS values were obtained in the group with ZnCl2 added to AS. Regarding µTBS, the mean of the NT group was statistically higher than that of the ZnCl2 or the CHX groups (P< 0.001(, regardless of WS, but the latter groups did not differ from each other. µTBS at 24 hours was statistically superior to that of 6 and 12 months of WS (P< 0.001).