Effect of Er:YAG Laser Etching on the Shear Bond Strength and Microleakage of Self-Glazed Zirconia Ceramics.

Objective: To investigate the effect of Er:YAG laser irradiation on the shear bond strength (SBS) and microleakage of self-glazed zirconia (SZ) ceramics. Background: SZ is a novel type ceramic; laser irradiation has started to be used in the surface treatment of different ceramics, while SZ has been rarely studied to improve the bond quality. Methods: One hundred twenty blocks (5 mm × 5 mm × 5 mm) of SZ ceramics were produced and split into eight groups following different surface treatments (n = 15): Group A: no treatment; Group B: standard grid processing; and Group C-H: different Er:YAG laser power settings (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 mJ). Ten blocks of each group received the measurement of SBS and fracture mode analysis, three blocks underwent the evaluation of the microleakage depths, and the other two blocks were observed under the scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). Results: Group F obtained the highest SBS and the lowest microleakage depth without damaging the ceramic surface structure, which was statistically significant compared with the control group and gridding group (p < 0.05), whereas the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) between group E and group F. The results of bonding performance were consistent with failure types and observation of surface characterizations in SEM images. Conclusions: According to the results here, Er:YAG irradiation had effect on surface treatment. In addition, 400 mJ Er:YAG could increase the SBS and decrease the microleakage depth on SZ ceramics without damaging the surface structure.

Radiotherapy impairs adhesive bonding in permanent teeth.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the in vitro effects of radiotherapy (RT) on the morphological surface of the enamel and dentin and to determine the best adhesive system and most appropriate time to restore teeth in head and neck cancer patients. METHODS: Sixty third molars were cut into 120 enamel fragments and 120 dentin fragments and divided into four groups (n = 30): G1 (control): nonirradiated, only restorative procedure; G2: restorative procedure immediately before RT; G3: restorative procedure immediately after RT; and G4: restorative procedure 6 months after RT. Each group was divided into two subgroups: Adper™ Single Bond 2 (SB) and Clearfill SE Bond (CL) based on the material used. After RT and restorative procedures, the specimens were subjected to confocal microscopy and shear bond strength test. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test at a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: Morphological changes were observed in both substrates after a cumulative dose of 40 Gy, and after 60 Gy, the changes were more evident in both substrates. CL had the highest strength values in both substrates (p < 0.05), and G2 had the lowest strength values for the enamel and dentin (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the in vitro study results, we can conclude that RT substantially changes the morphological surface of enamel and dentin and impairs the bond strength. The Clearfill system yielded better results than Adper Single Bond 2, and restoring teeth before RT resulted in the worst results in both substrates.

Evaluation of Intra Root Canal Er,Cr:YSGG Laser Irradiation on Prosthetic Post Adherence.

PURPOSE: In clinical prosthetics procedures, including endodontics and post fixation, the presence of a smear layer can reduce the post bond strength. An Er,Cr:YSGG laser, which emits at 2780 nm, can promote a smear-layer-free surface due to the ablation process. Considering these aspects, the purpose of this work was to evaluate the influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation using either a radial or an axial fiber tip on the bond strength of three resin cements to the fiber-reinforced composite posts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety recently extracted single rooted human teeth had their root canal instrumented and were randomly distributed into nine experimental groups, in which three resin cements (total-etching Variolink II, self-etching Panavia F, and self-adhesive RelyX Unicem Aplicap) and three root canal treatments (no treatment, laser irradiation using the radial fiber tip, laser irradiation using the axial fiber tip) were used. Specimens were then sectioned into three sections (cervical, middle, and apical thirds) with two slices on each section. A push-out test was performed on each slice, and the values were recorded as MPa. The push-out data were analyzed by a Ryan-Joiner normality test followed by a two-way ANOVA test and Tukey pairwise comparison. The statistical analysis was performed on each third section separately, with a 5% significance level. RESULTS: Laser irradiation with axial fiber tip significantly increased the post bond strength of RelyX Unicem Aplicap on middle third of specimens (p < 0.001) when compared to other root canal treatments (unlased or irradiated with radial tip). Considering the Panavia resin cement, laser irradiation with either axial or radial tips promoted a significant increase on the post bond strength of middle third when compared to unlased specimens (p < 0.001); however, laser irradiation did not influence the post bond strength of Variolink resin cement. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser for clinical prosthetics procedures enhances the post bond strength of Panavia and RelyX Unicem Aplicap resin cements, mainly at middle third of roots, and does not interfere with the bond strength of Variolink resin cement. For the RelyX Unicem Aplicap system, the use of axial tip is most advantageous and can be recommended for future clinical application.

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.

Longevity of bond strength of resin cements to root dentine after radiation therapy.

AIM: To evaluate the bond strength and adhesive interface between several resin cements and root dentine immediately and 6 months after radiotherapy. METHODOLOGY: Sixty maxillary canines were selected and randomly assigned to two groups (n = 30): one group was not irradiated and the other one was subjected to a cumulative radiation dose of 60 Gy. The teeth were sectioned to obtain roots 16 mm long and the canals were prepared with the Reciproc system (R50) and filled using a lateral condensation technique with an epoxy resin sealer. Each group was divided into three subgroups (n = 10) according to the resin cement used for fibreglass fibre post cementation: RelyX-U200, Panavia-F2.0 and RelyX ARC. The posts were cemented in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Three 1-mm-thick dentine slices were then obtained from each root third. The first two slices in the crown-apex direction of each third were selected for the push-out test. The failure mode after debonding was determined with a stereo microscope. The third slice from each root third was selected for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses to examine the resin cement-dentine interface with 100, 1000, 2000 and 4000× magnification. Bond strength data were analysed by anova and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Significantly lower bond strength (P < 0.0001) was obtained after irradiation compared to nonirradiated teeth. RelyX-U200 cemented fibre posts had the higher bond strength (15.17 ± 5.89) compared with RelyX ARC (P < 0.001) and Panavia-F2.0 (P < 0.001). The evaluation after 6 months revealed lower bond strength values compared to the immediate values (P < 0.001) for irradiated and nonirradiated teeth. Cohesive failures occurred in the irradiated dentine. SEM revealed fractures, microfractures and fewer collagen fibres in irradiated root dentine. RelyX-U200 and Panavia-F2.0 were associated with a juxtaposed interface of the cement with the radicular dentine in irradiated and nonirradiated teeth, and for RelyX ARC, hybrid layer formation and tags were observed in both irradiated and nonirradiated teeth. CONCLUSION: Radiation was associated with a decrease in the push-out bond strength and with lower resin cement/root dentine interface adaptation. Self-adhesive resin cement was a better alternative for fibre post cementation in teeth subjected to radiation therapy. The bond strength decreased after 6 months.

Effect of Laser Etching on Glass Fiber Posts Cemented with Different Adhesive Systems.

BACKGROUND: Glass fiber-reinforced posts have been preferred frequently because of some physical properties similar to the dentin, chemically bonding to dentin, biocompatibility, and esthetics. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the microleakage and bond strength of glass fiber posts cemented with various adhesive systems on laser-etched root canal walls. METHODS: Roots of 120 human mandibular premolars were divided into two groups for push-out bond strength test and the microleakage test (n = 60). Erbium-doped yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser etching of the root canal walls was carried out on half of the specimens in both test groups. The laser-treated and laser-nontreated groups were divided again into three subgroups (n = 10). Glass fiber posts (everStick Post) were luted using three different resin cements: total-etch (Variolink N), self-etch (Panavia F 2.0), and self-adhesive (Rely X Unicem). Three dentin discs were obtained from each root, and the bond strength of the glass fiber posts was measured by push-out tests. The dye penetration method was used to investigate coronal microleakage. In addition, surface treatments and the bonding interfaces were observed using scanning electron microscope. RESULTS: The highest bond strengths were observed for the total-etch and self-adhesive resin cement groups with laser etching (p < 0.05), and the lowest bond strength was obtained for the self-etch resin cement group (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in terms of microleakage (p > 0.05), except for the self-adhesive resin cement group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Er:YAG laser etching enhances the bonding strength of glass fiber posts. In addition, laser etching can reduce microleakage of self-adhesive resin cement.

Light curing resin cements containing iodonium salts promote suitable apical bonding of posts to radicular dentin

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the efficiency of experimental light-curing resin cements (ERCs) with a ternary photo-initiator system containing diphenyliodonium hexafluorphosphate (DPI) and different amines on retention of glass-fiber posts to dentin (GFP). ERCs formulations: a 1:1 mass ratio of 2,2-bis[4-(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloxypropoxy)phenylpropane and triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate. Camphorquinone was used as initiator. Six experimental groups were established according to the amine used: [ethyl-4-(dimethylamino)benzoate-EDMAB or 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate-DMAEMA] and the concentration of DPI (0, 0.5 mol%, 1 mol%). The resin cements Variolink II (dual- and light-cured versions) were used as commercial reference. Eighty recently extracted bovine incisors (n = 10) were selected for this study. The roots were prepared and the fiber posts were cemented with the resin cement specified for each experimental group. Specimens from coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root were subjected to push-out bond strength test 24 hours after bonding. Data were subjected to split-plot ANOVA and the Tukey test (p = 0.05). ERCs containing DPI showed statistically significant higher bond strengths compared with ERCs without DPI. ERCs containing DPI were statistically similar to VARIOLINK II - dual-cured and superior to VARIOLINK II - light-cured (except for EDMAB - 1DPI in the medium third and DMAEMA - 1DPI in the coronal third). Different amines did not influence post retention. The apical root region showed the lowest bond strength for the groups EDAB-0DPI, DMAEMA-0DPI and VARIOLINK II light-cured. Light-cured ERCs containing DPI were efficient for GFP retention to radicular dentin, with similar behaviour to that of dual-curing commercial resin cement.

Does the CO2 laser reduce bond strength in different types of ceramic brackets?

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess in vitro the influence of the CO2 laser and of the type of ceramic bracket on the shear bond strength (SBS) to enamel. METHODS: A total of 60 enamel test surfaces were obtained from bovine incisors and randomly assigned to two groups, according to the ceramic bracket used: Allure (A); Transcend (T). Each group was divided into 2 subgroups (n = 15): L, laser (10W, 3s); C, no laser, or control. Twenty-four hours after the bonding protocol using Transbond XT, SBS was tested at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min in a universal testing machine. After debonding, the Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was evaluated at 10 x magnification and compared among the groups. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tukey’s, Mann-Whitney’s and Kruskal-Wallis tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Mean SBS in MPa were: AL = 0.88 ± 0.84; AC = 12.22 ± 3.45; TL = 12.10 ± 5.11; TC = 17.71 ± 6.16. ARI analysis showed that 73% of the specimens presented the entire adhesive remaining on the tooth surfaces (score 3). TC group presented significantly higher SBS than the other groups. The lased specimens showed significantly lower bond strength than the non-lased groups for both tested brackets. CONCLUSION: CO2 laser irradiation decreased SBS values of the polycrystalline ceramic brackets, mainly Allure.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar in vitro a influência do laser de CO2 sobre a resistência ao cisalhamento da colagem (RCC) no esmalte dentário, usando diferentes tipos de braquetes cerâmicos. MÉTODOS: no total, 60 superfícies de esmalte de incisivos bovinos foram obtidas e aleatoriamente divididas em dois grupos, de acordo com o braquete cerâmico utilizado: Allure (A) e Transcend (T). Cada grupo foi dividido em dois subgrupos (n = 15): L, laser (10W, 3s); C, sem laser, ou controle. Vinte e quatro horas após a colagem dos braquetes com o sistema Transbond XT, foi realizado o teste de resistência ao cisalhamento, com velocidade de 0,5 mm/min, em máquina universal de ensaios mecânicos. Após a descolagem, o Índice de Remanescente de Adesivo (IRA) foi avaliado com aumento de 10X e comparado entre os grupos. Os dados foram analisados pelo ANOVA one-way, testes de Tukey’s, Mann-Whitney’s e Kruskal-Wallis (α = 0,05). RESULTADOS: as médias da RCC em MPa foram: AL = 0,88 ± 0,84; AC = 12,22 ± 3,45; TL = 12,10 ± 5,11; TC = 17,71 ± 6,16. A análise do IRA mostrou que 73% dos corpos de prova apresentaram todo o compósito remanescente aderido à superfície do esmalte (escore 3). O grupo TC apresentou valor significativamente maior de RCC do que os outros grupos. Os corpos de prova dos grupos com laser obtiveram valores adesivos significativamente menores do que os corpos de prova dos grupos sem laser, com ambos os tipos de braquetes. CONCLUSÃO: a irradiação com laser de CO2 diminuiu os valores de RCC dos braquetes policristalinos testados, principalmente do Allure.

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.

Effects of Different Radiation Doses on the Bond Strengths of Two Different Adhesive Systems to Enamel and Dentin.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of three different radiation doses on the bond strengths of two different adhesive systems to enamel and dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty human third molars were randomly divided into four groups (n = 20) according to the radiation dose (control/no radiation, 20 Gy, 40 Gy, and 70 Gy). The teeth were sagittally sectioned into three slices: one mesial and one distal section containing enamel and one middle section containing dentin. The sections were then placed in the enamel and dentin groups, which were further divided into two subgroups (n = 10) according to the adhesive used. Three restorations were performed in each tooth (one per section) using Adper Single Bond 2 (3M ESPE) or Universal Single Bond (3M ESPE) adhesive system and Filtek Z350 XT (3M ESPE) resin composite and subjected to the microshear bond test. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test. Failure modes were examined under a stereoscopic loupe. RESULTS: Radiotherapy did not affect the bond strengths of the adhesives to either enamel or dentin. In dentin, the Universal Single Bond adhesive system showed higher bond strength values when compared with the Adper Single Bond adhesive system. More adhesive failures were observed in the enamel for all radiation doses and adhesives. CONCLUSION: Radiotherapy did not influence the bond strength to enamel or dentin, irrespective of the adhesive or radiation dose used.

Influence of cyclic loading on the adhesive effectiveness of resin-zirconia interface after femtosecond laser irradiation and conventional surface treatments.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of cyclic loading on the shear bond strength (SBS) of a self-adhesive resin cement to zirconia surfaces after femtosecond laser irradiation at different steps and several conventional surface treatments. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred fifty square-shaped zirconia samples were divided into five groups according their surface treatment: NT Group-no surface treatment; APA25 Group-airborne abrasion with 25 µm alumina particles; TSC Group-tribochemical silica coating; FS20 Group-femtosecond laser irradiation (800 nm, 4 mJ, 40 fs/pulse, 1 kHz, step 20); and FS40 Group-femtosecond laser irradiation (same parameters except step 40). Self-adhesive resin cement cylinders were bonded at the centre of the zirconia surface. For each experimental group, half of the specimens were subject to cyclic loading under 90 N (50.000 cycles, 3 cycles/sec) and the rest of the specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C. All subgroups were tested for SBS with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, until fracture. The results were analyzed statistically. RESULTS: When cyclic loading was applied, all surface treatments had lower SBS values, except APA25. The four surface treatments had the same SBS values when cyclic loading was employed. CONCLUSIONS: Use of femtosecond laser irradiation could be an alternative to conventional surface treatments to achieve suitable adhesion zirconia and resin cements. Femtosecond laser irradiation at step 40 is preferable because it is more efficient and faster.

Efeito da variação da densidade de energia da ponta e da frequência na resistência de união à dentina de sistema adesivo convencional irradiado com diferentes laseres de alta potência / Variation of the effect of the energy density of the fiber tip and frequency in bond strength to irradiated conventional dentin bonding system with different high-power LASERs

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o efeito da irradiação de dois tipos de laser (laser Nd:YAG e de Diodo) sobre um sistema adesivo convencional de três passos, utilizando três diferentes densidades de energia da ponta, na resistência de união imediata e após 1 ano. Foram selecionados 70 dentes humanos e cada um teve sua coroa seccionada, expondo a superfície da dentina necessária para os procedimentos adesivos e restauradores. Após o preparo dos dentes, os mesmos foram aleatoriamente subdivididos em 7 grupos (n=10), sendo 6 grupos-teste e um grupo controle. Na sequência, foi aplicado o sistema adesivo Scotchbond™ Multi- Purpose Plus e, antes de sua fotoativação, em três grupos, o laser Nd:YAG foi utilizado com 3 diferentes densidades de energia (1 509,55 J/cm2, 2 254,77 J/cm2 e 3 127,38 J/cm2), o mesmo procedimento com as mesmas densidades foi realizado nos três demais grupos com o laser de Diodo. Após a irradiação seguida da fotoativação, os dentes foram restaurados com incrementos de resina composta Filtek™ Z250. Os dentes restaurados foram então imersos em água deionizada e mantidos em estufa a 37oC por um período de 7 dias. Após o armazenamento, os espécimes foram seccionados de modo que se obtivessem palitos com área transversal de aproximadamente 1mm2. De forma aleatória, estes palitos foram separados em 2 grupos: o primeiro submetido imediatamente a testes de microtração em uma máquina de ensaio universal INSTRON 3342 e segundo submetido ao mesmo processo após 1 ano de armazenamento. Os valores de resistência de união foram submetidos aos testes ANOVA e post hoc de Tukey, para que comparações individuais pudessem ser realizadas. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os lasers utilizados. Os grupos irradiados com ambos os lasers apresentaram resultados similares ao grupo controle, com exceção ao grupo que utilizou o laser de Diodo com menor densidade de energia da (GD3), no qual o resultado foi inferior ao...

The aim of this work was to compare the effect of the irradiation of two types of laser (Nd:YAG and diode laser) on a conventional three-step adhesive system, using three different energy densities of the fiber tip in bond strength immediately and after 1 year. 70 human teeth were selected, and each one had the crown sectioned, exposing the dentin surface for the adhesive and restorative procedures. After teeth preparation, they were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 10), being 6 test-groups and one control group. Thus, the bonding system Scotchbond™ Multi-Purpose Plus was applied, and before light cured, the Nd:YAG laser was used in three groups, with three different energy densities of the fiber tip (1 - 509.55 J/cm2, 2 - 254.77 J/cm2 and 3 - 127.38 J/cm2), the same procedures with the same energy densities of the fiber tip were performed for the diode laser. After irradiation followed by light cured, the teeth were restored with composite resin increments (Filtek™ Z250). The restored teeth were immersed in deionized water and maintained in oven at 37oC for 7 days. After storage, the specimens were sectioned in order to obtain sticks with crosssectional area of approximately 1mm2. Randomly, these sticks were divided into 2 groups: the first one was submitted immediately to microtensile tests in a universal testing machine INSTRON 3342, and the second group was submitted to the same procedure after one year of storage. The bond strength values were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests for individual comparisons. There was no statistically significant difference between the laser s. Irradiated groups showed similar results to the control group, except for the group that used the diode laser with lower energy density of the fiber tip (GD3), in which the results were lower than the control group in the immediate moment. Significant reduction in the values of bond strength were observed, except for the groups that used the diode laser...

Efeito da variação da densidade de energia da ponta e da frequência na resistência de união à dentina de sistema adesivo convencional irradiado com diferentes laseres de alta potência / Variation of the effect of the energy density of the fiber tip and frequency in bond strength to irradiated conventional dentin bonding system with different high-power LASERs

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o efeito da irradiação de dois tipos de laser (laser Nd:YAG e de Diodo) sobre um sistema adesivo convencional de três passos, utilizando três diferentes densidades de energia da ponta, na resistência de união imediata e após 1 ano. Foram selecionados 70 dentes humanos e cada um teve sua coroa seccionada, expondo a superfície da dentina necessária para os procedimentos adesivos e restauradores. Após o preparo dos dentes, os mesmos foram aleatoriamente subdivididos em 7 grupos (n=10), sendo 6 grupos-teste e um grupo controle. Na sequência, foi aplicado o sistema adesivo Scotchbond™ Multi- Purpose Plus e, antes de sua fotoativação, em três grupos, o laser Nd:YAG foi utilizado com 3 diferentes densidades de energia (1 509,55 J/cm2, 2 254,77 J/cm2 e 3 127,38 J/cm2), o mesmo procedimento com as mesmas densidades foi realizado nos três demais grupos com o laser de Diodo. Após a irradiação seguida da fotoativação, os dentes foram restaurados com incrementos de resina composta Filtek™ Z250. Os dentes restaurados foram então imersos em água deionizada e mantidos em estufa a 37oC por um período de 7 dias. Após o armazenamento, os espécimes foram seccionados de modo que se obtivessem palitos com área transversal de aproximadamente 1mm2. De forma aleatória, estes palitos foram separados em 2 grupos: o primeiro submetido imediatamente a testes de microtração em uma máquina de ensaio universal INSTRON 3342 e segundo submetido ao mesmo processo após 1 ano de armazenamento. Os valores de resistência de união foram submetidos aos testes ANOVA e post hoc de Tukey, para que comparações individuais pudessem ser realizadas. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os lasers utilizados. Os grupos irradiados com ambos os lasers apresentaram resultados similares ao grupo controle, com exceção ao grupo que utilizou o laser de Diodo com menor densidade de energia da (GD3), no qual o resultado foi inferior ao...

The aim of this work was to compare the effect of the irradiation of two types of laser (Nd:YAG and diode laser) on a conventional three-step adhesive system, using three different energy densities of the fiber tip in bond strength immediately and after 1 year. 70 human teeth were selected, and each one had the crown sectioned, exposing the dentin surface for the adhesive and restorative procedures. After teeth preparation, they were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 10), being 6 test-groups and one control group. Thus, the bonding system Scotchbond™ Multi-Purpose Plus was applied, and before light cured, the Nd:YAG laser was used in three groups, with three different energy densities of the fiber tip (1 - 509.55 J/cm2, 2 - 254.77 J/cm2 and 3 - 127.38 J/cm2), the same procedures with the same energy densities of the fiber tip were performed for the diode laser. After irradiation followed by light cured, the teeth were restored with composite resin increments (Filtek™ Z250). The restored teeth were immersed in deionized water and maintained in oven at 37oC for 7 days. After storage, the specimens were sectioned in order to obtain sticks with crosssectional area of approximately 1mm2. Randomly, these sticks were divided into 2 groups: the first one was submitted immediately to microtensile tests in a universal testing machine INSTRON 3342, and the second group was submitted to the same procedure after one year of storage. The bond strength values were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests for individual comparisons. There was no statistically significant difference between the laser s. Irradiated groups showed similar results to the control group, except for the group that used the diode laser with lower energy density of the fiber tip (GD3), in which the results were lower than the control group in the immediate moment. Significant reduction in the values of bond strength were observed, except for the groups that used the diode laser...

Evaluation of surface topography of zirconia ceramic after Er:YAG laser etching.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Erbium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser with different pulse lengths on the surface roughness of zirconia ceramic and airborne particle abrasion. BACKGROUND DATA: Er:YAG laser treatment is expected to be an alternative surface treatment method for zirconia ceramics; however, the parameters and success of the application are not clear. METHODS: One hundred and forty zirconia discs (diameter, 10 mm; thickness, 1.2 mm) were prepared by a computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) system according to the manufacturer's instructions. Specimens were divided into 14 groups (n=10). One group was left as polished control, one group was air-particle abraded with Al2O3 particles. For the laser treatment groups, laser irradiation was applied at three different pulse energy levels (100, 200, and 300 mJ) and for each energy level at four different pulse lengths; 50, 100, 300, and 600 µs. Surface roughness was evaluated with an optical profilometer and specimens were evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: Data was analyzed with one way ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparison tests (α=0.05). For the 100 and 200 mJ laser etching groups, 50 and 100 µs laser duration resulted in significantly higher surface roughness compared with air-particle abrasion (p<0.05). The difference among Ra values of 300 µs, 600 µs, and air-particle abrasion groups were not statistically significant (p>0.05). For the 300 mJ laser etching groups; there was no statistically significant difference among the Ra values of 50 µs, 100 µs, 300 µs, 600 µs, and air-particle abrasion groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In order to increase surface roughness and promote better bonding to resin luting agents, Er:YAG laser etching may be an alternative to air-particle abrasion for zirconia ceramics. However, high levels of pulse energy and longer pulse length may have an adverse effect on micromechanical locking properties, because of a decrease in surface roughness.

Influence of light-exposure methods and depths of cavity on the microhardness of dual-cured core build-up resin composites

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Knoop hardness number (KHN) of dual-cured core build-up resin composites (DCBRCs) at 6 depths of cavity after 3 post-irradiation times by 4 light-exposure methods. Material and Methods: Five specimens each of DCBRCs (Clearfil DC Core Plus [DCP] and Unifil Core EM [UCE]) were filled in acrylic resin blocks with a semi-cylindrical cavity and light-cured using an LED light unit (power density: 1,000 mW/cm2)at the top surface by irradiation for 20 seconds (20 s), 40 seconds (40 s), bonding agent plus 20 seconds (B+20 s), or 40 seconds plus light irradiation of both sides of each acrylic resin block for 40 seconds each (120 s). KHN was measured at depths of 0.5, 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0 mm at 0.5 hours, 24 hours, and 7 days post-irradiation. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's compromise post-hoc test with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: For both DCBRCs, at 0.5 hours post-irradiation, the 20 s and 40 s methods showed the highest KHN at depth of 0.5 mm. The 40 s method showed significantly higher KHN than the 20 s method at all depths of cavity and post-irradiation times, except UCE at depth of 0.5 mm (p<0.05). The 120 s method did not result in significantly different KHN at all depths of cavity and post-irradiation times (p>0.05). In DCP, and not UCE, at 24 hours and 7 days post-irradiation, the B+20 s method showed significantly higher KHN at all depths of cavity, except the depth of 0.5 mm (p<0.05). Conclusion: KHN depends on the light-exposure method, use of bonding agent, depth of cavity, post-irradiation time, and material brand. Based on the microhardness behavior, DCBRCs are preferably prepared by the effective exposure method, when used for a greater depth of cavity. .

Prototype of a new tip developed to be coupled to dental light-curing units for optimizing bonding of orthodontic brackets and accessories

OBJECTIVE: development of a new device to be coupled to light-curing units for bonding orthodontic brackets and accessories, and test its efficacy in an in vitro mechanical trial. The inner surface of the device is mirrored and is based on physical concepts of light refraction and reflection. The main advantage of such device is the reduced clinical time needed for bonding and the low possibility of contamination during the process. METHODS: One hundred and twenty specimens were used for testing the shear bond strength of brackets bonded with the device. The Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI) was also determined. The sample was divided into 2 groups. In group 1 a halogen light-curing unit was used while in group 2 a led light-curing unit was used. Each group was then subdivided. In subgroups H1 and L1, a conventional light guide rod was used while in subgroups H2 and L2 bonding was performed with the mirrored device coupled to the tip of the guide light rod. RESULTS: The values obtained for the shear bond strength and the ARI in the subgroups were compared. Results showed that there was no statistically significant difference for the shear strength (p > 0.05) and the ARI (p > 0.05) between the subgroups. CONCLUSION: The tests of mechanical trials and the ARI analysis showed that the new device fulfilled the requirements for bonding orthodontic accessories, and that the time for bonding was reduced to half, being necessary only one light exposure.

OBJETIVO: desenvolver uma nova ponteira para ser acoplada aos aparelhos fotopolimerizadores utilizados para colagem de braquetes e acessórios ortodônticos, e testar sua da efetividade em ensaio mecânico in vitro. A ponteira é espelhada na superfície interna e baseia-se em conceitos físicos de refração e reflexão de luz. Apresenta como principal vantagem o menor tempo clínico durante o procedimento de colagem, reduzindo a possibilidade de contaminação durante o processo. MÉTODOS: por meio de ensaio de resistência ao cisalhamento e determinação do índice remanescente de adesivo (IRA), testou-se a ponteira desenvolvida em 120 corpos de prova. A amostra foi dividia em dois grupos. No grupo 1, foi utilizado aparelho fotopolimerizador de fonte de luz halógena e, no grupo 2, fonte de LED. Cada grupo foi subdividido. Nos subgrupos H1 e L1, utilizou-se a ponteira convencional. Nos subgrupos H2 e L2 a colagem foi feita utilizando a ponteira desenvolvida para a polimerização do material de colagem. RESULTADOS: os valores dos testes de cisalhamento e IRA para os subgrupos foram comparados entre si. Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa para o ensaio de resistência ao cisalhamento (p > 0,05) nem para o IRA (p > 0,05) entre os subgrupos. CONCLUSÃO: os testes de ensaio mecânico, assim como a análise do IRA, mostraram que a nova ponteira desenvolvida cumpriu os requisitos necessários à colagem dos acessórios ortodônticos, e que o tempo de colagem foi reduzido pela metade, sendo necessária uma só incidência.

Effect of Er:YAG laser irradiation on bonding property of zirconia ceramics to resin cement.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate whether or not an erbium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser could improve the bonding property of zirconia ceramics to resin cement. BACKGROUND DATA: Surface treatments can improve the bonding properties of dental ceramics. However, little is known about the effect of Er:YAG laser irradiated on zirconia ceramics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens of zirconia ceramic pieces were made, and randomly divided into 11 groups according to surface treatments, including one control group (no treatment), one air abrasion group, and nine Er:YAG laser groups. The laser groups were subdivided by applying different energy intensities (100, 200, or 300 mJ) and irradiation times (5, 10, or 15 sec). After surface treatments, ceramic pieces had their surface morphology observed, and their surface roughness was measured. All specimens were bonded to resin cement. Shear bond strength was measured after the bonded specimens were stored in water for 24 h, and additionally aged by thermocycling. Statistical analyses were performed using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test for shear bond strength, and Dunnett's t test for surface roughness, with α=0.05. RESULTS: Er:YAG laser irradiation changed the morphological characteristics of zirconia ceramics. Higher energy intensities (200, 300 mJ) could roughen the ceramics, but also caused surface cracks. There were no significant differences in the bond strength between the control group and the laser groups treated with different energy intensities or irradiation times. Air abrasion with alumina particles induced highest surface roughness and shear bond strength. CONCLUSIONS: Er:YAG laser irradiation cannot improve the bonding property of zirconia ceramics to resin cement. Enhancing irradiation intensities and extending irradiation time have no benefit on the bond of the ceramics, and might cause material defect.

Influence of the interposition of ceramic spacers on the degree of conversion and the hardness of resin cements

This study evaluated: I) the effect of photo-activation through ceramics on the degree of conversion (DC) and on the Knoop hardness (KHN) of light- and dual-cured resin cements; and II) two different protocols for obtaining the spectra of uncured materials, to determine the DC of a dual-cured resin cement. Thin films of cements were photo-activated through ceramics [feldspathic porcelain (FP); lithium disilicate glass-ceramics of low translucency (e.max-LT), medium opacity (e.max-MO) and high translucency (e.max-HT); glass-infiltrated alumina composite (IC) and polycrystalline zirconia (ZR)] with thicknesses of 1.5 and 2.0 mm. DC was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Two protocols were used to obtain the spectra of the uncured materials: I) base and catalyst pastes were mixed, and II) thin films of base and catalyst pastes were obtained separately, and an average was obtained. KHN assessment was performed with cylindrical specimens. The results were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α= 0.05). The light-cured cement showed higher DC (61.9%) than the dual-cured cement (55.7%). The DC varied as follows: FP (65.4%), e.max-HT (65.1%), e.max-LT (61.8%), e.max-MO (60.9%), ZR (54.8%), and IC (44.9%). The light-cured cement showed lower KHN (22.0) than the dual-cured (25.6) cement. The cements cured under 1.5 mm spacers showed higher KHN (26.2) than when polymerized under 2.0 mm ceramics (21.3). Regarding the two protocols, there were significant differences only in three groups. Thus, both methods can be considered appropriate. The physical and mechanical properties of resin cements may be affected by the thickness and microstructure of the ceramic material interposed during photo-activation.

Effect of Er:YAG laser pulse duration on shear bond strength of metal brackets bonded to a porcelain surface.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different Er:YAG laser pulse durations on the shear bond strength (SBS) of metal brackets bonded to porcelain with two different adhesive systems. BACKGROUND DATA: Orthodontic brackets do not bond well to feldspathic porcelain surfaces, using resin cement. Various treatment methods have been suggested for the porcelain surface to improve bond strength. Thus far, no orthodontic study has evaluated the effect of different Er-YAG laser pulse durations on porcelain surfaces with or without sandblasting. METHODS: In the present study, 150 porcelain crowns were assigned to 10 groups differing in adhesive system and surface treatment. In five groups, the adhesive system was RelyX(™) U 200 and in the other five, Transbond XT was used. For each adhesive system, the porcelain surfaces were treated in one of five different ways: sandblasted, Er:YAG laser short pulse (SP), Er:YAG laser super short pulse (SSP), sandblasted+SP, or sandblasted+SSP. The sandblasted group with Transbond XT served as the control. SBS test was conducted for each group. Samples were examined by scanning electron microscopy. ANOVA and independent t test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The control group had increased roughness and the highest SBS. Er:YAG laser application to the sandblasted porcelain flattened the roughness, and the effects of SP and SSP were similar. CONCLUSIONS: Er:YAG laser application did not allow for elimination of the hydrofluoric acid step. RelyX U 200 is a viable alternative to Transbond XT on sandblasted porcelain.

Effects of curing protocol and storage time on the micro-hardness of resin cements used to lute fiber-reinforced resin posts

OBJECTIVES: To determine the micro-hardness profile of two dual cure resin cements (RelyX - U100®, 3M-eSPe and Panavia F 2.0®, Kuraray) used for cementing fiberreinforced resin posts (Fibrekor® - Jeneric Pentron) under three different curing protocols and two water storage times. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty 16mm long bovine incisor roots were endodontically treated and prepared for cementation of the Fibrekor posts. The cements were mixed as instructed, dispensed in the canal, the posts were seated and the curing performed as follows: a) no light activation; b) light-activation immediately after seating the post, and; c) light-activation delayed 5 minutes after seating the post. The teeth were stored in water and retrieved for analysis after 7 days and 3 months. The roots were longitudinally sectioned and the microhardness was determined at the cervical, middle and apical regions along the cement line. The data was analyzed by the three-way ANOVA test (curing mode, storage time and thirds) for each cement. The Tukey test was used for the post-hoc analysis. RESULTS: Light-activation resulted in a significant increase in the microhardness. This was more evident for the cervical region and for the Panavia cement. Storage in water for 3 months caused a reduction of the micro-hardness for both cements. The U100 cement showed less variation in the micro-hardness regardless of the curing protocol and storage time. CONCLUSIONS: The micro-hardness of the cements was affected by the curing and storage variables and were material-dependent.