Sealing Carious Fissures with Resin Infiltrant in Association with a Flowable Composite Reduces Immediate Microleakage?

Abstract Objective: To compare the immediate microleakage of carious fissures sealed with a caries infiltrant covered by a flowable composite or solely with a flowable composite. Material and Methods: Extracted carious molars (n=20) were selected and paired among the experimental groups according to caries progression scores. Experimental groups (n=10) were divided according to the following sealing techniques: 1) caries infiltrant (Icon) + flowable composite (Z350 flow); 2) flowable composite (Z350 flow). Specimens were immersed in 3% methylene blue and evaluated in a stereomicroscope. Microleakage scores were attributed independently by two calibrated evaluators and the mode value was considered as the mean for the specimen. Binomial tests were used to test differences between two independent sample proportions at 5% significance level. Results: In the flowable composite group, a higher prevalence of dye penetration along the full depth of the fissure was observed, compared with caries infiltrant + flowable composite (p<0.05). For specimens showing dye penetration up to half of the fissure, in caries infiltrant + flowable composite group, all specimens showed dye penetration into the sealant, but not over the infiltrant. Conclusion: Using caries infiltrant as sealing material under a flowable composite cover is effective to improve the immediate sealing ability in carious fissures compared to sealing with flowable composite.

Characterisation and microleakage of a new hydrophilic fissure sealant - UltraSeal XT® hydro

ABSTRACT Objectives The aim of this study was to characterise the new hydrophilic fissure sealant, UltraSeal XT® hydro™ (Ultradent Products, USA), and to investigate its in vitro resistance to microleakage after placement on conventionally acid etched and sequentially lased and acid etched molars. Material and Methods The sealant was characterised by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Vickers indentation test. Occlusal surfaces of extracted human molars were either conventionally acid etched (n=10), or sequentially acid etched and laser irradiated (n=10). UltraSeal XT® hydro™ was applied to both groups of teeth which were then subjected to 2,500 thermocycles between 5 and 55°C prior to microleakage assessment by fuchsin dye penetration. Results UltraSeal XT® hydro™ is an acrylate-based sealant that achieved a degree of conversion of 50.6±2.2% and a Vickers microhardness of 24.2±1.5 under standard light curing (1,000 mWcm-2 for 20 s). Fluoride ion release is negligible within a 14-day period. SEM and EDX analyses indicated that the sealant comprises irregular submicron and nano-sized silicon-, barium-, and aluminium-bearing filler phases embedded in a ductile matrix. Laser preconditioning was found to significantly reduce microleakage (Mann-Whitney U test, p<0.001). The lased teeth presented enhanced surface roughness on a 50 to 100 μm scale that caused the segregation and concentration of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface. Conclusion Laser preconditioning significantly decreased microleakage and increased enamel surface roughness, which caused zoning of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface.

Pit and Fissure Sealants with Different Materials: Resin Based x Glass Ionomer Cement ­ Results after Six Months

Objective: To compare the retention and superficial characteristics between a new resin-modified glass ionomer sealant and resin sealant. In addition, the teeth sealed were compared to partially erupted first molars (control group) without sealing in relation to the incidence of dental caries. Material and Methods: Initially, 31 children aged 6-8 years participated in this study. The study children showed caries history, but had at least two healthy first molars. A total of 114 teeth were randomly divided into three groups: Clinpro (n=36), Fluroshield (n=38), and control (n=40). The two sealants were applied under relative isolation after previous prophylaxis and enamel etching with phosphoric acid 35% (15s). Clinical evaluation was performed by two calibrated examiners. They evaluated the retention and surface characteristics of the occlusal surface. Results: Fluroshield® showed significantly greater retention than ClinproTM Varnish® XT (p=0.002). However, the performance analysis of the success and failure of retention presented no significant difference between the materials (p=0.141). Concerning to the surface characteristics, Fluroshield performed better than Clinpro after analyzing the marginal deterioration, marginal discoloration, and superficial discoloration (p<0.05). The surface texture of the materials under study was similar (p=0.071). Sealed groups (Clinpro=Fluroshield) showed similar performance in the prevention of dental caries, which was significantly lower than that of control group (p=0.001). Conclusion: Both sealants, Fluroshield® and Clinpro TM Varnish® XT were effective in preventing caries lesion within 6 months, although Fluroshield sealant showed better clinical retention.

Characterization of Mechanical Properties, Fluoride Release and Colour Stability of Dental Sealants

Objective: To compare the mechanical properties, fluoride release, colour stability and spreading characteristics of glass ionomer cement (GIC), compomer (CO), chemical (CR) and light-cured resin based (LR) fissure sealants. Material and Methods: Cylinders were prepared to determine mechanical properties by diametral tensile strength tests (stored for 24h in distilled water at 37°C) and fluoride release (24 hours, 3, 7 and 15 days; deionised water). Disk shaped specimens were prepared to determine colour stability (1 week in pigmenting solution; 37°C; CIE L*a*b*; ΔE). A simplified method of a spreading test was proposed to predict viscosity characteristics of the tested materials. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA followed by T-test (p<0.05). Results: Results showed differences between materials regarding all tested properties. CO was statistically more resistant than the other materials (p<0.05), but no difference was observed between CR and LR. The fluoride release of GICs was significantly higher than the other materials (p<0.05). CO showed lower ΔE than the other materials in the following order: CO

Influence of etching time and bonding strategies on the microshear bond strength of self- and light-cured pit-and-fissure sealants

This study evaluated the impact of extended etching and bonding strategies on the microshear bond strength of three sealant materials. Two pit-and-fissure sealants [FluroShield, Dentsply (light-cured) and AlphaSeal, DFL (self-cured)] and one light-cured flowable composite resin (Permaflo, Ultradent) were evaluated according to different enamel etching times (15 s or 30 s) and bonding procedures (no adhesive application, application of primer/hydrophobic resin or hydrophobic resin only). Intact enamel blocks were obtained from bovine teeth and sealed via the tested protocols. After 24 h, the microshear bond strength test was performed in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Failure modes were classified by stereomicroscopy. Data were submitted to a three-way ANOVA and to Tukey's test (α=0.05). There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) among the materials. Permaflo showed higher bond strength when etched for 30 s alone. Enamel overetching decreased the bond strength of the light-cured sealant. Primer/bond previous treatment improved bond performance for AlphaSeal. In conclusion, from the tested conditions, all sealant materials presented similar bond strength values in relation to bonding protocol and etching time. The flowable composite can be used as a pit-and-fissure sealant. The use of a three-step adhesive system was essential for the self-cured sealant application.

Este trabalho avaliou o impacto de tempos aumentados de condicionamento ácido e da estratégia adesiva na resistência de união por microcisalhamento de três materiais utilizados como selantes de fóssulas e fissuras. Dois tradicionais selantes, [FluroShield, Dentsply (fotoativado) e AlphaSeal, DFL (quimicamente ativado)] e uma resina composta de baixa viscosidade (Permaflo, Ultradent) foram utilizados de acordo com diferentes tempos de condicionamento ácido (15 s e 30 s) e diferentes estratégias de união (sem aplicação de sistema adesivo, aplicação de um primer + resina hidrófoba, e aplicação apenas de uma resina hidrófoba). Fragmentos de esmalte intacto foram obtidos de incisivos bovinos e os materiais foram aplicados respeitando-se os protocolos anteriormente descritos. Após 24 h, o teste de microcisalhamento foi executado utilizando-se uma máquina de ensaio universal, com velocidade de 0,5 mm/min. O padrão de fratura foi classificado com auxílio de lupa estereoscópica. Os dados foram submetidos aos testes ANOVA a três critérios e de Tukey (α=0.05). Não houve diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os materiais. Permaflo apresentou maior resistência de união quando o esmalte foi condicionado por 30 s apenas. O sobrecondicionamento do esmalte diminuiu a resistência de união do selante fotopolimerizável. O tratamento prévio do esmalte com primer + resina hidrófoba melhorou a performance adesiva para o AlphaSeal. Todos os materiais apresentaram valores de resistência de união estatisticamente similares em relação ao protocolo adesivo e ao tempo de condicionamento ácido. A resina composta de baixa viscosidade poderá ser utilizada como selante de fóssulas e fissuras. A aplicação de um sistema adesivo de três passos é essencial durante o selamento com selante quimicamente ativado.

Fluoride in pit and fissure sealants: is it a feasible combination? / Flúor em selantes de cicatrículas e fissuras: uma combinação viável?

Dental sealants work on the principle of blocking caries susceptible pits and fissures of teeth thus rendering them caries resistant. Fluoride is another agent that is effective in reducing dental caries. However added benefits of fluoride can be achieved through its topical application. These effects can further be amplified by extended exposure of tooth surface to fluoride releasing agents. Thus the concept of addition of fluoride to pit and fissure sealants was conceived. Until now two methods of fluoride incorporation in pit and fissure sealants have been formulated. First method employs addition of soluble fluoride salts to the unpolymerized resin. Second system of fluoride incorporation uses an organic fluoride compound that can be chemically bound to resin. But the mechanism of fluoride release from fluoridated fissure sealants remains speculative. Fluoride release might occur from the insoluble sealant material as a result of porosity or ion exchange procedure. Several studies have looked at benefits of such combinations, but no study has documented a clear-cut clinical benefit or potential benefit of the same, rather seems a marketing ploy. This paper reviews evidence pertaining to use of combination of fluoride and sealants for caries prevention, their feasibility and effectiveness after addition of fluoride to sealants through in vitro and in vivo studies.

Selantes dentários usam o princípio de bloqueio de fóssulas e fissuras suscetíveis à cárie, tornando-as resistentes à cárie. O flúor é outro agente eficaz na redução da cárie dentária. No entanto, os benefícios adicionais do flúor podem ser alcançados por meio da sua aplicação tópica. Esses efeitos podem ser potencializados por uma exposição prolongada da superfície do dente a agentes de liberação de flúor. Assim, o conceito de adição de flúor a selantes de fóssulas e fissuras foi introduzido. Até agora, dois métodos de incorporação de flúor em selantes de fóssulas e fissuras foram formulados. O primeiro método emprega a adição de sais de fluoreto solúveis na resina não polimerizada. O segundo utiliza um composto de flúor orgânico, que pode ser quimicamente ligado à resina. Mas o mecanismo de liberação de flúor de selantes de fissuras fluoretados permanece desconhecido. A liberação de flúor pode ocorrer a partir do selante insolúvel como resultado de porosidade ou de um processo de troca iónica. Vários estudos analisaram os benefícios de tais combinações, mas nenhum estudo documentou um benefício real ou potencial do mesmo, em vez disso, parece ser mais uma jogada de marketing. Este artigo de revisão traz comentários relativos à utilização da combinação de flúor e selantes para prevenção de cáries, sua viabilidade e eficácia após adição de fluoreto em selantes utilizando estudos in vitro e in vivo.

A 12-month clinical evaluation of pit-and-fissure sealants placed with and without etch-and-rinse and self-etch adhesive systems in newly-erupted teeth

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this one-year clinical study was to investigate the effect of two adhesive systems (Adper Single Bond, a two-step etch-and-rinse and Clearfil SE Bond, a two-step self-etch system) on pit-and-fissure sealant retention in newly-erupted teeth. This study compared the success of the sealants in mesial and distopalatal grooves with and without these two adhesive systems. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a clinical trial, 35 children aged 6-8 years undergoing sealant placement were recruited. This one-year clinical study scored 70 mesial and 70 distopalatal sealants of newly-erupted permanent maxillary first molar, with a split-mouth design. All children received sealant alone in one permanent maxillary molar tooth. Children were randomized into two groups. One group received Self-etch (Se) bond plus sealant and the other group received Single Bond plus sealant in another permanent maxillary molar tooth. Clinical evaluation at 3, 6 and 12 months was performed and the retention was studied in terms of the success and failure. RESULTS: The success rate of sealant in the distopalatal groove, using SeB at 3, 6 and 12 months was 93.3% (95% CI: 68.0, 99.8), 73.3% (95% CI: 44.9, 92.2) and 66.7% (95% CI: 38.4, 88.2), respectively. It was greater than that of the distopalatal groove in SB group with a success rate of 62.5% (95% CI: 35.4, 84.8), 31.3% (95% CI: 11.8, 58.7) and 31.3% (95% CI: 11.8, 58.7), at the three evaluation periods. The success rate of sealant in the mesial groove using SeB was 86.6% (95% CI: 59.5, 98.3), 53.3% (95% CI: 26.6, 78.7) and 53.3% (95% CI: 26.6, 78.7), while this was 100% (95% CI: 79.4, 100.0), 81.3% (95% CI: 54.4, 96.0) and 81.3% (95% CI: 54.4, 96.0) using SB, at 3, 6 and 12-month evaluation periods. CONCLUSIONS: These results support the use of these two bonding agents in pit-and-fissure sealants under both isolated and contaminated conditions. Further, Se bond seemed to be less sensitive to moisture contamination.

Impact of adhesive and photoactivation method on sealant integrity and polymer network formation

We evaluated the influence of photoactivation method and hydrophobic resin (HR) application on the marginal and internal adaptation, hardness (KHN), and crosslink density (CLD) of a resin-based fissure sealant. Model fissures were created in bovine enamel fragments (n = 10) and sealed using one of the following protocols: no adhesive system + photoactivation of the sealant using continuous light (CL), no adhesive system + photoactivation of the sealant using the soft-start method (SS), HR + CL, or HR + SS. Marginal and internal gaps and KHN were assessed after storage in water for 24 h. The CLD was indirectly assessed by repeating the KHN measurement after 24 h of immersion in 100% ethanol. There was no difference among the samples with regard to marginal or internal adaptation. The KHN and CLD were similar for samples cured using either photoactivation method. Use of a hydrophobic resin prior to placement of fissure sealants and curing the sealant using the soft-start method may not provide any positive influence on integrity or crosslink density.

Comparative evaluation of marginal integrity of glass ionomer and resin based fissure sealants using invasive and non-invasive techniques: An in vitro study.

Background: Occlusal surfaces of the molars are highly susceptible to dental decay. Pit and fissure sealants are one of the best methods of preventing fissure caries. The main problem encountered is microleakage leading to deterioration of material and increased possibility of the development of secondary caries. Aims: To assess and compare the marginal integrity of glass ionomer (Fuji VII) and resin based (Clinpro) fissure sealants using invasive and non-invasive technique. Setting and Design: Experimental in-vitro study. Materials and Methods: An in-vitro study was conducted on 40 healthy, extracted premolars. The teeth were divided into 4 groups. Group I: Clinpro-invasive technique, group II: Clinpro-non-invasive technique, group III: Fuji VII-invasive technique, group IV: Fuji VII-non-invasive technique. Sealants were applied and subjected to an evaluation under SEM (scanning electron microscopy) for the width of the marginal gap. ANOVA (analysis of variance) and Duncan's multiple range tests were used for the statistical analysis. Results: The mean width of the marginal gap was 0.4089 μm in group I as compared to 3.0485 μm in group III; and the difference was statistically highly significant (P<0.001). In non-invasive technique, Clinpro and Fuji VII showed a mean marginal gap width of 0.4486 μm and 3.0485 μm, respectively. This difference was statistically highly significant at a P<0.001. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean widths between invasive and non-invasive techniques. Conclusion: Clinpro performed better in terms of marginal adaptation than did the Fuji VII sealant. The techniques (Invasive and non-invasive) does not influence the marginal integrity significantly.

Evaluación in vitro de la resistencia compresiva de un sellante resinoso fluorado pre y post liberación de flúor / In vitro compressive strength of fluoride-containing resin-based sealant before and after fluoride release

Objetivo: Evaluar in vitro la resistencia compresiva de un sellante resinoso fluorado (F) pre y post liberación de flúor luego de la inmersión en agua. Método: Se utilizaron 40 probetas de 6 mm de alto y 20 mm de diámetro de sellante resinoso fluorado (FluroShield, Brasil, Dentsply) y de sellante no fluorado (Concise(TM) Light Cured White Sealant, USA, 3M ESPE). Las probetas fueron divididas en cuatro grupos, dos de sellante resinoso fluorado (F1 y F2) y dos de control (C1 y C2). Un grupo de probetas de sellante fluorado y un grupo del control (F1/C1) se mantuvieron sin exposición al agua, mientras que los grupos restantes (F2/C2) fueron inmersos en agua destilada por 30 días. Se midió la liberación de flúor desde el grupo F2 mediante el método de electrodo selectivo los días 1, 2, 3 y 30. Posteriormente se midió la resistencia compresiva mediante una máquina de ensayos mecánicos universales (Lloyd, LR 100, UK) con una velocidad de cruceta de 1 mm/min. Las comparaciones entre los grupos F1 vs F2 y C1 vs C2 se analizaron con t-Student. El nivel de significancia se estableció a 0.05. Resultados: La resistencia compresiva en MPa antes y después de la inmersión en agua para el sellante resinoso fluorado fue 337.2 y 337.4, mientras que la del sellante control fue 203.8 y 213.4. Para ambos grupos las diferencias observadas no fueron significativas. Se observó un patrón de liberación de flúor inicial de 1.9 ppm durante las primeras 24 horas para luego decaer a 0.0 ppm al tercer día de liberación. Conclusión: La liberación de flúor desde un sellante resinoso fluorado no afectó su resistencia compresiva en este estudio in vitro.

Aim: To evaluate in vitro compressive strength of fluoride-containing resin-based sealant (F) before and after fluoride release in water. Materials and Methods: We used 40 specimens with 6 mm of height and 20 mm of diameter using fluoride-containing resin-based sealant (FluroShield,Brasil, Dentsply) and non-fluoride-containing resin-based sealant (Concise (TM) Light Cured White Sealant, USA, 3M ESPE). The specimens were divided into four groups, two fluoride-containing resin-based sealants (F1 and F2) and two like control groups (C1 and C2). A group of specimens of fluoride-containing resin-based sealant and a control group (F1/C1) remained without exposure to water, while other groups (F2/C2) were immersed in distilled water for 30 days. The release of fluoride from the F2 was measured through selective electrode method on days 1, 2, 3 and 30. Subsequently, the compressive strength was measured using a universal testing machine (Lloyd, LR 100, UK) with a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Comparisons between groups F1 vs F2 and C1 vs C2 were analyzed with t-Student. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The compressive strength (Mpa) before and after immersion in water for fluoride-containing resin-based sealant was 337.2 and 337.4, while the control sealant was 203.8 and 213.4. For both groups the observed differences were not significant. The initial fluoride release was 1.9 ppm during the first 24 hours and then declined to 0.0 ppm during the third day of release. Conclusion: In this in vitro study, the release of fluoride from a fluoride-containing resin-based sealant does not affect compressive strength.

In vitro study of microleakage of different techniques of surface preparation used in pits and fissures.

Objective : The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of different techniques of surface preparation on the microleakage of a sealant applied with traditional acid etching and self-etched bonding agent. Study Design : A total of 60 extracted third molars were randomly assigned into six groups (n = 10/each). The occlusal surfaces were sealed with a sealant (Clinpro) after one of the following pretreatments: (1) phosphoric acid etching; (2) Prompt L-Pop; (3) laser + etching; (4) laser + Prompt L-Pop; (5) air abrasion + etching; (6) air abrasion + Prompt L-Pop. The specimens were immersed in a 0.5% basic fuchsin solution. Buccolingual cuts parallel to the long axis of the tooth were made. The surfaces were scored 0--2 for extent of microleakage using a microscope and the data were analyzed statistically. Results : The poorest results were obtained with laser + Prompt L-Pop which showed a greater number of specimens with microleakage (80%). Air abrasion surface preparation + phosphoric acid etching showed less microleakage than the other groups (40%). Kruskal--Wallis and t-tests revealed no significant difference in microleakage between six groups. Conclusion : The self-etching adhesive studied seems an attractive alternative to the acid-etch technique for sealant application in young children where simplifications in the clinical procedure are warranted. No significant difference was noted between the different types of enamel preparation before fissure sealant.

Salivary Bisphenol-A Levels due to Dental Sealant/Resin: A Case-Control Study in Korean Children

Dental sealants and composite filling materials containing bisphenol-A (BPA) derivatives are increasingly used in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between salivary BPA and the number of tooth surfaces filled with dental sealant, and to determine a cutoff BPA level. Salivary BPA concentration and the number of tooth surfaces filled with dental sealant/resin were determined in 124 age and gender matched children: 62 controls had no dental sealant/resin on their tooth surfaces and 62 cases had more than 4 tooth surfaces with dental sealant/resin. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and conditional logistic regression were performed after controlling for age, gender, salivary flow rate, salivary buffer capacity, frequency of snacking, and frequency of tooth brushing. Salivary BPA levels were 0.002 to 8.305 microg/L. The BPA level of control (0.40 microg/L) was significantly lower than that of case (0.92 microg/L) after controlling for confounders (P = 0.026). Although the 90th BPA percentile had an adjusted OR of 4.58 (95% CI 1.04-20.26, P = 0.045), the significance disappeared in the conditional logistic model. There may be a relationship between salivary BPA level and dental sealant/resin.

Patrón de liberación de flúor in vitro en sellantes fluorados de resina / In vitro fluoride-release profile of fluoridated resin-based sealants

Objetivo: Comparar in vitro la cantidad de fluoruros liberados por los principales sellantes de puntos y fisuras basados en resina comercialmente disponibles en Latinoamérica. Material y Métodos: Se evaluó la liberación de fluoruros in vitro en tres sellantes fluorados de puntos y fisuras: Helioseal F (HF), Fissurit F (FF), Clinpro (CF) y Delton (D), sin flúor como control. Se utilizaron 28 discos de 12 mm de diámetro y 2 mm de espesor (n=7 por grupo). Las muestras fueron almacenadas en 5 ml de agua ultra de-ionizada con pH neutro a 37º C por 93 días. La liberación de fluoruros fue medida mediante un electrodo iónico selectivo a los 1, 2, 3, 8, 15, 28 y 93 días. Los datos fueron analizados con el test ANOVA y Tukey (p<0.05). Resultados: El patrón de liberación de flúor fue similar para los tres sellantes fluorados: una alta liberación durante las primeras 24 horas, que disminuyó bruscamente hacia el segundo día. Luego continuó con una disminución progresiva hasta el día 93. El primer día, FF liberó significativamente más fluoruros que HF. Entre los días 2 y 15 FF y HF liberaron significativamente más fluoruros que CF. Desde el día 28 en adelante, las diferencias de liberación de flúor no fueron significativas. Conclusión: El patrón de liberación de flúor in vitro es similar para los sellantes fluorados, con una elevada liberación durante los primeros dos días y luego, una marcada disminución en todos ellos. Este resultado podría explicar la falta de diferencias en la tasa de caries en pacientes tratados con sellantes de resina fluorados y no-fluorados observada en estudios clínicos.

Aim: To compare in vitro the amount of fluoride released from the main pit and fissure sealant resin-based on commercially available in Latin America. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight samples of 12 x 2 mm were made from three commercial fluoridated resin-based sealants: Helioseal F (HF), Fissurit F (FF), Clinpro (CF) and without fluoride Delton (D), as a control. Samples were stored in 5 ml of deionized water at 37° C and neutral pH. Fluoride releases were measured at 1, 2, 3, 8, 15, 28 and 93 days with an ion-selective electrode. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and one-way and Tukey (p<0.05). Results: Fluoride-release profiles were similar for the three fluoridated sealants: a high release rates during the first 24 hrs and then a drastic drop. Afterward, they continued with a progressive decrease until day 93. The first day, FF release significantly more fluoride than HF. Between days 2 and 15, CF release significantly less fluoride than FF and HF, and later, there was no significant differences between sealants (p>0.05). Conclusion: The fluoride-release profile is similar for the fluoridated resin-based sealants under study: a high release during the first two days and afterwards, a very slow release. These results can explain the lack of differences in caries rate between fluoridated and non-fluoridated resin-based sealants observed in clinical trials.

Effect of irradiation times on the polymerization depth of contemporary fissure sealants with different opacities

The aim of this study was to evaluate the depth of curing of 10 contemporary blue light-activated dental flowable materials at several opacities, influenced by different irradiation times using FT-IR spectroscopy. Fifty-five specimens (n = 5) with a 5-mm diameter and 1-mm thickness of translucent (Opallis Flow T), yellowed (Master Flow A2; Opallis Flow A2; Natural Flow A2; Fluroshield Yellowed), and opaque materials (Master Flow OA2; Natural Flow O; Opallis Flow OA3.5; Opallis Flow OP; Fluroshield White) were obtained at six curing times (10s, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s) using a high-intensity LED (Coltolux, Coltène/Whaledent). The degree of conversion (DC) ( percent) was obtained using the Nexus 470 FTIR Spectrometer (Nicolet Instruments, USA). The FTIR-ATR spectra for uncured and cured samples were analyzed using a ZnSe crystal. The top and bottom surfaces of the cured specimens were analyzed to obtain the depth of curing. Two-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data. The highest curing depth was obtained by Natural Flow OA2, while the lowest was shown by Master Flow OA2. The shortest curing time generated similar depths of cure in comparison with the most extensive for Opallis Flow A2 and Fluroshield Yellowed. Therefore, depth of curing, influenced by the irradiation time, was dependent on the materials. Using the Natural Flow OA2 opaque sealant and the 10-s curing time for Opallis Flow A2 and Fluroshield Yellowed may represent alternative approaches to sealing tooth fissures.

in vitro evaluation of marginal leakage using invasive and noninvasive technique of light cure glass ionomer and flowable polyacid modified composite resin used as pit and fissure sealant.

Aim: This study compared the microleakage of light cure glass ionomer and flowable compomer as pit and fissure sealant, with and without tooth preparation. Materials and Methods: One hundred premolars that were extracted for orthodontic purpose were used. After adequate storage and surface debridement, the teeth were randomly divided into four groups. In Group I and III, the occlusal surfaces were left intact, while in Group II and Group IV, tooth surfaces were prepared. Teeth in Group I and Group II were sealed with Light cure glass ionomer, whereas flowable compomer was used to seal teeth in Group III and IV. The sealed teeth were then immersed in dye. Subsequently, buccolingual sections were made and each section was examined under stereomicroscope for microleakage followed by scoring. Results: In group I, microleakage score ranged from 2 to 4 with mean of 3.64 (±0.757), while in group II the range was observed to be 1-4 with mean of 2.88 (±1.236). Group III recorded a range of 0-4 with the mean of 2.20 (±1.443) while 0-2 and 0.60 (±0.707) being the range and mean observed, respectively, for group IV. Conclusion: Flowable compomer placed after tooth preparation showed better penetration and less marginal leakage than the light cure glass ionomer.

In vitro study of microleakage of fissure sealants with different previous treatments

El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la microfiltración de un sellador con tres técnicas diferentes de acondicionamientoprevio de la superficie a sellar. Se utilizaron 24 premolares superiores e inferiores, libres de caries, conservados en agua destilada a temperatura ambiente. Los defectos estructuralesfueron ensanchados empleando una piedra de diamante cilindrocónica (ISO 007). Luego los dientes fueron distribuidos aleatoriamente en 3 grupos de 8 elementos cada uno. Grupo I(control): acondicionamiento con ácido fosfórico al 37 por ciento (Vivadent) durante 15 seg. y aplicación del sellador Helioseal F (Vivadent) fotopolimerizándolo durante 40 seg.; Grupo II: se realizó el mismo acondicionamiento, posteriormente seaplicó un adhesivo monoenvase, Te-Econom (Vivadent) y el sellador correspondiente; Grupo III: el acondicionamiento previo al sellador fue realizado empleando un adhesivo deautograbado, Go (SDI). La colocación de los adhesivos se hizo de acuerdo a las instrucciones de los fabricantes. Posteriormente las muestras fueron sometidas a ciclaje térmico por300 ciclos entre 5° y 55°C y sumergidas en una solución de azul de metileno al 2 por ciento durante 48 hs. a una temperatura estandarizada de 37°C ± 1º. Luego se enjuagaron abundantemente con agua corriente, se desgastaron longitudinalmente en sentido V-P sobre discos rotatorios de carburo de silicio de granulometría decreciente. El grado de microfiltración fue evaluado con lupa estereoscópica a 40 X de aumento. La penetración longitudinal del colorante en la interfase dientesella dor, fue registrada de acuerdo a una escala de valores de 0 a 3. Los resultados obtenidos fueron analizados mediante la prueba no paramétrica de Kruskal-Wallis. El tratamiento corres pondiente al grupo II presenta el 100 por ciento de las muestras con poca (50 por ciento) o nula (50 por ciento) filtración (P=0.000)

Bonding agent underneath sealant: shear bond strength to oil-contaminated

This study evaluated in vitro the shear bond strength of a resin-based pit-and-fissure sealant (Fluroshield - F) associated with either an ethanol-based (Adper Single Bond 2 - SB) or an acetone-based (Prime & Bond - PB) adhesive system under conditions of oil contamination. Mesial and distal enamel surfaces from 30 sound third molars were randomly assigned to 2 groups (n=30): I - no oil contamination; II - oil contamination. Contamination (0.25 mL during 10 s) was performed after 37 percent phosphoric acid etching with an air/oil spray. The specimens were randomly assigned to subgroups, according to the bonding protocol adopted: subgroup A - F was applied to enamel without an intermediate bonding agent layer; In subgroups B and C, SB and PB, respectively, were applied, light-cured, and then F was applied and light-cured. Shear bond strength was tested at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min in a universal testing machine. Means (± SD) in MPa were: IA-11.28 (±1.84); IIA-12.02 (±1.15); IB-9.73 (±2.38); IIB-9.62 (±2.29); IC-28.30 (±1.63); and IIC-25.50 (±1.91). It may be concluded that the oil contamination affected negatively the sealant bonding to enamel and the acetone-based adhesive system (PB) layer applied underneath the sealant was able to prevent its deleterious effects to adhesion.

Este estudo avaliou in vitro a resistência ao cisalhamento (RC) de um selante resinoso [Fluroshield (F); Dentsply/Caulk] em associação com um sistema adesivo com solvente a base de etanol [Adper Single Bond 2 (SB); 3M/ESPE] ou a base de acetona [Prime & Bond (PB); 3M/ESPE] após contaminação com óleo do esmalte. Superfícies mesiais e distais de esmalte de 30 terceiros molares hígidos foram aleatoriamente alocadas em 2 grupos (n=30): I - contaminação com óleo; II - sem contaminação. A contaminação foi realizada (0,25 mL;10 s) com um jato de ar/óleo após o condicionamento do esmalte com ácido fosfórico a 37 por cento. Os espécimes foram aleatoriamente alocados em subgrupos, de acordo com a técnica adesiva empregada: A - F foi aplicado sobre o esmalte condicionado sem sistema adesivo; B - SB + F; C - PB + F. RC foi testada em uma máquina universal de ensaios (0,5 mm/min; 50 kgf) e os dados analisados por ANOVA e t-teste (α=0,01). As médias de RC em MPa foram: IA-11,28 (±1,84); IIA-12,02(±1,15); IB-9,73 (±2,38); IIB-9,62 (±2,29); IC-28,30 (±1.63); e IIC-25,50 (±1,91). Conclui-se que a contaminação com o óleo afetou a adesão do selante resinoso ao esmalte e o sistema adesivo com solvente a base de acetona (Prime & Bond) aplicado sob o selante foi capaz de impedir os efeitos deletérios da contaminação com óleo.

Enamel remineralization by fluoride-releasing materials: proposal of a pH-cycling model

This study proposes a pH-cycling model for verifying the dose-response relationship in fluoride-releasing materials on remineralization in vitro. Sixty bovine enamel blocks were selected for the surface microhardness test (SMH1). Artificial caries lesions were induced and surface microhardness test (SMH2) was performed. Forty-eight specimens were prepared with Z 100, Fluroshield, Vitremer and Vitremer » diluted - powder/liquid, and subjected to a pH-cycling model to promote remineralization. After pH-cycling, final surface microhardness (SMH3) was assessed to calculate percent recovery of surface microhardness ( percentSMHR). Fluoride present in enamel (μg F/mm3) and in the pH-cycling solutions (μg F) was measured. Cross-sectional microhardness was used to calculate mineral content (∆Z). There was no significant difference between Z 100 and control groups on analysis performed on - percentSMHR, ∆Z, μg F and mg F/mm3 (p>0.05). Results showed a positive correlation between percentSMHR and μg F/mm3 (r=0.9770; p=0.004), percentSMHR and μg F (r=0.9939; p=0.0000001), ∆ and μg F/mm3 (r=0.9853; p=0.0002), ∆ and μg F (r=0.9975; p=0.0000001) and between μg F/mm3 and μg F (r=0.9819; p=0.001). The pH-cycling model proposed was able to verify in vitro dose-response relationship of fluoride-releasing materials on remineralization.

Este trabalho propôs um modelo de ciclagem de pH verificando a relação dose-resposta de materiais que liberam flúor na remineralização in vitro. Foram selecionados 60 blocos de esmalte bovino pelo teste de microdureza de superfície (SMH1). Realizou-se indução de cárie e microdureza de superfície pós-cárie (SMH2). Corpos-de-prova (n=48) dos grupos Z 100, Fluroshield, Vitremer e Vitremer diluído » foram fabricados e submetidos à ciclagem de pH para promover a remineralização. Após, avaliou-se a microdureza de superfície final (SMH3) para cálculo da porcentagem de recuperação da microdureza de superfície ( por centoSMHR). Determinou-se o flúor presente no esmalte (μg F/mm3) e nas soluções de ciclagem (μg F). O teste de microdureza em secção longitudinal foi realizado para cálculo do conteúdo mineral (∆Z). Entre os grupos controle e Z100 não houve diferença significativa nas análises realizadas - por centoSMHR, ∆Z, μg F e μg F/mm3 (p>0,05). Houve correlação positiva entre a por centoSMHR e μg F/mm3 (r=0,9770; p=0,004), por centoSMHR e μg F (r=0,9939; p=0,0000001), ∆Z e μg F/mm3 (r=0,9853; p=0,0002), ∆Z e μg F (r=0,9975; p=0,0000001) e também entre μg F/mm3 e μg F (r=0,9819; p=0,001). O modelo de ciclagem de pH proposto foi adequado para verificar relação dose-resposta in vitro de materiais que liberam flúor na remineralização.

Effect of gamma irradiation on fluoride release and antibacterial activity of resin dental materials

This study evaluated the effect of gamma irradiation on fluoride release and antibacterial activity of FluroShield (FS) and Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB). Four groups were formed: G1-FS + gamma; G2-FS without gamma; G3-CPB + gamma; G4-CPB without gamma. For fluoride release analysis, 12 disks of each material were prepared and covered with nail polish, except for one side (50.4 mm² area). G1 and G3 were sterilized with a 14.5 KGy dose at 27ºC for 24 h, while G2 and G4 (controls) were not sterilized and were maintained under the same time and temperature conditions. Fluoride release measurements were made in duplicate (n=6) by an ion specific electrode. The antibacterial activity of the CPB and FS against Streptococcus mutans after gamma sterilization was evaluated by the agar-disc diffusion method. The diameter of the zones of microbial growth inhibition was recorded after 48 h. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=5 percent). Gamma sterilization decreased the fluoride release of FS by approximately 50 percent, while CPB was not affected. There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) in the antibacterial effect of CPB between gamma and non-gamma sterilization groups. FS presented no antibacterial activity. Gamma irradiation decreased the fluoride release of FS, but did not affect the antibacterial activity of the studied materials.

Este estudo avaliou o efeito da esterilização com raios-gama na liberação de flúor e atividade antibacteriana de materiais resinosos, Fluroshield (FS) e Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB). Quatro grupos foram formados: G1-FS e gama; G2-FS sem gama; G3-CPB e gama; G4-CPB sem gama. Doze discos de cada material foram preparados para análise de liberação de flúor, os quais foram cobertos com esmalte de unha, exceto em um lado com 50,4 mm² de área. G1 e G3 foram esterilizados com dose de 14,5 KGy por 24 h/27ºC, enquanto G2 e G4 (controles) não foram esterilizados e foram mantidos sob as mesmas condições de tempo e temperatura. As leituras de liberação de flúor foram feitas em duplicata (n=6) por um eletrodo específico. A atividade antibacteriana foi avaliada pelo teste de difusão em agar. Os halos de inibição foram medidos após 48 h. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes ANOVA e Tukey (α=5 por cento). A esterilização gama diminuiu a liberação de flúor de FS em cerca de 50 por cento, enquanto CPB não foi afetado. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos esterilizados e controle no efeito antibacteriano do CPB. FS não apresentou atividade antibacteriana. A esterilização gama diminuiu a liberação de flúor de FS, mas não afetou a atividade antibacteriana dos materiais estudados.

O Uso de Selantes de Fóssulas e Fissuras por Cirurgiões-Dentistas de um Município de Médio Porte / Use of Pit-and-Fissure Sealants by Dentists from a Middle-Sized City

Objetivo: Avaliar a utilização de selantes de fissuras por cirurgiões dentistas(CDs) do município de Piracicaba, SP. Método: Foram selecionados aleatoriamente 115 CDs que trabalhavam em consultório particular e 44 CDs que trabalhavam em Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBSs). Foi aplicado um questionário abrangendo dados pessoais e profissionais e a freqüência de uso dos selantes na prática clínica. Para avaliar alguma associação entre as variáveis, utilizaram-se os testes estatísticos de Qui-quadrado e Exato de Fisher. Resultados: Verificou-se que os CDs que trabalhavam em consultório utilizavam selantes com mais freqüência do que os que trabalhavam nas UBSs (p<0,05). Dos CDs da rede privada, os que prestavam serviços para algum convênio odontológico utilizavam selantes com mais freqüência em comparação com aqueles não conveniados (p<0,05). O critério mais utilizado para indicação de selantes por profissionais das UBSs foi a presença de molares hígidos, porém em pacientes com experiência anterior de cárie e higiene bucal deficiente, enquanto que a maioria dos CDs da rede privada costumavam aplicá-lo em dentes com atividade de cárie em esmalte. Conclusão: Grande parte dos CDs entrevistados utiliza selantes como método preventivo, entretanto, verificou-se que o uso é influenciado pelo local de trabalho e, no caso dos CDs que trabalham em consultório particular, vínculo do profissional com algum tipo de convênio.