Modeling based experimental investigation on polymerization shrinkage and micro-hardness of nano alumina filled resin based dental material.

This paper investigates the effect of %wt composition of BisGMA/TEGDMA, stirring time, bench time, curing time and filler loading on polymerization shrinkage and micro-hardness of resin based dental composites. The investigation was carried out in two stages. In first stage, samples were prepared with different %wt composition of BisGMA/TEGDMA, stirring time, bench time, and curing time to access the effect of different input parameters for minimum polymerization shrinkage and maximum micro-hardness using Taguchi methodology. Selecting optimum values of input factors from first stage, second stage optimization was performed to investigate the effects of different filler loading on different %wt composition of BisGMA/TEGDMA using full factorial design. Prediction model was developed using Design Expert software and analysis of effect of input parameters on output responses were carried out using 3D surface plots. ANOVA were performed to check the significance of prediction model. In first stage, optimum stirring time, bench time and curing time were found to be 4 h, 50 min and 30 s, respectively. In second stage, optimum polymerization shrinkage and micro-hardness of 3.54% and 310 Hv were predicted at 22.89% of TEGDMA content and 20% filler loading. Taguchi methodology and full factorial design were successfully implemented to access the effect of multi-input parameters on responses for resin based dental composites.

Evaluation of physical-mechanical properties, antibacterial effect, and cytotoxicity of temporary restorative materials.

The objective of this study was to compare selective physical-mechanical properties, antibacterial effects and cytotoxicity of seven temporary restorative materials (TRM): five resin-based materials [Bioplic (B), Fill Magic Tempo (FM), Fermit inlay (F), Luxatemp LC (L) and Revotek LC (R)], and zinc oxide-eugenol cement (IRM) and glass ionomer cement (GIC) as the controls. Material and methods The physical-mechanical properties were evaluated by determining microleakage (ML), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and Shore D hardness (SDH). In addition, the polymerization rate (Pr-1), depth of cure (DC), water sorption and solubility (WS/SL) were evaluated. The antimicrobial effects of the materials were assessed by biofilm accumulation of Streptococcus mutans (BT) and the direct contact test (DCT) by exposure to Enterococcus faecalis for 1 and 24 h, and cytotoxicity by MTT assay. The data were analyzed by ANOVA or Kruskall-Wallis tests, and a complementary post-hoc method (p<0.05). Results Group B, followed by FM and GIC had significantly lower percentages of microleakage in comparison with the other groups; Groups FM and L showed the highest WS, while Groups R and FM showed the significantly lowest SL values (p<0.05). Group R showed the statistically highest UTS mean and the lowest DC mean among all groups. Group F showed the lowest S. mutans biofilm accumulation (p=0.023). Only the Group L showed continued effect against E. faecalis after 1 h and 24 h in DCT. The L showed statistically lower viability cell when compared to the other groups. Conclusions These findings suggest the antibacterial effect of the temporary materials Fill Magic and Bioplic against S. mutans, while Luxatemp showed in vitro inhibition of S. mutans biofilm accumulation and E. faecalis growth. Regarding the cell viability test, Luxatemp was the most cytotoxic and Fill Magic was shown to be the least cytotoxic.

Cu(II)-carboxymethyl chitosan-silane schiff base complex grafted on nano silica: Structural evolution, antibacterial performance and dye degradation ability.

O-Carboxymethyl chitosan (OCMC) Schiff's base was utilized for a new class of organic-inorganic hybrid material by grafting it on nano-silica-silane and further metallated with Cu (II). Here (3-Aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) was used as a linker and 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde (HN) for Schiff's base formation. The hybrid was characterized by FTIR, TGA, powder XRD, SEM, CHN, DLS, ICP-AES, diffuse reflectance UV-vis and EDX spectroscopic techniques. Magnetization measurements were carried out by VSM at room temperature. This study explored the possible synergic effect of unique properties of carboxymethyl chitosan, Schiff's base Cu (II) complex and nano-silica towards antibacterial activity and in dye degradation studies. The antibacterial performance of nano-hybrid material was examined against both Gram-positive (Escherichia coli) and Gram-negative (Bacillus subtilis) bacteria. The catalytic activity of the hybrid was tested for degradation of reactive black 5 (RB5) through advanced oxidation processes using H2O2 as oxidant. The results show a high dye degradation efficiency of 93% in 130min by the hybrid catalyst with reusability. As per published reports, Chitosan-Schiff's bases show strong antimicrobial activity and their Cu complexes exhibit good catalytic and anticancer activities. Therefore, it is expected that the new organic-inorganic hybrid would be highly applicable in environmental as well as biomedical fields.

Evaluation of physical-mechanical properties, antibacterial effect, and cytotoxicity of temporary restorative materials

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare selective physical-mechanical properties, antibacterial effects and cytotoxicity of seven temporary restorative materials (TRM): five resin-based materials [Bioplic (B), Fill Magic Tempo (FM), Fermit inlay (F), Luxatemp LC (L) and Revotek LC (R)], and zinc oxide-eugenol cement (IRM) and glass ionomer cement (GIC) as the controls. Material and methods The physical-mechanical properties were evaluated by determining microleakage (ML), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and Shore D hardness (SDH). In addition, the polymerization rate (Pr-1), depth of cure (DC), water sorption and solubility (WS/SL) were evaluated. The antimicrobial effects of the materials were assessed by biofilm accumulation of Streptococcus mutans (BT) and the direct contact test (DCT) by exposure to Enterococcus faecalis for 1 and 24 h, and cytotoxicity by MTT assay. The data were analyzed by ANOVA or Kruskall-Wallis tests, and a complementary post-hoc method (p<0.05). Results Group B, followed by FM and GIC had significantly lower percentages of microleakage in comparison with the other groups; Groups FM and L showed the highest WS, while Groups R and FM showed the significantly lowest SL values (p<0.05). Group R showed the statistically highest UTS mean and the lowest DC mean among all groups. Group F showed the lowest S. mutans biofilm accumulation (p=0.023). Only the Group L showed continued effect against E. faecalis after 1 h and 24 h in DCT. The L showed statistically lower viability cell when compared to the other groups. Conclusions These findings suggest the antibacterial effect of the temporary materials Fill Magic and Bioplic against S. mutans, while Luxatemp showed in vitro inhibition of S. mutans biofilm accumulation and E. faecalis growth. Regarding the cell viability test, Luxatemp was the most cytotoxic and Fill Magic was shown to be the least cytotoxic.

Mechanical properties, water sorption characteristics, and compound release of grape seed extract-incorporated resins.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effect of grape seed extract (GSE) incorporation on the mechanical properties, water sorption, solubility, and GSE release from the experimental adhesive resins. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An experimental comonomer mixture, consisting of 40% Bis-GMA, 30% Bis MP, 28% HEMA, 0.26% camphorquinone and 1% EDMAB, was used to prepare four GSE-incorporated adhesive resins at concentrations of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%. The neat resin without GSE was used as the control. Six resin beams (25 mm x 2 mm x 2 mm) per group were prepared for flexural strength and modulus of elasticity evaluations using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Five disks (6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) per group were used for microhardness measurements using a Leitz micro-hardness tester with Leica Qgo software. Five disks (7 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) per group were prepared and stored in deionized water for 28 days. Water sorption, solubility, and GSE release in deionized water were calculated for each GSE-incorporated adhesive at the end of 28th day. Data was evaluated using one-way ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparisons. RESULTS: Flexural strength, modulus of elasticity and microhardness of GSE-incorporated adhesive decreased significantly with incorporation of 1.5% of GSE (p<0.05). Addition of GSE had no effect on the water sorption of the adhesive resins (p=0.33). The solubility of the resin also increased significantly with incorporation of 1.5% of GSE (p<0.05). Quantities of GSE release increased with increased concentration of GSE in the adhesive resin. CONCLUSION: Up to 1% of GSE can be incorporated into a dental adhesive resin without interfering with the mechanical properties or solubility of the resins.

Mechanical properties, water sorption characteristics, and compound release of grape seed extract-incorporated resins

Abstract Objective This study evaluated the effect of grape seed extract (GSE) incorporation on the mechanical properties, water sorption, solubility, and GSE release from the experimental adhesive resins. Material and Methods An experimental comonomer mixture, consisting of 40% Bis-GMA, 30% Bis MP, 28% HEMA, 0.26% camphorquinone and 1% EDMAB, was used to prepare four GSE-incorporated adhesive resins at concentrations of 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%. The neat resin without GSE was used as the control. Six resin beams (25 mm x 2 mm x 2 mm) per group were prepared for flexural strength and modulus of elasticity evaluations using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Five disks (6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) per group were used for microhardness measurements using a Leitz micro-hardness tester with Leica Qgo software. Five disks (7 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness) per group were prepared and stored in deionized water for 28 days. Water sorption, solubility, and GSE release in deionized water were calculated for each GSE-incorporated adhesive at the end of 28th day. Data was evaluated using one-way ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparisons. Results Flexural strength, modulus of elasticity and microhardness of GSE-incorporated adhesive decreased significantly with incorporation of 1.5% of GSE (p<0.05). Addition of GSE had no effect on the water sorption of the adhesive resins (p=0.33). The solubility of the resin also increased significantly with incorporation of 1.5% of GSE (p<0.05). Quantities of GSE release increased with increased concentration of GSE in the adhesive resin. Conclusion Up to 1% of GSE can be incorporated into a dental adhesive resin without interfering with the mechanical properties or solubility of the resins.

Mechanical performance of polymer-infiltrated zirconia ceramics.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the microstructure and mechanical behavior of polymer-infiltrated zirconia ceramics as a function of pre-sintering temperature (1000-1150°C). METHODS: Polymer-infiltrated zirconia ceramics were prepared by combining the porous zirconia networks and polymer through infiltration and polymerization. XRD was employed to determine phase structure. The microstructure and fracture mechanism were observed by SEM. Flexural strength and fracture toughness were measured by three-point bending method and single-edge-notched beam method, respectively. A nanoindentation system was employed to determine elastic modulus and hardness. RESULTS: Different porosities and polymer contents can be obtained by tuning the pre-sintered temperature of zirconia ceramic precursors. Zirconia network porosity varies from 46.3% to 34.7% and the relevant polymer content ranges from 18.4wt.% to 12.3wt.% when the pre-sintered temperature is set from 1000°C to 1150°C. The flexural strength, fracture toughness, hardness, and elastic modulus values of the specimen pre-sintered at 1150°C are 240.9MPa, 3.69MPam1/2, 3.1GPa, and 58.8GPa, respectively. CONCLUSION: The pre-sintering temperature has a significant effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties of polymer-infiltrated zirconia ceramics and the optimal pre-sintering temperature is 1150°C. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Specimen pre-sintered at 1150°C shows tooth-like mechanical properties, suggesting a promising restorative material in dental clinic. Moreover, the synthesis process is simple and can be easily performed in a prosthesis laboratory.

Chemical Adhesion of Polyalkenoate-based Adhesives to Hydroxyapatite.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the chemical interaction between synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) and polyalkenoic acid copolymer- based (also known as Vitrebond copolymer [VCP]) adhesives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six dentin adhesive formulations were used: 1) Adper Single Bond Plus (SB); 2) SB formulation without VCP (SBnoVCP); 3) Adper Easy Bond (EB); 4) EB formulation without VCP (EBnoVCP); 5) Scotchbond Universal adhesive (SBU); 6) SBU formulation without VCP (SBUnoVCP). Each adhesive was mixed with HAp, polymerized, and analyzed using FTIR and 13C/31P NMR spectroscopy. RESULTS: The FTIR spectra of SB+HAp indicated that the carbonyl group changed absorption wavenumber compared to that of SBnoVCP+HAp. 13C NMR analysis showed that the presence of methacrylated phosphoric esters in the EB and SBU formulations led to similar carbonyl resonance with or without VCP. 31P NMR revealed a resonance shift at 0.5 ppm for SB+HAp, EB+HAp and SBU+HAp spectra. In comparison with EB+HAp and SBU+HAp, a slight fade-out of the same resonance shift for EBnoVCP+HAp and SBUnoVCP+HAp was observed without completely disappearing, respectively, meaning that VCP might induce a modification of phosphorus moieties in addition to the ionic interaction between phosphate ester groups and HAp. CONCLUSION: Our data suggests that a chemical interaction occurred between VCP-containing adhesives and synthetic HAp.

Different Strategies to Bond Bis-GMA-based Resin Cement to Zirconia.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different bonding strategies on short- and long-term bis-GMA-based resin cement bond strengths to zirconia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred twenty samples of fully-sintered zirconia (Prettau Zirconia) were sandblasted and randomly distributed into 5 groups (n = 24): UA: Scotchbond Universal Adhesive; SZP: Signum Zirconia Bond I + II; ZPP: Z-Prime Plus; EXP: MZ experimental primer; CO: no primer application (control). After performing these surface treatments, translucent tubes (0.8 mm diameter and 1.0 mm height) were placed on the zirconia specimens, and bis-GMA-based cement (Duo-Link) was injected into them and light cured. Specimens were tested for microshear bond strength either 24 h or 6 months (m) after water storage (37°C) and surfaces were characterized by SEM and EDX. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (p < 0.05) were used to evaluate bond strength results. RESULTS: The mean bond strengths (MPa ± SD) were: UA=14.6 ± 4.7a (24 h); 16.0 ± 4.8a (6 m); SZP = 14.0 ± 5.4ab (24 h); 11.9 ± 2.6ab (6 m); ZPP=8.0 ± 1.8b (24 h); 8.6 ± 3.3b (6 m); EXP = 1.2 ± 0.5c (24 h); 0.6 ± 0.7c (6 m); CO=1.0 ± 1.2c (24 h); 1.3 ± 1.2c (6 m). Bonding strategy significantly influenced bond strength (p = 0.0001), but storage time did not (p = 0.841). Groups UA and SZP showed a homogeneous layer covering the zirconia surface. In these groups, EDX demonstrated the presence of phosphorus. Group ZPP resulted in a nonhomogeneous layer, exposing the zirconia substrate underneath. EXP application resulted in an undetectable layer. CONCLUSION: Water storage did not affect resin cement bond strengths to zirconia irrespective of the surface treatment. Bis-GMA-based resin cement bond strengths to zirconia are affected by specific bonding strategies.

Can application of universal primers alone be a substitute for airborne-particle abrasion to improve adhesion of resin cement to zirconia?

PURPOSE: To determine whether universal primers alone can deliver similar levels of adhesion of resin cement to zirconia ceramic when compared to their application in conjunction with airborne-particle abrasion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sintered zirconia blocks (N = 160) (Lava, 3M ESPE), (5.25 × 5.25 × 3 mm3) were embedded in acrylic resin, polished, and randomly distributed into 16 groups (n = 10 per group), according to the factors "universal primer" (8 levels) and "air-particle abrasion" (2 levels): 1. ctr: control, without application of a universal primer; 2. AP: Alloy Primer; 3. MP: Monobond Plus; 4. MZP: Metal Zirconia Primer; 5. MZ: MZ Primer; 6. Sg: Signum Zirconia Bond; 7. SbU: Singlebond Universal; 8. ZP: Z Prime Plus. The universal primers were also used after air abrasion (A) of zirconia to form the following 8 groups: Ctr-A, AP-A, MP-A, MZP-A, MZ-A, Sg-A, SbU-A, and ZP-A. After ultrasonic cleaning, air abrasion was performed using Al2O3 particles (110 µm, 2.5 bar, 20 s at 10 mm) in a chairside air-abrasion device. After ultrasonic cleaning again, universal primers were applied according to each manufacturer's recommendation. The resin cement (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE) was built up incrementally and photopolymerized on the zirconia surface using a silicone mold (Ø = 3.5, height = 3 mm). All specimens were stored in distilled water (60 days at 37°C) and then subjected to shear bond strength testing (SBS) in a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). On a separate set of zirconia specimens, contact angle measurements were made using the sessile drop technique with a goniometer after the application of universal primers on control and air-abraded zirconia surfaces. Data (MPa) were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, and Student's t-test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: When universal primers were used alone, SbU presented significantly higher mean SBS (19.5 ± 5.8) that did the other primers (0 to 9.9 ± 6.6) (p = 0.001). When air abraded, the groups AP-A (14.1 ± 6.1), MP-A (15.9 ± 5.4), ZP-A (16.9 ± 7.3), SG-A (19.1 ± 2.1), SbU-A (12 ± 1.5) showed significant differences (p = 0.03). Adhesive performance of all universal primers was enhanced after air abrasion, with the exception of the SbU and MZ primers. After air abrasion, contact angle measurements were lower for the each primer (without air abrasion: 28.9 to 83.9; with air abrasion: 27.1 to 63.0), except for MZP. CONCLUSION: Air abrasion with 110 µm Al2O3 followed by universal primer application increased the bond strength of tested resin cement to zirconia, with the exception of SbU and MZ.

Adhesive luting of new CAD/CAM materials.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the adhesive bonding performance of recently introduced tooth-colored CAD/CAM materials after different pretreatment protocols and using different luting materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The CAD/CAM materials under investigation were e.max CAD (lithium disilicate glass ceramic; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein), Celtra Duo (zirconia-reinforced lithium disilicate ceramic; Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany), Lava Ultimate (resin nano ceramic; 3M ESPE, Neuss, Germany), and Enamic (resin infiltrated ceramic; Vita, Bad Säckingen, Germany). A total of 240 blocks (n = 5) received various pretreatments (no pretreatment, silane, sandblasting, sandblasting + silane, hydrofluoric acid, hydrofluoric acid + silane), and then different classes of adhesive luting composites were applied (adhesive: Prime&Bond XP + SCA + Calibra; Dentsply DeTrey; self adhesive: RelyX Unicem; 3M ESPE). After 24 h water storage and 10,000 thermocycles (5°C/55°C), specimens were cut into beams and microtensile bond strengths were recorded. RESULTS: Bonding performance of recent CAD/CAM materials was clearly influenced by the pretreatment method (P < 0.05). In general, significantly higher µ-TBS values were recorded for the ceramic materials compared to the hybrid materials (P < 0.05). Among the hybrid materials, Enamic exhibited higher bond strengths than Lava Ultimate (P < 0.05). However, despite the differences found, all materials showed a high level of bonding performance, being sufficient to withstand intraoral chewing forces during mastication. CONCLUSION: When pretreated as recommended by the manufacturers, recent tooth-colored CAD/CAM materials show an encouraging bonding performance for adhesive luting.

Effect of two resin cements and two fiber post surface treatments on push-out bond strength between fiber post and root dentin.

AIM: To evaluate the effect of fiber post surface treatments on push-out bond strength between fiber post and root dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty bovine mandibular teeth (N=60) were sectioned (16 mm), prepared (12 mm), embedded with acrylic resin and then allocated into six groups (n=10): Gr1- Silane coupling agent (Sil)+Conventional resin cement AllC em (Al C); Gr2- Sil+Conventional resin cement RelyX ARC (ARC); Gr3- tribochemical silica coating (TBS)+AlC; Gr4- TBS+ARC; Gr5- No treatment (NT)+AlC; Gr6- NT+ ARC. Specimens were sectioned in four slices (2 mm) and submitted to push-out test. Fracture analyses were executed at x200. The values of the push-out bond strength were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Resincement did not affect the bond strength values (p=0.9674), fiber post surface treatment affected the push-out bond strength (p=0.0353), interaction between factors did not affected the values (p=0.338). Tukey test did not show differences between the groups. Adhesive failure between cement and dentin was predominantly. CONCLUSION: The fiber post surface treatment appears have no Influence on bond strength between fiber post and root dentin. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The tested fiber posts surface treatment appears do not Influence the fiber post bond behavior.

Evaluation of the Effect of Different Surface Treatments on Luting CAD/CAM Composite Resin Overlay Workpieces.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of different surface treatments on luting CAD/CAM composite resin workpieces. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One-hundred eight (108) composite CAD/CAM block sections (Lava Ultimate) 3 mm in thickness were polished up to 4000 grit and then randomly assigned to 6 experimental groups according to the applied surface treatment (no treatment, sodium bicarbonate [NaHCO3], glycine, alumina [Al2O3], CoJet, and SilJet). After standardized sandblasting procedures, 2 block sections from each group were randomly chosen for the qualitative SEM evaluation of the sandblasted surfaces. The remaining 96 CAD/CAM block sections were luted in pairs using a bonding agent (Single Bond) and a restorative composite resin (Filtek Ultimate). Specimens were aged for 2 weeks in 37°C water with 3000 thermal cycles (5°C/55°C), the microtensile test was performed (n = 30), and the values were statistically analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (p = 0.05). RESULTS: The qualitative SEM evaluation of the sandblasted surfaces showed that sodium bicarbonate and glycine had almost no conditioning effect on the CAD/CAM composite resin. In contrast, aluminum oxide, CoJet, and SilJet had a profound conditioning effect on the CAD/CAM composite resin. No treatment, sodium bicarbonate, and glycine specimens were debonded after thermal stressing (0 MPa), while aluminum oxide, CoJet, and SilJet showed high microtensile values (Al2O3: 104.45 ± 18.76 MPa; CoJet: 105.55 ± 11.88 MPa; SilJet: 105.02 ± 20.84 MPa), which were not statistically significantly different from each other. CONCLUSION: Aluminum oxide-based sandblasting powders are the best choice for the surface treatment of CAD/ CAM workpieces.

Influence of organic acids present in oral biofilm on the durability of the repair bond strength, sorption and solubility of resin composites.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the repair bond strength after storage in water, lactic and propionic acid after 7 days and 6 months and the sorption and solubility of resin composites used. METHODS: Five cylinders of each resin composite (microhybrid, nanofilled and silorane-based composite) were prepared. Specimens were aged with thermocycling (5 and 55°C) 5,000 times. A repair procedure was performed using intraoral sandblasting with 50-µm aluminum oxide, application of an adhesive system and cylinder of composite was fabricated. Specimens were sectioned into beams and stored in three immersion media: water, propionic acid and lactic acid. The microtensile bond strength was measured after periods of 7 days and 6 months. Sorption and solubility were evaluated using 15 specimens (0 = 6 mm; h = 1 mm) of each resin composite, which were prepared and assigned into three groups (n = 5) according to the immersion media (water, propionic acid and lactic acid). Data were analyzed using one-way/two-way/three-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The resin composites, immersion media and time of immersion did not affect the repair bond strength (microhybrid 38.3 to 40.9 MPa; nanofilled 38.7 to 42.2 MPa; silorane 41.2 to 51.1 MPa). Additionally, the immersion media did not affect the sorption and solubility. The silorane-based composite presented the lowest sorption (10.5 to 12.1 µg/mm3) and solubility (-2.4 to -2.7 µg/mm3), while the nanofilled methacrylate-based composite showed the highest sorption (32.1 to 33.6 µg/mm3). Regarding solubility, the nanofilled and microhybrid methacrylate-based composites did not present statistically significant differences.

Effect of surface treatments on the shear bond strength of luting cements to Y-TZP ceramic.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Because zirconia is a glass-free material, alternative surface treatments such as airborne-particle abrasion or silica coating should be used for long-term bonding. However, these surface treatments in combination with different bonding agents and luting cements have not yet been studied. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of surface treatments on the shear bond strength (SBS) of luting cements to Y-TZP ceramic. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Zirconia disks (N=240) were airborne-particle abraded with the following particles (n=48): 50 µm Al2O3; 120 µm Al2O3; 30 µm silica-coated Al2O3 (Rocatec Soft); 120 µm Al2O3+110 µm silica-coated Al2O3 (Rocatec Plus); and Rocatec Plus. After silanization of the zirconia surface, composite resin disks were bonded with (n=12) RelyX Luting 2; RelyX ARC; RelyX U100; and Panavia F. The bonded specimens were thermocycled (10 000 cycles) and tested for SBS. Failure mode was determined with a stereomicroscope (×20). The morphology and elemental composition of airborne-particle abraded surfaces were evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (×500) and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (×50). RESULTS: Surface treatments, cements, and their interaction were significant (P<.001). For RelyX ARC, Rocatec Soft and Rocatec Plus provided the highest SBS. In general, surface treatments did not influence the SBS of RelyX U100 and Panavia F. Regardless of the cement, no significant difference was found between 50 µm and 120 µm Al2O3 particles, between Rocatec Soft and Rocatec Plus, or between Rocatec Plus and 120 µm Al2O3 particles+Rocatec Plus. All groups showed adhesive failures. Different particle sizes provided differences in morphological patterns. The elemental composition comprised Al and Al/Si for alumina and silica-abraded zirconia. CONCLUSIONS: Particle size did not influence the SBS of the groups abraded exclusively with alumina or silica-coated particles. RelyX ARC was more surface-treatment dependent than RelyX U100 or Panavia F.

Adhesive bonding to pulp chamber dentin after different irrigation regimens.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and NaOCl irrigation on the microleakage and interfacial morphology of adhesives bonded to pulp chamber dentin. METHODS: The pulp chamber roof of 72 extracted permanent molars was removed. Samples were equally divided into six groups. Pulp chamber dentin was bonded with either Adper Easy One (group 1), Adper Prompt L-Pop (group 2), or Adper Single Bond 2 (Group 3), after irrigation with either normal saline (groups 1a, 2a, 3a) or 17% EDTA and 5.25% NaOCl (groups 1b, 2b, 3b). Composite resin restorations were placed in the pulp chamber. Ten samples per group were subjected to microleakage test and scanning electron microscopic analysis was done in two samples from each group. Data were statistically analyzed using Mann-Whitney and Kruskal Wallis tests at a significance level of P < 0.05. RESULTS: EDTA and NaOCl irrigation of the pulp chamber significantly reduced microleakage in Adper Easy One. However, it had no significant effect on the microleakage of Adper Prompt L-Pop and Adper Single Bond 2. CONCLUSIONS: EDTA and NaOCl irrigation of the pulp chamber was not deleterious to the bonding of any of the adhesives tested. While this irrigation regimen had no significant effect on the microleakage of Adper Prompt L-Pop and Adper Single Bond 2, it significantly reduced the microleakage scores in Adper Easy One.

A castor oil-containing dental luting agent: effects of cyclic loading and storage time on flexural strength

Favorable results in the use of castor oil polyurethane (COP) as pulp capping, membrane material, sealer, mouthwash and in bone repair, associated with the fact that Ricinus communis is not derived from petroleum and it is abundant in Brazil, encourage researches in the development of luting agents. Objectives This study compared the flexural strength (FS) of a castor oil-containing dental luting agent with a weight percentage of 10% (wt%) of calcium carbonate (COP10) with RelyX ARC (RX) after mechanical cycling (MC) and distilled water storage. Material and Methods Sixty-four specimens (25x2x2 mm) were fabricated and divided into two groups, COP10 and RX (control). Each group was divided into 4 subgroups (n=8) according to the storage time, 24 hours (24 h) or 60 days (60 d), and the performance (MC+FS) or not (only FS) of the mechanical cycling test. The FS (10 kN; 0.5 mm/min) and MC tests (10,000 cycles, 5 Hz, 0.5 mm/min) were carried out using an MTS-810 machine. The data were analyzed using ANOVA (α=0.05). Results The obtained FS (MPa) values were: COP10 24h- 19.04±2.41; COP10 60d- 17.92±3.54; RX 24h- 75.19±3.43; RX 60d- 88.77±6.89. All the RX specimens submitted to MC fractured, while the values for COP10 after MC were as follows: COP10 24h- 17.90±1.87 and COP10 60d- 18.60±1.60. Conclusions A castor oil-containing dental luting agent with a weight percentage of 10% (wt%) of calcium carbonate is resistant to mechanical cycling without decreases in flexural strength. However, mean COP10 showed only about 25% of the RelyX ARC mean flexural strength. .

Colour stainability of indirect CAD-CAM processed composites vs. conventionally laboratory processed composites after immersion in staining solutions.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine, by using a spectrophotometer device, the colour stainability of two indirect CAD/CAM processed composites in comparison with two conventionally laboratory-processed composites after being immersed 4 weeks in staining solutions such as coffee, black tea and red wine, using distilled water as control group. METHODS: Two indirect CAD/CAM composites (Lava Ultimate and Paradigm MZ100) and two conventionally laboratory-processed composites (SR Adoro and Premise Indirect) of shade A2 were selected (160 disc samples). Colour stainability was measured after 4 weeks of immersion in three staining solutions (black tea, coffee, red wine) and distilled water. Specimen's colour was measured each week by means of a spectrophotometer (CIE L*a*b* system). Statistical analysis was carried out performing repeated ANOVA measurements and Tukey's HSD test to evaluate differences in ΔE00 measurements between groups; the interactions among composites, staining solutions and time duration were also evaluated. RESULTS: All materials showed significant discoloration (p<0.01) when compared to control group. The highest ΔE00 observed was with red wine, whereas black tea showed the lowest one. Indirect laboratory-processed resin composites showed the highest colour stability compared with CAD/CAM resin blocks. CONCLUSIONS: CAD/CAM processed composites immersed in staining solutions showed lower colour stability when compared to conventionally laboratory-processed resin composites. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The demand for CAD/CAM restorations has been increasing; however, colour stainability for such material has been insufficiently studied. Moreover, this has not been performed comparing CAD/CAM processed composites versus laboratory-processed indirect composites by immersing in staining solutions for long immersion periods.

Development of a composite resin disclosing agent based on the understanding of tooth staining mechanisms.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the surface composition of dental enamel and composite resin, assess the ability of dyes with different affinities to stain these surfaces, and use this information to develop a disclosing agent that stains composite resin more than dental enamel. METHODS: One hundred and ten sound extracted teeth were collected and 60 discs of composite resin, 9 mm diameter and 3 mm thick, were prepared. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was employed to determine the elemental composition on the different surfaces. A tooth shade spectrophotometer was used to assess the change in shade after staining the surfaces with different dyes. RESULTS: XPS analysis revealed that surfaces of both outer dental enamel and composite resin contained relatively high amounts of carbon, specifically hydrocarbons. Both dental enamel and composite surfaces were stainable with the hydrophobic dye (p<0.05); however, the composite resin was stained more than the dental enamel (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The hydrophobic surface of dental enamel and composite resin might explain their high affinity to be stained by food and beverages containing hydrophobic molecules. The composite resin is more stainable by hydrophobic dyes than dental enamel. We used this information to develop an agent for disclosing composite resins that could be used to visualize composite resins that need to be removed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Removal of composite resin can be problematic, time consuming and stressful to the dental practitioner. A composite disclosing agent would help the dental practitioner identify the composite resin and facilitate its removal without damaging the adjacent healthy tooth tissues.

In vitro investigation of coupling-agent-free dental restorative composite based on nano-porous alumina fillers.

OBJECTIVES: The study aims at demonstrating the feasibility of a novel type of coupling-agent-free resin composite based on nano-porous fillers. METHODS: The fillers were obtained by ball-milling anodic alumina membranes. Composites were prepared with standard resin at maximum loading of 50% by weight. The resin matrix penetration into the pores was verified visually by scanning electron microscopy and mechanically by atomic force microscopy in force modulation mode. The dynamic flexural modulus at 1Hz was measured by dynamic mechanical analysis. Silver nanoparticles were also synthesized in the pores and their release was investigated with inductive coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. RESULTS: A storage modulus of 5GPa was measured, similar to the ∼6GPa ones of two coupling-agent-based dental restorative composites used for comparison, which is a promising starting point, additionally showing better one-year equivalent ageing as compared to both commercial materials. Loading the pores with silver nanoparticles was demonstrated as well as their subsequent release in a model system. SIGNIFICANCE: The alumina micro-particles with interconnected nano-pores allow mechanical interlocking between fillers and matrix without the need for chemical bonding. This material is also promising for being made bio-active, after pore filling with different agents.