Influence of fabrication method on the marginal fit of temporary restorations.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology allows the use of different manufacturing techniques. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the marginal fit of temporary restorations manufactured using conventional chairside methods, milling, and three-dimensional printing. Fifteen 3-element temporary restorations specimens were produced and categorized into three groups: non-digital, obtained using the conventional chairside method (GC); milled (GM); and three-dimensionally printed (GP). Marginal fit was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) performed under two conditions: one with only the central screw tightened, and the other with all three screws tightened. Horizontal misfit values were categorized as over-, equal-, and under-extended and qualitatively analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using the Tukey-Kramer test (α=0.05). In the vertical assessment, three-dimensionally printed restorations demonstrated greater misfit than restorations obtained by milling and the conventional chairside method (P<0.05). In the horizontal assessment, the misfit in the GP group was significantly higher than that in the GM and GC groups. Restorations obtained using the conventional chairside method and milled provisional restorations showed more favorable results than three-dimensionally printed restorations.

Accuracy of Conventional and 3D-Printed Casts for Partial Fixed Prostheses.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare the accuracy of conventional and 3D-printed casts using five different 3D printers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the control group (CG group, n = 5), five conventional impressions using light- and heavy-body polyvinyl siloxane were obtained from the master model, resulting in five stone models. In the test groups, five different scans were performed by a well-trained and experienced clinician using a TRIOS intraoral scanner. All data were exported in STL file format, processed, and sent to five 3D printers. Five casts were manufactured in each printer group: SG (CARES P20, Straumann); FG (Form 2, Formlabs); WG (Duplicator 7, Wanhao); ZG (Zenith D, Zenith); and MG (Moonray S100, Moonray). Measurements of the accuracy (trueness and precision) of the casts obtained from conventional elastomeric impressions and 3D-printing methods were accomplished using a 3D analysis software (Geomagic Control). RESULTS: The FG group showed the lowest values for trueness (indicating a value closer to real dimensions), which were similar to the SG group only (P > .05). MG, WG, and ZG groups presented higher values and were similar compared to each other. Data on precision demonstrated that all 3D-printed groups showed lower values for precision (smaller deviation) when compared to the CG. CONCLUSIONS: The trueness depends on the chosen 3D printer. All of the tested 3D printers were more precise than cast models obtained from conventional elastomeric impressions.

Influence of fabrication method on the marginal fit of temporary restorations

Abstract Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technology allows the use of different manufacturing techniques. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the marginal fit of temporary restorations manufactured using conventional chairside methods, milling, and three-dimensional printing. Fifteen 3-element temporary restorations specimens were produced and categorized into three groups: non-digital, obtained using the conventional chairside method (GC); milled (GM); and three-dimensionally printed (GP). Marginal fit was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) performed under two conditions: one with only the central screw tightened, and the other with all three screws tightened. Horizontal misfit values were categorized as over-, equal-, and under-extended and qualitatively analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using the Tukey-Kramer test (α=0.05). In the vertical assessment, three-dimensionally printed restorations demonstrated greater misfit than restorations obtained by milling and the conventional chairside method (P<0.05). In the horizontal assessment, the misfit in the GP group was significantly higher than that in the GM and GC groups. Restorations obtained using the conventional chairside method and milled provisional restorations showed more favorable results than three-dimensionally printed restorations.

Effect of thickness and shade of CAD/CAM composite on the light transmission from different light-curing units.

The thickness and shade of a restoration will affect the transmission of light from the light-curing unit (LCU). This study determined the power (mW), spectral radiant power (mW/nm), and beam profile of different LCUs through various thicknesses and shades of a CAD-CAM resin composite (BRAVA Block, FGM). Five thicknesses: 0.5; 0.75; 1.0; 1.5, and 2.0 mm, in three shades: Bleach; A2 and A3.5 of a CAD-CAM resin (n = 5). Two single-peak LCUs: EL, Elipar DeepCure-S (3M Oral Care); and OP, Optilight Max (Gnatus), and one multiple-peak LCU: VL, VALO Grand (Ultradent), were used. The LCUs were positioned touching the surface of the BRAVA Block. The power and emission spectrum were measured using a fiberoptic spectrometer attached to an integrating sphere, and the beam profiles using a laser beam profiler. The effect of the material thickness on the light attenuation coefficients was determined. VL and EL delivered more homogeneous beam profiles than OP. The type of the BRAVA Block had a significant effect on the transmitted power, and wavelengths of transmitted light (p < 0.001). There was an exponential reduction in the power and emission spectrum as the thickness of the BRAVA Block increased (p < 0.001). The light transmission through the A2 shade was least affected by the thickness (p < 0.001). The attenuation coefficient was higher for the violet light and higher for A3.5 than the A2 or Bleach shades. No violet light from the VL could be detected at the bottom of 2.0 mm of the BRAVA Block.

Mechanical Behavior of One-Piece and Two-Piece Tapered Prosthetic Abutments with 11.5 and 16 Degrees.

The objective of this study is to examine the mechanical behavior of two-piece abutments (Morse taper with 16° internal angulation and Morse taper with 11.5° internal angulation) before and after cyclic fatigue testing, following ISO 14801:2016 guidelines. The specimens were divided into three groups: a modified Morse taper with a taper angle of 16° (GM group), a conventional Morse taper (taper angle of 11.5° deg) with a two-piece (CMt group), and one-piece abutments (CMo group). Each experimental group was formed by ten implants and ten abutments (n = 10) for a total of 30 specimens (n = 30). The abutments were tightened and loosened, and a fatigue test was applied with 15 Hz and 5 × 106 cycles. Subsequently, the abutments were loosened, and a pull-out test was performed on the CMt group. Finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted on stress concentration regions. The statistical analysis of the loosening test was performed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05) to compare screw loosening within each group and between the groups with and without mechanical fatigue. Significant differences were found among the three groups in the loosening test when analyzing the values with and without fatigue (p < 0.001) within each group. When the groups were compared with each other, there was also a significant difference between them (p < 0.001), except between groups GM and CMt without fatigue (p = 0.840). In the pull-out test of the CMt group, the sample exhibited frictional locking only after fatigue (mean = 94.2 N). The FEA demonstrated a varied stress distribution in all groups. The stress was found to be more concentrated in the upper third and middle third regions of the implant, as well as in the opposite region of the load application for all three groups. Although the CMo group showed lower rates of loosening, it displayed a poorer stress distribution in comparison to the GM and CMt groups. On the other hand, the CMt group exhibited a satisfactory frictional lock after undergoing the fatigue tests.

Physical and mechanical properties of four 3D-printed resins at two different thick layers: An in vitro comparative study.

OBJECTIVES: This in vitro comparative study aimed to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of four 3D-printed resins with two different thickness layers. METHODS: Four printed resins (VarseoSmile Crown Plus, VSC; NexDent C&B MFH, MFH; Nanolab 3D, NNL; and Resilab 3D Temp, RSL) were printed with 50 µm and 100 µm layer thickness, resulting in 80 bars measuring 25 × 2×2 mm. The specimens underwent a Raman spectroscopy for degree of conversion, confocal laser scanning microscopy for surface roughness (Sa), three-point bending test for flexural strength and elastic modulus, and a Vickers hardness test (VHN). Data was tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk, two-way ANOVA, and Tukey test (α = 0.05) for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The layer thickness affected all performed tests, but the elastic modulus (p < 0.001). Specimens with 100 µm showed, in general, worse results outcomes than those with 50 µm (p < 0.001). However, within the limitations of this comparative in vitro study, it could be concluded that the tested resins and layer thicknesses directly influenced physical and mechanical properties. SIGNIFICANCE: The physical and mechanical properties of three-dimensional printed restorations can be affected by the layer thickness, which can interfere with the choice of the 3D printing resin for a desired clinical outcome.

Mandibular implant-assisted removable partial denture - Kennedy Class I to Class III modification - Case series with masticatory performance and satisfaction evaluation.

In this work, we present 5 cases of Kennedy Class I patients with atrophic posterior mandible treated with the placement of 01 short WS Neodent® implant and a healing screw to support the removable prosthesis, transforming them into Kennedy Class III patients. To quickly evaluate and verify the benefit of this treatment, masticatory performance was evaluated with maximum bite force and chewing ability. A VAS questionnaire was also applied for a practical preoperative and postoperative evaluation of overall quality of life-changing for the patient after this treatment. This treatment plan was planned in order to reduce drastically the treatment costs and morbidity, and to enhance oral function and the quality of life for these patients. Also, this treatment lead to residual bone preservation, enhanced masticatory function and patient satisfaction. Especially in countries with a large number of patients with missing teeth and socio-economic difficulties to be fully rehabilitated with dental implants and fixed prosthesis treatment options with reduced costs are important to be in our armamentary os possibilities. Key words:Dental implants, masticatory performance, chewing, oral function, mixing ability.

Cost and effectiveness of 3-dimensionally printed model using three different printing layer parameters and two resins.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: When 3-dimensional printing casts, the operator can change the type of resin and the printing layer thickness, reducing the fabrication time. However, how these parameters affect the accuracy of 3-dimensionally printed casts is unknown. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the accuracy of 3-dimensionally printed casts by using a stereolithography (SLA) 3-dimensional printer (Forms2) with 3 different layer thickness (25, 50, and 100 µm) and 2 different resins (Gray and Cast) and by comparing the time to obtain each cast. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One master cast was scanned, and a single file was printed several times. The printed casts were then scanned by using a laboratory scanner. The standard tessellation language (STL) files provided by the laboratory scanner were superimposed and compared by using a software program (Geomagic Control; 3D Systems). The 2-way ANOVA test was used for the trueness evaluation, followed by the Tukey test to identify differences among the groups (α=.05). RESULTS: No statistically significant differences in accuracy were found among the 3 different layers for either resin (P>.05). Printing time doubled as layer thickness decreased. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that when printing casts, the fastest printing settings can be used without losing accuracy and that the laboratory digital workflow can be accelerated with selection of the resin and cast layer, as the type of resin and layer thickness did not influence the quality of the casts.

Effect of thickness and shade of CAD/CAM composite on the light transmission from different light-curing units

Abstract The thickness and shade of a restoration will affect the transmission of light from the light-curing unit (LCU). This study determined the power (mW), spectral radiant power (mW/nm), and beam profile of different LCUs through various thicknesses and shades of a CAD-CAM resin composite (BRAVA Block, FGM). Five thicknesses: 0.5; 0.75; 1.0; 1.5, and 2.0 mm, in three shades: Bleach; A2 and A3.5 of a CAD-CAM resin (n = 5). Two single-peak LCUs: EL, Elipar DeepCure-S (3M Oral Care); and OP, Optilight Max (Gnatus), and one multiple-peak LCU: VL, VALO Grand (Ultradent), were used. The LCUs were positioned touching the surface of the BRAVA Block. The power and emission spectrum were measured using a fiberoptic spectrometer attached to an integrating sphere, and the beam profiles using a laser beam profiler. The effect of the material thickness on the light attenuation coefficients was determined. VL and EL delivered more homogeneous beam profiles than OP. The type of the BRAVA Block had a significant effect on the transmitted power, and wavelengths of transmitted light (p < 0.001). There was an exponential reduction in the power and emission spectrum as the thickness of the BRAVA Block increased (p < 0.001). The light transmission through the A2 shade was least affected by the thickness (p < 0.001). The attenuation coefficient was higher for the violet light and higher for A3.5 than the A2 or Bleach shades. No violet light from the VL could be detected at the bottom of 2.0 mm of the BRAVA Block.

Accuracy of conventional and 3D printed casts for partial fixed prosthesis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare the accuracy of conventional and 3D-printed casts using five different 3D printers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the control group (CG group, n = 5), five conventional impressions using light- and heavy-body polyvinyl siloxane were obtained from the master model, resulting in five stone models. In the test groups, five different scans were performed by a well-trained and experienced clinician using a TRIOS intraoral scanner. All data were exported as an STL file format, processed, and sent to five 3D printers. Five casts were manufactured in each group: SG (CARES P20, Straumann); FG (Form 2, Formlabs); WG (Duplicator 7, Wanhao); ZG (Zenith D, Zenith); and MG (Moonray S100, Moonray). Measurements of the accuracy (trueness and precision) of the casts obtained from conventional elastomeric impressions and 3D-printing methods were accomplished using a 3D analysis software (Geomagic Control). RESULTS: The FG group showed the lowest values for trueness (closer to real dimensions), which were similar to the SG group only (P > .05). Groups MG, WG, and ZG presented higher values and were similar compared to each other. Data on precision demonstrated that all 3D-printed groups showed lower values for precision (smaller deviation) when compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: The trueness depends on the chosen 3D printer. All of the tested 3D printers were more precise than cast models obtained from conventional elastomeric impressions.

Influence of diameter on mechanical behavior of morse taper narrow implants

Dental implants could give back function, esthetics and quality of life to patients. The correct choice of the implant, especially in borderline cases, is essential for a satisfactory result. Aim: Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the mechanical behavior of Morse taper implants with two different prosthetic interfaces. Methods: Twenty self-locking Morse taper implants, 2.9 mm in diameter (FAC), and 20 Morse taper implants, 3.5 mm in diameter (CM) were divided into two groups (n=10), and submitted to strength to failure test, optical microscopic evaluation of fracture, metallographic analysis of the alloy, finite element analysis (FEA) and strain gauge test. A Student's t test (α = 0.05) was made for a statistical analysis. Results: For the strength to failure test, a statistically difference was observed (p <0.001) between FAC (225.0 ± 19.8 N) and CM (397.3 ± 12.5 N). The optical microscopic evaluation demonstrated a fracture pattern that corroborated with FEA ́s results. The metallographic analysis determined that the implants of the FAC group have titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy in their composition. In the strain gauge test, there was no statistical difference (p = 0.833) between CM (1064.8 ± 575.04 µS) and FAC (1002.2 ± 657.6 µS) groups. Conclusion: Based on the results obtained in this study, ultra-narrow implants (FAC) should ideally be restricted to areas with low masticatory effort

Microstructural and mechanical analysis of two CAD-CAM lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics.

The aim of this study was to analyze the structural, morphological and mechanical properties of two different lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics for CAD-CAM systems (IPS e.max CAD and Rosetta SM). Five methodologies were used for both ceramics: microstructure (n = 2) was analyzed using x-ray diffraction (XRD); morphological properties (n = 2) were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), with and without hydrofluoric etching; porosity (n = 3) was assessed using 3D micro-computed tomography (micro-CT); flexural strength was measured (n =1 0) using the three-point bending test; and bond strength was determined with self-adhesive resin cement (n = 10), using a microshear bond test. After performing all the tests, the data were analyzed using t-Student test and two-way ANOVA. All the tests used a significance level of α = 0.05. High peak positions corresponding to standard lithium metasilicate and lithium disilicate with similar intensities were observed for both ceramics in the XRD analysis. Morphological analysis showed that the crystalline structure of the two ceramics studied showed no statistical difference after acid etching. Additionally, no significant differences were recorded in the number or size of the pores for the ceramics evaluated. Moreover, no differences in flexural strength were found for the ceramic materials tested, or in the bond strength to ceramic substrates for the resin cements. Based on the study results, no significant differences were found between the two CAD-CAM lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics tested, since they presented similar crystalline structures with comparable intensities, and similar total porosity, flexural strength and bond strength.

Microstructural and mechanical analysis of two CAD-CAM lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the structural, morphological and mechanical properties of two different lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics for CAD-CAM systems (IPS e.max CAD and Rosetta SM). Five methodologies were used for both ceramics: microstructure (n = 2) was analyzed using x-ray diffraction (XRD); morphological properties (n = 2) were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), with and without hydrofluoric etching; porosity (n = 3) was assessed using 3D micro-computed tomography (micro-CT); flexural strength was measured (n =1 0) using the three-point bending test; and bond strength was determined with self-adhesive resin cement (n = 10), using a microshear bond test. After performing all the tests, the data were analyzed using t-Student test and two-way ANOVA. All the tests used a significance level of α = 0.05. High peak positions corresponding to standard lithium metasilicate and lithium disilicate with similar intensities were observed for both ceramics in the XRD analysis. Morphological analysis showed that the crystalline structure of the two ceramics studied showed no statistical difference after acid etching. Additionally, no significant differences were recorded in the number or size of the pores for the ceramics evaluated. Moreover, no differences in flexural strength were found for the ceramic materials tested, or in the bond strength to ceramic substrates for the resin cements. Based on the study results, no significant differences were found between the two CAD-CAM lithium disilicate glass-reinforced ceramics tested, since they presented similar crystalline structures with comparable intensities, and similar total porosity, flexural strength and bond strength.

Biomechanical behavior of extra-narrow implants after fatigue and pull-out tests.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Narrow implants have limited indications, and implant fracture may occur when these indications are not followed. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the mechanical behavior of a 2.9-mm-diameter implant using a fatigue limit test and to investigate the Morse effect of 2 different Morse taper systems, 2.9-mm-diameter (FAC group) and 3.75-mm-diameter (CM group) implants, using a pull-out test. The null hypothesis was that the tensile strengths of the components for both systems would be similar. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The fatigue properties of 13 specimens under 6 loads were determined. The test was performed at 15 Hz and for 5×106 cycles. In the pull-out test, the specimens were divided into 2 groups (n=8), the FAC group (2.9-mm-diameter) and the CM group (3.75-mm-diameter). Statistical analysis for the pull-out test was performed with the Student t test (α=.05). RESULTS: Thirteen specimens underwent the fatigue test. Only 5 did not fail when subjected to the frequency and number of cycles examined. Three of the specimens did not fail under a load of 130 N. The pull-out test showed a significant difference between the FAC and CM groups (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: According to the fatigue test, the extra-narrow implant (Facility; Neodent) was compatible with the low masticatory effort regions, as indicated by the manufacturer. The better performance of the FAC group in the pull-out test may be due to its design, which promotes the pure Morse effect in the implant-abutment interface, and the angulation of its internal conical portion.

Electric Saw Face Self-Mutilation in a 22-Year-Old Schizophrenic Man: Case Report.

Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects a large segment of the population. It is managed mainly through pharmacotherapy, and family engagement is mandatory in the process. We present a case of self-mutilation in a 22-year-old man who cut his mandible with an electric saw, trying to modify his chin to better his appearance.

Can intra-radicular cleaning protocols increase the retention of fiberglass posts? A systematic review.

The presence of residues within the root canal after post-space preparation can influence the bond strength between resin cement and root dentin when using fiberglass posts (FGPs). Currently, there is no consensus in the literature regarding what is the best solution for the removal of debris after post-space preparation. This systematic review involved "in vitro" studies to investigate if cleaning methods of the root canal after post-space preparation can increase the retention of FGPs evaluated by the push-out test. Searches were carried out in PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scopus databases up to July2017. English language studies published from 2007 to July 2017 were selected. 475 studies were found, and 9 were included in this review. Information from the 9 studies were collected regarding the number of samples, storage method after extraction, root canal preparation, method of post-space preparation, endodontic sealer, resin cement, cleaning methods after post-space and presence of irrigant activation. Five studies presented the best results for the association of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA), while in the other 4 studies, the solutions that showed improved retention of FGPs were photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS), Qmix, Sikko and EDTA. The results showed heterogeneity in all comparisons due to a high variety of information about cleaning methods, different concentrations, application time, type of adhesive system and resin cements used. In conclusion, this review suggests that the use of NaOCl/EDTA results in the retention of FGPs and may thus be recommended as a post-space cleaning method influencing the luting procedure.

Influence of scanner, powder application, and adjustments on CAD-CAM crown misfit.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The manufacturers of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) systems emphasize that new technologies can improve the marginal fit of dental crowns. However, data supporting this claim are limited. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the differences among the following fabrication methods on the marginal discrepancy of dental crowns: intraoral optical scanners, powder application, and adjustments of intaglio surface. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A single human premolar was fixed on a typodont and prepared to receive crowns prepared by the CEREC CAD-CAM system. Three fabrication techniques were used: digital scans using the CEREC Bluecam scanner with titanium dioxide powder (TDP), digital scans using the CEREC Omnicam scanner without TDP, and digital scans using the Omnicam scanner with TDP. Five experimental groups (n=10) were designated: Bluecam (group B), Bluecam with adjustments (group BA), Omnicam (group O), Omnicam with adjustments (group OA), and Omnicam with TDP (group OP). The specimens were scanned using microcomputed tomography to measure the vertical, horizontal, and internal fit and volumetric 3-dimensional (3D) internal fit values of each luting space. The paired t test was used to evaluate mean marginal fit change after adjustments within the same group. One-way analysis of variance and post hoc tests were used to compare groups B, O, and OP (α=.05). RESULTS: Mean vertical fit values ±standard deviations of group B=29.5 ±13.2 µm; BA=26.9 ±7.7 µm; O=149.4 ±64.4 µm; OA=49.4 ±12.7 µm; and OP=33.0 ±8.3 µm. Adjustments in the intaglio surface and TDP application statistically influenced the vertical fit of group O (P<.001). The percentage of vertical fit values <75 µm in group B=89.3%, BA=92.7%, O=31.0%, OA=73.5%, and OP=92.0%. Mean horizontal fit values for group B=56.2 ±21.5 µm; 85.8 ±44.4 µm for group BA; 77.5 ±11.8 µm for group O; 102.5 ±16.2 µm for group OA; and 91.4 ±19.4 µm for group OP. Results from group B were significantly different from those of the other test groups (P<.05). The percentages of horizontal misfit were 61.2% in group B; 73.5% in group BA; 88.1% in group O; 92.4% in group OA; and 85.0% in group OP. Volumetric 3D internal fit values in group B were 9.4 ±1.3 mm3; 10.7 ±1.0 mm3 in group BA; 11.8 ±2.1 mm3 in group O; 11.0 ±1.3 mm3 in group OA; and 9.6 ±0.9 mm3 in group OP. The overall results from groups B and OP were better than those of group O, with regard to vertical misfit and volumetric 3D internal fit. CONCLUSIONS: Different intraoral optical scanners, powder application, and internal adjustments influenced the marginal discrepancy of crowns. Crowns fabricated using the Omnicam system had significantly higher vertical discrepancy and volumetric 3D internal fit than those fabricated using the Bluecam scanner with TDP. Adjustments of the intaglio surface improved the vertical fit of crowns made using the Omnicam scanner; however, TDP application before Omnicam scanning improved the vertical fit as well as the volumetric 3D internal fit value of the luting space of crowns.

Can intra-radicular cleaning protocols increase the retention of fiberglass posts? A systematic review

Abstract The presence of residues within the root canal after post-space preparation can influence the bond strength between resin cement and root dentin when using fiberglass posts (FGPs). Currently, there is no consensus in the literature regarding what is the best solution for the removal of debris after post-space preparation. This systematic review involved "in vitro" studies to investigate if cleaning methods of the root canal after post-space preparation can increase the retention of FGPs evaluated by the push-out test. Searches were carried out in PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scopus databases up to July2017. English language studies published from 2007 to July 2017 were selected. 475 studies were found, and 9 were included in this review. Information from the 9 studies were collected regarding the number of samples, storage method after extraction, root canal preparation, method of post-space preparation, endodontic sealer, resin cement, cleaning methods after post-space and presence of irrigant activation. Five studies presented the best results for the association of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA), while in the other 4 studies, the solutions that showed improved retention of FGPs were photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS), Qmix, Sikko and EDTA. The results showed heterogeneity in all comparisons due to a high variety of information about cleaning methods, different concentrations, application time, type of adhesive system and resin cements used. In conclusion, this review suggests that the use of NaOCl/EDTA results in the retention of FGPs and may thus be recommended as a post-space cleaning method influencing the luting procedure.

Comparative analysis of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and micro-computed tomography on measurements

Abstract: Microscopic measurements are widely used in scientific research and the correct equipment to perform these evaluations could be critical to determine study results. Regarding microscopic measurements, three of the most used methods are: Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Micro-computed Tomography (MCT). It is important to select the best method for assessing diverse parameters, considering operational characteristics of the method, the equipment efficiency, and the machinery cost. Aim: Therefore, the main objective of this study was to define which is the most useful measurement method for assessing magnitudes below 0.4 mm. Methods: Ten dental implants, with known dimensions as defined by the manufacturer were randomly distributed. Two blinded observers assessed the distance between the second and the third screw vortex of the implants using three suggested methods. The true distance was defined to be 0.5 mm. Results: The assessed distances were: 0.597±0.007mm for OM, 0.578±0.017mm for SEM, and 0.613±0.006mm for MCT. The assessed distances were significantly different when the methods were compared (P>0.01). All measurements were into the CAD tolerances. Conclusion: It was possible to conclude that linear easurements between 595 and 605 µm could be performed by any of the described technologies (AU)

Influence of the Prosthetic Index on Fracture Resistance of Morse Taper Dental Implants.

PURPOSE: Manufacturers have inserted a prosthetic index, an internal hexagon to guide prosthetic components inside Morse taper implants. However, it is still unclear if this mechanism could decrease the mechanical strength of Morse taper implants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the prosthetic index inside Morse taper implants on fracture resistance compared with nonindexed implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-seven Morse taper implants, with 11.5-degree angulation of the internal conical portion, were divided into three groups: implants without the prosthetic index and solid Morse taper universal post (group 1), implants with the prosthetic index and solid Morse taper universal post (group 2), and implants and abutments with the prosthetic index (group 3). All groups were modeled for finite element stress analysis (FEA), simulating force application of a perpendicular load to the abutments. Fracture resistance (n = 10) was determined under the same condition. Dynamic loading (n = 9) was also performed. The statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the Tukey test was applied (α = .05). The metallographic analysis was used to identify the fracture distribution and the microstructure of the titanium alloy. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the values of all tested groups. According to the FEA, the prosthetic index region was out of stress. The mean fracture resistances and loading test were 353.7 N and 200 N for group 1, 397.3 N and 170 N for group 2, and 372.0 N and 160 N for group 3, respectively. Metallographic analysis showed a macroscopic failure pattern just as demonstrated by FEA. CONCLUSION: The presence of the prosthetic index on Morse taper implants did not decrease its resistance to fracture for the tested implants.