An automated method to analyze root filling voids and gaps using confocal microscopy images.

This study evaluated the feasibility of an automated method to delimit the required area to quantitatively analyze root filling voids and gaps from cross-sectional confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images. Root canals of maxillary canines were prepared with rotary instruments and filled by lateral compaction technique using gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer. The roots were stored (100% humidity, 37 °C) for a period of 24 h and then transversally sectioned to obtain 2-mm-thick slices from the apical and middle thirds. The areas corresponding to filling materials, gaps, and voids were manually delimited or automatically demarked by ImageJ software after converting the images to the RGB color system. Based on manual and automatic delimitations, the percentages of voids and gaps were calculated. Data of voids and gaps between middle and apical thirds were individually compared by paired t-test. Pearson`s correlation test was used to assess the correlation of data between the methods. Irrespective of the method of area delimitation, no difference was observed between the root thirds for both voids and gaps, while the p-values calculated for each method were similar. Almost perfect correlations between the methods were observed for both outcomes. The proposed method to automatically delimit the areas corresponding to filling material, voids, and gaps appears to be a valid method to facilitate the quantitative analysis of defects in root canal fillings using topographic CSLM images.

Influence of bioceramic cones on the quality of root canal filling relative to bond strength and adaptation of the adhesive interface.

AIM: To evaluate the bond strength (BS) and analysis of the adhesive interface in root canals filled with bioceramic gutta percha sealers and cones. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ninety-six maxillary canines were divided into eight groups according to the endodontic sealer (AH Plus, AH Plus Bioceramic, Bio-C Sealer or Bio-C Sealer Ion+ and gutta percha cones (conventional or bioceramic) tested. They were analyzed using the BS test, failure pattern, analysis of the adhesive interface by scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The BS data were compared between groups using the analysis of variance test with the Turkey post-test. The chi-square test was used to assess the type of failure and the non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Kruse-Wallis tests (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Analysis of variance showed higher BS values for the groups of bioceramic gutta percha cones in Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (8.38 ± 4.27), AH Plus Bioceramic (6.19 ± 3.28), Bio-C Sealer (5.70 ± 3.18), AH Plus (4.61 ± 2.11) and for conventional gutta percha cones in AH Plus sealers (4.26 ± 2.35), Bio-C Sealer Ion + (3.63 ± 2.29), Bio-C Sealer (2.94 ± 2.32) and AH Plus Bioceramic (1.19 ± 0.89) (P < 0.05). Relative to the type of failure and adaptation of the types of filling material, a higher percentage of mixed failures was observed (gaps between 1 µm-10 µm) for the group with bioceramic gutta percha cones (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The bond between sealers and bioceramic gutta percha cones showed higher bond strength values and greater penetration into the dentin tubules. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The filling the root canal system with bioceramic sealers should be associated with bioceramic gutta percha cones.

Impact of several NiTi-thermally treated instrumentation systems on biomechanical preparation of curved root canals in extracted mandibular molars.

AIM: To evaluate the shaping ability of several heat-treated nickel-titanium systems used to prepare root canals with moderate and severe curvature, in extracted mandibular molars, by micro-computed tomography, considering their variation in kinematics and design. METHODOLOGY: Curved-mesial roots of mandibular molars were randomly selected and assigned into 4 balanced experimental groups (n = 10), established by determining homogeneous 3D parameters of volume and surface area: R-Motion (RM) size 30, 0.04 taper (RM; FKG Dentaire), Reciproc Blue (RCB) size 25, 0.08 taper (RCB; VDW GmbH), HyFlex CM (HFX) size 30, 0.04 taper (HFX; Coltène Whaledent) and XP-endo Shaper size (XPS) 30, 0.01 taper (XPS; FKG Dentaire). The volume of irrigation was established at 10 ml of 2.5% NaOCl. Throughout the entire root canal preparation procedures, the samples were fixed in a vice submerged in a container with water monitored at 37°C. Dimensional cross-sectional measures of area, perimeter, roundness, major/minor diameters and 3-dimensional (volume, surface area, structure model index - SMI) parameters as well as the smallest dentine thickness along the cervical and middle root thirds were evaluated by micro-CT. Data were analysed using analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests (α = 5%). RESULTS: Reciproc Blue and XPS had significantly greater mean increases in cross-sectional area measurements, only in the middle third, when compared with RM and HFX (p < .05). RM, RCB and XPS had a similar increase in measurements of length and width of perimeter (p > .05), and HFX had significantly lower mean increases in perimeter values only when compared with XPS (p < .05). RCB and XPS had significantly greater mean increases in volume when compared with RM and HFX (p < .05). RM had a significantly lower difference in SMI after preparation, compared with RCB, HFX and XPS (p < .05). The smallest dentine thickness was observed after the use of RCB (p < .05), in the danger and safety zones. CONCLUSIONS: XP-endo Shaper and RM had a shaping ability similar to that of instruments with larger tapers, achieved with less dentine removal in danger and safe zones in curved-mesial canals of extracted molar teeth treated on a laboratory benchtop.

Photobiomodulation using LLLT and LED of cells involved in osseointegration and peri-implant soft tissue healing.

This study evaluated the influence of photobiomodulation (PBM) using low-level laser therapy (PBM/LLLT) or light-emitting diode (PBM/LED) therapy on peri-implant tissue healing. A laboratory model was used to assess the adhesion and metabolism of osteoblasts (SaOs-2), human gingival fibroblasts (HGF), and normal oral keratinocytes (NOK) seeded on a titanium (Ti) surface. After seeding the cells on disks of Ti placed in wells of 24-well plates, three irradiations were performed every 24 h at energy density of 3 J/cm2. For PBM/LLLT, a LaserTABLE device was used with a wavelength of 780 nm and 25 mW, while for PBM/LED irradiation, a LEDTABLE device was used at 810 nm, 20 mW, at a density of 3 J/cm2. After irradiations, the number of cells (NC) attached and spread on the Ti surface, cell viability (CV), total protein (TP), and collagen (Col) synthesis were assessed. Alkaline phosphate activity (ALP) was evaluated only for SaOs-2. Data were submitted to ANOVA complemented by Turkey statistical tests at a 5% significance level. PBM significantly increased adherence of NOK to the Ti surface, while no significant effect was observed for SaOs-2 and HGF. PBM positively affected CV, as well as Col and TP synthesis, in distinct patterns according to the cell line. Increased ALP activity was observed only in those cells exposed to PBM/LLLT. Considering cell specificity, this investigation reports that photobiomodulation with low-power laser and LED at determined parameters enhances cellular functions related to peri-implant tissue healing in a laboratory model.

Factors influencing the clinical performance of the restoration of endodontically treated teeth: An assessment of systematic reviews of clinical studies.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: How best to restore endodontically treated teeth is still unclear because many types of material and techniques are involved. PURPOSE: The purpose of this overview of systematic reviews of clinical studies was to assess the available evidence-based literature on the influence of associated clinical factors on the clinical performance (survival, failure rate, or success) of restored endodontically treated teeth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception until September 27, 2021, to identify systematic reviews. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, and each reviewer extracted the data of half of the included studies. A single reviewer with an independent verifier completed the quality appraisal. A descriptive analysis of the collected data was made. RESULTS: A total of 36 systematic reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The factors most assessed were the type of coronal restorative technique (n=22) and type of post (n=22). The results indicated that metal and fiber posts seem to present similar clinical performance, endocrowns could be a suitable restorative option, there is no evidence to confirm whether single crowns are better or worse than direct restoration, the maintenance of the coronal structure is a fundamental factor, and the ferrule effect is still a controversial topic. Most of the studies (n=30, 81%) presented a final Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) rating of "critically low." CONCLUSIONS: The post type does not appear to influence the clinical performance of restored endodontically treated teeth. However, conclusive evidence to suggest how different materials or techniques for restoring coronal tooth structure affect the clinical performance of such restorations, as well as the impact of the ferrule effect, is still lacking.

Retreatability of BC Sealer and AH Plus root canal sealers using new supplementary instrumentation protocol during non-surgical endodontic retreatment.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of supplementary techniques (ultrasonic tip/XP-endo Finisher R) in removing remaining filling materials (gutta-percha/AHPlus/BCSealer) from oval-shaped root canals during non-surgical endodontic retreatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-eight distal roots of human mandibular molars with single and oval-shaped canals were initially shaped with a R40 instrument and filled with gutta-percha points and AH Plus (n = 14) or BC Sealer (n = 14) followed by an initial micro-CT scanning. Initial filling material removal was performed in all 28 samples with an R50 instrument, and all samples submitted to a second micro-CT. Supplementary techniques with ultrasonic tips or XP-endo Finisher R instruments were performed in each sealer group, and all samples submitted to a third micro-CT. The volume of remaining filling material was calculated for the entire canal as well as for the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Statistical analyses were performed using T, ANOVA 3-way, and Tukey tests. RESULTS: Lower values of remnant filling material were found for BC Sealer (16.06 ± 14.34) compared to AH Plus (28.30 ± 10.54) (P < 0.001), and considering the supplementary technique, lower values of remnant filling material were found for the ultrasonic tip (18.95 ± 11.05) compared to XP-endo Finisher R (25.41 ± 15.81) (P = 0.025). Ultrasonic instruments significantly reduced the percentage of remaining filling material for both AH Plus (P = 0.04) and BC Sealer (P = 0.02) while XP-endo Finisher R was effective for AHPlus only (P = 0.04). The remaining filling material was observed in all samples regardless the filling material or the supplementary technique employed. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementary techniques increased filling material removal; however, none of them was able to render root canals completely free from root fillings. Ultrasonic tips should be considered a good option for endodontic retreatment, especially for bioceramic cases. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Supplementary instrumentation techniques are effective tools to reduce the amount of filling materials during root canal retreatment.

Effect of canal preparation with XP-endo Shaper and ProTaper Next on root canal geometry and dentin thickness of mandibular premolars with radicular grooves and two canals: a micro-CT study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different shaping protocols on the root canal geometry and remaining dentin thickness of mandibular premolars with radicular grooves (RG) and two canals by means of micro-CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mandibular premolars with RG and two canals were matched based on their similar morphological dimensions and assigned to 2 experimental groups according to the canal preparation (n=8): XP-endo Shaper (XPS) and ProTaper Next (PTN) systems. Before and after preparation, morphometric measurements of the volume, surface area, structure model index, area, perimeter, roundness, major and minor diameters, as well as untouched canal walls, canal transportation, and dentin wall thickness were evaluated. Data were statistically compared within and between groups using the independent sample t test (α=5%). RESULTS: XPS revealed less changes in volume, surface area, area, perimeter, and major and minor diameters (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in structure model index (SMI), roundness, and percentage of untouched canal walls between groups (P>0.05). XPS resulted in less apical canal transportation and a higher remaining dentin thickness toward the RG compared to PTN in lingual canals (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: XPS revealed fewer changes in root canal geometry as well as lower transportation and a greater remaining dentin thickness in the lingual canals toward the RG compared to PTN. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Internal and external anatomical characteristics of mandibular premolars might have an influence on biomechanical preparation. Considering the risk of perforation, the canal preparation using XPS appears to be more conservative compared to PTN.

Light transmission and bond strength of glass fiber posts submitted to different surface treatments.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Light transmitted deep into the root canal is an important parameter to increase bonding of the cement to the post and dentin. Glass fiber posts seem to be an option to increase transmitted light, but literature on the light transmittance profile and power transmission to deep canal regions is lacking. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate light delivered by 2 types of fiberglass posts submitted to different surface treatments and to evaluate the bond strength. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Whiteposts and Superposts were allocated to 4 groups: no surface treatment, surface treatment with 24% hydrogen peroxide, surface treatment with silane, and surface treatment with 24% hydrogen peroxide plus silane. The total light transmitted by the posts was measured by using an integrating sphere to collect the diffuse light. The light profile that was laterally delivered to the post was measured with a power detector equipped with an optical fiber probe. The bond strength was measured with the push-out test. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the surface treatments. The light transmission data were analyzed by using a generalized linear model and the Bonferroni test and the bond strength values were evaluated by using ANOVA and the Tukey test (α=.05). RESULTS: The cervical third presented the highest transmission (74.1% for Whiteposts and 74.6% for Superposts), followed by the middle (20.9% for Whiteposts and 20.4% for Superposts) and apical (5.0% for both Whiteposts and Superposts) thirds. Superposts led to higher bond strength than Whiteposts (9.73 ±5.89 and 8.48 ±4.99 MPa, respectively). Surface treatment with silane and hydrogen peroxide plus silane afforded similar bond strength (11.4 ±6.4 and 10.7 ±5.6 MPa, respectively), which was higher as compared with the bond strength obtained after surface treatment with hydrogen peroxide. For both post types, the bond strength decreased from the cervical (12.2 ±6.0 MPa) to the middle (9.7 ±5.0 MPa) and apical (6.5 ±3.6 MPa) thirds. CONCLUSIONS: Light transmission and bond strength decreased from the cervical to the apical third. Surface treatment impacted bond strength; light transmission through Whiteposts was slightly higher than light transmission through Superposts.

Bond strength and quality of bond interface of multifilament fiberglass posts luted onto flat-oval root canals without additional dentin wear after biomechanical preparation.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: An intraradicular retainer formed by multiple independent glass fiber filaments was developed aiming to allow better adaptation in flattened root canals; however, the performance of the new posts is unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the bond strength (BS) and adhesive interface quality achieved in flattened root canals restored with conventional glass fiber posts (CFPs) and multifilament glass fiber posts (MFPs). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The distal roots of mandibular molars with long oval root canals were endodontically treated, and the obturation material was removed and assigned to 2 groups (n=11) according to the type of retainer used: CFP (WhitePostDC#0.5; FGM) or MFP (CometTail#4; Synca). The posts were cemented with self-adhesive resin cement. The specimens were sectioned (2 slices per third). The most cervical slice in each third was used to evaluate the BS, while the adhesive interface in the apical slices was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. BS data were analyzed by using a multilevel generalized linear model, and adhesive interface SEM data were analyzed by using a multilevel ordinal logistic regression model (α=.05). RESULTS: Multilevel regression showed a statistically significant difference for the "type of retainer" factor (P=.001; CFP 2.61 ±1.30>MFP 1.59 ±1.54). No statistically significant differences were found for the "root thirds" factor (P=.346) or for the interaction of both factors (P=.114). The failure pattern was predominantly mixed or adhesive for CFP and adhesive to dentin for MFP. A better adaptation of the restorative material was observed in the cervical third for CFP and in the apical third for MFP (P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: MFP resulted in lower BS values than CFP, with a higher prevalence of adhesive failures to dentin and better adaptation of the adhesive interface in the apical third.

Assessment of Apical Extrusion using Rotary and Reciprocating Systems during Root Canal Retreatment.

AIM: The objective of this study was to assess apical extrusion after filling material removal using two systems, one rotary and one reciprocating. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 34 extracted mandibular premolars with single roots were selected and, posteriorly, prepared and filled. Following material aging for 60 days, teeth were divided into two groups, according to the method used to remove root filling material: group I, ProTaper® Universal Retreatment instruments plus refining with the Hero 642® sequence and group II, WaveOne® instruments. The teeth were fixed in an apparatus designed to collect the extruded material during removal procedure. Data on the amount of debris extruded (mg/weight) were analyzed using the Student's t test with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the groups with regard to the amount of material extruded during root canal retreatment. CONCLUSION: The present findings suggest that the extrusion of debris during apical root canal retreatment does not depend on the instrument design or the protocol employed. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Regardless of root canal clearance techniques, debris extrusion eventually occurs during endodontic retreatment and may be related to postoperative pain.

Bond strength of epoxy resin-based root canal sealer to human root dentin irradiated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to evaluate the influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation associated with different final irrigation protocols on the bond strength of epoxy resin-based root canal sealer to root dentin, on the dentin/filling material interface and in the temperature variation during irradiation. METHODOLOGY: Ninety-six maxillary canines were prepared with K3 rotary system up to #45/0.02 instrument, irrigating with distilled water between files. The specimens were randomly assigned to three groups-final irrigation (distilled water, 1% NaOCl, and 17% EDTAC) and four subgroups (n = 8)-laser parameters (non-irradiated, 2 W/20 Hz, 3 W/20 Hz, and 4 W/20 Hz). During irradiation, the temperatures were measured on the outer root dentin wall in the three thirds, and root apex. Canals were filled with lateral condensation of AHPlus sealer and gutta-percha cones. Two slices from each third were submitted to a push-out test in Instron machine and the failure mode was analyzed. One slice from each third was analyzed by confocal laser microscopy to evaluate the percentage of the perimeter of the root canal cross-section with sealer tags and depth of tags. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, and Tukey's tests (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation increased sealer bond strength to dentin, regardless of the final irrigation. The highest values were obtained for 3 W (4.02 ± 1.32) and 4 W (4.18 ± 0.98) powers and different from the non-irradiated group (2.64 ± 0.58) (P < 0.05). The 2 W irradiation produced similar results to 3 W and 4 W when associated with 17% EDTA. Final irrigation with 17% EDTAC provided higher bond strength (4.01 ± 1.02) compared with distilled water (3.11 ± 1.09) and 1% NaOCl (3.47 ± 1.18) (P < 0.05). The cervical third (4.01 ± 1.21) presented significantly higher bond strength than the apical third (3.04 ± 0.89). There was a greater percentage of adhesive and mixed failure. In the groups irradiated with 3 W [21.1 (14.1-27.7)] and 4 W [17.8 (11.9-23.7)], a greater depth of filling material tags was observed compared with the non-irradiated group [12.9 (9.0-20.0)]. The greatest percentage of canal perimeter with sealer tags was observed in the irradiated groups, with no difference among them (P > 0.05). The temperature rise was proportional to the increase of laser power. CONCLUSIONS: Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation increased the bond strength of an epoxy resin-based sealer to root dentin, with greater formation of sealer tags for all tested powers, especially when combined with 17% EDTAC final irrigation; temperature rise during irradiation remained below the critical threshold biologically accepted. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:985-994, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of bacteria isolated from primary endodontic infections.

This study aimed to identify and characterize the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of bacteria found in primary endodontic infections in the teeth of patients treated at the Dental Clinic of the University of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil. From September to December 2019, samples were obtained from 21 patients with primary endodontic infections. The collections were carried out in triplicate using paper cones placed close to the total length of the root canal. Bacterial isolation was performed in Brain Heart Infusion agar, Blood agar, and other selective culture media cultured at 37°C for up to 48 h under aerobiosis and microaerophilic conditions. The bacterial species were identified using the Vitek 2 automated system. The disk diffusion method on agar Müeller-Hinton was used to assess antimicrobial susceptibility with the recommended antimicrobials for each identified bacterial species. A total of 49 antibiotics were evaluated. Fifteen of the 21 samples collected showed bacterial growth, and 17 bacterial isolates were found. There were 10 different bacterial species identified: Enterococcus faecalis (four isolates), Streptococcus mitis/oralis (three isolates), Streptococcus anginosus (three isolates) being the most common, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium, Streptococcus constellatus, Streptococcus alactolyticus, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella variicola, and Providencia rettgeri (one isolate of each species). The analysis demonstrated significant susceptibility to most of the tested antibiotics. However, some Enterococcus isolates resisted the antibiotic's erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline. A Staphylococcus epidermidis isolate was characterized as multidrug-resistant. Five Streptococcus isolates were non-susceptible to all antibiotics tested.

Effect of nanometric ß-calcium glycerophosphate supplementation in conventional toothpaste on enamel demineralization: An in vitro study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing toothpastes containing 1100 ppm F with micrometric or nanometric [beta]-calcium glycerophosphate (ß-CaGPm/ß-CaGPn) on artificial enamel demineralization, using a pH cycling model. Bovine enamel blocks (4 mm × 4 mm, n = 120) selected using initial surface hardness were randomly allocated to ten toothpaste groups (n = 12): without fluoride or ß-CaGPm or ß-CaGPn (Negative control), 1100 ppm F (1100 F), and 1100 ppm F plus 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1.0% of ß-CaGPm or ß-CaGPn. Blocks were treated two times per day with toothpaste slurry and subjected to five pH cycles (demineralizing and remineralizing solutions) at 37 °C. The final surface hardness, percentage of surface hardness loss (%SH), cross-sectional hardness (ΔKHN), and profile analysis and lesion depth subsurface were analysed using polarized light microscopy (PLM). Fluoride (F), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) concentrations were also measured. Data were analysed using ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls tests ([alpha] = 0.001). Blocks treated with 1100 F toothpaste containing 0.5%ß-CaGPm or 0.25%ß-CaGPn showed with reduced %SH values when compared with those treated with 1100 F alone (p < 0.001). Reduced lesion depths (ΔKHN and PLM) were observed for the slurry made up of 1100 F and 0.25%ß-CaGPn (p < 0.001). The addition of ß-CaGPm and ß-CaGPn did not influence the enamel F concentration, with the 1100 F/0.25%ß-CaGPn group exhibiting the highest Ca and P enamel concentrations (p < 0.001). Based on the findings of this in vitro study, we can conclude that the fluoride toothpaste produced a superior effect when combined at an appropriate ß-CaGP molar ratio. This effect was achieved with a lower proportion of ß-CaGP in the form of nanometric particles.

Physicochemical properties of calcium silicate cement based endodontic sealers.

AIM: To mensure the physicochemical properties of three ceramic cement endodontic sealers AH Plus Bioceramic, Bio-C Sealer and Bio-C Sealer Ion+ with an epoxy resin sealer, AH Plus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: These properties were measured: hardening time (HT), dimensional change (DC), solubility (SL), flow (FL) and radiopacity (RD). The distilled water obtained from the SL test was analyzed with atomic absorption spectrometry. A sample calculation was made considering n = 5 repetitions for each experimental sealer evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: For the HT, AH Plus (484 ± 2.76 min) and AH Plus Bioceramic (424 ± 1.23 min) set more slowly than of Bio-C Sealer (370 ± 4.50 min) and Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (380 ± 1.42 min) (p < 0.05). AH Plus Bioceramic (12.56 ± 2.71 %) was more soluble than Bio-C Sealer (6.69 ± 1.67 %), Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (5.67 ± 2.16 %) and AH Plus (0.15 ± 0.01 %) (p < 0.05). AH Plus (0.03 ± 0.01 %) had slight expansion while the cement-based sealers had shrinkage: AH Plus Bioceramic (-1.60 ± 0.63 %) and Bio-C Sealer (-1.38 ± 0.69 %), Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (-5.19 ± 1.23 %) (p < 0.05). Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (59.80 ± 0.86 mm) and Bio-C Sealer (58.60 ± 0.98 mm) had the highest flow compared with AH Plus (56.90 ± 0.56 mm) and AH Plus Bioceramic (49.50 ± 0.63 mm) (p < 0.05). AH Plus (9.17 ± 0.06 mmAl) and AH Plus Bioceramic (8.27 ± 0.84 mmAl) showed radiopacity values when compared with those of Bio-C Sealer (4.90 ± 0.08 mmAl) and Bio-C Sealer Ion+ (4.14 ± 0.05 mmAl) (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Ion release is inhered to these cement-based sealers and this result in calcium ion release.

Effects of 980-nm diode laser on the ultrastructure and fracture resistance of dentine.

Few reports have addressed the effects of diode laser irradiation at 980 nm on the morphology and fracture resistance of dentine. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of 980-nm diode laser on the ultrastructure and fracture resistance of root dentine. The roots of 90 extracted canine teeth were divided into three groups according to the type of irrigating solution (water, NaOCl, and NaOCl/EDTA) and subdivided into three subgroups (n = 10) according to the amount of laser irradiation (without irradiation, 1.5 W/100 Hz and 3.0 W/100 Hz). The roots were filled with an epoxy resin-based sealer and gutta-percha and then subjected to a fracture resistance test. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and the Tukey test (p < 0.05). Additionally, 18 canine teeth were prepared using the same irrigation/irradiation protocols and evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM showed greater changes when the laser power increased, and the changes also varied according to the irrigating solution. A modified smear layer was observed in specimens that were treated with water and then laser-irradiated. The laser treatment did not alter the fracture resistance of roots treated with 1.5 W/100 Hz (246.3 ± 29.5 N) and 3.0 W/100 Hz (215.3 ± 25.1 N) laser power. The roots treated with NaOCl were more susceptible to fracture (199.4 ± 15.1 N) than those irrigated with water (254.2 ± 23.0 N) (p < 0.05). The 980-nm diode laser altered the morphology of the dentine but did not affect the fracture resistance of the roots.

Evaluation of rotary instruments with whipping motion in the biomechanical preparation of large root canals of young permanent teeth.

Shaping ability evaluation of taper ./01 instruments in large root canals, by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Maxillary central incisors with large diameter root canals were divided into two groups (n = 10): XP-Endo Shaper (FKG-Dentaire, Switzerland) and manual instrumentation (FKG-Dentaire). Two- and three-dimensional parameters from cervical to apical root thirds were evaluated by micro-CT. Apical stop was evaluated by SEM images. Data were analysed by ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 5%). XP-Endo Shaper allowed a regular biomechanical preparation with less dentinal wear compared with manual instrumentation, which showed excessive wear of the thin root canal walls (p < 0.05). Roundness and SMI showed similarity between both protocols (p > 0.05). XP-Endo Shaper SEM showed a regular and well-defined shape of the apical foramen suggesting the formation of the apical stop. Reduced diameter and taper instruments promoted a conservative wear and a well-defined apical stop formation in large root canals.

Evaluation of the push-out bond strength of an adjustable fiberglass post system to an endodontically treated oval root canal.

To evaluate the push-out bond strength of the adjustable fiberglass post system to dentin. Twenty maxillary canine roots were endodontically treated and divided into two groups (n=10): conventional fiberglass posts (CFPs) and with single adjustable post (SAP) system. Two slices of each third were subjected to the push-out and failure pattern test and the most apical slice was subjected to analysis of the adhesive interface by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed by the three-way analysis of variance, Tukey, and Friedman tests, and linear regression (α=0.05). The results showed higher push-out bond strength in the initial time interval for SAP (10.3±5.3, p<0.01). After 6 months, there was reduction in push-out bond strength for both (p<0.001). A higher percentage of adhesive and cohesive failures to dentin. After 6 months areas of maladaptation were noted (p=0.000). The SAP is completed to the promissory root canal in relation to alternative CFP.

Influence of bioceramic intracanal medication on the bond strength of bioceramic root canal sealer.

To investigate the influence of the remaining volume of a new intracanal medication based on bioceramic compounds on the bond strength (BS) and formation of an adhesive interface between calcium silicate-based and epoxy resin-based root canal sealers. For this purpose, the specimens were distributed according to the intracanal medication (n = 26): Bio-C Temp (BCT) and Ultracal XS (UXS). The roots were scanned in microCT, and after 7 days, the medication was removed. Then a new scan was performed to evaluate the volume of medication remaining. Subsequently, 40 specimens were redistributed into 2 subgroups (n = 10) and filled according to the sealer used: AH Plus (AHP) and Bio-C Sealer (BCS), to assess the bond strength by using the push-out test, and the adhesive interface by confocal laser fluorescence microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The t test showed a smaller remainder of BCT (1.77 ± 0.86) compared with UXS (10.47 ± 5.78), irrespective of the root third evaluated. The BS showed that teeth with BCT + BCS had higher bond strength values (3.70 ± 1.22) when compared to the other groups: BCT + AHP (2.15 ± 1.07), UXS + BCS (3.18 ± 1.09) and UXS + AHP (2.11 ± 1.02) (p<0.001). The cervical third had higher BS when compared with the middle and apical thirds (p < 0.001), and higher number of adhesive failures. The adhesive interface in SEM and CLSM images showed better adaptation for the association between BCT + BCS. Intracanal medication and silicate-based endodontic sealer appeared to interact chemically by forming a biomineralizing layer, allowing for an increase in the bond strength and forming an adhesive interface between the materials, with no or less gap formation.

Effect of the association of microparticles and nano-sized ß-calcium glycerophosphate in conventional toothpaste on enamel remineralization: In situ study.

OBJECTIVES: This in situ study aimed to assess the remineralizing effect of a fluoride toothpaste supplemented with ß-calcium glycerophosphate in both micro (ß-CaGPm) and nano-sized forms (ß-CaGPn). METHODS: This blind and cross-over study was performed in 4 phases, each spanning 3 days. Twelve volunteers utilized palatal appliances containing four bovine enamel blocks with artificial caries lesions. Volunteers were randomly assigned to the following treatment groups: Placebo (no F-ß-CaGPm-ß-CaGPn); 1100 ppm F alone (1100F); 1100F plus 0.5% micrometric ß-CaGP (1100F-0.5%ß-CaGPm); and 1100F plus 0.25%nano-sized ß-CaGP (1100F-0.25%ß-CaGPn). Participants were instructed to brush their natural teeth with the palatal appliances in the mouth for 1 min (3 times/day), ensuring that the enamel blocks were exposed to the natural toothpaste slurries. Following each phase, evaluations were conducted to determine the percentage of surface hardness recovery (%SHR), integrated recovery of subsurface hardness (ΔIHR), profile subsurface lesion through polarized light microscopy (PLM), as well as fluoride (F), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) concentrations within the enamel. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls test (p < 0.001). RESULTS: Treatment with 1100F-0.25%ß-CaGPn resulted in %SHR ∼69 % and ∼40 % higher when compared to 1100F and 1100F-0.5%ß-CaGPm (p < 0.001). The reduction in lesion body (ΔIHR; PLM) was ∼40 % higher with 1100F-0.25%ß-CaGPn (p < 0.001) compared to 1100F. The addition of ß-CaGPm and ß-CaGPn did not influence enamel F concentration (p > 0.001). Treatment with 1100F-0.25%ß-CaGPn led to an increase in the concentration of Ca and P in the enamel (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The addition of 0.25%ß-CaGPn into 1100F formulation increased the bioavailability of calcium and phosphate, promoting a higher remineralizing effect. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Toothpaste containing 1100F-0.25%ß-CaGPn showed a potential of higher remineralization to 1100 ppm F and 1100 ppm F micrometric ß-CaGP could be a strategy for patients at caries activity.

Impact of access cavities on root canal preparation, restorative protocol quality, and fracture resistance of teeth.

The survival of endodontically treated teeth depends on the remaining tooth structure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different access cavities on root canal preparation, restorative protocol, and fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth. Fifty-six mandibular molars were divided into control (n=8) and experimental (n=16) groups according to access cavity: Traditional, Conservative, and Truss; and redistributed (n=8) according to instrumentation protocols: Reciproc Blue and R-motion. After, teeth were scanned in micro-CT and then filled and redistributed according to composite resin restoration (n=8): Filtek One BulkFill and Filtek Z350. A new micro-CT scan was performed to analyze the restorative material. Then, samples were submitted to fracture resistance testing and the failure pattern was determined. Data were analyzed using paired T-test, ANOVA, Tukey, and chi-square tests (α=0.05). In Truss, R-Motion promoted less transportation in different thirds of root canals. Higher percentages of voids (5.05%) and filling material (11.7%) were observed in Truss. Fracture resistance values were higher for the control group, followed by Truss, Conservative, and Traditional. The predominant failure pattern was type-II. In Truss, reciprocating instruments with smaller taper showed less canal transportation. Also, Truss provided higher values of fracture resistance, although it presented a higher percentage of voids and remaining filling material. Thus, in Truss, reciprocating files with smaller taper showed less canal transportation, and these cavities provided higher values of fracture resistance, although it presented a higher percentage of voids and remaining filling material.