Curing profile and marginal gap formation using a liner containing long-wavelength-absorbing photoinitiator: an in vitro study.

The aim was to evaluate the marginal-gap formation and curing profile of a new restorative technique using a liner with long-wavelength-absorbing photoinitiator (LWAP). Box-shaped preparations (6 mm × 4 mm × 4 mm) were made in third molars. All samples were treated with Clearfill SE Bond and divided into 4 groups (n = 5), according to restorative technique used: (1) incremental technique (INC-Technique); (2) camphorquinone-based liner (CQ-Liner) + bulk-fill resin composite; (3) LWAP-based liner (LWAP-Liner) + bulk-fill resin composite; and (4) bulk-fill technique without liner (BF-Technique). The marginal gaps (%) for all the samples were measured using micro-computed tomography. The restorations were cross-sectioned, and the degree of conversion (DC) and Knoop microhardness were evaluated at different depths (0.3, 1, 2, 3, and 4 mm). INC-Technique, CQ-Liner, and LWAP-Liner groups showed significantly fewer marginal gaps than those from the BF-Technique group. The BF-Technique specimens had the lowest DC and microhardness in depth. All the other techniques presented similar degree of conversion and microhardness at all the depths. The use of liners, regardless of the photoinitiator system, decreased the marginal-gap formation and improved the curing profile of bulk-filling restoration technique.

Delayed light-curing of dual-cure bulk-fill composites on internal adaptation and depth of cure.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of delayed light-curing of dual-cure bulk-fill composites on internal adaptation and microhardness (KHN) in depth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bulk-fill composites were placed in 35 box-shaped preparations and cured according to the following protocols (n = 5): Filtek Bulk-Fill light-cured immediately after insertion (FBF); Bulk-EZ light-cured immediately after insertion (BEZ-I); Bulk-EZ light-cured 90 s after insertion (BEZ-DP); Bulk-EZ self-cured (BEZ-SC); HyperFIL light-cured immediately after insertion (HF-I); HyperFIL light-cured 90 s after insertion (HF-DP); HyperFIL self-cured (HF-SC). After 24 h, the samples were axially sectioned, and the internal adaptation was evaluated using replicas under a scanning electron microscope. The KHN was evaluated at six depths (0.3 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, and 5 mm). The statistical analysis was performed using α = 0.05. RESULTS: The KHN significantly decreased with depth, except in self-curing mode, when it was similar at all depths. Delayed light-curing significantly increased the KHN at higher depths. The internal adaptation was material-dependent. Light-curing did not influence the internal adaptation of HyperFIL, whereas delayed light-curing significantly reduced the internal gaps (%) of Bulk-EZ. CONCLUSION: Delayed light-curing improved the depth of cure of dual-cure resin composites. Light-curing did not influence the internal adaptation of HyperFIL, but delayed light-curing improved the internal adaptation of Bulk-EZ. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Light-curing is fundamental for improving the mechanical properties of dual-cure resin composites. Moreover, depending on the dual-cure resin composite, the delay in light-curing can reduce the internal gaps.

Mechanical properties of bulk-fill composite resin with or without a final layer of conventional composite resin.

The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the mechanical properties of different bulk-fill composite resins with or without a final layer of conventional composite resin. The null hypothesis was that the mechanical properties of the material would not change regardless of the addition of a layer of conventional composite. Bar-shaped specimens (25 × 2 × 2 mm) were made from 4 different bulk-fill composites (Filtek One Bulk Fill, Filtek Bulk Fill Flowable, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, and Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill Flow) with or without a final layer of a conventional composite of the same brand (Filtek Supreme for the Filtek materials and Tetric EvoCeram for the Tetric materials). Each specimen was light cured at 2 equidistant points using a multiwave curing light with a power output of 20 J/cm2. All of the specimens were subjected to a 3-point bending test in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.75 ± 0.25 mm/min and a load rate of 50 ± 16 N/min, and the flexural strength and elastic modulus were calculated. The mean flexural strength and elastic modulus values were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance, and then the Tukey test was applied for multiple comparisons between groups (α = 0.05). When a final layer of a conventional composite of the same brand was added, the mean flexural strength of the Tetric groups slightly decreased, while that of the Filtek groups did not change. Application of a final layer of conventional composite resulted in a slight increase in the mean elastic modulus of the Filtek groups and either no change or a slight decrease in the Tetric groups. The addition of a final layer of conventional composite resin did not seem to improve the mechanical properties of any of the tested bulk-fill materials. The addition of a final layer of conventional composite resin can affect the mechanical properties of bulk-fill materials; however, it seems these effects are dependent on the type of conventional composite resin used for the final layer.

Effect of lithium disilicate ceramic thickness, shade and translucency on transmitted irradiance and knoop microhardness of a light cured luting resin cement.

This in vitro study evaluates the influence of pressed lithium disilicate thickness, shade and translucency on the transmitted irradiance and the Knoop microhardness (KHN) of a light-cured resin cement at two depths. One hundred and thirty-five ceramic discs of IPS e.max Press (Ivoclar Vivadent) were fabricated and divided into twenty-seven groups (n = 5) according to the association between translucency: HT (hight translucency), LT (low translucency), and MO (medium opacity); shade: BL2, A1 and A3.5; and thickness: 0.5 mm, 1.5 mm, and 2.0 mm. One side of each ceramic disc was finished, polished and glazed. The irradiance (mW/cm²) of a multiwave LED light curing unit (Valo, Ultradent) was evaluated with a potentiometer (Ophir 10ª-V2-SH, Ophir Optronics) without (control group) or with interposition of ceramic samples. The microhardness of Variolink Esthetic LC resin cement (Ivoclar Vivadent) was evaluated after 24 h at two depths (100 µm and 700 µm). Data were submitted to ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Irradiance and KHN were significantly influenced by ceramic thickness (p < 0.0001), shade (p < 0.001), translucency (p < 0.0001) and depth (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: the interposition of increasing ceramic thicknesses significantly reduced the irradiance and microhardness of resin cement. Increased depth in the resin cement showed significantly reduced microhardness for all studied groups. Increased ceramic opacity reduced the KHN of the resin cement at both depths for all ceramic thicknesses and shades.

Charcoal-based dentifrices: Effect on color stability and surface wear of resin composites.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of charcoal-based dentifrices on the color change (CC) and surface wear (SW) of resin composites. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five dentifrices, including three toothpastes: Colgate total-12 (C12), Black is the new White (CPX), and Natural (NAT); and two powders: Carvvo (CVV) and Whitemax (WMX), were evaluated. Composite blocks (5x5x2mm- Z350 3 M/ESPE, shade A2) were subjected to 417 and 5004 brushing cycles. The CC (n = 7, CIEDE2000; ΔE00 ) was evaluated using a spectrophotometer. SW (n = 5) was assessed using profilometry. The dentifrice particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: In 417 brushing cycles, resin composite exhibited higher color change upon being exposed to NAT, CVV and WMC than to C12 (p ≤ 0.05). In 5004 brushing cycles, resin composite showed higher color change values when exposed to all dentifrices, except C12 (p ≤ 0.05). The powders promoted higher SW on resin composite than C12 in both evaluation times (p ≤ 0.05). In 417 cycles, WMX caused higher SW on composite than C12, CPX, and NAT (p ≤ 0.05). No significant different SW was found between powders and charcoal-based toothpastes after 5004 brushing cycles (p > 0.05). SEM showed larger particles for powder than for toothpaste dentifrices. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, both null hypotheses have been rejected. Resin composites exposed to charcoal-based dentifrices exhibited significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher color change and surface wear than conventional toothpastes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Color change and surface wear shown by charcoal dentifrices may compromise the longevity of restorations.

Correlation between bond strength and nanomechanical properties of adhesive interface.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to evaluate the nanohardness and Young's modulus of the adhesive-dentin interface and to correlate them with the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) after storage in water for 24 h and 6 months. METHODS: Eighty human third molar teeth were bonded to composite resin with the Adper Scotchbond Multipurpose (SBMP), Adper Single Bond 2 (SB2), Clearfil SE Bond (CSE) or Clearfil S3 Bond (CS3) adhesive systems and stored in water for 24 h and 6 months. Three bonded teeth were selected for each group for nanoindentation methodology to obtain the nanohardness and modulus values (n = 3), while seven bonded teeth each group were used for µTBS (n = 7). Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Spearman correlation between nanohardness and modulus and µTBS values was also calculated. RESULTS: Nanohardness and Young's modulus values for the dentin and hybrid layer were not significantly different regardless of the adhesive system or water storage periods (p > 0.05). Nanohardness and Young's modulus values for the adhesive layer were significantly higher for SB2 than for SBMP, CSE, and CS3 systems in both water storage periods. The µTBS values for SBMP and CSE were significantly higher than for SB2 and CS3 in both storage periods. An inverse correlation between Young's modulus and µTBS was observed for the adhesive layer. CONCLUSION: The water storage periods did not alter nanohardness, Young's modulus, and µTBS of adhesives. The adhesive layer of SB2 showed the highest nanohardness and Young's modulus, but the highest dentin bond strength was obtained with SBMP and CSE. Thus, a lower Young's modulus yielded high bond strength. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The inverse correlation between the Young's modulus of adhesive systems and dentin bond strength suggests adequate resistance of the adhesive to elastic deformation under stress, which are important properties to predict the success of the dental restoration.

Influence of bioactive particles on the chemical-mechanical properties of experimental enamel resin infiltrants.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed at evaluating the chemophysical properties of experimental resin infiltrants (ERIs) doped with different bioactive particles. METHODS: A control resin infiltrant (CR) was formulated using triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and ethoxylated bisphenol A dimethacrylate (BisEMA). Moreover, five experimental ERIs were also created by incorporating the following bioactive fillers (10 wt%) into the CR: hydroxyapatite (Hap), amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), zinc-polycarboxylated bioactive glass (BAG-Zn), bioactive glass 45S5 (BAG 45S5), and calcium silicate modified with beta tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP). ICON® resin infiltrant was also used as control. All the ERIs used in this study were assessed for degree of conversion (DC), Knoop microhardness (KHN), softening ratio (SR), tensile cohesive strength (TCS), modulus of elasticity (E-modulus), water sorption (WS), and solubility (SL). Data were subjected to ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 5%). RESULTS: ICON® presented the lowest DC, KHN, TCS, E-modulus, and SR. Incorporation of bioactive fillers into CR caused significant increase in the KHN. Conversely, no significant effect was observed on DC, TCS, and E-modulus. The resin infiltrant containing Hap showed a significant increase in softening ratio, while, ICON® presented the highest WS and SL. The WS of ACP-doped resin infiltrant was significantly higher than that of the Hap-doped infiltrant. The SL of the ACP-doped infiltrant was higher than CR BAG-Zn or BAG 45S5. CONCLUSION: The incorporation of bioactive particles into experimental resin infiltrants can improve the chemomechanical properties and reduce water sorption and solubility. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Resin infiltrants doped with bioactive particles may improve the long-term performance of the treatment of white-spot lesions.

Influence of irradiance on Knoop hardness, degree of conversion, and polymerization shrinkage of nanofilled and microhybrid composite resins.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the irradiance emitted by a light-curing unit on microhardness, degree of conversion (DC), and gaps resulting from shrinkage of 2 dental composite resins. Cylinders of nanofilled and microhybrid composites were fabricated and light cured. After 24 hours, the tops and bottoms of the specimens were evaluated via indentation testing and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to determine Knoop hardness number (KHN) and DC, respectively. Gap width (representing polymerization shrinkage) was measured under a scanning electron microscope. The nanofilled composite specimens presented significantly greater KHNs than did the microhybrid specimens (P < 0.05). The microhybrid composite resin exhibited significantly greater DC and gap width than the nanofilled material (P < 0.05). Irradiance had a mostly material-dependent influence on the hardness and DC, but not the polymerization shrinkage, of composite resins.

In-vivo evaluation of the surface roughness and morphology of enamel after bracket removal and polishing by different techniques.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface roughness and morphology of enamel with a surface roughness tester and scanning electron microscopy after the removal of metal brackets and polishing. METHODS: Ten orthodontic patients were selected for the study. At the conclusion of orthodontic treatment, their metal brackets were removed. For each patient, teeth on one side of the mouth were randomly chosen for finishing and polishing with aluminum oxide discs (n = 10). Teeth on the other side were finished with multilaminated carbide burs (n = 10). Dental replicas (before and after tooth polishing) were obtained with epoxy resin. Three surface roughness measurements were made in different directions with an angle of 120° among them, and a mean for each dental replica was calculated. The roughness data were statistically evaluated by repeated-measurements analysis of variance. Three specimens from each group were also used for scanning electron microscopy analysis. RESULTS: After resin removal, the average roughness in the carbide bur group (0.31 µm) was significantly greater than that in the aluminum oxide disc group (0.25 µm). CONCLUSIONS: The aluminum oxide disc polishing system resulted in less enamel roughness than did the multilaminated carbide bur system.

Indirect resin composite restorations bonded to dentin using self-adhesive resin cements applied with an electric current-assisted method.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of an electric current-assisted application on the bond strength and interfacial morphology of self-adhesive resin cements bonded to dentin. METHODS: Indirect resin composite build-ups were luted to prepared dentin surfaces using two self-adhesive resin cements (RelyX Unicem and BisCem) and an ElectroBond device under 0, 20, or 40 µA electrical current. All specimens were submitted to microtensile bond strength test and to interfacial SEM analysis. RESULTS: The electric current-assisted application induced no change (P > 0.05) on the overall bond strength, although RelyX Unicem showed significantly higher bond strength (P < 0.05) than BisCem. Similarly, no differences were observed in terms of interfacial integrity when using the electrical current applicator.

The role of protective liners and glass ionomer in managing pulp temperature during light curing.

Background: To evaluate the thermal insulation of protective liners and glass ionomer cement during light-curing procedures. Material and Methods: Human third molars underwent Class I preparations with dimensions 5 mm long × 4 mm wide × 4 mm deep in a standardized manner ensured a consistent ±0.5 mm dentin thickness at the pulpal floor. The teeth were attached to a customized oral cavity chamber simulator with a circulating bath at a standardized temperature of 34.2 ± 1oC. The temperature variations at the pulpal floor were captured in real-time by video using an infrared thermal camera (FLIR ONE Pro, FLIR Systems). The materials evaluated were: Dycal (Dentsply), TheraCal LC (Bisco), Activa (Pulpdent), and Fuji II LC (GC). All light-activation procedures were performed with the same light-curing unit (Valo Grand, Ultradent) in standard mode, 1000 mW/cm2, and time of exposure following manufacturer instructions. A power analysis was conducted to determine the sample size considering a minimal power of 0.8, with α=0.05. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA and Tukey's test for multiple comparisons. Results: The temperature at the pulpal floor increased above the 5.5 ºC safety threshold difference for clinical scenarios tested. None of the materials provided proper thermal insulation for light-curing procedures (p = 0.25). The higher the number of light-cured steps, the longer the pulp remained above the 5.5 ºC temperature threshold. Conclusions: The materials tested provided improper thermal insulation (Δ > 5.5 ºC). Thus, prolonged or multiple light-curing exposures can be harmful to the pulp tissues. Therefore, for indirect pulpal capping procedures, self-cured materials or a reduced number of steps requiring light curing must be adopted to reduce the amount of time the pulp remains above the 5.5 ºC safety temperature threshold. Key words:Dental Pulp Capping, Calcium hydroxide, Bioactive, Thermal Damage.

Evaluation of mechanical properties and morphology of miniscrews Ti6Al4V cold worked versus annealed in artificial bones.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different manufacturing procedures (Eli annealed - hot work versus cold worked - cold work) of the raw material under mechanical properties and morphological characteristics of orthodontic miniscrews (MS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty MS were randomly separated into 3 types (n=10) according to manufacturer and manufacturing process of the raw material: type A - SIN® annealed (control group); type B - Dentfix® annealed; and, type C - Dentfix® cold worked. MI were inserted in artificial bone blocks, through the manufacturer's specific manual key attached to the digital torquemeter stabilized via custom device. Data of fracture's occurrence was performed using Fisher's exact test. Comparisons between the other two types regarding insertion torque and removal torque were performed using the Mann-Whitney test. Data of fracture torque, shear stress, normal stress and torque ratio was submitted to Kruskal Wallis and Dunn tests (α=0.05). Representative images of surface morphology and fractures were selected. RESULTS: Type C showed statistically the lowest fracture torque (N.cm) (26.11±0.41) (P=0.0012) and highest torque ratio (%) (98.74±0.85) (P=0.0007). Type C showed statistically higher calculated shear (MPa) (2,432.73±508.41) and normal stress (MPa) (1,403.86±293.39) than type B and type A, showing that they differed in relation to the mechanical strength of the material with which they were made (P=0.0007). CONCLUSION: Type A fractured completely inside the most apical bone. Type B and type C fractured closer to the transmucosal profile. Cold worked process should be more prone to fractures than those annealed raw manufactured.

Effect of Ceramic Thickness on the Bond Strength to Resin-Luting Agents before and after Thermal Cycling.

This study investigated microshear bond strength (µSBS) of two (2) dual-cured resin-luting agents (RelyX™ Ultimate and RelyX™ U200) when photoactivated through varying thicknesses of lithium disilicate, with or without thermal cycling. Discs of IPS e.max Press of 0.5, 1.5, and 2 mm in thickness were obtained. Elastomer molds (3.0 mm in thickness) with four cylinder-shaped orifices 1.0 mm in diameter, were placed onto the ceramic surfaces and filled with resin-luting agents. A Mylar strip, glass plate, and load of 250 grams were placed over the filled mold. The load was removed and the resin-luting agents were photoactivated through the ceramics using a single-peak LED (Radii Plus.) All samples were stored in distilled water at 37oC for 24 h. Half of the samples were subjected to thermal cycling (3,000 cycles; 5ºC and 55ºC). All samples were then submitted to µSBS test using a universal testing machine (Instron 4411) at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Data were submitted to three-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc test (α=0.05). The mean µSBS at 24 h was significantly higher than after thermal cycling (p<0.05). No statistical difference was found between resin-luting agents (p > 0.05). The mean µSBS for groups photoactivated through 0.5 mm ceramic were significantly higher than 1.5 mm and 2.0 mm (p < 0.05). In conclusion, increased ceramic thicknesses reduced the bond strength of tested resin-luting agents to lithium disilicate. No differences were found between resin-luting agents. Thermal cycling reduced the bond strength of both resin-luting agents.

Cellulose acetate scaffold coated with a hydroxyapatite/graphene oxide nanocomposite for application in tissue engineering.

The objective of this study was to synthesize and characterize porous Cellulose Acetate (CA) scaffolds using the electrospinning technique and functionalize the surface of the scaffolds obtained through the dip-coating method with a Hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocomposite and varying concentrations of graphene oxide (GO) for application in tissue engineering regeneration techniques. The scaffolds were divided into four distinct groups based on their composition: 1) CA scaffolds; 2) CAHAC scaffolds; 3) CAHAGOC 1.0% scaffolds; 4) CAHAGOC 1.5% scaffolds. Scaffold analyses were conducted using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and in vitro cell viability assays (WST). For the biological test analysis, Variance (two-way) was used, followed by Tukey's post-test (α = 0.05). The XRD results revealed the predominant presence of CaP phases in the CAHAC, CAHAGOC 1.0%, and CAHAGOC 1.5% groups, emphasizing the presence of HA in the scaffolds. FTIR demonstrated characteristics of cellulose and PO4 bands in the groups containing HA, confirming the presence of CaP in the synthesized materials, as also indicated by XRD. Raman spectroscopy showed the presence of D and G bands, consistent with GO, confirming the successful incorporation of the HAGO nanocomposite into the scaffolds. The micrographs displayed overlapping electrospun fibers, forming the three-dimensional structure in the produced scaffolds. It was possible to observe hydroxyapatite crystals filling some of these pores, creating a suitable structure for cell adhesion, proliferation, and nutrition, as corroborated by the results of in vitro tests. All scaffolds exhibited high cell viability, with significant cell proliferation. Even after 48 h, there was a slight reduction in the number of cells, but a noteworthy increase in cell proliferation was evident in the CAHAGOC 1.5% group after 48 h (p < 0.05). In conclusion, it can be affirmed that the produced scaffolds demonstrated physical and biological characteristics and properties capable of promoting cell adhesion and proliferation. Therefore, they represent significant potential for application in tissue engineering, offering a new perspective regarding techniques and biomaterials applied in regenerative therapies.

Chitosan/Xanthan/Hydroxyapatite-graphene oxide porous scaffold associated with mesenchymal stem cells for dentin-pulp complex regeneration.

The aim of this paper was to synthesize and characterize polymeric scaffolds of Chitosan/Xanthan/Hydroxyapatite-Graphene Oxide nanocomposite associated with mesenchymal stem cells for regenerative dentistry application. The chitosan-xanthan gum (CX) complex was associated with Hydroxyapatite-Graphene Oxide (HA-GO) nanocomposite with different Graphene Oxides (GO) concentration (0.5 wt%; 1.0 wt%; 1.5 wt%). The scaffolds characterizations were performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle. The mechanical properties were assessed by compressive strength. The in vitro bioactivity and the in vitro cytotoxicity test (MTT test) were analyzed as well. The data was submitted to the Normality and Homogeneity tests. In vitro Indirect Cytotoxicity assay data was statistically analyzed by ANOVA two-way, followed by Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Compressive strength and contact angle data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's test (α = 0.05). XRD showed the presence of Hydroxyapatite (HA) peaks in the structures CXHA, CXHAGO 0.5%,1.0% and 1.5%. FT-IR showed amino and carboxylic bands characteristic of CX. Raman spectroscopy analysis evidenced a high quality of the GO. In the TGA it was observed the mass loss associated with the CX degradation by depolymerization. SEM analysis showed pores in the scaffolds, in addition to HA incorporated and adhered to the polymer. Contact angle test showed that scaffolds have a hydrophilic characteristic, with the CX group the highest contact angle and CXHA the lowest (p < 0.05). 1.0 wt% GO significantly increased the compressive strength compared to other compositions. In the bioactivity test, the apatite crystals precipitation on the scaffold surface was observed. MTT test showed high cell viability in CXHAGO 1.0% and CXHAGO 1.5% scaffold. CXHAGO scaffolds are promising for regenerative dentistry application because they have morphological characteristics, mechanical and biological properties favorable for the regeneration process.

Does the initial surface roughness of different CuNiTi wires affect the frictional resistance?

This study aimed to assess and correlate initial surface roughness and frictional resistance of rectangular CuNiTi wires inserted in different self-ligating brackets. The sample consisted of 40 bracket-wire sets (rectangular CuNiTi wires of 0.017" x 0.025" and passive self-ligating brackets) divided into four groups (n=10): metallic self-ligating bracket and metallic CuNiTi wire (G1); metallic self-ligating bracket and rhodium-coated CuNiTi wire (G2); esthetic self-ligating bracket and metallic wire (G3); esthetic self-ligating bracket and rhodium-coated CuNiTi wire (G4). The initial surface roughness of the wires was examined with a Surfcorder roughness meter, model SE1700. Later, frictional resistance was assessed in an Instron 4411 universal testing machine at a speed of 5 mm/min, in an aqueous medium at 35°C. Microscopic analyses of surface morphology were performed with scanning electron microscopy, using an LEO 1430, with magnifications of 1000X. Generalized linear models were applied, considering the 2 x 2 factorial (bracket type x wire type), at a 5% significance level. Regardless of bracket type, the groups with esthetic wires presented higher initial surface roughness than the groups with metallic wires (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the different bracket-wire sets for frictional resistance and no significant correlation between frictional resistance and initial surface roughness in the environment studied. It is concluded that esthetic wires presented higher initial surface roughness but did not interfere with the frictional resistance between brackets and wires.

Surface Analysis of a Universal Resin Composite and Effect of Preheating on its Physicochemical Properties.

This study was aimed at analyzing the surface properties of a universal resin composite and evaluating the effect of preheating on its physicochemical properties. Two commercial resin composites were used under two conditions: Filtek Universal Restorative (UR); UR preheated (URH); Filtek Supreme (FS) and FS preheated (FSH). The film thickness (FT) test (n = 10) was done using two glass slabs under compression. Flexural strength (FLS) and modulus (FLM) were evaluated using a three-point flexion test (n = 10). Polymerization shrinkage stress (PSS) was evaluated in a universal testing machine (n = 5). Gap width (GW) between composite and mold was measured in internally polished metallic molds (n = 10). The degree of conversion (DC) was evaluated by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (n = 3). The morphology of the filler particles was checked by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and EDX analysis. Surface gloss (SG) and surface roughness (SR) were evaluated before and after mechanical brushing (n = 10). The outcomes were submitted to 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Lower mean values of FT were observed for the preheated groups when compared to the non-preheated groups. URH and FSH showed higher mean values of FLS and FLM when compared with UR and FS. No differences were observed between groups in the PSS test. The GW was higher for the UR and FS groups when compared with URH and FSH. The DC was higher for preheated resin composites when compared to the non-preheated groups. The SR of the UR composite was higher than the FS after mechanical brushing, while the SG was higher for the FS groups. In conclusion, the universal resin composite tested generally presented similar physicochemical properties compared with the nanofilled resin composite and either similar or slightly inferior surface properties. The preheating improved or maintained all properties evaluated.

Effect of preheating on mechanical properties of a resin-based composite containing elastomeric urethane monomer.

This study investigated the effect of preheating an elastomeric urethane monomer (Exothane-24) experimental resin composite on its physicochemical properties. Two resin matrices were formulated: (a) 50 wt% Bisphenol-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA) and 50 wt% triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA); and (b) 20 wt% Exothane-24, 40 wt% Bis-GMA and 40 wt% TEGDMA. A photoinitiator system (0.25 wt% camphorquinone and 0.50 wt% ethyl-4-dimethylamino benzoate) and 65 wt% of the inorganic filler (20 wt% 0.05 µm silica and 80 wt% 0.7 µm BaBSiO2 glass) were added to both matrices. These formulations were then assigned to four groups: Exothane-24 (E); Exothane-24 plus preheating (EH); no Exothane-24 (NE); and no Exothane-24 plus preheating (NEH). NEH and EH were preheated at 69 °C. The dependent variables were as follows: film thickness (FT); polymerization shrinkage stress (PSS); gap width (GW); maximum rate of polymerization (Rpmax); and degree of conversion (DC). Data were statistically analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Preheating reduced FT for both composites. PSS and GW were significantly lower for EH, when compared with E. The DC for EH and NEH and the Rpmax for EH increased significantly. Preheating improved most of the physicochemical properties (FT, PSS, GW, and DC) of the experimental resin composite containing Exothane-24.

Effect of a new method to simulate pulpal pressure on bond strength and nanoleakage of dental adhesives to dentin.

PURPOSE: To evaluate a new method of simulated pulpal pressure in vitro in comparison with the conventional one. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four adhesives were analyzed: a three-step etch-and-rinse (Scotchbond Multi-Purpose [SBMP]), a two-step etch-and-rinse (Single Bond 2 [SB]), a two-step self-etching (Clearfil SE Bond [SE]), and a one-step self-etching (Clearfil S3 [S3]) system. Restorations were built up in flat, deep dentin from extracted molars. After two methods of simulated pulpal pressure or no pulpal pressure (control groups), the samples were cut into sticks and submitted to microtensile bond strength (µTBS) testing and nanoleakage evaluation. Results were analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: In general, statistical analysis of µTBS showed SBMP>SB=SE>S3. For both methods of simulated pulpal pressure, the µTBS of SB and S3 was lower than in control groups. For SBMP and SE, the µTBS remained stable with simulated pulpal pressure. Conventional and experimental methods of simulating pulpal pressure resulted in similar µTBS (p = 1.00) and nanoleakage patterns. Silver impregnation was higher with SB and S3, especially after simulated pulpal pressure with both methods. CONCLUSION: The experimental simulated pulpal-pressure method tested here was similar to the conventional method and can be an alternative to it. The simplified adhesives show reduction in bond strength after simulated pulpal pressure. The multistep adhesives have stable bond strengths under simulated pulpal pressure. Therefore, the separate application of hydrophobic resin can achieve resistance to bonding deterioration after hydrostatic pressure.

Beam Profiling of Dental Light Curing Units Using Different Camera-Based Systems.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to perform the beam profile of dental light-curing units (LCUs) using mirrorless and smartphone cameras and correlate it to a camera-based laser beam profiling system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three LCUs were evaluated (Radii Plus; Bluephase G2; and VALO Cordless). The spectral power of the LCUs was measured by using a spectrophotometer. The light emitted from the LCUs was projected onto a glass diffuser, and the images were recorded by using a mirrorless camera (NEX-F3), a smartphone (iPhone) and a camera-based beam profiler. Bandpass optical-filters were used, and for each LCU, the total spectral power output was integrated to calibrate the images. Statistical analysis was performed by digital image correlation (pixel by pixel) using Pearson's correlation (α = 0.05; ß = 0.2). RESULTS: The beam profile images showed nonuniform radiant emittance and spectral emission distributions across all the LCUs light tip. A strong correlation was found among cameras (Pearson's r = 0.91 ± 0.03 with 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88-0.94 for the NEX-F3 and Pearson's r = 0.88 ± 0.04 with 95% CI: 0.84-0.92 for the iPhone). CONCLUSION: The standard Ophir beam profile system presented the most accurate distribution, but the mirrorless and smartphone cameras presented a strong correlation in the irradiance distribution of the beam profile images. Alternative cameras can be used to perform light beam profile of dental LCUs, but caution is needed as the type of sensor, image bit depth, and image processing are important to obtain accurate results.