Artificial intelligence: ChatGPT as a disruptive didactic strategy in dental education.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of ChatGPT on academic tasks performed by undergraduate dental students. METHOD: Fifty-five participants completed scientific writing assignments. First, ChatGPT was utilized; subsequently, a conventional method involving the search of scientific articles was employed. Each task was preceded by a 30-min training session. The assignments were reviewed by professors, and an anonymous questionnaire was administered to the students regarding the usefulness of ChatGPT. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U-test. RESULTS: Final scores and scores for the criteria of utilization of evidence, evaluation of arguments, and generation of alternatives achieved higher values through the traditional method than with ChatGPT (p = 0.019, 0.042, 0.017, and <0.001, respectively). No differences were found between the two methods for the remaining criteria (p > 0.05). A total of 64.29% of the students found ChatGPT useful, 33.33% found it very useful, and 3.38% not very useful. Regarding its application in further academic activities, 54.76% considered it useful, 40.48% found it very useful, and 4.76% not very useful. A total of 61.90% of the participants indicated that ChatGPT contributed to over 25% of their productivity, while 11.9% perceived it contributed to less than 15%. Concerning the relevance of having known ChatGPT for academic tasks, 50% found it opportune, 45.24% found it very opportune, 2.38% were unsure, and the same percentage thought it is inopportune. All students provided positive feedback. CONCLUSION: Dental students highly valued the experience of using ChatGPT for academic tasks. Nonetheless, the traditional method of searching for scientific articles yield higher scores.

Effect of the use of bromelain associated with bioactive glass-ceramic on dentin/adhesive interface.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of bromelain associated with Biosilicate on the bond strength (BS) of a universal adhesive system to sound (SD) and caries-affected dentin (CAD), and on the proteolytic activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cavities were prepared in 360 molars, half submitted to cariogenic challenge. Teeth were separated into groups (n=20): Control-No treatment; CHX-0.12% chlorhexidine; NaOCl-5% sodium hypochlorite; Br5%-5% bromelain; Br10%-10% bromelain; Bio-10% Biosilicate; NaOClBio-NaOCl+Bio; Br5%Bio-Br5%+Bio; Br10%Bio-Br10%+Bio. Following treatments, the adhesive system was applied, and cavities were restored. Samples were sectioned into sticks and stored at 37 °C for 24 h, 6 months, and 1 year. Microtensile BS (2-way ANOVA, Bonferroni's test, α=0.05), fracture patterns (SEM), and adhesive interfaces (TEM) were evaluated. Bacterial collagenase assay and in situ zymography were performed. RESULTS: In CAD, Br10% presented higher BS (p=0.0208) than Br5%Bio. Br5% presented higher BS (p=0.0033) after 6 months than after 24 h; and association of treatments, higher BS (p<0.05) after aging than after 24 h. Mixed fractures were the most prevalent. Association of treatments promoted a more uniform hybrid layer with embedded Bio particles. Experimental groups presented lower (p<0.0001) relative fluorescence units than Control. Bromelain, associated or not with Bio, showed collagenolytic degradation. CONCLUSIONS: Bromelain associated with Biosilicate did not affect the BS to SD. In CAD, Br5%Bio decreased immediate BS but had no long-term influence. This association decreased the proteolytic activity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Bromelain and Biosilicate may enhance the longevity of adhesive restorations by inhibiting endogenous proteases.

Effect of natural agents on the bond strength to eroded dentin.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effect of bromelain and propolis extract on the bond strength (BS) of a universal adhesive system to eroded dentin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty human molars with exposed dentin were halved, with one half protected by composite resin and the other subjected to erosive treatment followed by remineralization. After the erosive treatment, the composite resin was removed, and the teeth were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 20): Adhesive-Control System; Br-10%; Pr-16%. Following the treatments, composite resin blocks were built on the dentin surfaces and sticks of 0.9 mm2 were obtained and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 h and 6 months. After these periods, the sticks underwent bond strength testing and the data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA, Bonferroni test, p < 0.05. Fracture patterns were observed using light microscope and scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS: Irrespective of the substrate and aging duration, propolis demonstrated higher BS (p < 0.05) compared to the other treatments. Eroded dentin exhibited greater removal of the smear layer and dentinal tubules with a larger diameter than sound dentin, especially when treated with bromelain, resulting in the formation of resin tags. CONCLUSIONS: Propolis consistently promoted the highest bond strength, irrespective of aging or substrate. Eroded dentin treated with propolis, or bromelain exhibited a higher prevalence of non-adhesive fractures and resin tag formation. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Propolis shows promise for enhancing the longevity of adhesive restorations in eroded dentin due to its ability to promote high bond strength.

Incorporation of bioactive glass-ceramic into coconut oil for remineralization of incipient carious lesions.

This study evaluated the efficacy of incorporating different concentrations of bioactive glass-ceramic (Biosilicate) into coconut oil on the remineralizing potential and surface roughness of white spot lesions. Fragments (6 x 6 x 2mm) of bovine teeth were sectioned and initial microhardness (KHN) and surface roughness (Ra) readings were obtained. The samples were submitted to cariogenic challenge to form white spot lesions and were separated into six groups (n=13): 1) Artificial Saliva (AS); 2) Coconut Oil (CO); 3) CO+2% Biosilicate (CO+2%Bio); 4) CO+5% Biosilicate (CO+5%Bio); 5) 2% Biosilicate Suspension (2% Bio) and 6) 5% Biosilicate Suspension (5% Bio). The treatments for 1 cycle/day were: immersion into the treatments for 5 minutes, rinsing in distilled water, and storage in artificial saliva at 37ºC. After 14 days, KHN and Ra readings were taken. The surface roughness alteration ((Ra) was analyzed (Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's post-test, p<0.05). CO+2%Bio had higher (p = 0.0013) (Ra followed by CO+5%Bio (p = 0.0244) than AS. The relative KHN and remineralization potential were analyzed (ANOVA, Tukey, p<0.05), and 5% Bio treatment presented a higher relative microhardness than all other groups (p>0.05). The remineralizing potential of all the treatments was similar (p > .05). When Biosilicate was added, the pH of the suspensions increased and the alkaline pH remained during the analysis. Biosilicate suspension is more efficient than the incorporation of particles into coconut oil at white spot lesion treatment. In addition to the benefits that coconut oil and Biosilicate present separately, their association can enhance the remineralizing potential of Biosilicate.

Effect of limonene associated with bioactive glass-ceramic on dentin/adhesive interface.

This study evaluated the effect of pretreatment with limonene and/or biosilicate on the bond strength of a universal adhesive system in self-etch mode to dentin. Occlusal cavities were prepared in 80 human molars and the teeth were randomly allocated to one of four groups (n = 20), according to the pretreatment regimens applied before the adhesive. The pretreatments were (i) Control, no pretreatment, (ii) LIM, 0.5% limonene; (iii) Bio, 10% biosilicate; and (iv) LIMBio, LIM + Bio. After adhesive application and restoration, the specimens were sectioned into sticks, separated, and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 h or 6 months. Microtensile bond strength test was carried out and measurements were compared across pretreatment groups and storage times. Fracture patterns and adhesive interfaces were observed. Loss of dry mass was calculated (n = 10). There was no statistically significant difference in the bond strength between the groups and the most prevalent fracture pattern was the non-adhesive. LIM and LIMBio resulted in more open dentinal tubules. LIM and Bio, whether separate or combined, showed particles of those substances, which decreased in size and number after 6 months. All groups lost mass weight after treatment, with no statistically significant differences between them. Limonene and biosilicate pretreatment did not affect the bond strength to dentin of the universal adhesive system, but resulted in more non-adhesive fractures, even after 6 months.

Remineralization, color stability and surface roughness of tooth enamel brushed with activated charcoal-based products.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of activated charcoal-based (AC) products on color alteration, remineralizing potential and surface roughness of dental enamel. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine incisors were cut into 6 × 6 × 2 mm fragments. Initial color (EasyShade, Vita) and surface roughness (Surfcorder SE1700, Kosakalab) readings were performed. Fragments were separated into five groups (n = 17) according to the treatment: Control: Fluoride toothpaste (Colgate Total 12, Colgate); Charcoal + NaF: AC toothpaste (ACT) with sodium fluoride (Colgate Natural Extracts, Colgate); Charcoal + MFP + n-HA: ACT with sodium monofluorophosphate and nanohydroxyapatite (Black is White, Curaprox); Charcoal: Fluoride-free ACT (ProActive, Hinode); and Charcoal powder: AC powder. Simulated toothbrushing was performed and final color and surface roughness readings were obtained. Fragments were then polished, and initial microhardness (HMV-2, Shimatzu) readings were done. Samples were artificially demineralized and brushed again. Final microhardness readings were taken. Data were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Fluoride-free charcoal presented the lowest surface roughness alteration (p < 0.05). Charcoal powder had the lowest color change (p < 0.05) and negative values for whiteness index for dentistry alteration. All the groups presented values below whiteness acceptability threshold and negative relative microhardness values. Control showed the highest remineralizing potential (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: ACPs did not produce color alteration different from the fluoride toothpaste, except for Charcoal powder that caused less color change. ACPs caused surface roughness alteration similar to the fluoride toothpaste. ACT with fluoride and AC powder did not have remineralizing potential. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Activated charcoal-based products (ACP) promise effective tooth whitening and quick results, without teeth damage. In addition, some ACPs contain fluoride in toothpaste composition and promise rehardening potential. However, ACPs are not as effective as other whitening agents and can alter the surface roughness of the enamel. Even if the ACPs contain fluoride or other remineralizing agents, they might be ineffective.

Incorporation of bioactive glass-ceramic into coconut oil for remineralization of incipient carious lesions

Abstract This study evaluated the efficacy of incorporating different concentrations of bioactive glass-ceramic (Biosilicate) into coconut oil on the remineralizing potential and surface roughness of white spot lesions. Fragments (6 x 6 x 2mm) of bovine teeth were sectioned and initial microhardness (KHN) and surface roughness (Ra) readings were obtained. The samples were submitted to cariogenic challenge to form white spot lesions and were separated into six groups (n=13): 1) Artificial Saliva (AS); 2) Coconut Oil (CO); 3) CO+2% Biosilicate (CO+2%Bio); 4) CO+5% Biosilicate (CO+5%Bio); 5) 2% Biosilicate Suspension (2% Bio) and 6) 5% Biosilicate Suspension (5% Bio). The treatments for 1 cycle/day were: immersion into the treatments for 5 minutes, rinsing in distilled water, and storage in artificial saliva at 37ºC. After 14 days, KHN and Ra readings were taken. The surface roughness alteration ((Ra) was analyzed (Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's post-test, p<0.05). CO+2%Bio had higher (p = 0.0013) (Ra followed by CO+5%Bio (p = 0.0244) than AS. The relative KHN and remineralization potential were analyzed (ANOVA, Tukey, p<0.05), and 5% Bio treatment presented a higher relative microhardness than all other groups (p>0.05). The remineralizing potential of all the treatments was similar (p > .05). When Biosilicate was added, the pH of the suspensions increased and the alkaline pH remained during the analysis. Biosilicate suspension is more efficient than the incorporation of particles into coconut oil at white spot lesion treatment. In addition to the benefits that coconut oil and Biosilicate present separately, their association can enhance the remineralizing potential of Biosilicate.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou a eficácia da incorporação de diferentes concentrações de vitrocerâmica bioativa (biosilicato) ao óleo de coco no potencial remineralizante e na rugosidade superficial de lesões de manchas brancas. Fragmentos (6 x 6 x 2mm) de dentes bovinos foram seccionados e as leituras iniciais de microdureza (KHN) e rugosidade superficial (Ra) foram obtidas. As amostras foram submetidas ao desafio cariogênico para formação de lesões de manchas brancas e foram separadas em seis grupos (n=13): 1) Saliva Artificial (AS); 2) Óleo de Coco (CO); 3) CO+2% Biosilicato (CO+2%Bio); 4) CO+5% Biosilicato (CO+5%Bio); 5) Suspensão de Biosilicato 2% (2% Bio) e 6) Suspensão de Biosilicato 5% (5% Bio). Os tratamentos de 1 ciclo/dia foram: imersão nos tratamentos por 5 minutos, enxágue em água destilada e armazenamento em saliva artificial a 37ºC. Após 14 dias, foram feitas as leituras de KHN e Ra. A alteração da rugosidade superficial ((Ra) foi analisada (Kruskal-Wallis, pós-teste de Dunn, p<0,05). CO+2%Bio apresentou maior (p = 0,0013) (Ra seguido de CO+5%Bio (p = 0,0244) do que AS. O KHN relativo e o potencial de remineralização foram analisados (ANOVA, Tukey, p<0,05), e o tratamento 5% Bio apresentou uma microdureza relativa maior do que todos os outros grupos (p>0,05). A suspensão de biosilicato é mais eficiente que a incorporação de partículas ao óleo de coco no tratamento de lesões de mancha branca. Além dos benefícios que o óleo de coco e o Biosilicato apresentam separadamente, sua associação pode amplificar o potencial remineralizante do Biosilicato.

Uso del microarenador intraoral para colocación de selladores de fosas y fisuras: Caso clínico / Use of the intraoral microblaster for placement of pit and fissure sealants: Clinical case

RESUMEN Los selladores de fosas y fisuras han demostrado ser una alternativa eficiente y eficaz para proteger las superficies oclusales del desarrollo de lesiones cariosas. Se realiza una revisión del aire abrasivo usado en odontología resturadora y se presenta un caso clínico del uso de esta tecnologia para la colocación de selladores de fosas y fisuras.

ABSTRACT Pit and fissure sealants have proven to be an efficient and effective alternative to protect occlusal surfaces from the development of carious lesions. A review of the abrasive air used in restorative dentistry is carried out and a clinical case of the use of this technology for the placement of pit and fissure sealants is presented.

Remineralization of caries-affected dentin and color stability of teeth restored after treatment with silver diamine fluoride and bioactive glass-ceramic.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the microhardness of caries-affected dentin and color stability of teeth restored after treatments with silver diamine fluoride (SDF) associated to potassium iodide (KI) and Biosilicate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Different samples from bovine teeth were obtained. For color readings, 80 cavities (6 mm × 6 mm × 2 mm) were prepared, and for microhardness, teeth were flattened into dentine to obtain 40 samples. All samples were submitted to cariogenic challenge and separated in 4 groups, according to the treatment used: 12% SDF + KI; 38% SDF; Biosilicate and control (no treatment). Cavities were restored with resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC, Vitremer, 3 M ESPE) or composite resin (CR, Z350, 3 M ESPE). After restoration, the samples were submitted to thermo-mechanical cycling (TMC) for 1,200,000 cycles. Color readings (EasyShade, Vita) were performed after restorations, after TMC, and 30 days after TMC. Knoop microhardness was evaluated on the planned samples before and after cariogenic challenge, after treatments, and after 30 days. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) evaluated the dentine surface after treatments. Data were analyzed (ANOVA, Bonferroni, p < .05). RESULTS: The results showed a higher color alteration for RMGIC than CR. The time of analysis was significant (p < .05) for the 12% SDF + KI and control group. There was no difference (p < .05) in microhardness between groups. However, there was evidence of dentin remineralization after treatments. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the samples treated with Biosilicate resulted in a color alteration similar to control. The treatments presented dentin remineralizing potential for microhardness, below the demineralization level, caused by the cariogenic challenge. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Considering the remineralizing potential presented by Biosilicate, this agent is a promising alternative that overcomes the SDF adverse effects such as tooth staining.

Over-the-counter bleaching agents can help with tooth whitening maintenance.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of over-the-counter agents on the maintenance of color and microhardness of the enamel after home bleaching protocol. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens of bovine teeth (6 × 6 × 2 mm) were prepared, and color (Easyshade, VITA) and microhardness (HMV-2, Shimadzu) readings were performed. All the specimens were bleached using 22% carbamide peroxide (22%CP), except for the control group, and then separated into seven groups (n = 10) according to the interaction of toothpaste (whitening, conventional, and whitening with peroxide) and mouth rinse (whitening and conventional). The study simulated 1 year of toothbrushing (Pepsodent, MAVTEC) and mouth rinse by immersion. After that, final color and microhardness measurements were performed. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tukey's test (P < .05). RESULTS: The group submitted to 22%CP + whitening toothpaste + whitening mouth rinse showed higher color maintenance (P < .05) than the control group. The perception of whitening of teeth (ΔWID ) was higher than the color change (ΔE00 ). There was a decrease in microhardness after treatment with 22%CP + conventional toothpaste + whitening mouth rinse. CONCLUSIONS: Over-the-counter products can help with the maintenance of tooth whitening after bleaching with carbamide peroxide; however, special attention should be given since the association of products can also reduce the microhardness of the dental enamel. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The association between whitening toothpastes and mouth rinses might be beneficial for maintaining color during 1 year after bleaching treatment.

Effect of thermo-mechanical cycling and chlorhexidine on the bond strength of universal adhesive system to dentin.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the influence of thermo-mechanical cycling (TMC) on the bond strength (BS) of a universal adhesive system (UAS - Adper Single Bond Universal, 3M ESPE) to dentin treated or not with 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX). METHODS: Eighty human molars were flattened until reach the dentin and separated into 4 groups according to the bonding protocol: ENR Group: 37% phosphoric acid + 3-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system (ENR); UAS Group: UAS in self-etch mode; ENR + CHX Group: 37% phosphoric acid + CHX + ENR; UAS + CHX Group: CHX + UAS in self-etch mode. After treatments, teeth were restored (Filtek Z350, 3M ESPE). Samples (n = 10) were submitted to aging process: stored in distilled water at 37°C/30 days or TMC (ERIOS - 98N/1.6Hz + thermal cycling 5/37/55 °C - 1,200,000 cycles). Specimens were sectioned into sticks (1.0 mm2) and submitted to the microtensile test (Mechanical Test Machine - 0.5 mm/min). Fracture patterns and hybrid layer integrity were analyzed under Stereomicroscope and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: The BS results (3-way ANOVA, Bonferroni's test, α = 5%) showed that groups treated with CHX presented higher BS values than control groups; significant in all cases (p < .05), except for ENR submitted to TMC (p > .05). When CHX was applied and samples were cycled, UAS revealed higher BS (p < .05) than ENR. After TMC, cohesive fractures increased for UAS, regardless of CHX application. SEM analysis demonstrated different hybridization patterns for the adhesive systems tested. CONCLUSION: The performance of the universal adhesive system used in self-etch mode was better than that of the 3-step etch-and-rinse adhesive system. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Universal adhesive systems have been developed in order to simplify the dentin hybridization protocol. It is important to determine the longevity of the adhesive interface using these bonding materials after chewing.