Biocompatibility, bioactivity, porosity, and sealer/dentin interface of bioceramic ready-to-use sealers using a dentin-tube model.

This study evaluated the biocompatibility, bioactivity, porosity, and sealer/dentin interface of Sealer Plus BC (SP), Bio-C Sealer (BIOC), TotalFill BC Sealer (TF), and AH Plus (AHP). Dentin tubes filled with the sealers and empty tubes (control group) were implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of rats for different periods (n = 6 per group/period). Number of inflammatory cells (ICs), capsule thickness, von Kossa reaction, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and osteocalcin (OCN) were evaluated. Porosity and voids in the interface dentin/sealers were assessed by micro-computed tomography. The data were submitted to ANOVA/Tukey's tests (α = 0.05). Greater capsule thickness, ICs and IL-6 immunolabeling cells were observed in AHP. No significant difference in thickness of capsule, ICs, and IL-6- immunolabeling cells was detected between SP and TF, in all periods, and after 30 and 60 days between all groups. At 60 days all groups had reduction in capsule thickness, ICs and IL-6 immunolabeling cells. Von Kossa-positive and birefringent structures were observed in the capsules around the sealers. BIOC, SP, and TF exhibited OCN-immunolabeling cells. All sealers had porosity values below 5%, besides low and similar interface voids. BIOC, SP and TF are biocompatible, bioactive, and have low porosity and voids. The dentin-tube model used is an alternative for evaluating bioceramic materials.

Effect of erosive conditions on different sealant materials used in paediatric dentistry.

To evaluate the effect of acidic challenge on erosion depth and topographic characteristics of different materials used as occlusal sealants. Two hundred specimens of five sealant materials (Fuji IX, Ketac Molar, Fuji II, Equia and Clinpro) and forty bovine teeth enamel samples (control) were prepared and exposed to acidic challenge. The specimens were immersed in four different solutions (orange juice, coke drink, citric acid or distilled water) under mildly shaken conditions for 3 days. The erosion depth profiles were measured using a profilometer and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Two-way ANOVA with Tukey post-hoc test was performed to evaluate the interactions. Sealant material and acidic challenge had significant effects on erosion depth. Among the materials, Fuji II presented the highest mean of erosion depth after immersion in orange juice, coke drink, and citric acid. All materials groups presented higher erosion depth values after immersion in the citric acid solution, except Clinpro. Bovine enamel presented higher erosion depth values compared to all materials when submitted to erosive challenge. Sealant materials submitted to the acidic challenge presented different degrees of erosion and topographic modification; however, they are less susceptible to erosion than bovine teeth enamel.

Anti-biofilm activity of a novel pit and fissure self-adhesive sealant modified with metallic monomers.

Dental plaque is a biofilm composed of a complex oral microbial community. The accumulation of plaque in the pit and fissures of dental elements often leads to the development of tooth decay (dental caries). Here, potent anti-biofilm materials were developed by incorporating zinc methacrylates or di-n-butyl-dimethacrylate-tin into the light-curable sealant and their physical, mechanical, and biological properties were evaluated. The data revealed that 5% di-n-butyl-dimethacrylate-tin (SnM 5%) incorporated sealant showed strong anti-biofilm efficacy against various single-species (Streptococcus mutans or Streptococcus oralis or Candida albicans) and S. mutans-C. albicans cross-kingdom dual-species biofilms without either impairing the mechanical properties of the sealant or causing cytotoxicities against mouse fibroblasts. The findings indicate that the incorporation of SnM 5% in the experimental pit and fissure self-adhesive sealant may have the potential to be part of current chemotherapeutic strategies to prevent the formation of cariogenic oral biofilms that cause dental caries.

Sealing Carious Fissures with Resin Infiltrant in Association with a Flowable Composite Reduces Immediate Microleakage?

Abstract Objective: To compare the immediate microleakage of carious fissures sealed with a caries infiltrant covered by a flowable composite or solely with a flowable composite. Material and Methods: Extracted carious molars (n=20) were selected and paired among the experimental groups according to caries progression scores. Experimental groups (n=10) were divided according to the following sealing techniques: 1) caries infiltrant (Icon) + flowable composite (Z350 flow); 2) flowable composite (Z350 flow). Specimens were immersed in 3% methylene blue and evaluated in a stereomicroscope. Microleakage scores were attributed independently by two calibrated evaluators and the mode value was considered as the mean for the specimen. Binomial tests were used to test differences between two independent sample proportions at 5% significance level. Results: In the flowable composite group, a higher prevalence of dye penetration along the full depth of the fissure was observed, compared with caries infiltrant + flowable composite (p<0.05). For specimens showing dye penetration up to half of the fissure, in caries infiltrant + flowable composite group, all specimens showed dye penetration into the sealant, but not over the infiltrant. Conclusion: Using caries infiltrant as sealing material under a flowable composite cover is effective to improve the immediate sealing ability in carious fissures compared to sealing with flowable composite.

Mineral deposition promoted by resin-based sealants with different calcium phosphate additions.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different calcium phosphates (CaPs) on the physical, biological, and remineralizing properties of experimental resin-based sealants (RBSs). Triethylene-glycol dimethacrylate (90wt%) and bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (10wt%) were used to produce resin-based sealants. Hydroxyapatite (SHAp), α-tricalcium phosphate (Sα-TCP) and octacalcium phosphate (SOCP) were added to the sealants in a 10wt% concentration. One group without CaPs was used as the control group (SCG). The degree of conversion (DC) was assessed with Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, whereas cytotoxicity was tested with the HaCaT keratinocyte cell line. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was used to assess the mechanical strength of the experimental RBSs. Sealed enamel was used for colorimetric assay. Mineral deposition was assessed with Raman spectroscopy after 7, 14, and 28 days of sample immersion in artificial saliva. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the surface morphology after 28 days of immersion. The addition of 10wt% of fillers significantly reduced the DC of sealants. SOCP groups showed reduced cell viability. Higher UTS was found for Sα-TCP and SHAp. The color analysis showed that SGC and demineralized teeth presented higher mismatches with the sound tissue. Mineral deposition was observed for SHAp and Sα-TCP after 7 days, with increased phosphate content and mineral deposits for SHAp after 28 days. RBS with the addition of 10% HAp promoted increased mineralization in vitro after 28 days, and did not affect cell viability, DC, mechanical properties, or RBS color in the enamel.

Microcavitated (ICDAS 3) carious lesion arrest with resin or glass ionomer sealants in first permanent molars: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: Although there is some consensus that carious lesions in early stages (non-cavitated) could be treated using sealants, neither the type of materials nor their use in lesions with localized enamel breakdown (microcavitated) has been reported To compare the efficacy of resin or glass ionomer (GI) sealants in arresting microcavitated carious lesions (ICDAS 3) in first permanent molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in 41 healthy 6 to 11-year-old children. At the baseline examination, each subject had at least one carious lesion classified as ICDAS 3 on the first permanent molar. One hundred fifty-one lesions were randomized into: Group 1: resin sealants (76 lesions) and Group 2: GI sealant (75 lesions). Carious lesion progression was assessed clinically and radiographically. Progression and retention failure were the outcomes used for group comparisons at p-value<0.05. RESULTS: After a two-year follow-up, only one lesion progressed to ICDAS 5, without statistically significant differences between the groups (χ2(1) = 0.90, p = 0.53). Radiographically, 100 lesions (98%) were arrested and 2 (2%) showed radiographic progression, without differences between groups (χ2(1) = 0.93, p = 0.93). At 2 years, complete retention was observed in 77% of the resin-based and in 83% of the GI sealants, without statistical differences between type of sealant (χ2(1) = 0.71, p = 0.48). The multilevel mixed model demonstrated that location and type of sealant did not affect retention rates (χ2(1) = 24,98, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Sealing ICDAS 3 carious lesions in permanent molars appears to be effective in arresting lesions after a two-year follow-up. Clinicaltrials.gov: RCTICDAS3/2015. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Minimally invasive approaches for carious lesion management have been promoted. Using sealants for the treatment of microcavitated lesions (ICDAS 3) appears predictable in the routine practice, without predilection for resin or glass ionomer materials. In addition to preserving tooth structure, this strategy reduces chair-time, dental fear and costs, and increases coverage to dental care.

Effects of an endodontic auxiliary chemical substance on the bond strength of two methacrylate-based endodontic sealers to dentin.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of irrigation protocols and drying procedures on the bond strength of two methacrylate-based sealers to dentin and the associated failure pattern using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty single-rooted human teeth were prepared with an irrigation protocol using either 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) or 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) and 17% EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) for smear layer removal. The following subgroups were also created based on drying of the root canal walls: paper points, the canals were blot dried with paper points with the last one appearing dry; or, ethanol, excess distilled water was removed with paper points followed by dehydration with 95% ethanol for 1 min and blotting with paper points. Each group was divided into two subgroups on the basis of the root canal sealer: EndoREZ and RealSeal SE. Bond strength was measured by the push-out test. The data were analyzed by ANOVA/Tukey HSD (α = 0.05). Failure patterns were classified as adhesive, cohesive, and mixed in the SEM analysis. The failure mode was evaluated by the chi-squared test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The roots irrigated with NaOCl showed significantly lower bond strength than the roots irrigated with CHX (p < .05). RealSeal SE showed higher bond strength when compared with EndoREZ (p < .05). The highest values of bond strength were in the CHX and ethanol groups with RealSeal SE (p < .05). An increase in adhesive failure was observed in the NaOCl and EDTA group. CONCLUSIONS: The bond strength of both methacrylate-based sealers is influenced by the irrigant protocol.

Do smear-layer removal agents affect the push-out bond strength of calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers?

AIM: To evaluate the effect of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 2.25% peracetic acid (PA) or 10% citric acid (CA) on the push-out bond strength of calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers [MTA Fillapex (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) and Total Fill BC Sealer (FKG, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland)] to root dentine after different periods of immersion in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). AH Plus (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstaz, Germany) was used as a reference material for comparison. METHODOLOGY: Thirty human maxillary incisors were selected and three 1-mm discs were obtained from the middle third of each root. On the axial surface of each disc, three 0.8-mm-diameter holes were drilled through the dentine. After standardized irrigation, each dentine disc from the same root was treated for smear-layer removal with one of the three tested chelating solutions: EDTA, PA or CA. After that, the holes were dried with paper points and filled with one of the three test root canal sealers. The filled dental slices were further immersed in PBS solution (pH 7.2) for 7 days (T1) or 30 days (T2) at 37 °C, before the push-out assay. Friedman, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used respectively to estimate the impact of the independent variables (solutions, sealers and period of PBS immersion) on the push-out bond strength. The level for significance was set at α = 5% and data were further subjected to a Bonferroni correction. RESULTS: Solutions and periods of immersion did not significantly influence the displacement resistance (P = 0.285, and P = 0.104, respectively) of sealers to root dentine. On the other hand, the type of sealer significantly affected the push-out bond strength (P = 0.000). AH Plus was associated with greater resistance to dislodgment compared with Total Fill BC Sealer and MTA Fillapex (P = 0.000). MTA Fillapex resulted in the lowest push-out bond strength (P = 0.000). CONCLUSION: The use of different chelating agents did not influence the push-out bond strength of endodontic sealers. Calcium silicate-based sealers had lower push-out bond strength values compared with a conventional epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus).

Characterisation and microleakage of a new hydrophilic fissure sealant - UltraSeal XT® hydro™.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to characterise the new hydrophilic fissure sealant, UltraSeal XT® hydro™ (Ultradent Products, USA), and to investigate its in vitro resistance to microleakage after placement on conventionally acid etched and sequentially lased and acid etched molars. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sealant was characterised by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Vickers indentation test. Occlusal surfaces of extracted human molars were either conventionally acid etched (n=10), or sequentially acid etched and laser irradiated (n=10). UltraSeal XT® hydro™ was applied to both groups of teeth which were then subjected to 2,500 thermocycles between 5 and 55°C prior to microleakage assessment by fuchsin dye penetration. RESULTS: UltraSeal XT® hydro™ is an acrylate-based sealant that achieved a degree of conversion of 50.6±2.2% and a Vickers microhardness of 24.2±1.5 under standard light curing (1,000 mWcm-2 for 20 s). Fluoride ion release is negligible within a 14-day period. SEM and EDX analyses indicated that the sealant comprises irregular submicron and nano-sized silicon-, barium-, and aluminium-bearing filler phases embedded in a ductile matrix. Laser preconditioning was found to significantly reduce microleakage (Mann-Whitney U test, p<0.001). The lased teeth presented enhanced surface roughness on a 50 to 100 µm scale that caused the segregation and concentration of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface. CONCLUSION: Laser preconditioning significantly decreased microleakage and increased enamel surface roughness, which caused zoning of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface.

Characterisation and microleakage of a new hydrophilic fissure sealant - UltraSeal XT® hydro

ABSTRACT Objectives The aim of this study was to characterise the new hydrophilic fissure sealant, UltraSeal XT® hydro™ (Ultradent Products, USA), and to investigate its in vitro resistance to microleakage after placement on conventionally acid etched and sequentially lased and acid etched molars. Material and Methods The sealant was characterised by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and Vickers indentation test. Occlusal surfaces of extracted human molars were either conventionally acid etched (n=10), or sequentially acid etched and laser irradiated (n=10). UltraSeal XT® hydro™ was applied to both groups of teeth which were then subjected to 2,500 thermocycles between 5 and 55°C prior to microleakage assessment by fuchsin dye penetration. Results UltraSeal XT® hydro™ is an acrylate-based sealant that achieved a degree of conversion of 50.6±2.2% and a Vickers microhardness of 24.2±1.5 under standard light curing (1,000 mWcm-2 for 20 s). Fluoride ion release is negligible within a 14-day period. SEM and EDX analyses indicated that the sealant comprises irregular submicron and nano-sized silicon-, barium-, and aluminium-bearing filler phases embedded in a ductile matrix. Laser preconditioning was found to significantly reduce microleakage (Mann-Whitney U test, p<0.001). The lased teeth presented enhanced surface roughness on a 50 to 100 μm scale that caused the segregation and concentration of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface. Conclusion Laser preconditioning significantly decreased microleakage and increased enamel surface roughness, which caused zoning of the filler particles at the enamel-sealant interface.

Color stability of a resin composite: Effect of the immersion method and surface treatments.

BACKGROUND: In vitro staining methods expose the entire specimen to staining solutions. In a real clinical situation, this is not observed, since one should consider that the bonded surface is not exposed to the oral environment. Theoretically, the clinical condition would be the best simulated if the specimens were exposed to staining solutions by partial immersion. AIMS: To evaluate if different immersion methods and surface treatments influence the color stability of resin-based specimens. METHODOLOGY: A stainless steel matrix was used to prepare 30 disc-shaped specimens that were randomly allocated in three groups: Without polishing, polishing with abrasive discs, and surface sealant. Half of the specimens were isolated to maintain only the upper surface exposed to staining (partial immersion) and the other half was totally immersed in coffee solution for 48 h (total immersion). The coordinates ΔE*, ΔL*, Δa*, Δb* were assessed by spectrophotometer. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests (α =0.05). RESULTS: Specimens submitted to partial immersion showed lower values of ΔE*, ΔL*, Δa*, Δb*, in comparison to total immersion (P = 0.000). Specimens covered by a surface sealant presented lower ΔE* values regardless of the immersion method. CONCLUSIONS: Specimens totally immersed in staining solutions could in somehow overestimate the color change, once that in most clinical conditions not all of the restoration surfaces are exposed to the oral environment. Moreover, as the surface sealant application produces color change values that are clinically acceptable, it might be used in esthetic restorations as an adjunct treatment.

Pit and Fissure Sealants with Different Materials: Resin Based x Glass Ionomer Cement ­ Results after Six Months

Objective: To compare the retention and superficial characteristics between a new resin-modified glass ionomer sealant and resin sealant. In addition, the teeth sealed were compared to partially erupted first molars (control group) without sealing in relation to the incidence of dental caries. Material and Methods: Initially, 31 children aged 6-8 years participated in this study. The study children showed caries history, but had at least two healthy first molars. A total of 114 teeth were randomly divided into three groups: Clinpro (n=36), Fluroshield (n=38), and control (n=40). The two sealants were applied under relative isolation after previous prophylaxis and enamel etching with phosphoric acid 35% (15s). Clinical evaluation was performed by two calibrated examiners. They evaluated the retention and surface characteristics of the occlusal surface. Results: Fluroshield® showed significantly greater retention than ClinproTM Varnish® XT (p=0.002). However, the performance analysis of the success and failure of retention presented no significant difference between the materials (p=0.141). Concerning to the surface characteristics, Fluroshield performed better than Clinpro after analyzing the marginal deterioration, marginal discoloration, and superficial discoloration (p<0.05). The surface texture of the materials under study was similar (p=0.071). Sealed groups (Clinpro=Fluroshield) showed similar performance in the prevention of dental caries, which was significantly lower than that of control group (p=0.001). Conclusion: Both sealants, Fluroshield® and Clinpro TM Varnish® XT were effective in preventing caries lesion within 6 months, although Fluroshield sealant showed better clinical retention.

Characterization of Mechanical Properties, Fluoride Release and Colour Stability of Dental Sealants

Objective: To compare the mechanical properties, fluoride release, colour stability and spreading characteristics of glass ionomer cement (GIC), compomer (CO), chemical (CR) and light-cured resin based (LR) fissure sealants. Material and Methods: Cylinders were prepared to determine mechanical properties by diametral tensile strength tests (stored for 24h in distilled water at 37°C) and fluoride release (24 hours, 3, 7 and 15 days; deionised water). Disk shaped specimens were prepared to determine colour stability (1 week in pigmenting solution; 37°C; CIE L*a*b*; ΔE). A simplified method of a spreading test was proposed to predict viscosity characteristics of the tested materials. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA followed by T-test (p<0.05). Results: Results showed differences between materials regarding all tested properties. CO was statistically more resistant than the other materials (p<0.05), but no difference was observed between CR and LR. The fluoride release of GICs was significantly higher than the other materials (p<0.05). CO showed lower ΔE than the other materials in the following order: CO

Penetration of Filled and Unfilled Resin Sealants on Different Enamel Substrates.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the penetration ratio of filled and unfilled resin-based sealants on different enamel substrates and pit and fissure morphologies. METHODS: Forty-eight occlusal enamel blocks obtained from impacted human third molars were randomly divided (n equals eight) according to enamel substrates (sound; caries-like lesion; caries-like lesion plus topical fluoride application) and sealant material (FluroShield; Helioseal Clear Chroma). Sealants were applied on the enamel surface. The specimens were stored in 100 percent humidity for 24 hours at 37 degrees Celsius, sectioned in a buccal-lingual direction (at approximately 50 µm), and examined to determine the sealant penetration ratio (b x 100/a; a equals total fissure length and b equals sealant penetration length) and pit and fissure morphology (V-, U-, or Y-shaped). Statistical analysis was performed using Friedman and Kruskal-Wallis tests (P<0.05). RESULTS: Enamel substrate and sealant material did not affect the sealant penetration ratio, with no interactions between these factors. Moreover, the morphology significantly affected the sealant penetration, with the "Y"-shaped fissures presenting the lowest sealant penetration ratio compared to "U-"shaped (P=0.0001) and "V-" shaped fissures (P=0.0018). CONCLUSIONS: Pit and fissure morphology was a critical factor on sealant's penetration capacity; however, enamel substrate and sealant type did not affect sealant's penetration ratio.

Marginal and internal analysis of preheated dental fissure-sealing materials using optical coherence tomography.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of pre-photoactivation temperature on the marginal and internal integrity (occurrence of voids) of fissure-sealing materials on occlusal fissures using optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: Occlusal fissures of 40 human third molars were sealed using a resin-based fissure sealant (Fluroshield) and a flowable composite (Permaflo) photoactivated at 68 °C (preheated) or at room temperature (25 °C) (n=10). After sealing, the teeth were subjected to thermocycling (500 cycles, 5-55 °C) and 14 days of pH cycling (demineralisation for 6 hours/day and remineralisation for 18 hours/day). The occlusal surfaces were scanned in a buccolingual direction, and 20 tomographic images parallel to the long axis of each tooth were obtained. Images presenting marginal gaps and internal voids were counted and statistically analysed using analysis of variance and Tukey's test (P<0.05). RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences between materials and temperatures (P<0.01). The flowable composite had a lower percentage of gaps and internal voids than the resin-based sealant. Preheated materials had a lower percentage of gaps and internal voids than the materials at room temperature. CONCLUSION: Therefore, preheated flowable composite provided the best marginal sealing of fissures, and internal homogeneity of the material.

Are self-etch adhesive systems effective in the retention of occlusal sealants? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Occlusal sealants are an effective method for caries prevention, although the effectiveness of different application strategies has not been established yet. AIM: This systematic review compared the retention rate of sealants placed on occlusal surfaces following the use of self-etch adhesive systems and traditional acid etching, with or without the application of adhesive system. DESIGN: Literature searching was carried out until June 2015 in PubMed/MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials databases selecting randomized clinical trials that evaluated self-etch adhesive systems associated with pit and fissure sealants in primary or permanent molars comprising retention as outcome. From 683 potentially eligible studies, 10 were selected for full-text analysis and 5 were included in the meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently selected the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the bias risk. Pooled-effect estimates were obtained by comparing the retention failure rate between groups (self-etch systems vs acid etching with or without adhesive systems). RESULTS: Significant difference was found between groups, favoring the control group (prior acid etching) (P < 0.05), which showed lower failure rate in the retention of occlusal sealants. High heterogeneity was found on the meta-analysis. Most trials showed good evidence strength. CONCLUSIONS: Occlusal sealants applied with self-etch systems show lower retention throughout time than sealants applied in the conventional approach, regardless of the use of adhesive systems.

Influência da remoção do excesso de materiais adesivos sobre o esmalte erodido, na resistência a desafio erosivo in vitro / Influence of removing excess of adhesive materials applied to eroded enamel on the resistance to erosive challenge

O uso de materiais resinosos sobre o tecido dentário é uma alternativa para a prevenção da progressão da erosão, contudo existem poucas informações sobre o efeito da infiltração resinosa na lesão de erosão. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito dos materiais resinosos sobre (sem remoção de excesso) e supostamente dentro (com remoção de excesso) do esmalte previamente erodido, submetido a desafio erosivo subsequente. Os blocos de esmalte bovino foram imersos em HCl 0,01 M, pH 2,3 durante 30 segundos para a formação de lesão inicial de erosão. Em seguida, os blocos foram divididos aleatoriamente e tratados de acordo com 8 grupos (n=12): Cc e Cs- controle sem tratamento, Hc e Hs- selante de fossas e fissuras (Helioseal Clear®), Ac e As- adesivo autocondicionante (Adhese®), Ic e Is- infiltrante (Icon®); sendo c- com remoção de excesso e s- sem remoção de excesso do material. Os materiais foram aplicados de acordo com as recomendações dos fabricantes. Nos grupos com remoção de excesso, após a aplicação dos materiais houve a remoção de seu excesso da superfície de esmalte com um cotonete, anteriormente a fotopolimerização. Após o tratamento, todos os espécimes foram submetidos à ciclagem erosiva, por meio da imersão em ácido clorídrico (0,01M; pH 2,3) por 2 minutos, seguida da imersão em saliva artificial por 120 minutos, 4 vezes ao dia, durante 5 dias. A espessura de material e o desgaste dentário foram analisados por meio da perfilometria e os resultados submetidos ao teste ANOVA a dois critérios e teste de Tukey (p<0,05). Na análise do desgaste dentário após o desafio erosivo, os grupos sem remoção de excesso (Hs, As, Is) se comportaram de forma semelhante (p>0,05), constatando-se a presença de material sobre o esmalte prevenindo a perda da estrutura dentária. Os grupos nos quais o excesso de material sobre o esmalte foi removido (Hc, Ac, Ic) resultaram em perda de esmalte após a aplicação. Além disso, esses grupos (Hc, Ac, Ic) não foram capazes de...

The use of resin-based materials over the dental tissue is an alternative for erosion progression prevention, however there is little information regarding the effect of resin infiltration into erosive lesion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of resin-based materials over (without excess removal) and into (with excess removal) previously eroded enamel, subjected to erosive challenge. Bovine enamel blocks were immersed in HCl 0.01 M, pH 2.3 for 30 seconds for the formation of softened erosion lesion. Then the blocks were random divided and treated according to 8 groups (n=12): Cc and Cs- control without treatment, Hc and Hs- fissure resin sealant (Helioseal Clear®), Ac and As- self-etch adhesive (Adhese®), Ic and Isinfiltrant (Icon®); being c- with excess removal and s- without excess removal of the material. The materials were applied according to manufacture instructions. The groups with excess received the same materials, however before light curing the excess of material over enamel was gently removed with a cotton roll. After treatment, the blocks were immersed in HCl for 2 min, followed by immersion in artificial saliva for 120 min, 4 times per day, during 5 days (erosive cycling). Enamel wear and material thickness were analyzed using profilometry and the results submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukeys test (p<0.05). Groups Hs, As, Is, resulted in the formation of a layer of material over enamel, being effective in inhibiting erosion progression. Groups in which the material over enamel was removed (Hc, Ac, Ic), resulted in enamel loss after application. In addition, they (Hc, Ac, Ic) were not able to protect enamel, since after the erosive challenge enamel wear of these groups was similar to control. Based on the results of this study, resin-based materials are able to protect enamel against erosion only when they are present over enamel, forming a mechanical barrier.

Adhesive interface and bond strength of endodontic sealers to root canal dentine after immersion in phosphate-buffered saline.

This study evaluated the bond strength (BS) and the adhesive interface of four endodontic sealers to root canal dentine, before, and after immersion in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) to simulate an in vivo environment. Eighty roots were instrumented using ProTaper rotatory files, under irrigation with 17% EDTA and 1% NaOCl. Posteriorly were divided into four groups (n = 20) according to the sealer used: Endofill, AH Plus, Sealapex, and MTA Fillapex. Each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 10) and stored at 37°C immersed in water for 7 days and in PBS for 60 days. From each subgroup, 1 mm thick sections were obtained. One section of each region (coronal, middle, and apical) was submitted to the push-out test and failures were observed. Twelve sections of each subgroup (four from each region) were evaluated under SEM. Three-way ANOVA evaluation for BS showed significant differences between groups and regions (P < 0.0001), but not between subgroups (P > 0.05). AH Plus had significantly higher BS than the others sealers, regardless of the analyzed subgroup (Tukey's test, P < 0.5). The most common failures were adhesive to dentine and cohesive of the sealer. The SEM evaluation (Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney) showed homogeneous adhesive interface formed and sealer tags in all groups with significant statistical differences with AH Plus, regardless of PBS immersion. AH Plus was superior to the other sealers for both BS and quality of interface formation. Immersion in PBS did not interfere on BS or adhesive interface of the sealers tested.

Physicochemical properties and surfaces morphologies evaluation of MTA FillApex and AH plus.

The solubility, pH, electrical conductivity, and radiopacity of AH Plus and MTA FillApex were evaluated. In addition, the surfaces morphologies of the sealers were analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy. For pH test, the samples were immersed in distilled water at different periods of time. The same solution was used for electrical conductivity measurement. The solubility and radiopacity were evaluated according to ANSI/ADA. Statistical analyses were carried out at 5% level of significance. MTA FillApex presented higher mean value for solubility and electrical conductivity. No significant difference was observed in the mean values for pH reading. AH Plus presented higher radiopacity mean values. MTA FillApex presented an external surface with porosities and a wide range of sizes. In conclusion, the materials fulfill the ANSI/ADA requirements when considering the radiopacity and solubility. AH Plus revealed a compact and homogeneous surface with more regular aspects and equal particle sizes.

Chemical characterization and bioactivity of epoxy resin and Portland cement-based sealers with niobium and zirconium oxide radiopacifiers.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to characterize and to evaluate the bioactivity potential of experimental root canal sealers (ES) based on Portland cement, epoxy resin with nano- and micro-particles of niobium or zirconium oxide used as radiopacifiers in comparison to AH Plus and MTA Fillapex. METHODS: Specimens of the sealers (10 mm in diameter×1 mm thick) were prepared and the radiopacity was evaluated according to ISO 6876 (2012) specifications. Characterization of the sealers was performed under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) immediately after setting and after immersion for 28 days in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS). In addition X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy were also performed. The pH and calcium ion release were measured after 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after completion of seating using a digital pH meter and an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, respectively. RESULTS: The experimental sealers exhibited an average radiopacity of 2.5 mm thickness of aluminum, which was similar to MTA Fillapex (P>0.05) and inferior to AH Plus (P<0.05). AH Plus did not show bioactivity. Although the experimental sealers did not exhibit the formation of hydration product, they encouraged the deposition of crystalline spherical structures of calcium deficient phosphate. The highest pH and calcium release values were observed with the experimental sealers (P<0.01). ES-Nb-micro was the only sealer to present hexagonal shaped crystal deposition. SIGNIFICANCE: Novel root canal sealers based on a mixture of Portland cement, epoxy resin and radiopacifier exhibited a degree of bioactivity although no evidence of cement hydration was demonstrated on material characterization. The radiopacifier particle size had limited effect on the sealer microstructure and chemical properties.