Physical analysis of an acrylic resin modified by metal and ceramic nanoparticles.

BACKGROUND: Nanoparticles (NPs) have gained significant attention in various fields due to their unique properties and potential applications. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is an acrylic resin widely used in dentistry and medicine. However, the effect of different types of NP fillers on the physical properties of PMMA-based resins has not been thoroughly explored in the literature. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of 3 different types of NP fillers on the physical properties of an experimental PMMA-based resin as a function of the NP content and concentration. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ten groups (n = 10) were designed. The specimens were composed of an acrylic resin, silicon dioxide (SiO2), cerium dioxide (CeO2), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) at the following ratios (wt%): group 1 (G1) - control; group 2 (G2) - 0.5% SiO2; group 3 (G3) - 1% SiO2; group 4 (G4) - 3% SiO2; group 5 (G5) - 0.5% CeO2; group 6 (G6) - 1% CeO2; group 7 (G7) - 3% CeO2; group 8 (G8) - 0.5% TiO2; group 9 (G9) - 1% TiO2; and group 10 (G10) - 3% TiO2. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to assess the quality of NP dispersion. Thermal stability was assessed with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The effects of the abovementioned NPs on the properties of the resin were evaluated using the Archimedes principle for density, the Vickers hardness (VH) test and the impact strength (IS) test. Data analysis employed the oneand two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Duncan's post hoc test at a significance level of 0.05. RESULTS: Transmission electron microscopy showed partial NP dispersion. All types of NPs enhanced the mechanical properties of the acrylic resin except for IS, which was similar to that of the control group. Among the types of NPs, irrespective of the weight percentage, CeO2 showed higher thermal stability and higher IS for 0.5 wt% and 1 wt% as compared to other groups, as well as the highest values of density at 0.5 wt%, 1 wt% and 3 wt%. Titanium oxide at 1 wt% presented a higher VH as compared to other groups. The fracture pattern was the same for all groups. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating the tested NPs into the acrylic resin resulted in enhanced physical properties, primarily attributed to a lower NP content.

Influence of the combined effect of desensitizing dentifrices and universal adhesives on dentin bond strength under erosive conditions.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of desensitizing dentifrices containing obliterating agents can affect bond strength of eroded/abraded dentin. METHODOLOGY: A total of 100 dentin samples were obtained from human molars. The teeth were cut into 3 mm-thickness discs and allocated in five groups (n=20), according to the toothpaste used: WoF - abrasion with fluoride-free toothpaste (Cocoricó); Arg - toothpaste containing arginine (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief); Nov - calcium sodium phosphosilicate toothpaste (Sensodyne Repair and Protect); SnF - fluoride-containing toothpaste (AmF/SnCl2/SnF2 - Elmex Erosion); and Control (no erosive/abrasive process). The erosive/abrasive cycle consisted of immersion in citric acid (1%, pH 2.6, 5 min, 4×/day) and abrasion (2×/day, 120-20 sec abrasion, 100 sec immersion) with each toothpaste. During intervals, samples were immersed in artificial saliva. This cycle was performed for five days. Two resin cylinders (2 mm in diameter) were constructed on each sample for the shear bond strength test using a universal adhesive system. The self-etch and etch-and-rinse (Scotchbond Universal) strategies were employed, each in half of the total sample (n=10). Bond strength (MPa) was measured in a shear test and failure modes were assessed with a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests (p<0.05). RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was found between the adhesive strategies tested (p<0.001), with the self-etching form showing higher values than the etch-and-rinse. Moreover, no significant differences were observed between the tested toothpastes (p=0.750) and interactions (p=0.438). CONCLUSION: The use of toothpaste containing obliterating agents does not affect bond strength to dentin subjected to erosive/abrasive conditions when a universal adhesive is used. However, the self-etch strategy might be preferred for eroded/abraded dentin.

Bonding performance of universal adhesives with concomitant use of silanes to CAD/CAM blocks / Associação de adesivos universais com silanos na adesão em blocos de CAD/CAM

ABSTRACT Objective: This study assessed whether the use of a silane coupling agent influence the bond strength of two universal adhesives to ceramic or resin CAD/CAM blocks. Methods: Forty-eight samples were obtained from each resin nano-ceramic hybrid block (RCBs) and lithium disilicate ceramic blocks (LD). Samples were treated with silane with MDP (Monobond - S-MDP), silane without MDP (Prosil - PS), and no silane application (Control - Ctr) followed by universal adhesive with silane (UAS) and without silane (UA) (n=8). Three polyurethane tubes (1.5 mm of internal diameter) were positioned in each sample treated surface and filled with a dual cured resin cement. Bond strength was assessed by microshear bond strength test and failure analysis was performed for all samples. Results: For the RCBs, UAS presented the highest bond strength values (p=0.004). Silane application was not significant in bond strength values (p=0.444). For LD, silane application was significant in bond strength values (p<0.001), but the adhesive was not (p=0.066). Failure analysis showed high prevalence of adhesive failures for both substrates. Conclusion: A silane-containing universal adhesive promoted the best bond strength results to the resin nano-ceramic hybrid block. For bonding to a glass-ceramic CAD/CAM material, additional silane (without MDP) application presented the best results.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo avaliou se o uso de um agente de união silano influencia na resistência de união de dois adesivos universais a blocos CAD/CAM cerâmicos ou resinosos. Métodos: Quarenta e oito amostras foram obtidas de blocos resinosos (RCBs) e cerâmicos de dissilicato de lítio (LD). As amostras foram tratadas com silano contendo: MDP (Monobond - S-MDP), silano sem MDP (Prosil - PS) ou sem aplicação de silano (Control - Ctr) seguido de adesivo universal com silano (UAS) ou sem silano (UA) (n=8). Três tubos de poliuretano (1,5 mm de diâmetro interno) foram posicionados em cada superfície tratada da amostra e preenchidos com um cimento resinoso dual. A resistência de união foi avaliada pelo teste de microcisalhamento e a análise de falha foi realizada para todas as amostras. Resultados: Para os RCBs, UAS apresentou os maiores valores de resistência de união (p=0,004). A aplicação de silano não foi significativa nos valores de resistência adesiva (p=0,444). Para LD, a aplicação de silano foi significativa nos valores de resistência de união (p<0,001), mas o adesivo não (p=0,066). A análise de falhas mostrou alta prevalência de falhas adesivas para ambos os substratos. Conclusão: O adesivo universal contendo silano promoveu os melhores valores de resistência adesiva ao bloco de resina. Para o bloco cerâmico, a aplicação adicional de silano (sem MDP) apresentou melhores resultados.

Influence of the combined effect of desensitizing dentifrices and universal adhesives on dentin bond strength under erosive conditions

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of desensitizing dentifrices containing obliterating agents can affect bond strength of eroded/abraded dentin. Methodology A total of 100 dentin samples were obtained from human molars. The teeth were cut into 3 mm-thickness discs and allocated in five groups (n=20), according to the toothpaste used: WoF - abrasion with fluoride-free toothpaste (Cocoricó); Arg - toothpaste containing arginine (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief); Nov - calcium sodium phosphosilicate toothpaste (Sensodyne Repair and Protect); SnF - fluoride-containing toothpaste (AmF/SnCl2/SnF2 - Elmex Erosion); and Control (no erosive/abrasive process). The erosive/abrasive cycle consisted of immersion in citric acid (1%, pH 2.6, 5 min, 4×/day) and abrasion (2×/day, 120-20 sec abrasion, 100 sec immersion) with each toothpaste. During intervals, samples were immersed in artificial saliva. This cycle was performed for five days. Two resin cylinders (2 mm in diameter) were constructed on each sample for the shear bond strength test using a universal adhesive system. The self-etch and etch-and-rinse (Scotchbond Universal) strategies were employed, each in half of the total sample (n=10). Bond strength (MPa) was measured in a shear test and failure modes were assessed with a stereomicroscope. Statistical analysis was performed using the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey tests (p<0.05). Results A statistically significant difference was found between the adhesive strategies tested (p<0.001), with the self-etching form showing higher values than the etch-and-rinse. Moreover, no significant differences were observed between the tested toothpastes (p=0.750) and interactions (p=0.438). Conclusion The use of toothpaste containing obliterating agents does not affect bond strength to dentin subjected to erosive/abrasive conditions when a universal adhesive is used. However, the self-etch strategy might be preferred for eroded/abraded dentin.

Comparative Evaluation of Bulk-Fill Composite Resins: Knoop Microhardness, Diametral Tensile Strength and Degree of Conversion.

Purpose: Bulk-fill composite resins were developed to reduce time and facilitate the restorative procedure. However, considering their recent introduction on the market and the new formulations, their performance still requires evaluation. This study aimed to evaluate Knoop microhardness (KHN), diametral tensile strength (DTS) and degree of conversion (DC) of three Bulk-Fill composite resins and a conventional one. Materials and Methods: Sixty samples (n = 15; 8 mm ø x 4 mm height) were confectioned using a mold. Filtek Bulk-Fill (FBF), Tetric N-Ceram Bulk-Fill (TNC) and SonicFill 2 (SF2) were placed in 4 mm increments, and Filtek Z350 (FZ350) was placed in 2 mm increments. The KHN of top and bottom surfaces were tested using Knoop Hardness tester at 10 gf/10s. The DTS was tested under compressive load at 1.0 mm/min. The DC was measured by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Differences in DTS and DC were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test. For KHN, Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests were performed at α = 0.05. Results: Top surfaces of all composite resins had higher KHN than bottom surfaces. At top and bottom surfaces, FZ350 showed higher KHN than TNC and SF2. The highest DTS was obtained by FBF, followed by FZ350 and SF2. The highest DC was obtained by SF2, the lowest one was obtained by FBF. Conclusion: From Bulk-Fill composite resins, FBF presented the best KHN and DTS results. The SF2 showed the best DC. Further studies are required to ensure whether these differences can negatively influence the behavior of in vivo restorations.

Restoration of teeth with customized CAD/CAM glass fiber posts: report of 2 cases.

This article presents 2 cases in which computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) was used to fabricate glass fiber posts to restore an anterior tooth and a posterior tooth with severe coronal destruction. In the past decade, CAD/CAM technology has improved, allowing high-precision milling of customized glass fiber posts. This can enhance the biomechanical behavior of the restoration, as the post and core are milled in a single unit, decreasing the risk of failure near the core junction or in the body of the core. The customized post also provides better adaptation and requires a thinner layer of cement, thus minimizing voids. In case 1, the patient had a severely damaged maxillary right canine with a ferrule from a previous restoration. In case 2, the patient presented with a mandibular left first molar exhibiting severe coronal destruction. In both cases, impressions of the root canal were scanned with a bench scanner, and the posts were fabricated using a glass fiber material designed for CAD/CAM technology. A self-adhesive resin cement was used to cement the posts in the root canals, and a metal-free crown (case 1) and overlay (case 2) were fabricated and placed. Satisfactory retention and esthetics were achieved, and both patients was pleased by the final results. These cases demonstrate the viability of CAD/CAM to restore endodontically treated teeth, and this technology can be an option for dentists interested in using a digital workflow. The longevity of the posts produced via this technique needs to be evaluated in clinical trials.

Deleterious Effects over Enamel Surface Bleached with Low and High Concentration Gels Containing Calcium In vitro Evaluation

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the morphological effects of bleaching with hydrogen peroxide 40 % (HP 40 %) and carbamide peroxide 20 % (CP 20 %), with and without the addition of calcium (2000 ppm), in enamel. Bovine enamel blocks (25 mm2) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=12) accordingly to the bleaching gel (HP 40 % and CP 20 %) and the presence of calcium (with and without). Control group were immersed in artificial saliva. The treatments were carried out for 14 days. Roughness (Ra) and Knoop microhardness analysis were performed for enamel surface before and after treatment. Data were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey test (p<0.05). The bleached group with 40 % HP had the lowest values of microhardness. There was a statistically significant difference between the initial and final readings. For surface roughness were no differences between the tested materials; but there was an increase of roughness for all groups after bleaching. It was concluded that all bleaching agents tested promoted a surface microhardness decrease after treatment, however the calcium addition promoted a slighter surface alteration, and all bleaching agents promoted a surface roughness increase after treatment.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar los efectos morfológicos del blanqueamiento con peróxido de hidrógeno 40 % (HP 40 %) y peróxido de carbamida 20% (CP 20 %), con y sin calcio (2000 ppm), en el esmalte. Para este efecto se dividieron aleatoriamente bloques de esmalte bovino (25 mm2) en 5 grupos (n = 12) de acuerdo con el gel blanqueador (HP 40 % y CP 20 %) y la presencia de calcio (con y sin). El grupo de control se sumergió en saliva artificial. Los tratamientos se llevaron a cabo durante 14 días. Se realizaron análisis de rugosidad (Ra) y microdureza Knoop para la superficie del esmalte antes y después del tratamiento. Los datos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA de medidas repetidas y prueba de Tukey (p<0,05). El grupo blanqueado con 40 % de HP tuvo los valores más bajos de microdureza. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre el resultado inicial y final. Para la rugosidad de la superficie no hubo diferencias entre los materiales probados; pero hubo un aumento de rugosidad en todos los grupos después del blanqueo. Se concluyó que todos los agentes blanqueadores probados promovieron una disminución de la microdureza superficial después del tratamiento, sin embargo, la adición de calcio promovió una alteración superficial más leve y todos los agentes blanqueadores promovieron un aumento de la rugosidad superficial después del tratamiento.

Mechanical Properties of Experimental Composites with Different Photoinitiator.

OBJECTIVE: The effect of different photoinitiators on mechanical properties of experimental composites was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Resin composites were formulated by using a blend of bisphenol A-glycidyl and triethylene glycol (50/50 wt%) dimethacrylate monomers, and 65 wt% of barium aluminium silicate and silica filler particles. Photoinitiators used were 0.2% camphorquinone (CQ) and 0.8% co-initiator (DMAEMA); 0.2% phenyl-propanedione and 0.8% DMAEMA; 0.1% CQ + 0.1% phenyl propanedione and 0.8% DMAEMA; 0.42% mono(acyl)phosphine oxide (MAPO); and 0.5% bis(acyl)phosphine oxide (BAPO). Specimens (n = 10) were light cured by using a multiple-emission peak light-emitting diode for 20 seconds at 1,200 mW/cm2 of irradiance and Knoop hardness and plasticization, depth of cure, flexural strength, and elastic modulus were evaluated. Data were statiscally analyzed at significance level of α = 5%. RESULTS: Experimental composites containing MAPO and BAPO photoinitiators showed the highest values of flexural strength, elastic modulus, top surface hardness, and lower hardness reduction caused by alcohol compared with CQ. Composites containing CQ and PPD showed similar results, except for depth of cure and hardness of bottom surface. CONCLUSION: BAPO and MAPO showed higher flexural strength, elastic modulus, hardness on top surface, and lower polymer plasticization to CQ.

Mechanical performance of experimental acrylic resins modified by nanoparticles after chemical and mechanical degradation.

BACKGROUND: Different materials have been incorporated into the polymethylmethacrylate matrix to improve its performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion (DC), the flexural strength (FS), the elasticity modulus (EM), and the effect of exposure to food-simulating liquids prior to brushing simulation on the gloss loss (GL) of experimental acrylic resins modified by nanoparticles. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three different types of nanoparticles; silicon oxide (SiO2), cerium oxide (CeO2) and titanium oxide (TiO2) were added to a poly (methylmethacrylate) matrix, in proportions of 0.5wt%, 1wt% and 3wt% each, forming nine experimental groups. The acrylic resin was also tested as a control group. DC was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A three-point bending test was used for FS and EM. GL after chemical degradation and simulated brushing was evaluated using a glossmeter. Data were submitted to one and two-way ANOVA followed by Duncan's post hoc test (α=0.05). RESULTS: All nanoparticle-modified groups showed higher values of DC. Ce1% showed higher values of FS and EM. All other groups showed similar or lower physical-mechanical properties (FS, EM, GL). Regarding type and wt%, CeO2 and TiO2 groups had better performances and were similar to each other. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating metal nanoparticles, especially CeO2, could improve the physical properties of the dental materials. Key words:Polymethylmetacrylate, degree of conversion, flexural strength, elasticity modulus, gloss loss.

Influence of thickness and translucency of lithium disilicate ceramic on degree of conversion of resinous materials.

BACKGROUND: In this study was assessed the degree of conversion (DC) of amine-free resin cements light cured through lithium disilicate-reinforced ceramics at different thicknesses and translucency. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Specimens were divided into 21 groups (n = 5) according to luting agent used: Variolink Esthetic LC (Light shade), RelyX Ultimate (A1 shade), and Filtek Z350 XT Flow (A1 shade); the ceramic translucency: low (LT) and high (HT); and the ceramic thickness: no ceramic (control), 0.5 mm, 1 mm, and 2 mm. A Teflon mold with (5 x 5 x 0.5 mm) was used to standardize the cement and over it the ceramic block from each group was placed. Set was cured using a polywave LED light (1200 mW/cm2 - Bluephase G2) for 40 s. FTIR spectra of uncured and cured materials was obtained and DC calculated from the height of the peaks 1610 and 1640 cm-1. Data were submitted to ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: There was a significant difference for luting agents (p< 0.0001) and translucency (p = 0.025), but not for thickness (p = 0.73). Dual amine-free RelyX Ultimate showed the lowest DC values and higher translucency promoted higher DC. CONCLUSIONS: Dual amine-free cement showed the lowest monomer conversion and higher translucency ceramics promoted a higher DC. Key words:Ceramic, degree of conversion, resin cement, thickness, translucency.

Effect of bleaching agents on hardness, surface roughness and color parameters of dental enamel.

BACKGROUND: In this study was evaluated the effect of carbamide peroxide (CP) and hydrogen peroxide (HP) in different concentrations on hardness, roughness, and color parameters (color change - ΔE, lightness - ΔL, and yellow-blue axis - Δb) of bovine teeth. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifty square dental blocks (7 x 7 x 2 mm) were submitted to initial readings of Knoop hardness, surface roughness (Ra), and color parameters. Specimens were divided into 5 groups (n = 10): control group was kept in artificial saliva during the experimental period; CP 20% was bleached for 2 h daily for 14 days, HP 9.5% was bleached for 30 min daily for 14 days, HP 38% the bleaching gel was applied for 15 min, gel was removed and it was reapplied for two more times, the bleaching session was repeated for another 2 times every 7 days, totaling three sessions, and in CP 45% three sessions of 30 min each were performed of 7 in 7 days. All groups after the bleaching procedures had the bleaching gel removed, washed, and kept in artificial saliva. At the end of bleaching treatment, the hardness, roughness, and color parameters (ΔE, ΔL, and Δb) were re-evaluated. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey, and Dunnett tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Bleaching promoted a reduction in hardness, the CP 45% showed the lowest hardness and the CP 20% the highest, the HP 9.5% and HP 38% showed intermediate values of hardness. Bleaching agents did not affect the roughness. CP 20% and HP 38% promoted the highest values of ΔE and higher reduction of yellowish tone of tooth. Lightness increase after bleaching treatment for all groups. CONCLUSIONS: All the bleaching agents tested showed effectiveness, but with reduced hardness. Key words:Carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, tooth whitening, hardness, roughness.

Influence of Erosion/Abrasion and the Dentifrice Abrasiveness Concomitant with Bleaching Procedures.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of erosive/abrasive cycles and two different levels of abrasiveness of dentifrices over enamel and dentin subjected to bleaching. METHODS: Enamel and dentin bovine specimens were prepared and submitted to an at-home bleaching treatment using 9.5% hydrogen peroxide gel, which was applied daily (30 min/14 days). Concomitant with bleaching, an erosive cycle was performed using citric acid (0.3%, pH 3.8, 5 mins, 3×/day), followed by immersions in artificial saliva for remineralization (30 mins). Abrasion was done with two (high and low abrasiveness) dentifrices (2×/day, 120 seconds) after the first and third erosive immersion each day. Enamel and dentin softening were assessed by microhardness and erosive tooth wear by optical profilometry. Data were submitted to repeated measures ANOVA, followed by the Tukey's test with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: For the enamel and considering the erosive-abrasive cycle, significant differences were found between the groups tested, the bleaching, and the abrasiveness of the dentifrice tested; however, the final microhardness values were significantly lower than the initial ones. For dentin, differences were found between the eroded/abrasion and the non-eroded/abrasion groups, with the former presenting lower microhardness values compared with the latter. In addition, bleaching decreased the microhardness values only for the highly abrasive dentifrice, and the final values were lower than for the initial ones for all tested groups. CONCLUSION: The use of high and low abrasiveness dentifrices during bleaching and concomitant with erosion/abrasion cycles is more harmful to dentin than to enamel. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although bleaching is considered a conservative treatment, it can cause deleterious effects to dental hard tissue. The association of an at-home bleaching technique with erosion and high- or low- abrasive dentifrices harms dentin more than enamel.

Chemical composition and roughness of enamel and composite after bleaching, acidic beverages and toothbrushing.

BACKGROUND: In this study was assessed the surface roughness and chemical composition of tooth enamel and composite resin after bleaching treatment, immersion in acidic beverages, and simulated toothbrushing. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred and twenty dental blocks (10 x 10 x 3 mm) were randomly assigned (n = 10) according to surface treatment [none (N), bleaching (B), toothbrushing (T), and B+T] and storage medium [saliva (S), whiskey (W), and orange juice (O)]: experimental groups - N+S, N+W, N+O, B+S, B+W, B+O, S+T, W+T, O+T, B+S+T, B+W+T, and B+O+T. Two bleaching sessions were conducted using 38% hydrogen peroxide (3 applications). Surface roughness was measured using a roughness tester and composition was determined by micro energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (µ-EDXRF) before and after treatments. Calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio in enamel and silica (Si) content in composite were evaluated. Data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Overall, increased values of surface roughness for enamel and composite were observed mainly after immersion in orange juice and bleaching/toothbrushing association. Moreover, this association and immersion in whiskey resulted in lower Ca/P ratio and after aging methods, bleached and bleached/toothbrushed groups showed decreased in Ca/P ratio compared to initial values. All groups showed Si content decrease at the end, except the group without surface treatment and immersed in saliva, and bleaching followed by immersion in orange juice and toothbrushing caused the highest Si reduction. CONCLUSIONS: Bleaching and toothbrushing combination strengthened the effects caused by acidic drinks on roughness and chemical composition of enamel and composite. Key words:Tooth bleaching, toothbrushing, physical properties, chemical properties.

Physicochemical changes in enamel submitted to pH cycling and bleaching treatment.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the hardness, mineral content, surface roughness, and micromorphology of sound and slightly demineralized enamels, before and after bleaching procedure using 10% carbamide peroxide. METHODS: Sixty bovine dental blocks were randomly divided into the following two groups: 30 slabs were submitted to three cycles of pH and 30 slabs were noncycled. Hardness (n=10) was measured using the microhardness tester with Knoop indenter under a 50 g load for 5 seconds. The calcium/phosphate (Ca/P) ratio (n=10) was obtained using a micro-energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (µ-EDXRF) spectrometer. The measurement of roughness average (n=10) was performed using a surface roughness tester. Specimens were bleached 6 hours/day during 21 days, and then, physicochemical properties were re-evaluated. Two additional specimens were carried out to evaluate surface micromorphology using the scanning electron microscopy. Data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Sound and slightly demineralized enamels showed no difference in Ca/P ratio after dental bleaching according to the µ-EDXRF analysis, but the Ca/P ratio decreased after bleaching for slightly demineralized enamel. Bleaching treatment decreased the hardness and increased the surface roughness, causing micromorphology alterations. CONCLUSION: Therefore, bleaching procedure promoted change in bovine enamel surface and increased the demineralization of slightly demineralized enamel but not affected the mineral content of sound enamel.

Effect of preheating and light-curing unit on physicochemical properties of a bulk fill composite.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of composite preheating and polymerization mode on degree of conversion (DC), microhardness (KHN), plasticization (P), and depth of polymerization (DP) of a bulk fill composite. METHODS: Forty disc-shaped samples (n = 5) of a bulk fill composite were prepared (5 × 4 mm thick) and randomly divided into 4 groups according to light-curing unit (quartz-tungsten-halogen [QTH] or light-emitting diode [LED]) and preheating temperature (23 or 54 °C). A control group was prepared with a flowable composite at room temperature. DC was determined using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, KHN was measured with a Knoop indenter, P was evaluated by percentage reduction of hardness after 24 h of ethanol storage, and DP was obtained by bottom/top ratio. Data were statistically analyzed by analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Regardless of light-curing, the highest preheating temperature increased DC compared to room temperature on bottom surface. LED showed a higher DC compared to QTH. Overall, DC was higher on top surface than bottom. KHN, P, and DP were not affected by curing mode and temperature, and flowable composite showed similar KHN, and lower DC and P, compared to bulk fill. CONCLUSION: Composite preheating increased the polymerization degree of 4-mm-increment bulk fill, but it led to a higher plasticization compared to the conventional flowable composite evaluated.

Effects of Bleaching Agents Combined with Regular and Whitening Toothpastes on Surface Roughness and Mineral Content of Enamel.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate surface roughness and changes in the composition of enamel submitted to different bleaching protocols and toothbrushing with regular and whitening toothpastes. BACKGROUND DATA: Bleaching treatment could promote morphological and chemical changes in enamel surface. METHODS: Enamel blocks were randomized into nine groups (n=10) according to the bleaching treatment (no bleaching, control group; 6% hydrogen peroxide, HP; or 10% carbamide peroxide, CP) and toothpaste used (placebo, PL; regular, R; or whitening dentifrice, W). Bleaching was performed according to manufacturers' instructions and all groups were submitted to 30,000 cycles of simulated toothbrushing with toothpaste (PL, R, or W). Mineral content evaluation and enamel roughness were evaluated initially (T1), after bleaching (T2), and after toothbrushing (T3), using an energy-dispersive micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometer and profilometry, respectively. Data were statistically analyzed with two way ANOVA, Tukey, and Dunnett tests (5%). RESULTS: Enamel surface roughness was influenced by bleaching and toothbrushing. Surface roughness increased for the groups that brushed with the placebo dentifrice (CP+PL, HP+PL, C+PL) and for the control group that brushed with whitening dentifrice (C+W). Enamel Ca/P ratio decreased after bleaching, but toothbrushing, regardless of the dentifrice used, did not reduce the enamel mineral content. CONCLUSIONS: The bleaching treatment resulted in a decrease of enamel mineral content, but the studied dentifrices did not contribute to surface mineral loss.

In vitro effects of hydrogen peroxide combined with different activators for the in-office bleaching technique on enamel.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the alteration of human enamel bleached with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide associated with different activators. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty enamel/dentin blocks (4 × 4 mm) were obtained from human third molars and randomized divided according to the bleaching procedure (n = 10): G1 = 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP - Whiteness HP Maxx); G2 = HP + Halogen lamp (HL); G3 = HP + 7% sodium bicarbonate (SB); G4 = HP + 20% sodium hydroxide (SH); and G5 = 38% hydrogen peroxide (OXB - Opalescence Xtra Boost). The bleaching treatments were performed in three sessions with a 7-day interval between them. The enamel content, before (baseline) and after bleaching, was determined using an FT-Raman spectrometer and was based on the concentration of phosphate, carbonate, and organic matrix. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA for repeated measures and Tukey's test. RESULTS: The results showed no significant differences between time of analysis (p = 0.5175) for most treatments and peak areas analyzed; and among bleaching treatments (p = 0.4184). The comparisons during and after bleaching revealed a significant difference in the HP group for the peak areas of carbonate and organic matrix, and for the organic matrix in OXB and HP+SH groups. Tukey's analysis determined that the difference, peak areas, and the interaction among treatment, time and peak was statistically significant (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The association of activators with hydrogen peroxide was effective in the alteration of enamel, mainly with regards to the organic matrix.

Microhardness evaluation of silorane and methacrylate composites submitted to erosion and abrasion processes.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the Knoop hardness number (KHN) of methacrylate (MC) and silorane (SC) composites after being submitted to erosion and abrasion processes. Material and methods: Forty samples were made with each composite: MC and SC. The samples were divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to the type of composite (G1-G4, MC; G5-G8, SC) and the beverages involved in the erosion process (G1 and G5 - Control (C), without erosion, with abrasion; G2 and G6 - Orange Juice (OJ), abrasion; G3 and G7 - Smirnoff Ice® (SI), abrasion; G4 and G8 - Gatorade® (GA), abrasion). The KHN test was performed 24 h after the last cycle of erosion/abrasion. Results: The MC groups showed smaller KHN values for the SI group (p < 0.05) when compared to the Control and OJ groups; however, for the SC groups, no differences were found (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Methacrylate composite when submitted to acidic beverages erosive challenge combined with abrasive process might alter its surface microhardness. However, the beverages used in the present study were not able to interfere in silorane composite surface microhardness.

Does an additional UV LED improve the degree of conversion and Knoop Hardness of light-shade composite resins?

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion (DC) using FT-Raman spectroscopy and the Knoop hardness (KHN) of composites cured by second and third-generation LED light curing-units (LCU), Radii Cal and Ultralume 5. METHODS: Three composites (Filtek Supreme XT, Filtek Z350, and Esthet X) were selected for this study. KHN testing (n=10) was performed with 10 indentations for the top (T) and bottom (B) surfaces. For DC (n=10), both the T and B surfaces were analyzed. RESULTS: For KHN, the three composites differed in hardens. There was a "LCU-surface" interaction, in which Radii Cal showed significantly greater hardens in the B surface. For DC, there was a "composite-surface-LCU" interaction. For the "composite" factor, there was no significant difference between the groups, except for Supreme XT-Radii Cal (T or B surfaces). For the "LCU" factor there was a significant difference for Supreme XT T surface, Ultralume 5 obtained a higher DC. For the Z350 T surface, a significant difference in the DC in which Radii Cal obtained better results. For the "surface" factor, all groups presented T surfaces with a higher DC than the B surfaces, the sole exceptions involved Esthet X-Radii Cal and Z350-Ultralume 5. CONCLUSION: Knowledge regarding composite composition and the characteristics of LCUs are important for effective polymerization.

Secondary caries inhibition promoted by adhesive systems and bleaching agents with fluoride.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the initial caries development at adhesive/enamel interface after 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching (CP) with or without fluoride (F) under dynamic pH-cycling. METHODS: Standard cavities were prepared on the bucal surface of 60 bovine incisors, which were restored with two fluoride-containing adhesives: Optibond FL (FL) and Optibond Solo Plus (SP). The restored teeth were submitted to thermal cycling process in order to age the adhesive/enamel interface. Both SP and FL adhesive-restored teeth were divided into groups (n= 10) and bleached with 10% CP (CP) and 10% CP + F (CPF) or remained unbleached (Control). Bleaching was performed for 14 days simultaneously with pH-cycling. The specimens were prepared for cross-section microhardness evaluation and polarized light microscopy analysis to evaluate caries lesions at different depths around the bonded interface. RESULTS: Group FL (not bleached) presented the lowest mineral loss rate among groups, but secondary caries formation was observed for all groups around the bonded interface. An inhibition zone was observed for all groups, with caries lesion detected at 5 microm from the cavity wall.