Development of toothpaste formulations containing mineral clays as abrasive agents and their effects on the physical properties of dental enamel.

To assess the physical properties and topographical aspect of dental enamel's surface microhardness (KHN), surface roughness (Ra), and color parameters CIELAB (∆Eab *), CIEDE 2000 (∆E00 ), and whiteness index for dentistry (∆WID ) after toothbrushing with experimental toothpaste formulations with the following mineral clay types: kaolin, Sparclay SGY, and Tersil CGY used as abrasive component. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed for topographical analyses purposes. A total of 96 bovine incisors were used in the experiment. They were divided into eight experimental groups (n = 12), namely: NC-negative control (no treatment), CT12-Colgate Total 12®, CMP-Colgate® Máxima Proteção Anticáries, K-kaolin experimental toothpaste, SGY-Sparclay SGY experimental toothpaste; CGY-Tersil CGY experimental toothpaste, SD-SiO2 experimental toothpaste, and CC-CaCO3 experimental toothpaste. All samples were subjected to mechanical brushing protocol with 5000 cycles and kept in artificial saliva with daily exchanges. KHN was analyzed through the mixed linear model for repeated measures over time. Ra was analyzed through nonparametric Kruskal Wallis and Dunn tests to compare the groups. Paired Wilcoxon test was run to compare experimental times. ∆WID , ∆Eab *, and ∆E00 were analyzed through Kruskal Wallis and Dunn tests. All analyses were performed in R* software, at 5% significance level. EXP_SGY recorded higher KHN than EXP_SiO2 and EXP_CaCO3 , whereas EXP_K showed increased Ra in comparison to CMP (p = 0.0229). ∆Eab and ∆E00 were significantly higher in the CT12, EXP_SiO2 , and EXP_CaCO3 groups than in the NC and EXP_K (p < 0.0001). There were no significant changes in ∆WID (p = 0.0852). According to SEM results, toothbrushing with experimental toothpastes added with mineral clay types did not have significant impact on enamel's polishing and smoothness. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Mineral clays have a broad application in the cosmetic industry, and recently, they have been used in the formulation of vegan toothpaste.

Enzymatically Driven Mineralization of a Calcium-Polyphosphate Bleaching Gel.

To examined alkaline phosphatase enzyme (ALP) activity and the effects of incorporating it in the thickener solution of a hydrogen-peroxide-based bleaching gel containing calcium-polyphosphate (CaPP) on the orthophosphate (PO43-) levels, bleaching effectiveness, and enamel microhardness. ALP activity was assessed at different pH levels and H2O2 concentrations, and in H2O- and Tris-based thickeners. Circular dichroism (CD) was used to examine the ALP secondary structure in water-, Tris-, or H2O2-based mediums. The PO43- levels were evaluated in thickeners with and without ALP. Enamel/dentin specimens were allocated into the following groups: control (without bleaching); commercial (Whiteness-HP-Maxx); Exp-H (H2O-based); CaPP-H; ALP-H (CaPP+ALP); Exp-T (Tris-based); CaPP-T; and ALP-T (CaPP+ALP). Color changes (ΔE/ΔE00) and the bleaching index (ΔWID) were calculated, and surface (SMH) and cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH) were assessed. The two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests were used to compare ALP and PO43- levels; generalized linear models were used to examine: ΔE/ΔE00/SMH/CSMH; and Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests were used for ΔWID (α = 5%). The ALP activity was higher at pH 9, lower in H2O2-based mediums, and similar in both thickeners. The CD-spectra indicated denaturation of the enzyme upon contact with H2O2. The PO43- levels were higher after incorporating ALP, and the ΔE/ΔE00/ΔWID were comparable among bleached groups. SMH was lower after bleaching in Exp-H, while CSMH was highest in ALP-T.

Effect of incorporation of calcium polyphosphate sub-microparticles in low-concentration bleaching gels on physical properties of dental enamel.

AIM: To evaluate the bleaching efficacy and effects on enamel properties of experimental gels with carbamide peroxide (CP; 10%) or hydrogen peroxide (HP; 6%) containing calcium polyphosphate sub-microparticles (CaPPs). METHODS: A total of 216 bovine tooth specimens were divided for microhardness and color analyses (n = 108) and block randomized into nine groups (n = 12): (G1) commercial CP (Whiteness Perfect, FGM; Brazil); (G2) experimental CP; (G3) CP-0.5%CaPPs; (G4) CP-1.5%CaPPs; (G5) commercial HP (Potenza Bianco, PHS; Brazil); (G6) experimental HP; (G7) HP-0.5%CaPPs; (G8) HP-1.5%CaPPs; (G9) artificial saliva. The gels' pH values were determined with a bench pH meter. Color (ΔE, ΔE00, ΔWID) and microhardness variation were evaluated before and after the therapy. Part of the specimens used for microhardness was submitted to the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (n = 3) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy EDX (n = 3) analyses. Statistical analyses were performed in the R statistical software (α = 0.05). Linear mixed models for repeated measures in time were used to analyze microhardness and L* values. Generalized linear models were used to analyze the a*, b*, ΔE, ΔE00, and ΔWID, considering a group effect. The EDX data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with Tukey's test. RESULTS: The gels' pH remained over 6,0. All gels effectively bleached the specimens and did not differ significantly. When compared to the control group, the hardness was significantly lower in the G1, G2, G6, and G7 groups. The G3, G4, G5, and G8 groups did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The incorporation of CaPPs in low-concentration whitening gels reduces its negative effects on microhardness without interfering with their bleaching efficacy.

Radiopacity and physical properties evaluation of infiltrants with Barium and Ytterbium addition.

Radiopaque properties in the infiltrant should be interesting for clinicians to feel more confident to indicate this treatment. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of barium and ytterbium particles on the physical properties of resin infiltrants. Groups were divided according to the addition of ytterbium oxide (Y) alone (30 or 40%) or Y with barium (YB) (15/15% or 20/20% respectively) in the Icon commercial infiltrant and in the experimental infiltrant base. Digital radiography (n=5), Microradiography (n=5), Microtomography (n=3), degree of conversion (n=5), water sorption (n=16), solubility (n=16), contact angle (n=16), flexural strength (n=16), elastic modulus (n=16) and Energy dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (n=10) were performed. Analyses were performed using the R program, with a significance level of 5%, and microradiography and Microtomography analyses were evaluated qualitatively. In groups with 30 or 40% of ytterbium, radiopacity was higher or equal to enamel. Microradiography and Microtomography appear to have more radiopacity in groups with 40% (Y). Among the groups with no particle addition, those of the experimental infiltrant presented a higher degree of conversion than those of Icon®. In most groups, there was solubility below the ISO-recommended levels. The addition of particles resulted in higher viscosity. Groups with Icon had higher flexural strength and elastic modulus than groups with experimental infiltrant. The addition of 40% (Y) improved polymerization, had low solubility, and had greater radiopacity than enamel, however negatively affected the viscosity increasing then. Experimental groups with the base showed a higher water sorption than Icon groups.

Metalloproteinases in Restorative Dentistry: An In Silico Study toward an Ideal Animal Model.

In dentistry, various animal models are used to evaluate adhesive systems, dental caries and periodontal diseases. Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes that degrade collagen in the dentin matrix and are categorized in over 20 different classes. Collagenases and gelatinases are intrinsic constituents of the human dentin organic matrix fibrillar network and are the most abundant MMPs in this tissue. Understanding such enzymes' action on dentin is important in the development of approaches that could reduce dentin degradation and provide restorative procedures with extended longevity. This in silico study is based on dentistry's most used animal models and intends to search for the most suitable, evolutionarily close to Homo sapiens. We were able to retrieve 176,077 mammalian MMP sequences from the UniProt database. These sequences were manually curated through a three-step process. After such, the remaining 3178 sequences were aligned in a multifasta file and phylogenetically reconstructed using the maximum likelihood method. Our study inferred that the animal models most evolutionarily related to Homo sapiens were Orcytolagus cuniculus (MMP-1 and MMP-8), Canis lupus (MMP-13), Rattus norvegicus (MMP-2) and Orcytolagus cuniculus (MMP-9). Further research will be needed for the biological validation of our findings.

Evaluation of experimental resin infiltrant containing nanohydroxyapatite on color stability and microhardness in demineralized enamel.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of 10% nanohydroxyapatite in an experimental resin infiltrant on color stability and mineral loss. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Bovine enamel blocks were randomized into five groups (n = 27/group): SE (sound enamel); ICL (initial caries lesion); I (Icon®); E (experimental infiltrant); EH (experimental infiltrant containing 10% nanohydroxyapatite). Color evaluation (n = 15) was performed and CIEL*a*b* values were obtained at points T0 (baseline), T1 (14 days immersed on coffee solution), and T2 (28 days immersed) and data were calculated ∆E00, ∆WID, ∆L*, ∆a*, and ∆b*. Cross-sectional microhardness (n = 12) was performed and lesion area (∆S) was calculated. Images were obtained with polarized light optical microscopy at 40 × magnification (n = 5). RESULTS: In color stability results, there was significant difference between time (14 and 28 days); ICL demonstrated significant difference among treated groups in all measures (∆L*, ∆a*, ∆b*, ∆E00, ∆WID) regardless of time; I and E demonstrated similar behavior on those measures and EH differed from I in ∆L*. For ∆S, ICL group showed a significant difference compared to I and EH groups, but did not differ from E. CONCLUSION: The nanohydroxyapatite incorporation suggested an effective mineral recovery on initial caries lesion in depth; however, it showed high color variation, such as Icon. In terms of ∆S, I and EH had lower mineral loss, suggesting a reinforcement on initial caries lesion. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Commercial and experimental infiltrants containing nanohydroxyapatite present low color stability and might reinforce mineral in initial caries lesion.

Maintenance of enamel properties after bleaching with high-concentrated hydrogen-peroxide gel containing calcium polyphosphate sub-microparticles.

OBJECTIVE: To assessed the physical and chemical properties of human-enamel after treatment with an experimental bleaching gel containing 35%-hydrogen peroxide (HP) and calcium polyphosphate sub-microparticles (CaPP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Enamel/dentin specimens (4 × 4 × 3 mm) were obtained (n = 120) and allocated to different groups: control (saliva only); experimental (HP35%); commercial (whiteness-HP-Maxx); CaPP0.5% (HP35% + CaPP0.5wt%); CaPP1.5% (HP35% + CaPP1.5wt%). Three sessions were performed. The specimens' color was assessed using a spectrophotometer and the color (ΔE/ΔE00) and bleaching index (ΔWID) determined. The surface roughness and microhardness were assessed with a roughness tester and Knoop indenter. Raman spectroscopy was performed to obtain the ratios between the areas under the 431, 580, and 1070 cm-1 and the 960 cm-1 bands (430:960, 580:960, 1070:960). Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn compared the color, Ra, and SMH data. The Raman data was analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn (α = 5%). RESULTS: The ΔE, ΔE00, and ΔWID were similar among the bleached groups (p > 0.05). The roughness was not different between the groups (p > 0.05). After the 3rd session, CaPP0.5% had higher microhardness than the experimental (p < 0.05). The 1070:960 was higher in the experimental than in the CaPP1.5% and control (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In human enamel, CaPP did not alter the bleaching effectiveness or roughness, and additionally, CaPP-containing gels increased the microhardness and preserved the mineral content when compared to the experimental without CaPP. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Experimental bleaching gels containing calcium polyphosphate sub-microparticles as a mineral source reduce the mineral content alteration and superficial microhardness reduction, known potential side effects of the in-office bleaching treatments.

Radiopacity and physical properties evaluation of infiltrants with Barium and Ytterbium addition

Abstract Radiopaque properties in the infiltrant should be interesting for clinicians to feel more confident to indicate this treatment. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of barium and ytterbium particles on the physical properties of resin infiltrants. Groups were divided according to the addition of ytterbium oxide (Y) alone (30 or 40%) or Y with barium (YB) (15/15% or 20/20% respectively) in the Icon commercial infiltrant and in the experimental infiltrant base. Digital radiography (n=5), Microradiography (n=5), Microtomography (n=3), degree of conversion (n=5), water sorption (n=16), solubility (n=16), contact angle (n=16), flexural strength (n=16), elastic modulus (n=16) and Energy dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (n=10) were performed. Analyses were performed using the R program, with a significance level of 5%, and microradiography and Microtomography analyses were evaluated qualitatively. In groups with 30 or 40% of ytterbium, radiopacity was higher or equal to enamel. Microradiography and Microtomography appear to have more radiopacity in groups with 40% (Y). Among the groups with no particle addition, those of the experimental infiltrant presented a higher degree of conversion than those of Icon®. In most groups, there was solubility below the ISO-recommended levels. The addition of particles resulted in higher viscosity. Groups with Icon had higher flexural strength and elastic modulus than groups with experimental infiltrant. The addition of 40% (Y) improved polymerization, had low solubility, and had greater radiopacity than enamel, however negatively affected the viscosity increasing then. Experimental groups with the base showed a higher water sorption than Icon groups.

Resumo O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o efeito da incorporação de partículas de Bário e Itérbio nas propriedades físicas de infiltrantes resinosos. Os grupos foram divididos de acordo com a adição de Itérbio puro (30 ou 40%) ou Itérbio com Bário (15/15% ou 20/20% respectivamente) no infiltrante comercial Icon e no Infiltrante experimental base. Foram realizados os testes de: radiografia digital (n=5), microradiografia Transversa (n=5), microtomografia (n=3), grau de conversão (n=5), sorção (n=16), solubilidade (n=16), ângulo de contato (n=16), resistência flexural (n=16), modulo de elasticidade (n=16) e Espectroscopia por energia dispersiva (n=10). As análises foram realizadas utilizando o programa R, com nível de significância de 5%, e os testes de microradiografia e microtomografia foram analisados qualitativamente. Nos grupos com 30 ou 40% de Itérbio, a radiopacidade foi maior ou igual ao esmalte dentário. Na microradiografia e microtomografia parece ter maior radiopacidade nos grupos com 40% de itérbio. Dentre os grupos sem adição de partículas, os do infiltrante experimental apresentaram maior grau de conversão do que os do Icon e o grupo controle experimental e com 40% de itérbio apresentaram os melhores resultados. Na maioria dos grupos, a solubilidade foi abaixo dos níveis recomendados pela ISO. A adição de particulas resultou em maior viscosidade. Os grupos com Icon apresentaram maior resistência flexural e modulo de elasticidade do que os grupos com infiltrante experimental e a quantidade de partícula aumentou a resistência e o módulo de elasticidade. A adição de 40% de itérbio melhorou a polimerização, apresentou baixa solubilidade e maior radiopacidade do que o esmalte, porém afetou negativamente a viscosidade, aumentando-a.

Characterization of whitening toothpastes and their effect on the physical properties of bulk-fill composites.

To characterize activated charcoal and 2% hydrogen peroxide-based toothpastes and investigate their effects on roughness, color change, and gloss of bulk-fill composite resin. Composite resin specimens (Aura Bulk Fill, SDI) were subjected to 5,000 brushing cycles with regular toothpaste (Colgate Total 12, [RT]), activated charcoal toothpaste (Bianco Dental Carbon, [AC]), or hydrogen peroxide-containing toothpaste (Colgate Luminous White Advanced, [HP]), with or without coffee exposure. The pH, particle characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and weight% of solid particles in the toothpaste were assessed. Roughness (Ra) was evaluated using a surface profile-measuring device, color change (∆Eab/∆E00) by reflectance spectrophotometer, and gloss unit (GU) by glossmeter. Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, Friedman, and Nemenyi tests were used, and the correlation coefficient test was performed between Ra and GU (α=0.05). RT presented a higher Ra after brushing and did not change after staining with coffee; moreover, the ∆Eab/∆E00 values were higher for RT than HP. Regarding gloss, AC and HP obtained higher values compared to RT. A significant negative correlation between gloss and Ra was found for RT exposed to coffee. All toothpastes had a neutral pH; however, RT had the largest percentage of solids by weight. SEM images showed particles of many sizes: irregular shape (RT), more regular particles (AC), and spherical clusters (HP). Although surface roughness, color change, and gloss may compromise the longevity of restorations, the whitening toothpastes tested did not promote more morphology changes than regular toothpastes.

Effect of experimental bleaching gels with polymers Natrosol and Aristoflex on the enamel surface properties.

Natrosol and Aristoflex® AVC polymers are widely applied in the cosmetic industry and have recently been applied as a thickener option in the composition of dental bleaching gels, with the purpose to reduce the adverse effects on enamel mineral components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the color variation (ΔE* ab, ΔE00, ∆WID), surface roughness (Ra), and mineral content quantification (Raman Spectroscopy) of dental enamel after bleaching treatment with experimental gel-based on 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), containing Carbopol, Natrosol, and Aristoflex® AVC. Sixty bovine teeth were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10): Negative Control (NC) - no treatment; Positive Control (PC) - Whiteness Perfect 10% - FGM; CP with Carbopol (CPc); CP with Natrosol (CPn); CP with Aristoflex® AVC (CPa); NCP - no thickener. Data were analyzed, and generalized linear models (∆WID -T0 x T1) were used for repeated measurements in time for Ra and with a study factor for ΔE* ab and ΔE00. For the evaluation of the mineral content, data were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests. For enamel topographic surface analysis the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was performed. A significance level of 5% was considered. ΔE* ab and ΔE00 were significantly higher for CPc, CPn, CPa, and NCP groups. (∆WID) showed a significantly lower mean than the other groups for NC in T1. After bleaching (4-hour daily application for 14 days), Ra was higher in the CPc, CPn, and PC groups. For CPa, Ra was not altered. No significant difference was found in the quantification of mineral content. CPa preserved the surface smoothness more effectively. Aristoflex® AVC is a viable option for application as a thickener in dental bleaching gels, presenting satisfactory performance, and maintaining the whitening efficacy of the gel, with the advantage of preserving the surface roughness of tooth enamel without significant loss of mineral content.

Application of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) posts: evaluation of fracture resistance and stress distribution in the root: in vitro and finite element analyses.

To evaluate the feasibility of using a milled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post and core in endodontically treated teeth with or without a ferrule. Sixty bovine tooth roots were endodontically treated followed by cementation of intraradicular retainers (IR), according to each experimental group: a) non-ferrule glass fiber post (f0FP); b) 2-mm-ferrule glass fiber post (f2FP); c) non-ferrule resized glass fiber post (f0PR); d) 2-mm-ferrule resized glass fiber post (f2PR); e) non-ferrule PEEK post and core (f0PPC); and f) 2-mm-ferrule PEEK post and core (f2PPC). Metal crowns were made and cemented. A periodontal ligament was simulated using polyether. A force was applied to the palatine portion of each sample at 45°, until fracture. Fracture resistance data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Three-dimensional digital models were developed to calculate the tensions formed in the root using finite element analysis. Models of glass fiber posts and PEEK posts and cores were evaluated with or without a ferrule. The results were analyzed by the Mohr-Coulomb criterion. The type of IR was not influenced by fracture strength (p = 0.243). There were significant statistical differences among the remaining factors. Ferrule groups had greater fracture resistance, and the failure mode of teeth with a ferrule was more catastrophic than the non-ferrule group. A ferrule increases fracture resistance and influences failure mode; the PEEK post and core did not modify the biomechanics of endodontically treated teeth, and resembled the glass fiber post results. The crack initiation point differed between the ferrule and non-ferrule groups.

The in vitro effect of solutions with or without sugar in dental bleaching.

The interaction of bleaching technique (in-office or at-home) and solutions (deionized distilled water with and without sugar, red wine with and without sugar, coffee with and without sugar) on the effectiveness of in vitro dental bleaching was evaluated. Hydrogen peroxide (HP) 37.5% gel was used for in-office bleaching, 3 applications of 8 min each, 3 sessions with an interval of 7 days. At-home bleaching was performed with 10% Carbamide peroxide (CP), 2 h/day, for 30 days. The enamel vestibular surfaces (n = 72) were subjected daily to test solutions for 45 min, washed with distilled water for 5 min and stored in artificial saliva. The enamel color analysis was performed with a spectrophotometer through color variation (ΔE) and luminosity variation (ΔL). Roughness analysis was performed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Enamel composition was determined by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS). The results were submitted to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for ΔE, ΔL and EDS and two-way for AFM. For ΔE and ΔL there was no statistically significant difference. An increase in roughness was observed on the surface when exposed to a sugar-water solution for at-home bleaching and a lower concentration of Ca and P in the deionized water solution with sugar. Solutions containing or not sugar did not influence the bleaching potential, however the presence of sugar in the water solution increased the surface roughness with CP.

Effect of experimental bleaching gels with polymers Natrosol and Aristoflex on the enamel surface properties

Abstract Natrosol and Aristoflex® AVC polymers are widely applied in the cosmetic industry and have recently been applied as a thickener option in the composition of dental bleaching gels, with the purpose to reduce the adverse effects on enamel mineral components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the color variation (ΔE* ab, ΔE00, ∆WID), surface roughness (Ra), and mineral content quantification (Raman Spectroscopy) of dental enamel after bleaching treatment with experimental gel-based on 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), containing Carbopol, Natrosol, and Aristoflex® AVC. Sixty bovine teeth were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=10): Negative Control (NC) - no treatment; Positive Control (PC) - Whiteness Perfect 10% - FGM; CP with Carbopol (CPc); CP with Natrosol (CPn); CP with Aristoflex® AVC (CPa); NCP - no thickener. Data were analyzed, and generalized linear models (∆WID -T0 x T1) were used for repeated measurements in time for Ra and with a study factor for ΔE* ab and ΔE00. For the evaluation of the mineral content, data were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests. For enamel topographic surface analysis the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was performed. A significance level of 5% was considered. ΔE* ab and ΔE00 were significantly higher for CPc, CPn, CPa, and NCP groups. (∆WID) showed a significantly lower mean than the other groups for NC in T1. After bleaching (4-hour daily application for 14 days), Ra was higher in the CPc, CPn, and PC groups. For CPa, Ra was not altered. No significant difference was found in the quantification of mineral content. CPa preserved the surface smoothness more effectively. Aristoflex® AVC is a viable option for application as a thickener in dental bleaching gels, presenting satisfactory performance, and maintaining the whitening efficacy of the gel, with the advantage of preserving the surface roughness of tooth enamel without significant loss of mineral content.

Resumo Os polímeros Natrosol e Aristoflex® AVC são amplamente utilizados na indústria cosmética e foram recentemente aplicados como uma opção de espessante na composição de géis de clareamento dental, com o objetivo de reduzir os efeitos adversos sobre os componentes minerais do esmalte. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a variação de cor (ΔE*ab, ΔE00, ∆WID), rugosidade da superfície (Ra), e quantificação do conteúdo mineral (Raman Spectroscopy) do esmalte dentário após clareamento dental com gel experimental baseado em 10% de peróxido de carbamida (CP), contendo Carbopol, Natrosol e Aristoflex® AVC. Sessenta dentes bovinos foram divididos aleatoriamente em 6 grupos (n=10): Controle Negativo (CN) - sem tratamento; Controle Positivo (CP) - Brancura Perfeita 10% - FGM; CP com Carbopol (CPc); CP com Natrosol (CPn); CP com Aristoflex® AVC (CPa); NCP - sem espessante. Os dados foram analisados e modelos lineares generalizados (∆WID -T0 x T1) foram usados para medições repetidas no tempo para Ra e com um fator de estudo para ΔE*ab e ΔE00. Para a avaliação do conteúdo mineral, os dados foram submetidos a testes unidirecionais de ANOVA e Tukey. Para a análise da superfície topográfica do esmalte, o Microscópio Eletrônico de Varredura (SEM) foi realizado. Um nível de significância de 5% foi considerado. ΔE*ab e ΔE00 foram significativamente maiores para os grupos CPc, CPn, CPa e NCP. (∆WID) mostrou uma média significativamente menor do que os outros grupos para NC em T1. Após o clareamento (aplicação diária de 4 horas por 14 dias), Ra foi maior nos grupos CPc, CPn e PC. Para CPa, Ra não foi alterado. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada na quantificação do conteúdo mineral. O CPa preservou a suavidade da superfície de forma mais eficaz. Aristoflex® AVC é uma opção viável para aplicação como espessante em géis de clareamento dental, apresentando desempenho satisfatório e mantendo a eficácia clareadora do gel, com a vantagem de preservar a rugosidade da superfície do esmalte dentário sem perda significativa de conteúdo mineral.

Calcium-Polyphosphate Submicroparticles (CaPP) Improvement Effect of the Experimental Bleaching Gels' Chemical and Cellular-Viability Properties.

The aim of this research was to develop and characterize the chemical and cellular-viability properties of an experimental high-concentration bleaching gel (35 wt%-H2O2) containing calcium-polyphosphate particles (CaPP) at two concentrations (0.5 wt% and 1.5 wt%). The CaPP submicroparticles were synthesized by coprecipitation, keeping a Ca:P ratio of 2:1. The CaPP morphology, size, and chemical and crystal profiles were characterized through scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and X-ray diffraction, respectively. The assessed bleaching gels were experimental (without CaPP); 0.5% CaPP; 1.5% CaPP; and commercial. The gels' pH values and H2O2 concentrations (iodometric titration) were determined. The odontoblast-like cell viability after a gel's exposure was assessed by the MTT assay. The pH and H2O2 concentration were compared through a repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and a Tukey's test and the cell viability through a one-way ANOVA and a Tukey's test using a GraphPad Prism (α < 0.05). The CaPP particles were spherical (with Ca and P, 135.7 ± 80.95 nm size) and amorphous. The H2O2 concentration decreased in all groups after mixing (p < 0.001). The 0.5% CaPP resulted in more-stable pH levels and higher viability levels than the experimental one (p < 0.05). The successful incorporation of CaPP had a positive impact on the bleaching gel's chemical and cellular-viability properties when compared to the experimental gel without these particles.

Influence of alveolar bone height on the biomechanical behavior of roots restored with custom-made posts-and-cores.

OBJETIVE: This study evaluated the influence of alveolar bone height and post type on compressive force resistance, fracture pattern, and stress distribution in endodontically treated teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine roots were endodontically treated and divided into eight groups (n = 10) according to alveolar bone height (normal alveolar bone and alveolar bone loss - 2 and 5 mm from the margin of the crown, respectively) and post type (prefabricated glass fiber post, anatomic glass fiber post, customized milled glass fiber post-and-core and customized milled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post-and-core). Mechanical fatigue was simulated (300.000 cycles/50 N/1.2 Hz). Compression force resistance (N) was analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). Fracture patterns were described as percentages. Stress distribution was analyzed by finite element analysis. RESULTS: Significant diferences were found for alveolar bone height (P < 0.0001): normal alveolar bone groups showed higher mean values of compression force resistance compared to alveolar bone loss groups, while no significant differences were found for post type (P = 0.4551), and there was no double interaction between them (P = 0.5837). Reparable fractures were more predominant in normal alveolar bone groups, especially in the milled glass fiber and PEEK post-and-core groups. Stress distribution was similar in groups with prefabricated glass fiber posts and milled PEEK posts-and-cores, and the alveolar bone loss condition significantly increased stress concentration and strain values, mainly on apical dentin. CONCLUSIONS: Alveolar bone loss due to physiological aging and/or periodontal disease may lead to increased risk of restored tooth failure, although milled glass fiber and PEEK posts-and-cores provide more reparable fractures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Custom-made glass fiber and PEEK post-and-cores are interesting options, since they enable clinicians to work with a single-body post-and-core system that avoid several materials interfaces and fits well in the root canal provided promising results to improve the failure behavior of restored roots, as they offer more reparable fractures even in situations of alveolar bone loss.

Characterization of whitening toothpastes and their effect on the physical properties of bulk-fill composites

Abstract Objective To characterize activated charcoal and 2% hydrogen peroxide-based toothpastes and investigate their effects on roughness, color change, and gloss of bulk-fill composite resin. Methodology Composite resin specimens (Aura Bulk Fill, SDI) were subjected to 5,000 brushing cycles with regular toothpaste (Colgate Total 12, [RT]), activated charcoal toothpaste (Bianco Dental Carbon, [AC]), or hydrogen peroxide-containing toothpaste (Colgate Luminous White Advanced, [HP]), with or without coffee exposure. The pH, particle characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and weight% of solid particles in the toothpaste were assessed. Roughness (Ra) was evaluated using a surface profile-measuring device, color change (∆Eab/∆E00) by reflectance spectrophotometer, and gloss unit (GU) by glossmeter. Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, Friedman, and Nemenyi tests were used, and the correlation coefficient test was performed between Ra and GU (α=0.05). Results RT presented a higher Ra after brushing and did not change after staining with coffee; moreover, the ∆Eab/∆E00 values were higher for RT than HP. Regarding gloss, AC and HP obtained higher values compared to RT. A significant negative correlation between gloss and Ra was found for RT exposed to coffee. All toothpastes had a neutral pH; however, RT had the largest percentage of solids by weight. SEM images showed particles of many sizes: irregular shape (RT), more regular particles (AC), and spherical clusters (HP). Although surface roughness, color change, and gloss may compromise the longevity of restorations, the whitening toothpastes tested did not promote more morphology changes than regular toothpastes.

Application of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) posts: evaluation of fracture resistance and stress distribution in the root: in vitro and finite element analyses

Abstract To evaluate the feasibility of using a milled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) post and core in endodontically treated teeth with or without a ferrule. Sixty bovine tooth roots were endodontically treated followed by cementation of intraradicular retainers (IR), according to each experimental group: a) non-ferrule glass fiber post (f0FP); b) 2-mm-ferrule glass fiber post (f2FP); c) non-ferrule resized glass fiber post (f0PR); d) 2-mm-ferrule resized glass fiber post (f2PR); e) non-ferrule PEEK post and core (f0PPC); and f) 2-mm-ferrule PEEK post and core (f2PPC). Metal crowns were made and cemented. A periodontal ligament was simulated using polyether. A force was applied to the palatine portion of each sample at 45°, until fracture. Fracture resistance data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Three-dimensional digital models were developed to calculate the tensions formed in the root using finite element analysis. Models of glass fiber posts and PEEK posts and cores were evaluated with or without a ferrule. The results were analyzed by the Mohr-Coulomb criterion. The type of IR was not influenced by fracture strength (p = 0.243). There were significant statistical differences among the remaining factors. Ferrule groups had greater fracture resistance, and the failure mode of teeth with a ferrule was more catastrophic than the non-ferrule group. A ferrule increases fracture resistance and influences failure mode; the PEEK post and core did not modify the biomechanics of endodontically treated teeth, and resembled the glass fiber post results. The crack initiation point differed between the ferrule and non-ferrule groups.

A clinical evaluation of zirconia reinforced lithium silicate glass-ceramic CAD/CAM onlay: a two-year case report / Avaliação clínica de onlay cerâmica do tipo CAD / CAM de silicato de lítio reforçado com zircônia: um relato de caso de dois anos

ABSTRACT The CAD/CAM technology arose from the need to develop materials with better mechanical and optical properties that could be used for making monolithic restorations. Several materials have been used for milling indirect restorations in prefabricated blocks. Among them, lithium silicate reinforced with zirconia. Due to its recent introduction in the market, this case report aimed to present a detailed clinical protocol for the execution of a ceramic onlay of this material using CAD/CAM technology. A 57-year-old female patient sought care with extensive restoration in composite resin (BOMD) of tooth 15 maintained for almost two years. However, due to bruxism, constant dental tightening, the extension of the direct restoration and the need for improved esthetics, it was proposed to replace it with an indirect ceramic onlay restoration. Prophylaxis and choice of the color of the patient's dental substrate were performed. Afterwards, the dental preparation was made and polished. Subsequently, the molding was made with addition silicone and the provisional restoration confectioned. Once the stone model was obtained, it was scanned and the ceramic onlay restoration was milled using CAD/CAM technology. Finally, the restoration was stained and cemented over the preparation. After 2 years, the restoration remained stable, with no evidence of color mismatch, marginal discoloration, marginal cleft, caries or fracture, proving the effectiveness of the treatment in this time interval. The correct indication of the ceramic material combined with the use of CAD/CAM technology facilitated the restorative process, restoring function and the esthetics desired by the patient.

RESUMO A tecnologia CAD/CAM surgiu da necessidade de desenvolvimento de materiais com melhores propriedades mecânicas e ópticas que pudessem ser utilizados para confecção de restaurações monolíticas. Diversos materiais têm sido utilizados para fresagem de restaurações indiretas em blocos pré-fabricados. Dentre eles, o silicato de lítio reforçado com zircônia. Devido a sua recente introdução no mercado, este relato de caso objetivou apresentar um protocolo clínico detalhado para a execução de uma onlay cerâmica desse material utilizando a tecnologia CAD/CAM. Paciente, 57 anos, sexo feminino, procurou atendimento com extensa restauração em resina composta envolvendo as faces (MODV) do dente 15 mantida por quase dois anos. Contudo, em virtude do bruxismo, do apertamento dental constante, da extensão da restauração direta e da necessidade de melhora na estética, foi proposto a substituição por uma restauração indireta em cerâmica do tipo onlay. Foi realizada a profilaxia e escolha da cor do substrato dental da paciente. Em seguida o preparo dental foi confeccionado e polido. Posteriormente foi feita a moldagem com silicone de adição e a confecção do provisório. Com a obtenção do modelo, este foi escaneado e fresada a onlay cerâmica pela tecnologia CAD/CAM, que posteriormente foi maquiada e cimentada sobre o preparo. Após 2 anos, a restauração permaneceu estável, sem evidência de incompatibilidade de cor, descoloração marginal, fenda marginal, cárie ou fratura, comprovando a eficácia do tratamento neste intervalo de tempo. A correta indicação do material cerâmico aliada ao uso da tecnologia CAD-CAM facilitou o processo restaurador devolvendo função e a estética desejada pela paciente.

Assessment of influence of LED curing units used on microhardness of resin-modified glass ionomer sealants

Aim: Resin modified glass ionomer (RMGI) is class of material that can be used as sealant for preventing and arresting the progression of caries in pits and fissures. As these are hybrid materials, their properties can be affected by factors related to the polymerization process. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of different generations of LED curing units (Elipar DeepCure-L and VALO Grand) on Knoop microhardness values (KHN) of RMGI sealants (Clinpro XT and Vitremer). Methods: Forty cylindrical specimens (6mm ø x 1 mm high) were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and divided into four groups (n=10) according to the type of RMGI and LED used. The KHN of the top surface of each sample was calculated 7 days after light-curing. Data were submitted to two-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Results: Vitremer had higher KHN values than Clinpro XT after using both LEDs (p<0.0001), but especially when light-cured with the use of VALO Grand (p<0.0001). Whereas the KHN value of Clinpro was not influenced by the LED device (p>0.05). Conclusions: Top surface microhardness values of RGMI sealants were affected by both material composition and generations of LED curing units used. Third generation LED curing units seemed to be more efficient for the polymerization of RMGI-based sealants

Nano-hydroxyapatite-induced remineralization of artificial white spot lesions after bleaching treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide.

OBJECTIVE: To assessed in vitro the effect of nanohydroxyapatite (n-HA) to improve the aesthetic appearance and microhardness of white spot lesions (WSL) when associated with a low-concentration bleaching agent (carbamide peroxide-CP10%). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Enamel/dentin specimens (n = 60) of 5 × 5 × 2.2 mm were prepared, of these, 48 were submitted to pH-cycling to create artificial WSL. Subsequently, these were allocated into five groups (n = 12): n-HA; n-HA + CP10%; CP10%; WSL control (WSLC ); sound control (Sound). The color was assessed at baseline, pre-treatment, and post-treatment using a spectrophotometer, and the color (ΔE/ΔE00 ) and whiteness index (ΔWID) alterations were determined. The enamel cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH) was evaluated (post-treatment) with a Knoop indenter, 25gf/5 s, 20-200 µm. The data was analyzed through generalized linear models (α = 5%). RESULTS: ΔE and ΔE00 were significantly higher for the bleached groups (n-HA + CP10% and CP10%), and the n-HA was higher than the WSLC group (p < 0.05). ΔWID was significantly higher for the bleached groups (p < 0.05). The CSMH values were significantly higher in the sound group than in the n-HA, CP10%, and WSLC groups (p < 0.05). The WSLC had lower microhardness than the n-HA + CP10% and sound groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: n-HA is suitable to remineralize and recover the color of the WSL. However, its association with CP10% maintains the esthetical outcome while increasing its in-depth remineralizing effect. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Considering the aesthetic and functional repercussions of the WSL persistence, treatments that tend to improve its physical appearance and reinforce its weakened substructure in a non-invasive way are ideal. For this associating low-concentration, bleaching agents to the remineralizing treatments is promising to treat this type of lesions.