Bonding performance and interfacial adaptation of modern bulk-fill restorative composites after aging in artificial saliva: an in vitro study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed at comparing the microtensile bond strength (MTBS) and interfacial adaptation of a modern self-curing and a light-curing restorative bulk-fill composite to a conventional composite applied with the layering technique. METHODS: Forty-eight occlusal cavities were divided in three main groups (16/group) based on tested materials: (i) STELA, bulk-fill self-curing restorative (STELA, SDI Ltd.); (ii) 3 M-BULK, bulk-fill composite (Filtek One Bulk-Fill, 3 M Oral Care); and (iii) 3 M-CTR, a conventional composite (Filtek Supreme XTE, 3 M Oral Care). These were used in combination with their adhesives in self-etch (SE) or etch-and-rinse (ER) mode. Specimens stored in artificial saliva (24 h or 12 months) were evaluated for MTBS and fractography. The interfacial analysis was performed through confocal microscopy. ANOVA and Fisher's LSD post hoc tests were performed with a level of significance of 5%. RESULTS: All the tested materials applied in ER mode presented (24 h) greater bond strength than in SE mode. Although all materials showed a significant drop in the bond strength after prolonged storage, STELA showed the highest bonding performance and interfaces with few gaps. 3 M-BULK had the lowest bond strength and an interface with several voids and gaps. CONCLUSIONS: All materials were affected by interface degradation and bonding reduction over prolonged aging. However, their use in combination with adhesives applied in ER mode may offer greater immediate bonding performance. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of restorative light-curing bulk-fill composites may generate gaps at the bonding interface and voids. STELA may represent a suitable alternative to avoid such issues.

Bioactive Restorative Materials Applied over Coronal Dentine-A Bibliometric and Critical Review.

The objective of the research was to examine the scientific literature concerning restorative materials with bioactive properties for the purpose of covering dentin. Searches were performed in various databases including MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Lilacs/BBO, and Embase. Inclusion criteria involved studies that utilized the terms "dentin" and "bioactive", along with "ion-releasing", "smart materials", "biomimetic materials" and "smart replacement for dentin". The information extracted included the title, authors, publication year, journal and the country of affiliation of the corresponding author. The studies were categorized based on their study design, type of material, substrate, analytical method, and bioactivity. A total of 7161 records were recovered and 159 were included for data extraction. Most of the publications were in vitro studies (n = 149), testing different types of materials in sound dentine (n = 115). Most studies were published in Dental Materials (n = 29), and an increase in publications could be observed after the year 2000. Most of the articles were from the USA (n = 34), followed by Brazil (n = 28). Interfacial analysis was the most investigated (n = 105), followed by bond strength (n = 86). Bioactivity potential was demonstrated for most tested materials (n = 148). This review presents insights into the current trends of bioactive materials development, clearly showing a severe lack of clinical studies.

Dentine Mineral Changes Induced by Polyalkenoate Cements after Different Selective Caries Removal Techniques: An in vitro Study.

This study aimed at evaluating the mineral variation induced by polyalkenoate cements in residual dentine after different caries removal methods. Ten extracted sound molars were selected, and five cavities were prepared on the occlusal surface of each specimen. Carious lesions were generated using a microbial protocol, while the caries removal was performed using bur, hand excavator, or two papain-based chemo-mechanical agents. One cavity was left unexcavated in each tooth. Cavities were restored using a zinc polycarboxylate cement (ZPC; n = 25), or a glass ionomer cement (GIC) was used (n = 25). Subsequently, the specimens were stored under simulated pulpal pressure for 45 days. Micro-CT scanning was performed after caries formation, removal, and restoration. Cavity volumes (mm3) and mineral density (MD) changes were calculated. Remineralisation ability was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Statistical analysis was performed (5% significance level). Baseline caries, cavity volume, and MD increase after caries removal were similar to all excavation groups (p > 0.05). MD was higher in ZPC compared to GIC (p < 0.05). SEM revealed that the chemo-mechanical techniques produced a smoother dentine surface compared to mechanical methods. FTIR showed silicon-based minerals in GIC-treated dentine, while ZPC-treated presented mineral deposits characterised by amorphous calcium phosphate. In both cases, the presence of carbonates was detected on dentine surfaces. All caries removal techniques performed similarly in terms of carious dentine excavation. ZPC can be used as dentine replacement material after caries removal as it may induce higher MD increase in residual dentine via deposition of calcium phosphates, compared to GIC.

Conservative management of a horizontal root fracture in a primary maxillary central incisor: Case report.

Dental trauma occurs frequently in toddlers and the treatment protocols vary depending on each case. Thus, clinicians must not only plan the treatment but also consider any possible sequelae and characteristics related to the child and the family. The aim of this paper was to report a case of a three-year-old boy who had a horizontal root fracture in the middle third of the primary maxillary right incisor root (tooth 51) and crown discoloration of the primary maxillary left incisor (tooth 61) which were successfully treated with conservative management. The management was established in agreement with the family and was based on active surveillance. The clinical and radiographic follow-ups showed no changes besides pulp canal calcification of the left incisor throughout the eight years of follow-up. The pulps remained normal with no pathological signs throughout their life cycle and the permanent successors erupted normally, presenting an excellent result of the non-invasive approach adopted.

Efficacy of 30% and 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride in Arresting Caries Lesions After Different Application Times: An in Vitro Study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in arresting dentin caries lesions when applied under different concentrations and times. Material and Methods: Forty-two bovine blocks were selected and fixed in 24-well plates. Each well received a mixed bacterial inoculum added to the culture medium with 5% sucrose. The plates were incubated in microaerophilia (7 days) for caries formation, confirmed by micro-CT (M1). SDF was applied over the carious lesions for different times and concentrations (n=6): SDF 30% - immediate removal, 1 minute and 3 minutes; SDF 38%, - immediate removal, 1 minute and 3 minutes. The group without treatment was the control. Then, the samples were again scanned by micro-CT (M2) and submitted to a second cariogenic challenge for 21 days. Then, a final scan was performed (M3). Results: Mean pH at the culture medium and lesion depth were compared using Kruskal-Wallis and Wilcoxon tests. 38% SDF showed the lowest metabolic activity of the biofilm. All 38% groups and 30% 1 and 3 minutes did not show an increase in mean lesion depth comparing M3 with M1. However, only 30% 3 minutes and 38% 1 and 3 minutes showed a significant reduction of lesion depth. Conclusion: The minimum application time of 30% SDF to arrest dentin caries lesion was 1 minute, while 38% SDF arrested with application and immediate removal.

Materiais inteligentes na odontologia minimamente invasiva: remoção, recuperação e restauração da dentina / Smart materials in minimally invasive dentistry: dentin removal, recovery and restoration

O objetivo da presente tese foi analisar as características das interações de materiais inteligentes quando aplicados em dentina, avaliando as técnicas de remoção, a recuperação e a restauração do tecido cariado. Para isso, foram realizados 6 estudos englobando os conceitos atuais da odontologia de mínima intervenção. O primeiro estudo consiste em uma revisão bibliométrica, que realizou um levantamento nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Lilacs/BBO e Embase, evidenciando o potencial bioativo dos materiais estudados e a necessidade de testá-los em dentina totalmente ou parcialmente desmineralizada através de estudos laboratoriais. O segundo estudo visou comparar in vitro diferentes técnicas para remoção de cárie artificialmente produzidas: o uso de broca, cureta e dois agentes químico-mecânicos (Papacárie Duo Gel®, Fórmula e Ação e Brix3000®, Brix Medical Science). Para isso, foram realizados escaneamentos em micro-CT antes e após a remoção de cárie com o intuito de comparar o volume e a densidade mineral da dentina, demonstrando que não houve diferença entre as técnicas quanto a quantidade de tecido removido (p>0,05). Além disso, nesse mesmo estudo, foi avaliado o potencial de cimentos de polialquenoato (Poly Zinc®, Prevest DenPro e Ketac Molar®, 3M ESPE) na recuperação da densidade mineral da dentina remanescente, mostrando que o cimento de policarboxilato de zinco apresentou um desempenho melhor (33,6%) quando comparado ao cimento de ionômero de vidro (6%; p<0,01). Quanto à seletividade in vitro dos agentes químico-mecânicos à base de papaína, um terceiro estudo foi conduzido, testando as alterações na morfologia e rugosidade superficial da dentina hígida antes e após a aplicação dos géis, comprovando que esses géis são específicos e seguros, sendo que os valores da rugosidade superficial não apresentaram diferenças estatísticas (p>0,05). No quarto estudo foi avaliado in vitro a interação de materiais restauradores liberadores de íons aplicados sobre a dentina artificialmente cariada. Excetuando o compósito resinoso testado (Aura®, SDI), tanto o cimento de ionômero de vidro (Fuji IX®, GC) quanto os cimentos a base de silicato de cálcio (Endo-pass®, DEI e Theracal®, Bisco) provocaram precipitação mineral na interface com a dentina. Esses resultados foram confirmados através de análises quantitativas (α = 5%) e qualitativas. O quinto estudo analisou in vitro dois cimentos de ionômero de vidro modificados por resina (CIVMR; Ionolux®, VOCO e ACTIVA®, Pulpdent) quando aplicados sobre sistemas adesivos universais simplificados (Futurabond®, VOCO e Scotchbond®, 3M) com o objetivo de comparar a força de união a longo prazo desses materiais aplicados sobre dentina. Foi possível constatar que a composição dos sistemas adesivos influencia mais do que o protocolo de aplicação, seja a aplicação convencional ou autocondicionante. Entretanto, quando bem empregados, os CIVMR, podem melhorar a longevidade de adesão desses sistemas adesivos (p<0,05). O sexto estudo consiste em uma revisão de literatura narrativa que apresenta os materiais liberadores de íons disponíveis no mercado, seus mecanismos ação e suas indicações clínicas. Com isso, pode-se concluir que grande parte dos estudos sobre materiais bioativos ainda são limitados a experimentos in vitro e que, apesar de apresentarem resultados positivos quanto a sua bioatividade em recuperar densidade e promover precipitação mineral, esses resultados ainda não podem ser extrapolados clinicamente. Quanto as técnicas de remoção seletiva de cárie, talvez conhecer os conceitos biológicos, fisiológicos e químicos dos processos seja mais importante do que a técnica aplicada em si. Isso também serve no emprego dos materiais bioativos já disponíveis no mercado, que de acordo com a sua composição, a indicação clínica pode variar. (AU)

The aim of the present study was to analyze the type of interactions between smart materials and dentin by studying the techniques for carious tissue removal, dentin recovery and tissue restoration. In order to do this, 6 studies were carried out, involving the current concepts of minimally invasive dentistry. The first study consisted of a bibliometric review, in which we carried out a survey in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Lilacs/BBO and Embase databases, on the bioactive potential of restorative materials and their effect in sound, completely or partially demineralized dentin through laboratory studies. The second study aimed to compare in vitro different techniques for dentin caries removal: drill, hand excavator and two chemical-mechanical agents (Papacárie Duo Gel®, Fórmula e Ação and Brix3000®, Brix Medical Sciences). In order to do this, micro-CT scans were performed before and after caries removal to compare the volume and mineral density of dentin, and the results showed no difference among the techniques regarding the amount of tissue removed (p>0.05). At the same study, the potential of polyalkenoate cements (Poly Zinc®, Prevest DenPro and Ketac Molar®, 3M ESPE) to recover mineral density of the remaining dentin was evaluated, showing that the zinc polycarboxylate cement presented higher performance (33.6%) compared to the glass ionomer cement (6%; p<0.01). To test the in vitro selectivity of the chemical-mechanical agents based on papain, a third study was conducted to test the changes in the morphology and surface roughness of sound dentin before and after the application of papain gels. The results showed that they are specific and safe, as the surface roughness values after application were not statistically significant different (p>0.05). The fourth study evaluated in vitro the interaction of ion-releasing restorative materials applied on artificially carious dentin. With the exception of the resin composite (Aura®, SDI), both glass ionomer cement (Fuji IX®, GC) and calcium silicate-based cements (Endo-pass®, DEI and Theracal®, Bisco) resulted in mineral precipitation at the interface with dentin. These results were confirmed through quantitative (α= 5%) and qualitative analyses. The fifth study analyzed in vitro two resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGIC; Ionolux®, VOCO and ACTIVA®, Pulpdent) when applied with simplified universal adhesive systems (Futurabond®, VOCO and Scotchbond®, 3M) with the aim to compare the long-term bond strength between these materials and dentin. It was possible to verify that the composition of the adhesive systems influenced more than the application protocol (conventional or self-etch mode). However, RMGIC can improve the longevity of adhesion of these adhesive systems (p<0.05). The sixth study consisted of a narrative critical literature review presenting the ion-releasing materials available on the market, their mechanisms of action and their clinical indications. It can be thus concluded that most studies on bioactive materials are still limited to in vitro experiments and, despite showing positive results regarding bioactivity in recovering density and promoting mineral precipitation, these results still can not be extrapolated to clinical applications. Regarding the selective potential of caries removal techniques, the knowledge of biological, physiological and chemical concepts of the processes is more important than the technique used. This can be also applied to the use of bioactive materials available on the market, which according to their composition, may present different clinical indications and applications. (AU)

El objetivo de la presente tesis fue analizar las características de las interacciones de los materiales inteligentes cuando se aplican a la dentina para estudiar las técnicas de remoción, recuperación y restauración del tejido. Para ello se realizaron 6 estudios que engloban los conceptos actuales de la odontología de mínima intervención. El primer estudio consiste en una revisión bibliométrica, que realizó una revisión en las bases de datos MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Lilacs/BBO y Embase, evidenciando el potencial bioactivo de los materiales estudiados y la necesidad de probarlos en dentina totalmente o parcialmente desmineralizada a través de estudios de laboratorio. El segundo estudio tuvo como objetivo comparar in vitro diferentes técnicas para la remoción de caries producidas artificialmente: el uso de material rotatorio, cureta y dos agentes químico-mecánicos (Papacárie Duo Gel® y Brix3000®). Para ello, se realizaron análisis en micro-CT antes y después de la remoción de caries con el fin de comparar el volumen y la densidad mineral de la dentina, demostrando que no hubo diferencia entre las técnicas en la cantidad de tejido removido (p>0,05). Además, en el mismo estudio se evaluó el potencial de los cementos de polialquenoato (Poly Zinc®, Prevest DenPro y Ketac Molar®, 3M ESPE) en la recuperación de la densidad mineral de la dentina remanente, demostrando que el cemento de policarboxilato de zinc presentó un comportamiento mejor (33,6%) en comparación con el cemento de ionómero de vidrio (6%; p<0,01). Con relación la selectividad in vitro de los agentes químico-mecánicos a base de papaína, se realizó un tercer estudio probando los cambios en la morfología y rugosidad superficial de la dentina sana antes y después de la aplicación de los geles, demostrando que estos geles son específicos y seguros, siendo que los valores de rugosidad superficial no presentaron diferencias estadísticas (p>0.05). El cuarto estudio evaluó in vitro la interacción de materiales restauradores liberadores de iones aplicados sobre dentina cariada artificialmente. Excepto por el compuesto de resina (Aura®, SDI), tanto el cemento de ionómero de vidrio (Fuji IX®, GC) como los cementos a base de silicato de calcio (Endo-pass®, DEI y Theracal®, Bisco) causaron precipitación mineral en la interfaz con la dentina. Estos resultados se confirmaron mediante análisis cuantitativos (α = 5%) y cualitativos. El quinto estudio analizó in vitro dos cementos de ionómero de vidrio modificados con resina (CIVMR; Ionolux®, VOCO y ACTIVA®, Pulpdent) aplicados sobre sistemas adhesivos universales simplificados (Futurabond®, VOCO y Scotchbond®, 3M) con el objetivo de comparar la fuerza de unión a largo plazo de estos materiales aplicados a la dentina. Se pudo verificar que la composición de los sistemas adhesivos influye más que el protocolo de aplicación, sea la aplicación convencional o el autograbado. Sin embargo, el CICMR puede mejorar la longevidad de la adhesión de estos sistemas adhesivos (p<0.05). El sexto estudio consiste en una revisión narrativa de la literatura que presenta los materiales liberadores de iones disponibles en el mercado, sus mecanismos de acción y sus indicaciones clínicas. Con esto, se puede concluir que la mayoría de los estudios sobre materiales bioactivos aún se limitan a experimentos in vitro y que, a pesar de mostrar resultados positivos con relación a su bioactividad para recuperar densidad y promover la precipitación mineral, estos resultados aún no son extrapolables clínicamente. En cuanto a las técnicas de eliminación selectiva de caries, quizás sea más importante conocer los conceptos biológicos, fisiológicos y químicos de los procesos que la técnica elegida. Esto también sirve para el uso de materiales bioactivos disponibles en el mercado, que, según su composición, la indicación clínica puede variar. (AU)

An in-vitro study investigating the effect of air-abrasion bioactive glasses on dental adhesion, cytotoxicity and odontogenic gene expression.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the microtensile bond strength (MTBS) and interfacial characteristics of universal adhesives applied on dentine air-abraded using different powders. The analysis includes the cytotoxicity of the powders and their effect on odontogenic gene expression. METHODS: Sound human dentine specimens were air-abraded using bioglass 45S5 (BAG), polycarboxylated zinc-doped bioglass (SEL), alumina (AL) and submitted to SEM analysis. Resin composite was bonded to air-abraded or smear layer-covered dentine (SML) using an experimental (EXP) or a commercial adhesive (ABU) in etch&rinse (ER) or self-etch (SE) modes. Specimens were stored in artificial saliva (AS) and subjected to MTBS testing after 24 h and 10 months. Interfacial nanoleakage assessment was accomplished using confocal microscopy. The cytotoxicity of the powders was assessed, also the total RNA was extracted and the expression of odontogenic genes was evaluated through RT-PCR. RESULTS: After prolonged AS storage, specimens in the control (SML) and AL groups showed a significant drop in MTBS (p > 0.05), with degradation evident within the bonding interface. Specimens in BAG or SEL air-abraded dentine groups showed no significant difference, with resin-dentine interfaces devoid of important degradation. The metabolic activity of pulp stem cells was not affected by the tested powders. SEL and BAG had no effect on the expression of odontoblast differentiation markers. However, AL particles interfered with the expression of the odontogenic markers. SIGNIFICANCE: The use of bioactive glass air-abrasion may prevent severe degradation at the resin-dentine interface. Unlike alumina, bioactive glasses do not interfere with the normal metabolic activity of pulp stem cells and their differentiation to odontoblasts.

Contemporary restorative ion-releasing materials: current status, interfacial properties and operative approaches.

Minimally invasive (MI) concepts in restorative dentistry in the year 2020 request from the practitioner not only a scientifically supported rationale for carious tissue removal/excavation and defect-oriented, biological cavity preparation, but also a deep understanding of how to ensure a biomechanically stable and durable restoration in different clinical situations by applying different restorative options. Bio-interactive materials play an increasingly relevant role, as they not only replace diseased or lost tissue, but also optimise tissue mineral recovery (among other properties) when used in restorative and preventive dentistry. Indeed, this is of certain interest in MI restorative dentistry, especially in those cases where gap formation jeopardises the integrity of the margins along resin composite restorations, causing penetration of bacteria and eventually promoting the formation of secondary caries. Recently, the interest in whether ion-releasing materials may reduce such biofilm penetration into margin gaps and reduce such a risk for development and propagation of secondary caries is growing significantly among clinicians and scientists. The aim of this article was to explore mechanisms involved in the process that allow mineral deposition at the interface between such materials and dentine, and to describe how conventional 'bioactive' restorative materials currently available on the market may benefit treatments in MI dentistry.

Is there evidence for the use of lesion sterilization and tissue repair therapy in the endodontic treatment of primary teeth? A systematic review and meta-analyses.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether lesion sterilization and tissue repair (LSTR) technique resulted in similar clinical and radiographic success outcomes as compared with pulpectomy in primary teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Randomized clinical trials comparing LSTR with pulpectomy by means of clinical and radiographic parameters were included. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane methodology and the certainty of evidence was determined by GRADE. RESULTS: Six articles were included. Conventional pulpectomy was favored with respect to radiographic success frequency in the systematic review. Four studies were included in meta-analyses. Based on the clinical results at 6 months (RR = 0.99, 95% CI, 0.94-1.04, p = 0.67; I2 = 0%), 12 months (RR = 0.97, 95% CI, 0.90-1.04, p = 0.34; I2 = 0%), and 18 months (RR = 0.89, 95% CI, 0.77-1.04, p = 0.14; I2 = 0%) and radiographic findings at 6 months (RR = 0.91, 95% CI, 0.78-1.06, p = 0.23; I2 = 9%), 12 months (RR = 0.87, 95% CI, 0.65-1.18, p = 0.38; I2 = 64%), and 18 months (RR = 0.84, 95% CI, 0.69-1.02, p = 0.08; I2 = 0%), there was no difference observed regarding success between the two treatments. The quality of evidence ranged from moderate to very low. CONCLUSIONS: No difference between the LSTR and pulpectomy approaches could be confirmed by meta-analyses. The quality of evidence according to the GRADE scheme ranged from moderate to very low. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The present meta-analyses could not demonstrate the superiority of one treatment over the other.

Association of parenting style with the behaviour and caries prevalence of preschool children

Objective: This study aimed to associate parenting styles (democratic,authoritarian, and permissive) with the behaviour, and prevalence of caries lesionsamong preschool children submitted to dental care. Methods: At the initialconsultation, preschool children (n = 67), from two to six years of age, wereevaluated for behaviour through the Frankl scale. The parenting styles wereinvestigated through the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire - ReducedVersion (PSDQ) and the prevalence of caries lesions through the dmft index.Sociodemographic and economic data were collected. The chi-squared test wasused for association among parenting styles, dmft index, type of behaviour(dichotomised as positive and negative), and the following independent variables:socioeconomic level, single child, school attendance, and educational level of theperson in charge. ANOVA followed by the Tukey test were used to compare themean dmft and parenting styles. Results: The majority of preschoolers presentedpositive behaviour (83.6%), and the dmft mean was 4.76 (± 3.43). Of the total,49.3% were democratic, 44.8% were permissive, and 6% were authoritarian. Therewas no association between parenting styles and all variables investigated (p >0.05). Conclusion: Considering the results, it can be observed that there was noassociation among parenting styles, caries prevalence, and behaviour of thepreschool children in an initial dental consultation.

Objetivo: Objetivou-se associar os estilos parentais (democrático, autoritário epermissivo) com o comportamento e a prevalência de lesões de cárie de pré-escolaressubmetidos ao atendimento odontológico. Métodos: Em consulta inicial, pré-escolares(n = 67), de 2 a 6 anos de idade, foram avaliados quanto ao comportamento, atravésda escala de Frankl. Os estilos parentais de seus responsáveis foram averiguadosatravés do Questionário de Estilos e Dimensões Parentais ­ Versão Reduzida (PSDQ)e a prevalência de lesões de cárie através do índice ceod. Foram coletados dadossociodemográficos e econômicos. Utilizou-se o teste do Qui-quadrado para associaçãoentre os estilos parentais, o índice ceod, tipo de comportamento (dicotomizado empositivo e negativo) e as variáveis independentes: nível socioeconômico, ser filhoúnico, frequentar escola e nível educacional do responsável. ANOVA seguido de Tukeyfoi utilizado para comparar as médias ceod e os estilos parentais. Resultados: Amaioria dos pré-escolares apresentaram comportamento positivo (83,6%) e a médiado ceo-d da população estudada foi 4,76 (± 3,43). Do total dos responsáveis, 49,3%eram democráticos, 44,8% permissivos e 6% autoritários. Não houve associaçãoentre os estilos parentais e todas as variáveis investigadas (p > 0,05). Conclusão:Diante dos resultados, pode-se observar que não houve associação entre os estilosparentais avaliados, prevalência de cárie e comportamento dos pré-escolares emconsulta odontológica inicial.

Root canal segmentation in cone-beam computed tomography: comparison with a micro-CT gold standard

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare root canal volumes (RCVs) obtained by means of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to those obtained by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) after applying different segmentation algorithms. Methods: Eighteen extracted human teeth with sound root canals were individually scanned in CBCT and micro-CT using specific acquisition parameters. Two different images segmentation strategies were applied to both acquisition methods (a visual and an automatic threshold). From each segmented tooth, the root canal volume was obtained. A paired t-test was used to identify differences between mean values resulted from the experimental groups and the gold standard. In addition, Pearson correlation coefficients and the agreement among the experimental groups with the gold standard were also calculated. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results: No statistical differences between the segmentation methods (visual and automatic) were observed for micro-CT acquired images. However, significant differences for the two segmentation methods tested were seen when CBCT acquired images were compared with the micro-CT automatic segmentation methods used. In general, an overestimation of the values in the visual method were observed while an underestimation was observed with the automatic segmentation algorithm. Conclusion: Cone beam computed tomography images acquired with parameters used in the present study resulted in low agreement with root canal volumes obtained with a micro-CT tomography gold standard method of RCV calculation

A dual energy micro-CT methodology for visualization and quantification of biofilm formation and dentin demineralization.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to induce artificial caries in human sound dentin by means of a microcosm model using human saliva as source of bacteria and to apply a novel dual-energy micro-CT technique to quantify biofilm formation and evaluate its demineralization potential. DESIGN: Eight sound third molars had the occlusal enamel removed by cutting with a diamond disk and five cylindrical cavities (±2mm diameter; ±1.5mm depth) were prepared over the dentin surface in each specimen (n=40 cavities). After sterilization, each specimen received the bacterial salivary inoculum obtained from individuals without any systemic diseases presenting dentin caries lesions and were incubated in BHI added of with 5% sucrose for 96h to allow biofilm formation. After that, two consecutive micro-CT scans were acquired from each specimen (40kv and 70kv). Reconstruction of the images was performed using standardized parameters. After alignment, registration, filtering and image calculations, a final stack of images containing the biofilm volume was obtained from each prepared cavity. Dentin demineralization degree was quantified by comparison with sound dentin areas. All data were analyzed using Shapiro-Wilk test and Spearman correlation using α=5%. RESULTS: Dual-energy micro-CT technique disclosed biofilm formation in all cavities. Biofilm volume inside each cavity varied from 0.30 to 1.57mm3. A positive correlation between cavity volume and volume of formed biofilm was obtained (0.77, p<0.01). The mineral decrease obtained in dentin was high (±90%) for all cavities and all demineralized areas showed mineral density values lower than a defined threshold for dentin caries (1.2g/cm3). CONCLUSION: Dual-energy micro-CT technique was successful in the quantification of a microcosm human bacterial biofilm formation and to quantify its demineralization potential in vitro.

Potencial bioativo de cimento à base de silicato de cálcio e ácido poliacrílico em lesões de cárie dentinárias formadas por um modelo de biofilme de microcosmo / Potential bioactive cement based on calcium silicate and polyacrylic acid in dentinal caries lesions formed by a biofilm model of microcosm

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a capacidade de cimentos à base de ácido poliacrílico e silicato de cálcio em aumentar a densidade mineral da dentina desmineralizada por um modelo de biofilme de microcosmo. Além disso, a técnica de dupla energia em micro-CT foi proposta para quantificar a formação de biofilme e a densidade mineral da dentina nas amostras. Quarenta e cinco cavidades em dentina foram preparadas em 9 terceiros molares humanos sadios, sendo 5 em cada dente. As amostras receberam o inóculo bacteriano e foram incubadas em BHI (Brain Heart Infusion) adicionado com 5% de sacarose durante 96h para formação do biofilme. Em seguida, foram realizados dois escaneamentos consecutivos de cada amostra (40kv e 70kv) no micro-CT e cada cavidade foi preenchida com diferentes cimentos experimentais: policarboxilato de zinco (Poly Zinc™), ionômero de vidro convencional (Ketac Molar™) e dois materiais à base de silicato de cálcio (MTA e Biodentine™) enquanto que a cavidade central foi mantida como controle e preenchida com cera utilidade. As amostras foram mantidas durante 45 dias sob simulação da pressão intrapulpar utilizando-se SBF (Simulated Body Fluid) e após o período experimental foram novamente escaneadas. A reconstrução e aquisição foram realizadas utilizando parâmetros padronizados. Os resultados foram testados quanto à normalidade utilizando o teste de Shapiro-Wilk, seguido por métodos não paramétricos. O uso da dupla energia no micro-CT revelou formação de biofilme em todas as cavidades e uma correlação positiva entre o volume da cavidade e o volume do biofilme formado (0,77; p <0,01) foi encontrada. A perda mineral na dentina foi alta (± 90%) para todas as cavidades e mostraram valores de densidade mineral inferior a um limiar definido para a cárie dentinária (1,2g/cm3 ). O aumento da densidade mineral foi maior com MTA ou Poly Zinc™ (43,56% e 41,64%), os quais foram estatisticamente semelhantes, seguido pelo Biodentine™ (36,40%) e Ketac Molar™ (32,54%). Concluiu-se que o modelo de microcosmo bacteriano humano foi capaz de produzir lesões cariosas in vitro e que a técnica de micro-CT por dupla energia provou ser um método eficaz para quantificar a formação de biofilme e a densidade mineral da dentina cariada. Todos os cimentos utilizados apresentaram potencial de aumentar a densidade mineral da dentina desmineralizada, ressaltando o elevado potencial bioativo do cimento policarboxilato de zinco. (AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of polyacrylic acid-based and calcium silicates cements in increasing mineral density of demineralized dentin produced by a microcosm model for caries formation. Moreover, a dual energy micro-CT technique was used to quantify biofilm formation and mineral density. Forty-five dentin cavities were prepared in 9 sound human third molars, 5 in each tooth. Samples received the bacterial inoculum and were incubated in BHI (Brain Heart Infusion) added with 5% of sucrose for 96h to allow biofilm formation. After that, two consecutive micro-CT scans were acquired from each specimen (low energy - 40kv and high energy - 70kv) and then, each cavity was filled with different experimental cements, namely: a zinc polycarboxilate (Poly Zinc™), a conventional glass ionomer (Ketac Molar™) and two calcium silicate based materials (MTA and Biodentine™) while the central cavity was kept as control and filled with dental wax. Specimens were kept for 45 days under simulated pulp pressure using SBF (Simulated Body Fluid) and after the experimental period they were again scanned. Reconstruction and acquisition were accomplished using standardized parameters. Data was tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test, followed by non-parametric methods. Dual-energy micro-CT technique disclosed biofilm formation in all cavities and a positive correlation between cavity volume and volume of formed biofilm was obtained (0.77, p<0.01). The mineral decrease obtained in dentin was high (± 90%) for all cavities and all demineralized areas showed mineral density values lower than a defined threshold for dentin caries (1.2g/cm3 ). Increase in mineral density of dentin was best achieved using MTA or Poly Zinc™ (43.56% and 41.64% remineralization), where both were not statistically different. These were followed by Biodentine™ (36.40%) and Ketac Molar™ (32.54%). It is possible to conclude that a microcosm human bacterial biofilm model was able to produce carious lesions in vitro and a dual energy micro-CT technique proved to be an effective method to quantify biofilm formation and mineral density of carious dentin. All cements showed potential to increase mineral density, especially zinc policarboxylate cement.(AU)

Effect of time between adhesive application and photoactivation on adhesion and collagen exposure.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of the time elapsed between the application and photoactivation of Single Bond 2 (SB) on microtensile bond strength (µTBS) and collagen exposure at the adhesive interface produced in the presence of intrapulp pressure. METHODS: Dentin occlusal surfaces were prepared in 72 molars, and divided into eight groups (n = 9). After acid etching, SB was applied, with or without simulated intrapulp pressure, and remained undisturbed for 0, 20, 40 or 60 seconds, before photoactivation. Three teeth/group were processed for staining with Goldner trichrome and evaluation of the thickness of exposed collagen zone (CZ) at the base of the hybrid layer. Composite resin build-ups were placed on the remaining six prepared teeth prior to sectioning for microtensile testing. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: In the absence of pressure, immediate photoactivation resulted in the lowest µTBS, while the other groups did not differ among them. Under intrapulp pressure, the lowest values were observed after 60 seconds. There was no difference in the thickness of the exposed collagen zone among the groups without pressure. However, thicker layers were recorded in the presence of pressure after 40 and 60 seconds. Waiting 60 seconds between application and photoactivation of SB significantly reduced resin-dentin bond strength when pulpal pressure was simulated.