Enhanced mechanical properties, anti-biofilm activity, and cytocompatibility of a methacrylate-based polymer loaded with native multiwalled carbon nanotubes.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to optimize the mechanical and biological properties of a conventional methacrylate-based dental polymer by loading it with double- and triple-walled carbon nanotubes as growth (DTWCNTG). METHODS: A formulation of bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (mass ratio = 2:1) was mixed with DTWCNTG at concentrations of 0.0% (control), 0.001%, 0.005%, and 0.010%. The concentrations were physicochemical and morphologically evaluated, and antibacterial activity was assessed by seeding a Streptococcus mutans strain (ATCC 25175) on the experimental polymeric surfaces. Cellular survival and osteodifferentiation were evaluated in epithelial (HaCat) and preosteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1). RESULTS: The 0.001% DTWCNTG concentration yielded higher compressive strength, elastic modulus, flexural strength, flexural modulus, water sorption, and solubility than the control. The degree of conversion and color did not significantly change with a low amount of DTWCNTG incorporated into the polymer. Antibacterial activity significantly improved when tested on the 0.001% DTWCNTG discs. No groups showed cytotoxicity in a short-term analysis and adding DTWCNTG favored MC3T3-E1 mineralization over the control, particularly in the 0.001% formulation. SIGNIFICANCE: The micro-addition of 0.001% DTWCNTG confers mechanical resistance, antimicrobial properties, and bioactivity to methacrylate-based polymers without significantly compromising color. Incorporating DTWCNTG improved dental composite properties and could be a biomodified material for minimally invasive procedures.

Rehabilitación estética mínimamente invasiva en diente anterior afectado por hipoplasia de esmalte: Reporte de caso clínico / Minimally Invasive Restoration in Anterior Teeth Affected by Enamel Hypoplasia: Clinical Case Report

RESUMEN La preservación de tejido dental sano contribuye a la práctica de una Odontología conservadora, permitiendo la aplicación de los principios biológicos y mecánicos de una forma más predecible. Las preparaciones cavitarias mínimamente invasivas son el complemento de la correcta selección de materiales adhesivos y de resina compuesta. La correcta aplicación de un protocolo adhesivo nos proporcionará resultados estéticos imperceptibles y un longevo desempeño clínico.

ABSTRACT The preservation of healthy dental structures contributes to the practice of a conservative dentistry. This concept involves the implementation of biological and mechanical principles in a more predictable manner. Minimally invasive cavity preparations are the complement to the selection of adhesive and composite resin materials. The correct application of an adhesive protocol will provide imperceptible aesthetic restorations and adequate clinical performance.