Two-year clinical and radiographic evaluation of ACTIVA BioACTIVE versus Compomer (Dyract® eXtra) in the restoration of class-2 cavities of primary molars: a non-inferior split-mouth randomised clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: The trial aimed to compare the clinical performance and radiographic success of ACTIVA BioACTIVE versus Compomer in restoring class-II cavities of primary molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A non-inferior split-mouth design was considered. A pre-calculated sample size of 96 molars (48 per group) with class-2 cavities of twenty-one children whose ages ranged from 5 to 10 years were randomly included in the trial. Pre-operative Plaque Index (PI), DMFT/dmft scores and the time required to fill the cavity were recorded. Over 24 months, the teeth were clinically evaluated every six months and radiographically every 12 months by two calibrated and blinded evaluators using the United States public health service (USPHS)-Ryge criteria. The two-sided 95% confidence interval (CI) for the difference in success rate was considered to assess non-inferiority, and the margin was set at -18%. The linear mixed model and Firth's logistic regression model were used for data analysis (P < 0.05). RESULTS: After 24 months, 86 teeth (43 per group) were evaluated. The mean PI score was 1.1(± 0.9), while DMFT/dmft was 0.35 (± 0.74) and 6.55 (± 2.25) respectively. The clinical and radiographic success rate of Dyract vs. ACTIVA was 95.3% and 88.3% vs. 93% and 86%, respectively. The two-sided 95% CI for the difference in success rate (-2.3%) was - 3.2 to 1.3% and didn't reach the predetermined margin of -18% which had been anticipated as the non-inferiority margin. Clinically, ACTIVA had a significantly better colour match (P = 0.002) but worse marginal discolouration (P = 0.0143). There were no significant differences regarding other clinical or radiographic criteria (P > 0.05). ACTIVA took significantly less placement time than Dyract, with a mean difference of 2.37 (± 0.63) minutes (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The performance of ACTIVA was not inferior to Dyract and both materials had a comparable high clinical and radiographic performance in children with high-caries experience. ACTIVA had a significantly better colour match but more marginal discolouration. It took significantly less time to be placed in the oral cavity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 4 May 2018 (#NCT03516838).

Impact of repeated preheating of bulk-fill resin composite on postoperative hypersensitivity; a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: This clinical study was conducted aiming to evaluate the impact of repeated preheating of bulk-fill resin composite on postoperative hypersensitivity. METHODS: A total of 105 eligible, consenting adults were recruited. Patients had posterior teeth suffering from proximal decay with no signs of irreversible pulpitis. Patients were prepared for Class II restorations and restored with bulk-fill resin composite. Patients were randomized into three groups of 35 patients according to the number of preheating cycles for the resin composite syringe used; group I: no preheating; control group at room temperature, group II: Resin composite preheated once, and group III: Resin composite preheated ten cycles. Patients were assessed for postoperative dentin hypersensitivity using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at three-time intervals: day one, one week and by the end of one month after restorative treatment. Statistical analysis was performed; ANOVA with a single factor was used to test for significance at a p value ≤ 0.05. For nonparametric data, the Kruskal‒Wallis test was used to compare the three testing groups. Friedman's test was used to study the changes within each group. Dunn's test was used for pairwise comparisons when the Kruskal‒Wallis test or Friedman's test was significant. RESULTS: The scores of the three groups through the three time intervals were almost zero except for the first day where VAS scores were recorded with maximum score of 3 for groups I and II. Groups II and III; there was no statistically significant change in hypersensitivity scores by time with P-values 0.135 and 0.368, respectively. However, for group I there was a significant difference from VAS score recorded on first day and the two following time intervals. CONCLUSION: The repeated preheating cycles of bulk-fill resin composite prior to curing had no adverse effect on the patients regarding postoperative dentin hypersensitivity. This information could be of utmost significance, as the same resin composite syringe can undergo numerous preheating cycles clinically before it is completely consumed with the advantage of improvement on the handling properties. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The protocol of the current study was registered at www. CLINICALTRIALS: gov , with the identification number NCT05289479 on 21/03/2022. All procedures involving human participants were performed in accordance with the ethical standards of the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University, Egypt, under the approval number 73/440 on 11/09/2020.

Differences in birch tar composition are explained by adhesive function in the central European Iron Age.

Birch bark tar is the most widely documented adhesive in prehistoric Europe. More recent periods attest to a diversification in terms of the materials used as adhesives and their application. Some studies have shown that conifer resins and beeswax were added to produce compound adhesives. For the Iron Age, no comparative large-scale studies have been conducted to provide a wider perspective on adhesive technologies. To address this issue, we identify adhesive substances from the Iron Age in north-eastern France. We applied organic residue analysis to 65 samples from 16 archaeological sites. This included residues adhering to ceramics, from vessel surface coatings, repaired ceramics, vessel contents, and adhesive lumps. Our findings show that, even during the Iron Age in north-eastern France, birch bark tar is one of the best-preserved adhesive substances, used for at least 400 years. To a lesser extent, Pinaceae resin and beeswax were also identified. Through statistical analyses, we show that molecular composition differs in samples, correlating with adhesive function. This has implications for our understanding of birch bark tar production, processing and mode of use during the Iron Age in France and beyond.

Automotive Technology Revolutionized Restorative Dentistry Discovery of Alpha-diketone/Amine Catalyst: Part II -Reflections on Photopolymerization from Conception to Development of Composite Resin and Activator Light.

A full account of the preceded early research tribulation that led to the development of the first visible light activated composite resin and the first visible light activator source is documented. The events took place over four years since early 1974 when a raw industrial composite resin that was radiolucent, stiff paste, universal optically opaque white color, polymerized by exposure to a prototype visible light for 120 seconds was given to developed. Four years later, the developed restorative composite resin ended up as a radiopaque, optically translucent, universal color with an additional three shades that possessed the biologic, esthetic, mechanical and physical characteristics with proven efficacy be used for esthetic zone. This conservative account of early development of a technology that must count as one of a small number of inventions during the seventies, over the years has revolutionized restorative dental practice. We were privileged and very lucky to be associated with developmental stages, stumbling blocks, and final success of the first LC Composite resin that ignited the thought process worldwide and laid the foundation for modern esthetic restoratives practiced today.

Automotive Technology Revolutionized Restorative Dentistry Discovery of Alpha-diketone/Amine Catalyst: Part I.

A full account of early research that led to the discovery of the Alpha-diketone and Amine systems by two Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) researchers. UK Chemists in the mid-sixties marked the beginning in the early development of a composite resin cured with visible light spectrum into a solid mass. Its incorporation into the newly developed Urethane based resin, led to conceiving the idea of developing the first light-activated restorative composite resin, which formed the prototype of modern composite restorative materials. How all that came about, and the ideas that were conceived and pursued in the development of these systems are discussed in detail.

A Novel Concept for Developing a Precise and Predictable Post and Core Complex Using the Injectable Resin Technique (Part 2).

Post and core systems have long been used in dentistry for the purposes of replacing missing coronal tooth structure, retaining the core, and providing sufficient retention and resistance form to the final restoration to re-establish original form and function. While Part 1 of this two-part article provided a history of post and core systems and materials and discussed empirical data regarding fiber-reinforced post systems, this second part of the article focuses on an alternative approach for developing a fiber-reinforced post and core system using a monoblock system via the injectable resin technique and a recently developed fiber-optic post. The present article explains the concept of a ferrule effect and demonstrates the novel restorative procedure.

Invisalign Lite: a cross-sectional investigation of orthodontist treatment-planning practices.

OBJECTIVES: To survey treatment-planning practices of orthodontists related to the Invisalign Lite clear aligner appliance (Align Technology, San Jose, Calif). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients satisfying inclusion and exclusion criteria and treated with Invisalign Lite were selected from a database containing more than 17,000 patients. Relevant data regarding treatment-planning practices were obtained from Align Technology's treatment-planning facility, ClinCheck, and evaluated. RESULTS: Most (n = 135; 79.9%) patients were female and had a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 30.5 (23.8, 43.1) years. The median (IQR) number of aligners for the sample was 23.0 (14, 28) for the maxilla and 24 (14, 28) for the mandible. Most (n = 122; 72.2%) patients required at least one additional series of aligners. More locations for interproximal reduction (IPR) were prescribed in the mandible (mean 1.91 [1.78]) than in the maxilla (1.03 [1.78]; P < .024) in the initial accepted plan of all patients. More teeth were prescribed composite resin (CR) attachments in the maxilla (P < .0001) in the initial accepted plan of all patients. Issues regarding tooth position protocols (n = 50; 53.3%) and requirement for additional IPR (n = 68; 45.3%) were reasons for treatment plan changes before acceptance of the initial treatment plan by orthodontists. CONCLUSIONS: More than 7 of 10 patients required at least one additional series of aligners after the initial series of Invisalign Lite aligners was completed. Prescription of IPR was more common in the mandible, and prescription of CR attachments was more common in the maxilla.

Experimental characterization and finite element investigation of SiO2 nanoparticles reinforced dental resin composite.

In this study, a commercial dental resin was reinforced by SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) with different concentrations to enhance its mechanical functionality. The material characterization and finite element analysis (FEA) have been performed to evaluate the mechanical properties. Wedge indentation and 3-point bending tests were conducted to assess the mechanical behavior of the prepared nanocomposites. The results revealed that the optimal content of NPs was achieved at 1% SiO2, resulting in a 35% increase in the indentation reaction force. Therefore, the sample containing 1% SiO2 NPs was considered for further tests. The morphology of selected sample was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), revealing the homogeneous dispersion of SiO2 NPs with minimal agglomeration. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to investigate the crystalline structure of the selected sample, indicating no change in the dental resin state upon adding SiO2 NPs. In the second part of the study, a novel approach called iterative FEA, supported by the experiment wedge indentation test, was used to determine the mechanical properties of the 1% SiO2-dental resin. Subsequently, the accurately determined material properties were assigned to a dental crown model to virtually investigate its behavior under oblique loading. The virtual test results demonstrated that most microcracks initiated from the top of the crown and extended through its thickness.

Longevity of composite restorations in posterior teeth placed by dental students: a 12-year retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the longevity of resin composite restorations placed in posterior teeth by dental students, using data from electronic records from 2008 to 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Demographic (gender and age) and clinical variables (dental group, position in dental arch, and the number of restored surfaces) were evaluated. The 5-year follow-up was assessed according to the day the restoration was placed. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to calculate the annual failure rate. Data were analyzed by Chi-Square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: In total, 3.883 records relative to return periodicity were analyzed. The final sample consisted of 900 restorations from 479 patients. The majority were females, aged between 31 and 60. In total, 256 failures were reported (success rate = 78%), showing an annual failure rate of 2.05%. The main reasons for failures were restoration replacement (55.5%), endodontics (21.9%), prosthetics (14.5%) and extraction (8.2%). There was a higher risk of failure in restorations involving three or more surfaces (p = 0.000) and in patients over 60 years (p < 0.001). In females (p = 0.030), molars (p = 0.044), and maxillary teeth (p = 0.038) failed in a shorter time. CONCLUSIONS: Resin composite restorations placed in permanent posterior teeth by dental students had high survival rates. The main reason for failure was the replacement of restorations. The age group and the number of restored surfaces significantly affected the success of the restorations. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The electronic health records over 12 years showed that 78% of the resin restorations in posterior teeth placed by dental students were successful for a minimum of five years.

The Influence of Contamination and Different Cleaning Methods and the Effect of Plasma Treatment of CoCr Alloy on Tensile Bond Strength to Composite Resin.

PURPOSE: To investigate the influence of contamination and different cleaning methods on resin bonding to cobalt-chro- mium (CoCr) alloy disks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 160 CoCr disks were divided into 3 groups. The first group (N = 64) was air abraded with alumina particles and contaminated with a silicone disclosing agent and saliva; the second group (N = 64) was air abraded but not contaminated; the third group (N = 32) was neither air abraded nor contaminated. The first two groups were di- vided into 4 subgroups (N = 16) according to the cleaning method: ultrasonic bath in 99% isopropanol, use of a cleaning suspension of zirconium oxide particles, use of a cleaning suspension based on 10-MDP salt, and treatment with atmo- spheric plasma. The third group was divided into 2 subgroups (N = 16): treatment with atmospheric plasma and no treat- ment. All CoCr specimens were bonded to plexiglas tubes filled with a bonding resin that contained phosphate monomer. Tensile bond strength (TBS) was examined by tensile testing after 3 and 150 days of water storage plus 37,500 thermal cy- cles (N = 8). RESULTS: After contamination, TBS was significantly reduced after 150 days of water storage. Groups without air abrasion showed initially low TBS and debonded spontaneously after 150 days of water storage. CONCLUSION: None of the cleaning methods was able to remove saliva and silicone disclosing agent on CoCr-alloy sur- faces. Surface activation by plasma treatment has no long-term effect on the bond strength.

Short curing time bulk fill composite systems: volumetric shrinkage, degree of conversion and Vickers hardness.

This study aimed to evaluate volumetric polymerization shrinkage, degree of conversion and Vickers hardness of four bulk-fill resin composites light-activated with their dedicated light curing units (LCUs). Four groups were evaluated, according to the type of composite and curing mode: Tetric EvoCeram Bulk-fill (TEBO) and Tetric EvoFlow Bulk-fill (TEBF) were light-activated with Bluephase Style 20i (20s, in high-mode), while Tetric Powerfill (TEPO) and Tetric Powerflow (TEPF) were light-activated with Bluephase PowerCure (3s). Volumetric polymerization shrinkage test (n = 6) was performed in standardized box-shaped class-I cavities of extracted third molars (4 x 4 x 4 mm). Teeth were scanned before and after resin composite application by micro-computed tomography, and acquired data were evaluated with Amira software. Degree of conversion (n = 5) was evaluated at the top and bottom surfaces of composite cylindric samples (4 mm diameter, 4 mm thickness) using an FT-IR spectrometer (spectra between 1,500 and 1,800 cm-1, 40 scans at a resolution of 4 cm-1). Three Vickers indentations (50 g / 15 s), spaced 500 µm apart, were performed on the top and bottom composite surfaces and averaged. One-way ANOVA was used for data evaluation. TEPF showed the lowest volumetric polymerization shrinkage (p < 0.05), while the other composites were not significantly different within each other (p > 0.05). All materials presented a significant decrease in degree of conversion and Vickers hardness when compared top to bottom surfaces (p < 0.05). Bottom to top surface ratios for degree of conversion ranged from 0.8 (TEBO and TEPO) to 0.9 (TEBF and TEPF), and from 0.4 (TEPO) to 0.7 (TEBF and TEPF) for hardness. In conclusion, resinous materials present a decrease in hardness and degree of conversion from top to bottom even when a higher power is used, while the flowable material TEPF showed the lowest volumetric shrinkage values compared to the other materials.

Evaluation of Microbiological Susceptibility and Long-term Adhesive Properties to Dentin of Primers with Terminalia catappa Linn.

PURPOSE: To investigate the antibacterial effects of Terminalia catappa Linn (TCL) leaf extracts at different concentrations and the effects of these extracts used as primers on the long-term adhesive properties of two universal adhesives. MATERIALS AND METHODS: After extract preparation, the antimicrobial and antibacterial activities of TCL against Streptococcus mutans (UA 159) were assessed in microdilution assays to provide the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC). Additionally, to provide quantitative data on the ability of TCL extract to reduce cell viability, colony forming units (CFU) were counted. To examine adhesive properties, 288 human molars were randomly assigned to 32 experimental conditions (n = 9) according to the following variables: (1) treatment agent: negative control (untreated surface), and primers at concentrations of 1xMIC, 5xMIC, and 10xMIC; (2) adhesives: Scotchbond Universal (SBU) and Futurabond Universal (FBU); (3) adhesive strategy: etch-and-rinse (ER) or self-etch (SE); and (4) storage time: 24 h or after 2 years. Primers were applied for 60 s, upon which the teeth were incrementally restored and sectioned into adhesive-dentin bonded sticks. These were tested for microtensile bond strength (µTBS) and nanoleakage (NL) after 24-h and 2-year water storage, as well as in-situ degree of conversion (DC) at 24 h. The chemical profile of the hybrid layer was determined via micro-Raman spectroscopy. Biofilm assay data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test; the pH of culture media and the chemical profile were analyzed by one-way ANOVA. The adhesive properties (µTBS, NL, DC) were evaluated using a four-way ANOVA and Tukey's test. Significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: Similar values of MIC and MBC were observed (2 mg/ml), showing bactericidal potential. CFU analysis demonstrated that concentrations of 5xMIC and 10xMIC significantly inhibited biofilm formation (p < 0.001). The application of the TCL primer at all concentrations significantly increased the immediate µTBS and DC, and decreased the immediate NL values when compared to the control group (p < 0.05), regardless of the adhesive and adhesive strategies. Despite an increase in the NL values for all groups after 2 years (p > 0.05), in groups where the TCL primer was applied, the µTBS remained constant after 2 years for both adhesives, while a decrease in the µTBS was observed in the control groups (p < 0.05). Usually, 10xMIC showed better results than 1xMIC and 5xMIC (p < 0.05). The application of TCL promoted cross-linking; cross-linking rates increased proportionally to the concentration of TCL (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Primers containing TCL promoted bactericidal and bacteriostatic action, as well as cross-linking with dentin, while maintaining the adhesive properties of the adhesive-dentin interface after 2 years of water storage.

Deep Margin Elevation - A Retrospective Clinical Study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the short- to mid-term restorative and periodontal outcome of deep margin elevation (DME) performed using resin composite. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-eight teeth treated with DME and indirect adhesive restorations were followed-up for a mean of 25.4 months (minimum: 12 months). Clinical and radiographic examination assessed the adaptation of the DME material and indirect restorations, presence of recurrent caries or discoloration, periodontal health at DME and non-DME sites, and periapical health. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 96.6%. One tooth showed signs and symptoms of apical pathology after 34 months following DME. No caries, discoloration, or periodontal pockets were detected in any of the treated teeth. DME had no detrimental effect on the gingival/periodontal health or plaque accumulation. There was no correlation between the distance from the DME material to the marginal bone level and pocket depth, gingival inflammation, and plaque accumulation (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Deep margin elevation might be considered a safe procedure for teeth with deep subgingival proximal caries in the short- and mid-term.

Tetracycline staining of the dentition: a review of the literature and report of a clinical case.

The present article reviews the literature regarding tetracycline staining of the dentition and its esthetic management. A total of 49 articles were identified in the initial search, and 22 articles met the eligibility criteria of this narrative literature review. Tetracycline staining results from its use in children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years, when tooth crowns are formed; the effects are dependent on the dosage, duration of treatment, stage of tooth mineralization, and activity of the mineralization process. Tooth bleaching is always the first treatment option for low-grade cases of tetracycline staining. Restorative procedures are indicated for severe staining. The article also describes the treatment of severe staining affecting the maxillary anterior dentition of a 48-year-old man who reported the systemic administration of tetracycline during childhood. Direct composite resin laminate veneers were proposed to achieve immediate, highly esthetic restorations. A combination of different resinous materials in different shades was applied to meet the needs of the patient. The use of direct composite resin laminate veneers satisfied the functional and esthetic demands of the patient at a lower cost than ceramic materials.

Effect of Surface Treatment with Alkaline Agents at Two Different Temperatures on Microshear Bond Strength of Zirconia to Composite Resin.

Background: Zirconia, with its excellent mechanical properties, has become a popular choice for esthetic and durable restorations due to the increasing demand of patients. It has overcome most of the limitations of all ceramic restorations. However, bonding to zirconia remains a challenge. Objectives: This study is aimed at assessing the effect of surface treatment with alkaline agents at two different temperatures on microshear bond strength (µSBS) of zirconia to composite resin. Materials and Methods: This in vitro, experimental study was conducted on zirconia blocks measuring 2 × 4 × 8 mm. The blocks were sandblasted with alumina powder and randomly assigned to 5 groups (n = 16 each). The blocks in groups 1 and 2 underwent surface treatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and groups 3 and 4 with zirconium hydroxide (Zr(OH)4) at room temperature and 70°C. Group 5 served as the control group and did not receive any surface treatment. After the application of bonding agent and its light-curing, composite cylinders in plastic tubes were bonded to the surface of each block and cured. After incubation, they underwent µSBS test. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha = 0.05). Results: The µSBS was significantly higher in all intervention groups than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The µSBS in Zr(OH)4 groups was significantly higher than that in NaOH groups (P < 0.05). The mean µSBS of heated groups was slightly, but not significantly, higher than the corresponding room temperature groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Surface treatment of zirconia with NaOH and Zr(OH)4 alkaline agents can increase its µSBS to composite resin; Zr(OH)4 was significantly more effective than NAOH for this purpose, but heating did not have a significant effect on µSBS.

Effects of different concentrations of bromelain and papain enzymes on shear bond strength of composite resin to deep dentin using an etch-and-rinse adhesive system.

BACKGROUND: The dentin substrate can be modified by proteolytic agents, which may affect the bonding strength of adhesive systems to the treated dentin surface. Papain, a cysteine protease enzyme with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can be used for deproteinization of dentin. An alternative deproteinizing enzyme is bromelain. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of deproteinization on the shear bond strength (SBS) of composite resin to deep dentin using different concentrations of bromelain and papain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty upper premolars were extracted and randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 12 per group). In all groups, the dentin surface was etched with 37% phosphoric acid. Group 1 did not receive any enzyme treatment, group 2 was treated with a 10% papain solution, group 3 was treated with a 15% papain solution, group 4 was treated with a 6% bromelain solution, and group 5 was treated with a 10% bromelain solution. After applying an etch-and-rinse adhesive system, the specimens were restored with composite resin and the SBS was measured. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found between groups 2 and 3 (10% papain and 15% papain, p = 0.004), groups 2 and 4 (10% papain and 6% bromelain, p = 0.017), groups 4 and 5 (6% bromelain and 10% bromelain, p = 0.021), and groups 3 and 5 (15% papain and 10% bromelain, p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Deproteinization with papain and bromelain at different concentrations after acid etching did not affect the SBS of composite resin to deep dentin when using an etch-and-rinse adhesive system. However, the group deproteinized with 15% papain demonstrated a higher SBS than the group deproteinized with 10% papain, and the group deproteinized with 6% bromelain showed a higher SBS compared to the group deproteinized with 10% bromelain.

Effects of Surface Textures Created Using Additive Manufacturing on Shear Bond Strength Between Resin and Zirconia.

PURPOSE: This investigation aimed to assess the impact of additive manufacturing-generated surface textures on zirconia bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Zirconia samples (n = 144) fabricated using digital light-processing (DLP) technology were categorized into 6 groups according to the type of surface conditioning (group NN: no designs, no air abrasion; group NY: no designs, with air abrasion; group GN: groove designs, no air abrasion; group GY: groove designs with air abrasion; group HN: hexagon grid, no air abrasion; group HY: hexagon grid, with air abrasion). Composite resin cylinders were cemented to the treated zirconia surfaces with dual-curing, self-adhesive resin cement (Clearfil SA Luting). The shear bond strength (SBS) was tested after water storage for 3 days or 3 days with an additional 10,000 thermocycles. RESULTS: The zirconia samples fabricated using DLP technology have high accuracy. The SBS of the NY, GY, and HY groups did not significantly differ after 3 days, and neither did the SBS of the NN, GN, and HN groups. The NN, NY, and HY groups exhibited reduced SBS compared to their initial values following artificial aging, while the SBS of the remaining three groups were not diminished. The GY group obtained the highest SBS value after aging. CONCLUSION: Printing grooves with air abrasion can improve the bond strength.

Effects of frequently consumed beverages by children on the surface roughness of compomers.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare changes on the surface roughness of conventional and colored compomers used in pediatric dentistry caused by beverages frequently consumed by children. METHODS: 176 conventional and colored compomer discs were prepared. The discs were divided into four equal subgroups and incubated in different beverages: distilled water, milk, fruit juice, and cola. The surface roughness of the samples was measured and recorded on Days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28. The data obtained were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: In distilled water and milk, the surface roughness of the conventional compomer was higher than the colored compomer after Day 7 (P< 0.05). In fruit juice and cola, the surface roughness of conventional and colored compomers was similar at all timepoints (P< 0.05). There was a significant difference between discs incubated in distilled water and milk, on Days 21 and 28 (P< 0.05). The colored compomer showed the highest roughness in cola on Day 1, whereas the conventional compomer showed the highest roughness in milk on Day 21. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Cola caused the highest surface roughness on the surface of colored compomers, whereas milk caused the highest surface roughness on conventional compomers.

Marginal adaptation of two-step self-etch versus universal adhesives for Class V restorations: Effect of Er:YAG laser vs. bur prepared cavities.

PURPOSE: To compare the in vitro effect of laser and bur preparation on marginal adaptation of Class V cavities restored with a 2-step self-etch and distinct universal one-component universal adhesives used in self-etching mode. METHODS: 96 Class V cavities were prepared with conventional burs or with an Er:YAG laser. Four universal self-etch (Unibond Extra Low Shrinkage, All Bond Universal, SKB-100 and Prime&Bond active) and a 2-step self-etch adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond) that served as control were used to restore the cavities with direct composite. The percentages of continuous margins were evaluated by quantitative SEM analysis before and after a fatigue test consisting of 240,000 occlusal loads and 600 warm/cold thermal cycles. RESULTS: The marginal adaptation of bur prepared restorations was statistically superior to laser-prepared ones. Class V cavities restored with Clearfil SE Bond and the one-component self-etching universal adhesives All Bond Universal and Prime&Bond active presented the highest and statistically similar percentages of continuous margins before and after loading under both bur and laser cavity preparation. The lowest percentages of continuous margins were observed in the groups restored with the low shrinking adhesive (Unibond ELS), with medians of 49 and 21 for bur and laser prepared cavities after loading. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Class V cavities presented smoother and higher percentages of continuous margins when prepared by bur rather than by laser. The 2-step self-etch adhesive Clearfil SE Bond and 1-step self-etch universal adhesives All Bond Universal and Prime&Bond active showed a comparable marginal performance.

Mechanical properties of ion-releasing restorative materials.

PURPOSE: To evaluate and compare the laboratory compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and diametral tensile strength (DTS) of Cention Forte and three bulk fill restorative materials. METHODS: A total of 168 specimens were prepared following the manufacturers' instructions and standards for testing CS, FS, and DTS. Mechanical properties of Cention Forte (LC-Cent) were compared to three commercial bulk-fill materials for posterior restorations: Fuji IX Extra (Fuji), Tetric PowerFill (TPF), and Equia Forte HT (Equia). The tests were performed 24 hours after storage in distilled water on a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.75 mm/minute. Strength values (MPa) were calculated and statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (P< 0.05). RESULTS: Analysis showed significant differences between tested materials for CS, FS, and DTS (P= 0.0001). LC-Cent showed the highest mean value for FS (112.8 MPa) with a significant difference compared to Fuji and Equia. DTS (49.2 MPa) of LC-Cent was significantly higher than all tested materials. TPF showed the highest mean value (180 MPa) for CS but without significant difference compared to LC-Cent. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ion-releasing material Cention Forte, according to obtained results, may serve as a viable alternative for posterior restorations compared to conventional bulk-fill restorative materials.