This study evaluated the influence of six resin composite coating agents on color stability and surface roughness after toothbrushing abrasion. Discs (Ø6 mm x 2 mm) of nanofilled resin composite (Filtek Z350XT) were prep...This study evaluated the influence of six resin composite coating agents on color stability and surface roughness after toothbrushing abrasion. Discs (Ø6 mm x 2 mm) of nanofilled resin composite (Filtek Z350XT) were prepared for application of coating agents (n=10): control (absence), two surface sealants (PermaSeal and BisCover LV), two adhesive systems (Scotchbond Multi-Purpose Adhesive/3M Oral Care and Single Bond Universal), and two modeling liquids (Modeling Resin and Composite Wetting Resin). CIELab*, WID, and color change (ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWID) were analyzed at baseline, after finishing and polishing, after application of coating agents, after coffee staining (simulating 30 days and one year of staining), and after toothbrushing abrasion. Roughness evaluations (Ra) were performed at the initial time point, after finishing and polishing, after application of coating agents, and after toothbrushing abrasion. Surface micromorphology was evaluated (2,000×) before and after toothbrushing abrasion. Generalized linear mixed models or Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (α=0.05) showed that L* decreased significantly (p<0.0001) and a* increased significantly in all the groups after staining (p<0.0001). After toothbrushing, Modeling Resin showed higher ΔEab and ΔE00 than the control, Scotchbond Multi-Purpose Adhesive, Composite Wetting Resin, PermaSeal, or BisCover LV (p<0.0001). There was a significant increase in roughness for Composite Wetting Resin, Modeling Resin, and PermaSeal after application of the agents (p<0.05), but a significant decrease for BisCover LV (p<0.05), which achieved high surface smoothness. After abrasive wear, BisCover LV showed the lowest roughness values among all agents. Composite Wetting Resin and Modeling Resin showed higher roughness than the other groups (p<0.05), and surface irregularities. In conclusion, the coating agents did not prevent coffee staining, and they also led to increased surface roughness, with only BisCover LV providing greater surface smoothness after toothbrush abrasion.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the fracture resistance of chairside computer assisted design and computer assisted manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate partial and full-coverage crowns and veneers for maxill...OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the fracture resistance of chairside computer assisted design and computer assisted manufacturing (CAD-CAM) lithium disilicate partial and full-coverage crowns and veneers for maxillary canines. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Forty-eight restorations for maxillary right canines (12 per group) were designed as follows: (1) partial crown with finish line in the upper middle third; (2) partial crown with finish line in the lower middle third; (3) traditional labial veneer; and (4) traditional full-coverage crown. Restorations were fabricated out of lithium disilicate (Amber Mill, Hassbio) using a chairside CAD-CAM system (Cerec Dentsply Sirona). Partial and full crowns and veneers were treated with a primer system (Monobond Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent) and cemented using dual-cure resin cement (Variolink Esthetic, Ivoclar Vivadent) and cemented to printed resin dies. Subsequently, the restorations were subjected to 10,000 thermocycles between 5°C and 55°C with a dwell time of 30 seconds. The restorations were then loaded axially on the incisal edge in compression to fracture with a flat indenter. RESULTS: Full-coverage crowns displayed the highest fracture resistance (809±28.57 N) followed by partial crowns with finish line in lower third (649±21.74 N) and crowns with finish line in upper third (421±17.46 N). Veneers displayed the lowest fracture resistance values (259±15.69 N). CONCLUSIONS: The fracture resistance of partial and full-coverage crowns and veneers was significantly influenced by the design. Full coverage crowns displayed the highest fracture resistance and partial crowns showed higher fracture resistance than traditional veneers.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the optical, mechanical, and biological properties of two new, inexpensive lithium disilicate (LS2) materials (Lodden (LOD), LD Medical Technology; and BeautyZir (BZ),...OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare the optical, mechanical, and biological properties of two new, inexpensive lithium disilicate (LS2) materials (Lodden (LOD), LD Medical Technology; and BeautyZir (BZ), BeautyZir Technology) to a clinically established LS2 material (IPS e.max CAD (EMAX), Ivoclar Vivadent). METHODS AND MATERIALS: The optical properties of the translucency parameter (TP) and opalescence parameter (OP) were obtained with a dental spectrophotometer. The mechanical properties of flexural strength (FS) and flexural modulus (FM) were determined through a three-point bend test conducted using a universal testing machine. Biocompatibility tests were conducted by analyzing cell proliferation using spectrophotometric absorbance (optical density) to determine relative growth rate and cytotoxicity. Representative specimens of the three LS2 materials were analyzed with X-ray diffraction to determine the relative crystalline phases. Data were analyzed with oneway ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α=0.05). RESULTS: Significant differences in optical and mechanical properties were found amongst the groups (p<0.05). Both LOD and BZ had significantly greater TP and OP compared to EMAX. EMAX and LOD had greater FS and FM than BZ. No significant differences in optical density or relative growth rate were found among any of the LS2 groups (p>0.05). EMAX and LOD had greater weight percent of lithium disilicate than BZ. CONCLUSIONS: The new lithium disilicate LS2 material, LOD, exhibited better optical properties while maintaining mechanical and biological properties similar to the established LS2 material, EMAX.
OBJECTIVES: This case report describes the clinical protocols for the removal of crowns, tooth extraction, immediate implant placement, and cementation of new crowns, all performed under total or partial isolation with a...OBJECTIVES: This case report describes the clinical protocols for the removal of crowns, tooth extraction, immediate implant placement, and cementation of new crowns, all performed under total or partial isolation with a dental dam. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The patient's chief complaint was dissatisfaction with her smile. Radiographic and clinical evaluations led to the recommendation to replace the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns on the maxillary central and lateral incisors with all-ceramic crowns. Considering the patient's wide smile, ceramic veneer restorations were also recommended for the maxillary canines and first premolars. An immediate implant placement was advised to replace the fractured maxillary right central incisor. CONCLUSIONS: Well-planned dental care including crown removal, tooth extraction, immediate implant placement, and cementation of new restorations can be successfully executed under isolation using a dental dam. The isolation improves access, visibility, and hygiene by preventing cross-contamination during the cementation procedure. The final outcome fulfilled the patient's esthetic demands.
YouTube has emerged as a popular platform for accessing educational content. However, its effectiveness has been a topic of debate in dental education. This study aimed to analyze the content and quality of YouTube video...YouTube has emerged as a popular platform for accessing educational content. However, its effectiveness has been a topic of debate in dental education. This study aimed to analyze the content and quality of YouTube videos focusing on Class II resin composite restorations. The first 100 videos of Class II resin composite information on YouTube were evaluated. The overall quality of the videos was assessed using the video information and quality index (VIQI) and Content Score based on Class II resin composite criteria. Videos with a score of less than the mean were recognized as low-content. No significant differences were observed between high- and low-content videos when the number of views, likes, duration, days since upload, viewing rate, and interaction index were investigated (p>0.05). The number of subscribers revealed a marginally significant difference (p=0.053). The high-content videos demonstrated higher mean values compared to the low-content videos in flow (4.6 vs. 3.8; p=0.0004), accuracy (4.3 vs. 3.3; p<0.0001), value (3.7 vs. 2.9; p=0.002), and precision (4.8 vs. 4.2; p=0.0002). The overall VIQI score was significantly higher (p<0.0001) in high-content videos (Mean 17.4; SD 1.5) compared to the low-content videos (Mean 14.2; SD 2.2). When the Content Score was assessed, high-content videos (Mean 9.9; SD 1.3) revealed a higher score (p<0.0001) than low-content-videos (Mean 4.2; SD 2.3). Most YouTube videos showcasing Class II resin composites serve as effective teaching tools. However, a significant number of videos with low content exist. Therefore, dental students should exercise caution when utilizing YouTube videos for learning purposes.
Adhesive dentistry has undergone significant advancements since its inception, marked by continuous improvements in material performance and adaptability to various dental and restorative substrates. Initially, the anato...Adhesive dentistry has undergone significant advancements since its inception, marked by continuous improvements in material performance and adaptability to various dental and restorative substrates. Initially, the anatomical differences between enamel and dentin made adhesive approaches challenging. Early systems were often complex and operator dependent, leading to the development of multistep protocols. However, advancements have led to the creation of more user-friendly self-etch systems and the emergence of universal adhesives (UAs). These UAs can be applied with equal effectiveness to different substrates, including enamel and dentin, simplifying the clinical workflow and enhancing reliability. The concept of universality has recently been extended to other dental materials, most notably universal resin cements. These cements offer a versatile approach as they are capable of both adhesive and self-adhesive bonding, thereby accommodating a wide range of restorative scenarios. The advent of these materials represents a significant advance toward simplifying procedures, reducing technique sensitivity and the likelihood of operator error, and achieving consistently high quality restorations. Current research focuses on further refining these universal materials to enhance their performance, making them a cornerstone of modern adhesive dentistry.
Physical and mechanical properties of high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composites submitted to additional polymerization for semi-direct use were evaluated. Filtek Z350 XT, Aura Bulk Fill, Beautifil Bulk Restorative, Filte...Physical and mechanical properties of high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composites submitted to additional polymerization for semi-direct use were evaluated. Filtek Z350 XT, Aura Bulk Fill, Beautifil Bulk Restorative, Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative, and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill were submitted to additional polymerization to evaluate sorption, solubility, surface microhardness, surface roughness before and after simulated brushing, color stability after coffee staining, flexural strength, elastic modulus, and modulus of resilience. Filtek Z350 XT and Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative showed higher sorption values, while Aura Bulk Fill showed higher solubility (p<0.0001). Microhardness values were significantly higher for Filtek Z350 XT (p<0.0001). Roughness increased after wear for all resins (p<0.05). All resins exhibited staining, with significantly higher ΔEab, ΔE00, and ΔWID values observed for Beautifil Bulk Restorative (p<0.0001). Flexural strength values were higher for Filtek Z350 XT and Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative in comparison with the others (p<0.0001). Filtek One Bulk-Fill had higher elastic modulus and modulus of resilience values (p<0.0001). Physical and mechanical properties varied according to the composition. None of the bulk-fill resins showed surface microhardness and roughness properties after brushing similar to or superior to those of the conventional type. Color stability after staining depended on resin composition, with Beautifil Bulk Restorative showing more intense staining.
The aim of this this study was to evaluate the surface roughness and color stability of resin composites (RCs) with color adjustment potential (CAP): Omnichroma (OM), (Tokuyama Dental, Tokyo, Japan); Neo Spectra ST (NS)...The aim of this this study was to evaluate the surface roughness and color stability of resin composites (RCs) with color adjustment potential (CAP): Omnichroma (OM), (Tokuyama Dental, Tokyo, Japan); Neo Spectra ST (NS) (Dentsply Sirona, York, PA,USA); and Charisma Diamond One (CD) (Kulzer, Hanau, Germany), compared to a conventional RC, Filtek Z350XT (FZ) (3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN,USA), after immersion in three staining solutions, cola, coffee, and black tea, with distilled water as a control. Forty specimens (8 mm diameter x 2 mm thickness) were prepared for each RC material and divided into subgroups (n=10/group) based on the immersion solution. Surface roughness was measured at baseline and after 21 days of immersion using a non-contact optical profilometer. Color change (ΔE00) was evaluated at baseline, 1, 7, and 21 days with a spectrophotometer. The results showed that FZ demonstrated the lowest surface roughness (0.14), significantly differing from that of the other RCs with CAP (p<0.05), while no significant differences in surface roughness were observed between RCs with CAP (p>0.05). There were no significant changes in surface roughness before and after immersion in various solutions. The results for color change (ΔE00) were statistically significant. Neo Spectra ST showed the lowest tendency for color change, while Filtek Z350XT displayed a moderate potential, and Omnichroma and Charisma Diamond One showed the highest potential for color change.
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fluoride-containing remineralization agents on enamel white spot lesions. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty bovine incisors were cut mesio-distally and occlu...INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of fluoride-containing remineralization agents on enamel white spot lesions. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty bovine incisors were cut mesio-distally and occluso-gingivally, creating 80 specimens, and divided into four groups (n=20/group): 1) control (no treatment); 2) fluoride varnish (Voco Profluoroid 5% NaF Varnish, VOCO Dental, Cuxhaven, Germany); 3) CPP-ACFP (MI Paste Plus with Recaldent, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan),; 4) self-assembling peptide (P11-4F, CURODONT Repair Fluoride Plus, Credentis AG, Windisch, Switzerland). After a three-week demineralization-remineralization cycle, white spot lesions were observed on the specimens. Before applying the remineralization agents, baseline demineralization values were determined using DIAGNOdent 2095, QLF-D Biluminator, SEM-EDS (KaVo Dental, Charlotte, NC, USA), and color values were measured by Vita EasyShade (Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany). Remineralization agents were applied once, following the manufacturers' instructions. The remineralization capacities of these agents and their effects on color change were evaluated at four time points: baseline (T0), demineralization (T1), and remineralization on the seventh (T2) and 30th (T3) days. RESULTS: After 30 days, CPP-ACFP and P11-4F showed significantly greater Ca (% by weight), F (% by weight), and Ca/P ratio than the fluoride varnish group (p<0.05). SEM images revealed that in the groups where the remineralization agent was applied, the pores and tubules were blocked, and the surfaces were covered, whereas these findings were not observed in the control group. Based on QLF-D Biluminator data, P11-4F application provided more successful fluorescence changes compared to CPP-ACFP and fluoride applications and was statistically more effective in reducing lesion volume and maximum fluorescence loss (p<0.05). Significant differences were observed among the four groups at the seventh (T2) and 30th days (T3) in the laser fluorescence evaluation with DIAGNOdent (p<0.05). On the seventh day, the fluoride group exhibited greater effectiveness than the control group, while on the 30th day, the CPPACFP group demonstrated superior improvement over the control group (p<0.05). According to color change results, applying a remineralization agent was found to be a statistically successful method in restoring the tooth's original color (p<0.05). However, there were no significant differences among the treatment groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: CPP-ACFP and P11-4F demonstrated positive effects on remineralization at the seventh and 30th days. Applying a remineralization agent is a viable option for blocking pores and tubules on demineralized enamel. The color change related to the use of the remineralization agent showed a positive effect over time.
OBJECTIVE: Systematic review and meta-analysis on laboratory studies aimed to answer whether there is a difference in fracture resistance and fracture mode of structurally compromised teeth restored with direct composite...OBJECTIVE: Systematic review and meta-analysis on laboratory studies aimed to answer whether there is a difference in fracture resistance and fracture mode of structurally compromised teeth restored with direct composite restorations reinforced with short glass-fiber or bidirectional polyethylene fiber substructure, and between the two different fiber-reinforcement types. METHODS: An electronic literature search was conducted in Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Lilacs, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and University Library databases. The last search was conducted on 16 November 2023. Only studies looking at Ribbond-reinforced restorations and/ or the use of EverX Posterior within restorations were included. Data were categorized and analyzed based on specific outcome measures including fracture resistance and fracture mode. Data from individual studies were divided into premolars and molars for each material category and then collated to compare the mean differences in fracture resistance between control groups (composite restorations) and intervention groups (fiber-reinforced composite restorations). RESULTS: From the initial 1266 articles identified, 23 laboratory-based studies were included for quantitative analysis. Twenty articles had an overall low risk of bias and 3 had an overall unclear risk of bias. The pooled estimate of the effect favored the intervention groups as having statistically significant higher fracture resistance when compared to control groups. CONCLUSIONS: Both fiber types improve fracture resistance and the fracture mode of structurally compromised teeth is equally efficient. Application technique deserves attention. Ribbond could be placed in a single layer at the cavity floor, whereas EverX Posterior should replace missing dentin in an anatomically shaped way.
Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) become common in individuals over the age of 40 and are progressive. Those that are wedge-shaped in cross-section likely develop hazardous stress concentrations along their sharp axia...Non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) become common in individuals over the age of 40 and are progressive. Those that are wedge-shaped in cross-section likely develop hazardous stress concentrations along their sharp axial extent, which can be distributed to lower, safer levels over a larger area via adhesive restoration. Restoration is indicated once a lesion progresses to a minimum restorable axial depth of at least 1.5 mm at the deepest extent, which threatens the strength of the tooth, especially a single-rooted tooth. Restorations with a glass ionomer or resin composite employing an adhesive system that is total-etch or is a self-etching primer combined with selective enamel etching are equally effective. Consequently, the restorative material can be selected based on isolation or esthetic factors.
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess color matching post-repair using the same or different single-shade composites of three distinct composite resin materials (Omnichroma-OM, ZenChroma-ZC, and Charisma Topaz One-CTO)...OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess color matching post-repair using the same or different single-shade composites of three distinct composite resin materials (Omnichroma-OM, ZenChroma-ZC, and Charisma Topaz One-CTO) following aging in coffee solution and distilled water. Evaluation focused on color change parameters (∆E00, ∆L00, ∆C00, and ∆H00). METHODS AND MATERIALS: Specimens were prepared in disk shape with a diameter of 8 mm and a height of 2 mm (n=180). Half of each composite group was immersed in distilled water, while the other half was immersed in coffee solution for 12 days each (n=90). After aging, cylindrical cavities with a diameter of 4 mm and a depth of 1 mm were prepared at the center of the specimens. The cavities were repaired with both themselves and other composite resins (n=10). Color measurements of the specimens were performed using VITA Easyshade 5 (VITA Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) at the following time points: baseline (T0), after aging (12 days) (T1), immediately after repair (T2), one day after repair (T3), one week after repair (T4), and one month after repair (T5). RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found in the mean ΔE00 measurements among the study groups at all time points for each of the three composite resins (p<0.05). Similarly, statistically significant differences were found in the mean ΔE00 measurements over time for each of the three composite resins in each study group (p<0.05). The baseline measurements of materials repaired with themselves in the distilled water groups and the final measurements of materials repaired with themselves in the coffee groups were found to be within acceptable ∆E00limits. At the end of the study, only CTO repaired with OM showed acceptable color matching with different composites in both coffee and distilled water groups. CONCLUSIONS: Acceptable color matching was achieved when using the same material for repair in specimens aged in distilled water and coffee. However, variations in matching were observed when different materials were used for repair, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring. Contributions of ΔL00, ΔC00, and ΔH00 values to color differences vary depending on the resins and repair process and change over time.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the mechanical and physical properties of dental dam sheets used for absolute isolation and to correlate the mechanical parameters with cost. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty-one dent...OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the mechanical and physical properties of dental dam sheets used for absolute isolation and to correlate the mechanical parameters with cost. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twenty-one dental dam sheets were tested: ALLPRIME; Madeitex; Sanctuary non-latex, Sanctuary latex black, green, and blue; Nic Tone blue and black; Mk Life; Elastidam; Bassi; Pribanic; Care; OK; MDC Dental; Keystone; Dura Dam; Flexidam; Sanctuary blue; Nic Tone blue; Ehros; and USE. The thicknesses of the dental dam sheets were measured using a digital micrometer (Mitutoyo). The dental dam sheets (n=15) were prepared by cutting the samples with dimensions of 80 × 10 mm with a 1.7 mm hole made at the center of each specimen, following the ISO 9001 standard. The specimens were tested using a universal testing machine (Emic) at a speed of 500 mm/min until rupture to calculate rupture force (RF, N), elongation (%), and ultimate tensile strength (UTS, MPa), their thickness (mm) was measured using a digital micrometer, and scanning electron microscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy were performed to analyze the structure and composition. The radiopacity was measured using digital radiography. Thickness, UTS, RF, and elongation data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). RESULTS: The Flexidam dental dam had the largest thickness (0.5 mm), while Nic Tone had a median thickness of 0.3 mm; the RF value (41.3 N) was higher for the thicker dental dams. The other dental dams had RF values ranging from 19 to 30 N. The highest elongation was obtained for the non-latex Sanctuary dental dam (600 mm). The Bassi dental dam had the highest UTS value (15 MPa), and medium and small particles were observed in most of the gums. A loss of continuity was detected in the structure of Sanctuary green and blue media. The predominant elements in the sheets were carbon, magnesium, sulfur, silicon, and calcium. CONCLUSIONS: The UTS, RF, and elongation varied substantially, indicating insufficient standardization of dental dam sheets. Nonetheless, most of the tested dental dams exhibited mechanical and physical properties suitable for clinical use. The correlation between the cost and mechanical properties of the dental dams was very low.
OBJECTIVE: This case report presents a novel technique for bridge restoration using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape and split dam isolation in situations where achieving complete dental dam isolation is challenging....OBJECTIVE: This case report presents a novel technique for bridge restoration using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape and split dam isolation in situations where achieving complete dental dam isolation is challenging. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Achieving high-quality isolation by controlling gingival crevicular fluid and intraoral relative humidity is important during cementation. However, an improved technique during bridge restoration is needed due to the difficulties faced with dental dam isolation. A porcelain fused to zirconia bridge extending from the maxillary canine to the first molar was used to demonstrate the novel restoration technique in this case report. Split dam isolation lowers the relative humidity in the oral cavity, and PTFE blocks the gingival crevicular fluid. The effects of combining PTFE tape with split dam isolation on isolation (controlling crevicular fluid, saliva, and relative humidity in the operative field) were similar to those obtained with dental dam isolation and made for easier removal of excess cement. CONCLUSIONS: The novel technique introduced in this case report can enhance isolation quality during bridge restoration.
OBJECTIVES: This case report describes a digital workflow for designing and 3D printing a guide with the dual purpose of gingivectomy and tooth preparation in the esthetic zone, to be followed by cementation of ceramic v...OBJECTIVES: This case report describes a digital workflow for designing and 3D printing a guide with the dual purpose of gingivectomy and tooth preparation in the esthetic zone, to be followed by cementation of ceramic veneers under rubber dam isolation. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The patient's primary concern was to improve her smile. After clinical evaluation, our recommendation was for a minimal gingivectomy to match the gingival zenith for both central incisors, to be followed by ceramic laminate veneers. A digitally designed and 3D printed guide was used for gingivectomy and tooth preparation for the ceramic veneers. Ceramic veneers were cemented under rubber dam isolation to maximize bonding properties. CONCLUSIONS: A single guide can be digitally designed and 3D printed to perform controlled gingivectomy and minimally invasive tooth preparations. The outcome of the gingivectomy improved the gingival architecture for central incisors, and the ceramic veneers fulfilled the patient's esthetic demands.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate surface roughness and bacterial adhesion after in situ biodegradation of the cementation interface of indirect restorations cemented with preheated resin composite. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Resin com...OBJECTIVE: To evaluate surface roughness and bacterial adhesion after in situ biodegradation of the cementation interface of indirect restorations cemented with preheated resin composite. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Resin composite blocks (Z250XT/3M ESPE) were cemented to bovine enamel (7 × 2.5 × 2 mm) using preheated microhybrid resin composites: (1) Filtek Z100 (3M ESPE) (Z100); (2) Gradia Direct X (GC America) (GDX); and (3) Light-cured resin cement RelyX Veneer (3M ESPE) (RXV) (n=21). The resin composites were preheated on a heating device (HotSet, Technolife) at 69°C for 30 minutes. Disk-shaped specimens (7 × 1.5 mm) were made for biodegradation analysis with the luting agents (n=25). The in situ phase consisted of 20 volunteers' using an intraoral palatal device for 7 days. Each device had six cylindrical wells for the blocks and the disk-shaped specimens. Biodegradation was evaluated through surface roughness (Ra), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micromorphological analysis, and colony-forming unit (CFU) count. The film thickness of the luting agents was also measured under stereomicroscopy. RESULTS: Increased surface roughness was observed after the cariogenic challenge without differences between the luting agents. Higher variation and surface flaws suggestive of particulate detachment were observed for Z100. No differences were observed in CFU counts. CONCLUSIONS: All materials underwent surface biodegradation, and the surface roughness of the resin cements was similar to or lower than that of the preheated resin composites. The resin composites' film thickness was thicker than that of the resin cement. Clinicians should be aware of these factors when choosing the use of preheated resin composite since it can lead to reduced longevity of the cementation interface and, therefore, restorations.
This paper aims to raise a discussion from the perspective of maintaining long-term oral health, posing a critical question: What holds greater significance for maintaining oral health, the longevity of restorations or t...This paper aims to raise a discussion from the perspective of maintaining long-term oral health, posing a critical question: What holds greater significance for maintaining oral health, the longevity of restorations or teeth? This question explores the aspects that truly matter in ensuring sustained oral health throughout an individual's life. Restoration longevity is well-researched, and evidence shows several risk factors influencing longevity. The dentist's decision-making factor may be of utmost importance, and further studies are needed to investigate its relevance. The critical risk factors for restoration longevity are active pathology (high caries risk), less prominent parafunction, and extensive defects such as endodontic treatment. However, tooth longevity and the main risk factors for tooth loss are not well-researched. The evidence shows dental caries, and its sequelae, are the principal reasons for tooth loss. Patient-related risk factors, especially those associated with lifestyle and health choices, play a major role in the longevity of restorations and, more importantly, tooth longevity. To provide personalized dental care with maximum patient benefit, clinicians should identify and record potential risk factors, promoting a healthy lifestyle to ensure tooth and dentition longevity. Moreover, the evidence suggests that decision-making frameworks based on minimal intervention principles offer the best standard for clinical practice, promoting a longstanding healthy oral environment.
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of battery levels on the emission of a multi-peak cordless LED light-curing unit (LCU) and the effect on the degree of conversion (DC) and Knoop hardness (KH) of a ligh...OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of battery levels on the emission of a multi-peak cordless LED light-curing unit (LCU) and the effect on the degree of conversion (DC) and Knoop hardness (KH) of a light-cure resin luting agent activated through varying lithium disilicate (LiS2) ceramic thicknesses and translucencies. METHODS: High and low translucency LiS2 discs (IPS e.max Press HT and LT, respectively; shade A1) with thickness of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mm were fabricated. Resin luting agent specimens (Variolink Esthetic LC) were prepared and cured using a Bluephase G2 LCU at different battery levels (100%, 50%, and 10%) through the LiS2 ceramics. The transmitted irradiance was evaluated using USB4000 MARC, while FTIR and a microhardness tester assessed DC and KH, respectively. After ensuring homoscedasticity, the data wee analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey HSD test (α=0.05). RESULTS: The study found strong positive correlations between battery levels and irradiance, particularly with no ceramic interposition and through HT ceramics (R2=0.9471), although this correlation diminished with thicker HT (R2=0.7907) and LT ceramics (R2<0.2980). Both battery levels and ceramic thickness significantly influenced transmitted irradiance (p<0.0001), resulting in lower values with decreased battery levels and increased ceramic thicknesses (p<0.0001). LT ceramics showed lower transmittance than HT. DC was significantly affected by both battery levels and ceramic thicknesses, with generally lower DC values except for LT ceramics at a 10% battery level (p<0.0001). No significant differences in DC were observed between HT and LT translucencies (p=0.548). KH was higher in HT than LT ceramics at 100% and 50% battery levels, with thicker ceramics showing lower KH values at 10% battery level (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Reduced battery levels in cordless LED curing units significantly affect the irradiance, degree of conversion, and hardness of light-curable resin luting agents. Maintaining battery levels above 50% is recommended for optimal performance. Thicker and more opaque ceramics significantly impacted incident irradiance. However, preserving radiant energy could potentially mitigate these limitations.