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Resin infiltration (RI) material ICON is used in treating early proximal caries lesions, as it depends on a micro–invasive infiltration technology. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of ICON resin infiltration (RI) on early proximal caries by comparing surface roughness and hardness before and after treatment with RI using atomic force microscopy (AFM), automated microhardness testing system (AMHTS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in vitro. Twenty seven premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were sectioned buccolingually, creating 54 specimens. Each specimen was immersed in demineralizing solution to induce caries. Only teeth with "International Caries Detection and Assessment System" codes 1 and 2 were selected. The specimens were divided randomly into either AFM, AMHTS or SEM groups, which examined demineralized enamel before and after treatment with ICON. The mean average surface roughness and root mean square roughness values of demineralized enamel treated with ICON were significantly higher than untreated lesions (P < 0.001). The mean Vickers hardness values for demineralized enamel treated with ICON was significantly higher than untreated lesions (P < 0.001). SEM showed irregular, pitted and rough demineralized enamel surface with destruction of enamel rods and dissolution of enamel crystals. After ICON application, the surface showed complete blockage of enamel rods with RI and irregular, rough uneven topography. RI application on proximal incipient caries increased surface roughness and hardness significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present investigation was to compare dental development in children from a non-Caucasian population (Saudi Arabia) with age- and gender- matched children from a Caucasian population (Australia). Study Design: Randomised study comparing two population groups using a common set of standards. METHODS: Dental ages of 842 Australian and 456 Saudi Arabian children were assessed from orthopantomograms (OPGs) using the method of Demirjian and co-workers. The children were divided into male and female groups of 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 13-14 year-olds, and the dental age of each child compared to that the corresponding calendar age group. Results: In both Australian and Saudi Arabian children, the dental ages were higher than the corresponding calendar ages. The largest difference between calendar and dental ages (1.10±0.80 years, p<0.001) was noted in 11-12 year-old Saudi Arabian girls, and the smallest difference (0.33±1.19 years, p<0.01) in 11-12 year-old Australian boys. These discrepancies between calendar and dental ages were significantly different between Australian and Saudi Arabian children (p<0.01). Conclusions: Although the results suggest that dental development of both Caucasian and non-Caucasian children are generally underestimated by current standards, a few age-specific differences between the two types of population can be discerned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]