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We evaluated bacterial endotoxin adhesion, superficial micromorphology and mechanical properties of latex and non-latex intermaxillary orthodontic elastics.To quantify the adhered bacterial endotoxin, elastics were divided into 5 groups: experimental (n = 12) latex and non-latex elastics, previously contaminated by an endotoxin solution, negative control (n = 6) latex and non-latex elastics without contamination, and positive control (n = 6) stainless steel specimens (metallic replicas), contaminated by an endotoxin solution. In parallel, the structural micromorphology (n = 6) and surface roughness of latex and non-latex intermaxillary orthodontic elastics were assessed using confocal laser microscopy. Force degradation (g) and deformation of the internal diameter change (mm) were also evaluated. Structural micromorphology, surface roughness (µm), force degradation (g) and internal diameter (mm) change were evaluated at time 0 and after 24 and 72 h in a deformation test. Data were analyzed by the Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, ANOVA and Bonferroni tests (α = 5%).Endotoxin adhered similarly to both types of elastics with scores of 3 ( 1.0 EU/mL). The surface microstructure of both types of elastics showed irregularities and porosities at all times. Initially, the latex elastics had a higher surface roughness (p 0.001) than the non-latex ones. After 24 h loading, surface roughness of the latex elastics was significantly reduced (p 0.001), while after 72 h, the values were similar for both types (p 0.05). The non-latex elastics had significantly higher force generation values (p 0.05) at 0, 24 and 72 h compared with the latex elastics, although there was a significant reduction (p 0.001) in force over time for both elastics. Despite similar initial values, non-latex elastics had a significantly larger internal diameter (p 0.001) after the loading periods of 24 and 72 h compared with the latex elastics.Both elastics showed high affinity with endotoxin and microstructural irregularities of their surface. The non-latex elastics generated higher force values but demonstrated greater deformation of the internal diameter after loading.ZIELSETZUNG: Wir untersuchten die bakterielle Endotoxinadhäsion, die oberflächliche Mikromorphologie und die mechanischen Eigenschaften von latexhaltigen und nicht-latexhaltigen intermaxillären kieferorthopädischen Elastics.Zur Quantifizierung des anhaftenden bakteriellen Endotoxins wurden die Elastics in 5 Gruppen eingeteilt: experimentelle (n = 12) Latex- und Nicht-Latex-Elastics, die zuvor mit einer Endotoxinlösung kontaminiert worden waren, Negativkontrolle (n = 6) Latex- und Nicht-Latex-Elastics ohne Kontamination und Positivkontrolle (n = 6) Edelstahlproben (metallische Nachbildungen), die mit einer Endotoxinlösung kontaminiert waren. Parallel dazu wurden die strukturelle Mikromorphologie (n =6 ) und die Oberflächenrauheit von intermaxillären Elastics aus Latex und aus Nicht-Latex mittels konfokaler Lasermikroskopie untersucht. Ebenfalls bewertet wurden der Kraftabbau (g) und die Verformung des Innendurchmessers (mm). Die strukturelle Mikromorphologie, die Oberflächenrauheit (µm), der Kraftabbau (g) und die Änderung des Innendurchmessers (mm) wurden zum Zeitpunkt 0 sowie nach 24 und 72 h in einem Verformungstest bewertet. Die Daten wurden mit den Tests Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn, ANOVA und Bonferroni (α = 5%) analysiert.Das Endotoxin haftete an beiden Arten von Elastics in ähnlicher Weise mit Scores von 3 ( 1,0 EU/ml). Die Oberflächenmikrostruktur beider Arten von Elastics zeigte zu jedem Zeitpunkt Unregelmäßigkeiten und Porositäten. Zu Beginn wiesen die Latex-Elastics eine höhere Oberflächenrauheit auf (p 0,001) als die Nicht-Latex-Elastics. Nach 24 h Belastung war die Oberflächenrauheit der Latex-Elastics deutlich geringer (p 0,001), während nach 72 h die Werte für beide Typen ähnlich waren (p 0,05). Die Nicht-Latex-Elastics wiesen nach 0, 24 und 72 h signifikant höhere Werte für die Krafterzeugung auf (p 0,05) als die Latex-Elastics, auch wenn die Kraft bei beiden Elastics im Laufe der Zeit signifikant abnahm (p 0,001). Trotz ähnlicher Ausgangswerte wiesen die Nicht-Latex-Elastics nach den Belastungszeiten von 24 und 72 h einen signifikant größeren Innendurchmesser (p 0,001) auf als die Latex-Elastics.Beide Elastics zeigten eine hohe Affinität zu Endotoxin und mikrostrukturelle Unregelmäßigkeiten auf ihrer Oberfläche. Die latexfreien Elastics erzeugten höhere Kraftwerte, wiesen aber nach der Belastung eine größere Verformung des Innendurchmessers auf.

Investigate the effect of erosive challenge with hydrochloric acid (HCl) on the surface of five different restorative materials.Ten plates of five restorative materials (Admira Fusion, Activa BioActive-Restorative, Charisma, Equia Forte HT Fil/EF, Filtek Universal Restorative/FU) were obtained. Half of the plate surfaces was covered with an adhesive tape, creating a control area, and the other side was submitted to the HCl (0.06 M HCl; pH 1.2; at 37 °C; for 30 h). Plates with control and HCl-treated areas were analyzed regarding the surface roughness (Sa), roughness profile (Rv), surface loss (SL), microhardness (MI), and gloss (GL) (n = 10). Surface morphology was analyzed by SEM and chemical elements were identified by EDX (n = 5). Data were evaluated by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).Most materials were not affected by HCl. FU showed the lowest Sa and Rv, and the highest GL after HCl. On the other hand, EF presented the highest Sa, Rv, and SL, and the lowest GL. The MI of materials was not changed after HCl. Topographical and chemical alterations were observed after HCl only for EF.The composites showed minor surface changes after HCl, which was not observed for the glass ionomer cement (EF). FU presented the best performance regarding the parameters evaluated.The effects of erosive challenge with HCl on composites were minimal, while the glass ionomer cements might not be indicated as restorative material for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate wear and surface roughness of in vivo irradiated human enamel and dentin after abrasive challenge. Methods: Using teeth donated by healthy patients or with head and neck cancer who received radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT), 42 enamel and dentin specimens were made, divided into three groups: control, RT and CRT (n = 14 in each group, both for enamel and dentin). The specimens were submitted to an in vitroexperimental abrasive using a brushing machine and wear and surface roughness were evaluated. Results: In enamel specimens, wear profile values of CRT and RT groups were not different from control (p-value >0.05). The RT group presents lower step values than CRT and control groups (p-value p-value >0.05). In dentin specimens, no significant difference in wear profile and step was observed in all groups (p-value >0.05). However, CRT and RT groups present higher values in final surface roughness (p-value Conclusion: The exposure to ionizing radiation (associated or not to chemotherapy) influenced the surface roughness of dentin and the wear (step) of enamel after the in vitro abrasive challenge. Trial registration: Ethical procedures were approved by the FORP/USP Research Ethics Committee (CAAE: 61308416.4.0000.5419) and Hospital do Câncer de Barretos/Fundação Pio XII (CAAE: 61308416.4.3001.5437). Clinical relevance: Considering probable effects of ionizing radiation on teeth structure, understanding the behaviour of enamel and dentin under physiological processes is important to prevent and treat adverse oral side effects related to radiotherapy.

The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of remineralizing agents on the surface roughness of eroded tooth enamel. Forty incisive bovines were selected and sectioned to obtain specimens of 4mm X 4mm, resulting in a surface area of 16,00mm², with a thickness of 2.50mm. The specimens were immersed in lemon juice, twice a day, over 5 days, and randomly divided into the following 4 groups: G1 = No treatment; G2 = 1.23% APF; G3 = Fluoride Varnish 5% and G4 = Regenerated. The surface roughness of the specimens was analyzed by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. The obtained data were submitted to ANOVA after attend the homogeneity (Levene´s) and normality tests (Kolmogorov-Smirnov). All tests were statistically significant at 5% (α=0.05). The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference on the enamel roughness surface area between groups in the experimental region and the founded values were higher at the experimental when compared to the control region, however, without differences between the groups in each region. It was concluded that the remineralizing agents were not able to reduce the surface roughness of the studied groups. Keywords: Tooth Erosion. Dental Enamel. Fluorine. Tooth Remineralization. Resumo O objetivo deste estudo in vitro foi avaliar a influência de agentes remineralizantes na rugosidade da superficial do esmalte dental erodido. Quarenta bovinos incisivos foram selecionados e seccionados para obter espécimes de 4 mm x 4 mm, resultando em uma área superficial de 16,00 mm², com espessura de 2,50 mm. As amostras foram imersas em suco de limão, duas vezes ao dia, durante 5 dias, e divididas aleatoriamente nos 4 grupos seguintes: G1 = Sem tratamento; G2 = Flúor gel 1,23%; G3 = Verniz fluoretado 5% e G4 =Regenerate. A rugosidade superficial das amostras foi analisada por microscopia confocal de varredura a laser. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à ANOVA após os testes de homogeneidade (Levene) e normalidade (Kolmogorov-Smirnov). Todos os testes foram estatisticamente significantes a 5% (α = 0,05). Os resultados mostraram que não houve diferença estatisticamente significante na rugosidade de área do esmalte entre os grupos na região experimental e os valores encontrados foram maiores na experimental quando comparados à região controle, no entanto, sem diferenças entre os grupos em cada região. Concluiu-se que os remineralizantes não foram capazes de reduzir a rugosidade da superfície dos grupos estudados. Palavras-chave: Erosão Dentária. Esmalte dentário. Flúor. Remineralização Dentária.

The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser associated or not to a desensitizing agent in the treatment of erosive lesions. Forty specimens with dimensions of 4mm x 4mm and 3mm thickness were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): G1- no treatment; G2- 5% fluoride varnish; G3- Er,Cr: YSGG; G4 - fluoride varnish + laser. The specimens were immersed in erosive drink 3 times a day for 1 minute with an average interval of 2 hours between cycles for a period of 10 days. The treatments were performed according to the groups and the surface roughness and the wear profile were analyzed by scanning confocal microscopy. The normality (Kolmogorov-Smirnov) and homogeneity (Levene's) of the tests were evaluated. After these analyzes, the surface roughness data were submitted to the statistical analysis of Variance Analysis (ANOVA). All tests adopted a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05). At the representative images of the wear profile, the morphology of bovine dental enamel in its control and eroded areas were compared and qualitatively discussed. As regard surface roughness, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. The qualitative analysis of the loss of volume showed that all experimental groups showed significant superficial morphology differences. Considering the limitations of an in vitro study, it can be concluded that the treatments performed were not able to treat dental erosion satisfactorily, indicating the need for more treatment sessions. Keywords: Tooth Erosion. Dental Enamel. Fluoride. YSGG Laser. ResumoO objetivo desse estudo in vitro foi avaliar a influência do laser Er,Cr:YSGG associado ou não a um agente dessensibilizante no tratamento de lesões erosivas. Foram confeccionados 40 espécimes com dimensões de 4mm x 4mm e 3mm de espessura, divididos em 4 grupos (n=10): G1- nenhum tratamento; G2- verniz fluoretado 5%; G3- aplicação do laser Er,Cr:YSGG; G4- verniz fluoretado + laser. Os espécimes foram imersos em bebida erosiva, 3 vezes por dia, durante 1 minuto, com intervalo médio de 2 horas entre os ciclos, por um período de 10 dias. Os tratamentos foram realizados de acordo com os grupos e que foram analisados a rugosidade superficial e o perfil de desgaste por meio de microscopia confocal de varredura. Avaliou-se a normalidade (Kolmogorov-Smirnov) e homogeneidade (Levene’s) dos dados. Após estas análises, os dados de rugosidade superficial foram submetidos ao teste estatístico de Análise de Variância (ANOVA). Todos os testes adotaram nível de significância de 5% (α=0,05). Através da obtenção das imagens representativas do perfil desgaste, a morfologia do esmalte dental bovino em suas áreas controle e erodida foram comparadas e qualitativamente discutidas. Quanto à rugosidade superficial, não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os grupos. A análise qualitativa da perda de volume mostrou que todos os grupos experimentais apresentaram diferenças significativas na morfologia superficial. Considerando as limitações de um estudo in vitro pode-se concluir que os tratamentos realizados não foram capazes de tratar a erosão dentária de forma satisfatória, indicando a necessidade de mais sessões de tratamento. Palavras-chave: Erosão dentária. Esmalte dental. Flúor. Laser de YSGG.

SUMMARY Objectives: This study evaluated the effect of toothbrushing with a dentifrice on gloss, roughness profile, surface roughness, and wear of conventional and bulk-fill resin-based composites. Methods and Materials: Gloss and surface roughness of resin-based composites (RBCs; Admira Fusion X-tra, Aura Bulk Fill, Filtek Bulk Fill Flowable, Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior Restorative, Filtek Supreme Ultra, Herculite Ultra, Mosaic Enamel, SDR flow+, Sonic Fill 2, Tetric EvoFlow Bulk Fill and Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill) were analyzed before and after brushing; the roughness profile and wear were also determined after toothbrushing. Representative three-dimensional images of the surface loss and images comparing the unbrushed and brushed surfaces were also compared. Analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc tests were applied (α=0.05) to the gloss, surface roughness, roughness profile, and surface loss data. Pearson's correlation test was used to determine the correlation between gloss and surface roughness, surface loss and percentage of gloss decrease after brushing, and surface loss and surface roughness after brushing. Results: For all RBCs tested after 20,000 brushing cycles, the gloss was reduced and the surface roughness increased (p Conclusions: Toothbrushing with a dentifrice reduced the gloss, increased the surface roughness, and caused loss at the surface of all the RBCs tested. Considering all the properties tested, Mosaic Enamel exhibited excellent gloss retention and a low roughness profile and wear, while Admira Fusion X-tra exhibited the greatest decrease in gloss, the highest roughness profile, and the most wear.

This study evaluated the effect of laser irradiation protocols using Thera Lase Surgery (TL), at 2.5 W (2.5) or 2.7 W (2.7), and Gemini (GE), at 1.2 W (1.2) or 1.5 W (1.5) of potency, on the root-end resection surface, in relation to external root temperature, roughness, and surface morphologic changes after the treatments, in the areas near to the root canal (RC) or external root surface (ER). Fifty teeth were endodontically treated and the root-end were resected 3 mm away from the root apex. The specimens were randomized into 5 groups (n = 10), according to the laser irradiation protocol: Control (CO-DW) without irradiation; (TL-2.5) Thera Lase Surgery, 2.5 W; (TL-2.7) Thera Lase Surgery, 2.7 W; (GE-1.2) Gemini, 1.2 W; and (GE-1.5) Gemini, 1.5 W. The external root temperature change was obtained through the difference between the highest value observed during the irradiation and the value at the beginning of the treatment. The surface roughness (µm) was analyzed by confocal laser microscopy and the apical surface morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, in RC or ER. The temperature change was similar between the irradiation protocols (p > 0.05). CO-DW and GE-1.5 provided the lowest surface roughness (p < 0.05), regardless of the analyzed area. TL-2.7 and GE-1.7 showed more uniform on apical resected morphology and a higher incidence of dentinal tubules occlusion, but only near the root canal (p < 0.05). Root-end resected surface submitted to TL-2.7 and GE1.7 irradiation protocols are more homogeneous and shown higher incidence of closed dentinal tubules near to root canal, despite providing a surface roughness.

Purpose To determine the effects of tooth brushing on the surface roughness (Sa) and morphology, maximum relative depth (Rv), gloss (GU), and microhardness (MH) of four esthetic restorative materials and enamel. Materials and methods A light-curing composite resin (Filtek Supreme Ultra [FSU], 3M ESPE), two hybrid resin/ceramic CAD/CAM materials (Lava Ultimate [LAV], 3M ESPE, and VITA Enamic [VEN], VITA Zahnfabrik), and a CAD/CAM feldspathic ceramic (VITA Blocs Mark II [VMA], VITA Zahnfabrik) were evaluated. Bovine enamel (ENA) was used as a control group. All surfaces were polished in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Samples were analyzed before and after brushing (30,000 cycles) regarding Sa and Rv using a 3D laser-measuring microscope. GU was evaluated every 10,000 tooth brushing cycles. MH was also measured before and after tooth brushing. The surfaces were observed using scanning electron and laser measuring microscopies to determine the wear patterns. Data were analyzed by paired t test, one-way or two-way repeated measures analysis of variance, and Tukey test (α = .05), depending on the method performed. Results The Sa increased significantly after brushing for all materials, except for VMA, which showed the opposite effect. ENA and VEN showed higher Rv than VMA. After 30,000 tooth brushing cycles, VMA showed the highest GU, while FSU showed the lowest. Also, little surface topography changes were observed for VMA. MH did not change significantly after 30,000 brushing cycles, except for LAV. Conclusion Brushing caused surface alterations in all tested materials except for feldspathic ceramic. The changes were more evident in resin-based materials.

This in vitro study evaluated the effect of the beam homogeneity of a multiple-peak light-curing unit on the surface microhardness and the effect of toothbrushing wear on the microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention of incremental and bulk-fill resin-based composites (RBCs). A LED light-curing unit (VALO) with four LEDs at the tip end (405, 445, 465A, and 465B nm emission peak) was used according to each manufacturer-recommended time to obtain disks (n=10) of six RBCs: Estelite Sigma Quick, Charisma Classic, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Filtek Z250, Filtek Supreme Ultra, and Filtek Bulk Fill. Microhardness values were obtained according to each LED positioning of the light-curing unit on the top surface of the RBCs and were analyzed before and after toothbrushing regarding microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention. Microhardness was considered homogeneous on the top surface regardless of the type of RBC or wavelength tested (p>0.05). Overall, toothbrushing did not reduce the microhardness of the RBCs but influenced the gloss values for most RBCs (p0.05). In conclusion, different wavelengths of the LED did not affect the top surface microhardness, regardless of the RBCs tested; and bulk-fill composites presented similar surface changes (microhardness, surface roughness, roughness profile, volume loss, and gloss retention) when compared to conventional composites after toothbrushing. Resumo Este estudo in vitro avaliou a homogeneidade do feixe de um fotopolimerizador de múltiplos picos na microdureza superficial e o efeito da escovação na microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e retenção do brilho de compósitos a base de resina (RBCs) incrementais ou bulk-fill. Um fotopolimerizador LED (VALO) com quatro LEDs na ponteira (405, 445, 465A e 465B nm de pico de emissão) foi usado de acordo com o tempo recomendado por cada fabricante para obtenção de discos (n=10) de seis RBCs: Estelite Sigma Quick, Charisma Classic, Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Filtek Z250, Filtek Supreme Ultra e Filtek Bulk Fill. Os valores de microdureza foram obtidos seguindo o posicionamento de cada LED na superfície superior das amostras e foram analisados antes e após a escovação quanto a microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e retenção do brilho. A microdureza foi considerada homogênea no topo da superfície, independentemente do tipo de RBCs ou comprimento de onda testados (p>0.05). No geral, a escovação não reduziu a microdureza das RBCs, mas influenciou o brilho para a maioria das RBCs (p0.05). Em conclusão, os diferentes comprimentos de onda do LED não alteraram a microdureza do topo da superfície, independentemente das RBCs testadas; e as resinas bulk-fill apresentaram alterações superficiais similares (microdureza, rugosidade superficial, perfil de rugosidade, perda de volume e manutenção do brilho) quando comparadas às resinas convencionais após a escovação.

To evaluate the effects of stomach and duodenal fluid on enamel surfaces, simulating the action of refluxed liquid in patients with duodenogastric reflux.Forty bovine incisors were used to obtain enamel fragments. Only half of the enamel surface was exposed to erosive challenges; the samples were then randomly divided into the following four groups (n = 10): G1: HCl; G2: HCl + pepsin; G3: HCl + ox bile + NaHCO3; and G4: HCl + pancreatin + NaHCO3. The specimens were placed in 37°C solutions, six times per day, for 20 s, over a period of 5 days and then analysed for morphology, surface roughness and the step formed on the dental enamel using confocal laser microscopy. The data were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test (p0.05).Both analyses revealed a higher step and surface roughness for the G3 group (5.6 μm ± 1.69, 2.2 μm ± 1.61), which were statistically significant compared with the G1 and G2 groups (3.9 μm ± 1.5 μm; 1.0 μm ± 0.18; 3.7 μm ± 1.45; and 0.9 μm ± 0.12) (p0.05); only the step in the G4 group (4.9 μm ± 1.8 μm) was similar to that of the G3 group (p0.05). Morphological analysis showed greater structural loss in the G3 and G4 groups.Bile and pancreatin, in combination with hydrochloric acid, may promote a greater loss of structure, increased surface roughness and loss of enamel prismatic anatomy.

This study evaluated the effect of desensitizing agents associated with a laser diode on dentin permeability and surface morphology.One hundred four bovine root dentin specimens were randomly divided into four groups and two subgroups (n = 13): G1A = no treatment (control), G1B = diode laser, G2A = Oxagel, G2B = diode laser + Oxagel, G3A = MI Paste™, G3B = diode laser + MI Paste™, G4A = Sensitive Pro-Relief™ in-office, G4B = diode laser + Sensitive Pro-Relief™ in-office. For permeability analysis, 10 specimens from each subgroup were immersed in 1% hydrochloric acid (three times for 20 seconds at intervals of 2 hours) to expose the dentinal tubules. The application of desensitizing agents was performed according to the manufacturer's instructions and irradiation with the laser diode was made for 25 sec (contact mode, 970 nm ± 10 nm, 0.7W CW, 10 Hz). After that, the permeability was measured in digitized images in an optical microscope. The remaining specimens (n = 3) were divided into two areas (control and experimental) and the surface morphology was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The permeability values were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA).For dentin permeability, no statistically significant differences were noted among the treatments. No significant differences were verified on the dentin surface by scanning electron microscopy.The desensitizing agents alone or associated with a diode laser did not affect the root dentin permeability and the dentin surface morphology.

The aim of this study was to evaluate color change, mineral composition and topography of the enamel after the pre-treatment with non-thermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) followed by 38% hydrogen peroxide (HP) bleaching. Buccal enamel of bovine incisors teeth was stained with black tea solution and then divided into five groups (n = 12), according to the plasma application time: PL1 (one minute) or PL2 (2 min) and number of HP applications: HP1 (one) and HP3 (three). The following groups were investigated: HP3, PL1+HP1, PL1+HP3, PL2+HP1 and PL2+HP3. Four color measurements: initial (untreated), after staining and after bleaching (first and second sessions), were performed using an intraoral spectrophotometer (Vita Easyshade). Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) was used to analyze the mineral composition of the enamel before and after two bleaching sessions. Laser confocal microscopy was used to analyze the enamel topography. The pre-treatment with NTAP did not improve the whitening results. The use of NTAP preserves the concentration of calcium and phosphorus, only HP3 group experimented a significant decrease in the mineral concentration. All the bleached groups, with or without NTAP treatment increased their enamel roughness. The application of NTAP did not influence the color change, but it was important to maintain the mineral composition of bleached teeth. All the groups increased their roughness level.

The longevity of a composite resin restoration is constantly being sought in the field of dentistry. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cysteine cathepsins (CCs) in the dentin matrix when activated participate in the degradation of collagen fibrils and extracellular components. The preservation of the structural integrity of collagen and the matrix maintains the mechanical properties, chemical stability and resistance to degradation of resin-dentin bonded interface, contributing to restoration durability. Thus, it is of fundamental importance to employ methods and / or agents that promote the inactivation of MMPs and CCs to improve the chemical stability of the adhesive interface. So, several crosslinking agents have been studied (natural and synthetic), however it is observed that chitosan and proanthocyanidin show reliable results and both promote protease inactivation and provide better collagen web resistance, and thus increase the longevity of the restoration procedure.

CNPq - Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico FAPESP - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo The effects of tooth brushing could affect the long-term esthetic outcome of composite restorations. This study evaluated the effect of two different emission spectrum light-curing units on the surface roughness, roughness profile, topography and microhardness of bulk-fill composites after in vitro toothbrushing. Valo (multiple-peak) and Demi Ultra (single-peak) curing lights were each used for 10s to polymerize three bulk-fill resin composites: Filtek Bulk Fill Posterior Restorative (FBF), Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill (TET) and Surefil SDR Flow (SDR). After 30,000 reciprocal strokes in a toothbrushing machine, the roughness profile, surface roughness, surface morphology, and microhardness were examined. Representative SEM images were also obtained. When light-cured with the Demi Ultra, SDR showed the most loss in volume compared to the other composites and higher volume loss compared to when was light-cured with Valo. The highest surface roughness and roughness profile values were found in SDR after toothbrushing, for both light-curing units tested. FBF always had the greatest microhardness values. Light-curing TET with Valo resulted in higher microhardness compared to when using the Demi Ultra. Confocal and SEM images show that toothbrushing resulted in smoother surfaces for FBF and TET. All composites exhibited surface volume loss after toothbrushing. The loss in volume of SDR depended on the light-curing unit used. Toothbrushing can alter the surface roughness and superficial aspect of some bulk-fill composites. The choice of light-curing unit did not affect the roughness profile, but, depending on the composite, it affected the microhardness

To evaluate the effect of ultrasonic, sonic and rotating-oscillating powered toothbrushing systems on surface roughness and wear of white spot lesions and sound enamel.40 tooth segments obtained from third molar crowns had the enamel surface divided into thirds, one of which was not subjected to toothbrushing. In the other two thirds, sound enamel and enamel with artificially induced white spot lesions were randomly assigned to four groups (n=10) : UT: ultrasonic toothbrush (Emmi-dental); ST1: sonic toothbrush (Colgate ProClinical Omron); ST2: sonic toothbrush (Sonicare Philips); and ROT: rotating-oscillating toothbrush (control) (Oral-B Professional Care Triumph 5000 with SmartGuide). The specimens were analyzed by confocal laser microscopy for surface roughness and wear. Data were analyzed statistically by paired t-tests, Kruskal-Wallis, two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-test (α= 0.05).The different powered toothbrushing systems did not cause a significant increase in the surface roughness of sound enamel (P0.05). In the ROT group, the roughness of white spot lesion surface increased significantly after toothbrushing and differed from the UT group (P0.05). In the ROT group, brushing promoted a significantly greater wear of white spot lesion compared with sound enamel, and this group differed significantly from the ST1 group (P0.05). None of the powered toothbrushing systems (ultrasonic, sonic and rotating-oscillating) caused significant alterations on sound dental enamel. However, conventional rotating-oscillating toothbrushing on enamel with white spot lesion increased surface roughness and wear.None of the powered toothbrushing systems (ultrasonic, sonic and rotating-oscillating) tested caused significant alterations on sound dental enamel. However, conventional rotating-oscillating toothbrushing on enamel with white spot lesion increased surface roughness and wear.

To evaluate the in vitro effects of radiotherapy (RT) on the morphological surface of the enamel and dentin and to determine the best adhesive system and most appropriate time to restore teeth in head and neck cancer patients. Sixty third molars were cut into 120 enamel fragments and 120 dentin fragments and divided into four groups (n = 30): G1 (control): nonirradiated, only restorative procedure; G2: restorative procedure immediately before RT; G3: restorative procedure immediately after RT; and G4: restorative procedure 6 months after RT. Each group was divided into two subgroups: Adper™ Single Bond 2 (SB) and Clearfill SE Bond (CL) based on the material used. After RT and restorative procedures, the specimens were subjected to confocal microscopy and shear bond strength test. Data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test at a significance level of 5%. Morphological changes were observed in both substrates after a cumulative dose of 40 Gy, and after 60 Gy, the changes were more evident in both substrates. CL had the highest strength values in both substrates (p

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of the Er,Cr:YSGG laser, associated or not to desensitizing agents, in the prevention of acid erosion in bovine root dentin. Eighty dentin specimens were selected and divided into eight groups (n = 10): G1: negative control; G2: positive control (5% fluoride varnish-FV); G3: Er,Cr:YSGG laser; G4: FV + laser; G5: 3% potassium oxalate; G6: 3% potassium oxalate + laser; G7: biphasic calcium silicate/phosphate gel (gel); G8: gel + laser. Laser parameters: 0.5 W, 6.25 J/cm2 at 1-mm distance. The erosive drink used was a cola soft-drink (pH = 2.42 at 4 °C), lasting 5 min, twice a day, with 6-h intervals between the challenges, during 14 days. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene’s tests were satisfied. The surface roughness data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. For the wear profile, Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn post hoc tests were used. Afterwards, the Spearman correlation test was performed. All statistical tests assumed a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05). G1 presented the highest surface roughness value after the erosive challenge (3.586 μm2 ± 0.205 μm2) and the G7 presented the lowest surface roughness value after the erosive challenge (1.071 μm2 ± 0.180 μm2). For the lost volume, G4 presented the lowest percentage (9.7% ± 0.9%), while G1 had the highest percentage (41.8% ± 2.5%), both with p

This study aims to evaluate how casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) associated with Nd:YAG or Diode laser affects dentin exposed to hydrochloric acid (HCl) with or without tooth brushing.One hundred and sixty human root dentin blocks were selected after they were initially eroded with liquid HCl (pH 1.2) 3x for one day. The blocks were divided into the following groups: G1- liquid HCl (HCl-l), G2- HCl-l + brushing, G3- gaseous HCl (HCl-g), and G4- HCl-g + brushing. Each group was randomly assigned to the following treatments (n = 10): A) Control (no treatment), B) CPP-ACP, C) CPP-ACP associated with Nd:YAG laser (λ = 1064 nm) (40 mJ, 10 Hz, 0.4 W, 15 s), and D) CPP-ACP associated with Diode laser (λ = 980 nm) (0.5 W, 200 μs, 15 s). The treatment with CPP-ACP (G2, G3 and G4) was applied on the dentine surface for 5 min. Erosion (6x/day/20 s) and erosion (6x/day/20 s) with abrasion (2x/10 s) were performed for five days. Dentin volume loss was determined by 3D confocal laser microscopy. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests.G1 - CPP-ACP (10.77 ± 1.66) and CPP-ACP associated with Diode laser (9.98 ± 0.89) showed lower volume loss in relation Control group (12.86 ± 0.63) (p 0.05). G2 - CPP-ACP associated with Diode laser (12.41 ± 1.08) elicited lower volume loss as compared to the Control (14.42 ± 1.24) (p 0.05). As for G3 and G4, all treatments showed similar volume loss.CPP-ACP and CPP-ACP associated with Diode laser could control dental tissue loss in dentin eroded by liquid HCl. Moreover, CPP-ACP associated with Diode laser could effectively decrease dental tissue loss in dentin exposed to liquid HCl and brushing.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the Er:YAG laser and its association with fluoride (1.23% acidulate phosphate fluoride gel) on the prevention of enamel erosion. Sixty specimens were obtained from bovine enamel (4 × 4 mm), which were ground flat, polished, and randomly divided into five groups according to the preventive treatments: control-fluoride application; L--Er:YAG laser; L+F--laser + fluoride; F+L--fluoride + laser; L/F--laser/fluoride simultaneously. Half of the enamel surface was covered with nail varnish (control area), and the other half was pretreated with one of the preventive strategies to subsequently be submitted to erosive challenge. When the laser was applied, it was irradiated for 10 s with a focal length of 4 mm and 60 mJ/2 Hz. Fluoride gel was applied for 4 min. Each specimen was individually exposed to regular Coca-Cola® for 1 min, four times/day, for 5 days. Wear analysis was performed with a profilometer, and demineralization was assessed with an optical microscope. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test (wear)/Dunn test and ANOVA/Fisher's exact tests. The group L/F was similar to control group. The other groups showed higher wear, which did not present differences among them. In the demineralization assessment, the groups F+L and L/F showed lower demineralization in relation to the other groups. It can be concluded that none preventive method was able to inhibit dental wear. The treatments L/F and F+L showed lower enamel demineralization.

The purpose of this study was to analyze, correlate, and compare the deminerali- zation and permeability of dentin remaining after caries removal with either an Er:YAG laser, a bur, or a curette. Thirty human dentin fragments were immersed in a demineralizing solution for 20 days and were randomly divided into three groups (n 5 10) for the removal of the demineralized lesion. The groups were G1—Er:YAG laser (200 mJ/6 Hz; noncontact at 12 mm; spot: 0.63 mm), G2—Bur, and G3—Curette. The specimens were then immersed in a 10% copper sulfate solution, then in a 1% dithiooxamide alcoholic solution for 30 min and kept in ammonia vapor for 7 days. Next, the specimens were examined with optical microscopy. The amount of demineralized dentin and the level of copper ion infiltration in the dentin were quantified in lm using Axion Vision soft- ware. Data were analyzed with the Kruskal-Wallis test (p < 0.05) and Pearson's Correlation test. The analysis revealed no significant differences between the three caries removal methods in terms of their capacity to remove demineralized tissue (G1: 10.6 lm; G2: 8.4 lm; G3: 11 lm), although the laser removal generated more tissue permeability than the others methods (G1: 17.6 lm; G2: 6.6 lm; G3: 5.5 lm). The correlation between the remaining demineralized dentin and the dentin per- meability was moderate for the conventional methods and higher for the Er:YAG laser. It can therefore be concluded that the laser produced an increase in permeability that was directly pro- portional to the amount of demineralized tissue removal. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:225-230, 2013. V C 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

O objetivo deste trabalho in vitro foi avaliar a influência de diferentes agentes remineralizantes no tratamento de lesões erosivas em esmalte. Foram confeccionados espécimes de 4mmx4mm e 3 mm de espessura a partir da superfície vestibular de incisivos bovinos (n=10) e divididos aleatoriamente em 4 grupos. G1=aplicação do dentifrício remineralizante, G2= aplicação do agente potencializador remineralizante, G3= dentifrício remineralizante + agente potencializador remineralizante, G4=aplicação de verniz fluoretado (controle positivo), G5=nenhum tratamento (controle negativo). Os espécimes foram imersos em refrigerante durante um período de 10 dias. A rugosidade superficial foi analisada por meio de microscopia confocal de varredura a laser. Os dados foram analisados quanto à homogeneidade (Levene’s) e normalidade (Kolmogorov- Smirnov). Foram realizados testes paramétricos com análise de variância a dois critérios: fator tempo e fator tratamento, e pós-teste de Tukey para diferenciação das médias. Todos os testes estatísticos tiveram nível de significância de 5% (α=0,05). Os resultados obtidos mostraram diferenças estatisticamente significantes, demonstrando a redução da rugosidade da superfície do esmalte logo após o primeiro tratamento (G3) e para os demais grupos (G1, G2 e G4) somente após o segundo tratamento. Concluiu-se que a utilização de dentifrício composto por silicato de cálcio e fosfato de sódio influenciou na rugosidade do esmalte erodido do dente bovino.Palavras-chave: Dentifrícios. Erosão Dentária. Esmalte Dentário.Abstract The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of different remineralizing agents in the treatment of enamel erosive lesions. Specimens of 4mmx4mm and 3mm thickness were made from the buccal surface of bovine incisors (n=10) and randomly divided into 4 groups. G1 = application of the remineralizing dentifrice, G2 = application of the remineralizing agent, G3 = remineralizing dentifrice + remineralizing agente, G4 = application of fluoride varnish (positive control), G5 = no treatment Specimens were immersed in refrigerant solution during a period of 10 days. The surface roughness was analyzed by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. The data were analyzed for homogeneity (Levene's) and normality (Kolmogorov-Smirnov). Parametric tests with analysis of variance were performed on two criteria: time factor and treatment factor, and Tukey post-test for differentiation of means. All tests were statistically significant at 5% (α = 0.05). The results showed statistically significant difference, demonstrating the reduction of surface roughness after the first treatment (G3) and the other groups (G1, G2 and G4) only after the second treatment. It was concluded that the use of dentifrice composed of calcium silicate and sodium phosphate influenced the roughness of the eroded tooth enamel of the bovine tooth.Keywords: Dentifrices. Tooth Erosion. Tooth Enamel.

Objectives This triple-blind, 2 × 2 crossover in situ study, was undertaken to verify whether the wear resistance of enamel and root dentine would be affected by bleaching with a 10% carbamide peroxide agent and a placebo agent. Methods Thirty slabs of each substrate (2 mm × 3 mm × 2 mm) were selected for each phase, after flattening and polishing procedures and microhardness test. After a 7-day lead-in period, one specimen of each substrate was randomly bonded on the facial surface of each one of 30 subject's upper second premolars. The volunteers received instructions on how to perform toothbrushing and application of gel in the tray. Fifteen volunteers bleached their maxillary arch with a 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching agent for a 2-week period, while the remainders used a placebo agent. After a 1-week washout period, a new set of enamel and root dentine slabs were bonded to the premolars and volunteers were crossed over to the alternate agent for 14 days. The resistance of enamel and root dentine to wear following bleaching, toothbrushing and intraoral exposure was measured with a profilometer, using reference areas. Results For enamel, ANOVA did not demonstrate significant difference between wear provided by placebo and bleaching agent ( p = 0.3713), but higher wear depth was observed for bleached root dentine ( p = 0.0346). Conclusions While overnight bleaching caused no alteration in wear resistance of enamel, root dentine showed increased tissue loss.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of low and highly concentrated bleaching agents on microhardness and surface roughness of bovine enamel and root dentin. Methods: According to a randomized complete block design, 100 specimens of each substrate were assigned into five groups to be treated with bleaching agents containing carbamide peroxide (CP) at 10% (CP10); hydrogen peroxide (HP) at 7.5% (HP7.5) or 38% (HP38), or the combination of 18% of HP and 22% of CP (HP18/CP22), for 3 weeks. The control group was left untreated. Specimens were immersed in artificial saliva between bleaching treatments. Knoop surface microhardness (SMH) and average surface roughness (Ra) were measured at baseline and post-bleaching conditions. Results: For enamel, there were differences between bleaching treatments for both SMH and Ra measurements (p = 0.4009 and p = 0.7650, respectively). SMH significantly increased (p

The aim of this study was to evaluate by atomic force microscopy (AFM) the early phases and evolution of dental enamel erosion caused by hydrochloric acid exposure, simulating gastroesophageal reflux episodes. Polished bovine enamel slabs (4x4x2 mm) were selected and exposed to 0.1 mL of 0.01 M hydrochloric acid (pH=2) at 37 ?#61472;?#61616;C using five different exposure intervals (n=1): no acid exposure (control), 10 s, 20 s, 30 s and 40 s. The exposed area was analyzed by AFM in 3 regions to measure the roughness, surface area and morphological surface. The data were analyzed qualitatively. Roughness started as low as that of the control sample, Rrms=3.5 nm, and gradually increased at a rate of 0.3 nm/s, until reaching Rrms=12.5 nm at 30 s. After 40 s, the roughness presented increment of 0.40 nm only. Surface area (SA) increased until 20 s, and for longer exposures, the surface area was constant (at 30 s, SA=4.40 μm2 and at 40 s, SA=4.43 μm2). As regards surface morphology, the control sample presented smaller hydroxyapatite crystals (22 nm) and after 40 s the crystal size was approximately 60 nm. Short periods of exposure were sufficient to produce enamel demineralization in different patterns and the morphological structure was less affected by exposure to hydrochloric acid over 30 s.

The aim of this study was to assess any long-term chemical and morphological Nd:YAG laser modifications on irradiated primary enamel.Previous studies on irradiated primary human enamel employed methodologies that evaluated the short-term effects only.One hundred and eighty-six irradiated (with and/or without fluoride) primary enamel teeth from high-caries-risk children, which were exfoliated over a 1-year period, were collected, and the sample surface area was submitted for scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The subsurface was analyzed by Knoop microhardness and light microscopy (LM). Data were analyzed by one way ANOVA and Tukey tests (α=0.05) and Kruskall-Wallis and Tukey tests (α=0.05).FTIR analysis revealed a higher concentration of phosphate and carbonate in the irradiated (0.987±0.064) and lower concentration in the control groups (1.477±0.310). SEM analysis showed that the control samples exhibited a slightly smoother surface than the irradiated groups. The EDS analysis did not show any differences in the amount of calcium, phosphorus, or fluoride among the groups. The microhardness analysis revealed that sealant (249.86±7.15) and laser irradiation (262.44±22.69) led to higher hardness values than the negative control group (128.35±25.19). LM indicated significantly reduced caries formation in the laser (5.35±5.38%) and the laser plus acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) groups (10.35±0.88%) compared with the negative control group (72.56±12.86%).Even with the limitations of the present study, these results suggest that Nd:YAG irradiation clinically modified the chemical composition of the enamel surface regardless of fluoride concentration, which successfully inhibited demineralization of primary tooth enamel over a 1-year period without significant morphological changes.

Objective: This study sought to evaluate whether root dentine caries-like lesions could be remineralised by saliva substitutes. Methods: Root dentine slabs (3 × 3 × 2 mm) were cut from bovine incisors, ground flat, polished and pre-tested for Knoop microhardness (KHN) at five locations spaced 500 μm apart and 500 μm from the left edge of each sectioned piece. After 60 out of the 100 slabs had been selected based upon their KHN values, specimens were coated with wax except for their outer surface. Specimens were then cycled through a highly cariogenic challenge model to induce caries-like lesions, whose formation was confirmed by KHN measurements located 500 μm from the right edge of the specimen. According to a randomised complete block design, the experimental units (n = 15) were exposed to 1.5 ml of saliva substitutes, based on either mucin (MC) or carboxymethylcellulose (CM), to natural human saliva (HS) or to 100% relative humidity (RH) over 20 days. Remineralisation was verified by KHN measurements located 1000 μm apart from the right edge of the specimen. Results: Analysis of variance indicated a significant (p

A critical testing aspect for a reliable two-body wear simulation may be the lubricity condition. The main hypothesis tested in this study was that, over the experiment duration, the presence or absence of lubricants would provide to a composite similar wear rates to those observed under human saliva lubrication.Seventy specimens, fabricated from a minifill composite, were tested in a programmable logic controlled wear simulator with human saliva (HS), mucin-based artificial saliva (MC), carboxymethylcellulose-containing saliva (CM), deionized water (DW) or with no lubrication (UN). Wear depth was quantified at the end of 1000, 5000, 10,000 and 50,000 cycles and at each 50,000 through 250,000 cycles.Over all the test period, UN led to the greatest wear. Initially, lubrication resulted in no significant differences among the wear rates. Subsequently, up to 50,000 cycles, depths of wear provided by HS and MC were still similar, being the lowest, whereas DW yielded greater wear than CM. Later, interposition of CM and HS resulted in equivalent wear. At 250,000 cycles, wear of the composite ranked as follows: MCHSCMDWUN. Regression analyses showed that for all lubricity conditions wear of the composite rose logarithmically with number of cycles.The role of the interposed lubricant was of importance for the wear testing. The present findings supported by studies on the lubricity ability of mucin-based artificial saliva, allowed to conclude that this preparation may be considered as a potential lubricant for in vitro wear test purposes.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of post-bleaching time intervals using 37% carbamide peroxide on dental substrate adhesion. Fifty bovine incisors were sectioned in two groups of 4X4 mm standard blocks to obtain 50 specimens in each group (n=50). In fifty blocks, the dentin (D) was analyzed and in the other 50 the enamel (E). Blocks were subjected to bleaching treatment and restored with Single Bond/z250 according to post-bleaching time intervals (0, 7, 14 and 21 days). Twenty-four hours after adhesive/resin cylinders on substrate confection, shear bond strength test (SBS) was performed in an universal test machine. Means in MPa and their respective standard deviations were: E – control: 31.89 (2.39); T0: 19.07 (2.00); T7: 24.97 (4.89); T14: 29.71 (4.89); T21: 40.91 (4.75) and D – control: 18.90 (3.64); T0: 2.22 (0.41); T7: 3.79 (0.75); T14: 5.95 (0.79); T21: 8.40 (0.87). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey (p< 0.05) tests. The bond strength value for the enamel was statistically higher than the dentin, and both were lower than the control group that had similar results after 21 days post-bleaching. In dentin group, the control showed superior bond strength and was statistically different in relation to other times. It was concluded that bleaching had negative influence on adhesion. Therefore it is necessary to wait, at least, 21 days after bleaching to restore the enamel. AVALIACAO IN VITRO DA INFLUENCIA DE DIFERENTES INTERVALOS DE TEMPO POS-CLAREAMENTO COM PEROXIDO DE CARBAMIDA 37% NA ADESAO AO SUBSTRATO DENTAL RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influencia do peroxido de carbamida a 37% sobre a adesao dos substratos dentarios em diferentes intervalos de tempo pos-clareamento. Cinquenta incisivos bovinos foram divididos em dois grupos de blocos padrao 4 x 4 mm para obter 50 especimes de cada grupo (n = 50). Em cinquenta blocos, a dentina (D) foi analisada e nos outros 50 o esmalte (E). Os blocos foram submetidos ao tratamento de clareamento e restaurados com Single Bond/z250 de acordo com os intervalos de tempo pos-clareamento (0, 7, 14 e 21 dias). Apos vinte e quatro horas os corpos de prova preparados com adesivo/resina foram submetidos ao teste de resistencia ao cisalhamento (SBS) em uma maquina universal de ensaio. As medias (Mpa) e seus respectivos desvios padrao foram: E - controle: 31,89 (2,39); T0: 19,07 (2,00); T7: 24,97 (4,89); T14: 29,71 (4,89); T21: 40,91 (4,75) e D - controle: 18,90 (3,64); T0: 2,22 (0,41); T7: 3,79 (0,75); T14: 5,95 (0,79); T21: 8,40 (0,87). Os dados foram submetidos a ANOVA e ao teste de Turkey (p

To evaluate the enamel resistance and permeability of rat teeth to acid challenges after systemic use of sodium alendronate.Eighteen Wistar rats (36 teeth), aged 36-42 days (200-230 g), were assigned into two groups: alendronate group (n = 20 teeth), which received two weekly doses of 1 mg/kg of alendronate, via gavage; and a non-alendronate group (n = 16 teeth), which received only distilled water. After 60 days, the animals were killed, the maxillary incisors were extracted and used for the artificial induction of the caries lesion (pH cycling regimen) and erosion area (immersion cycles in cola-type soft drink) and for the enamel permeability test (dye penetration). The teeth were divided into alendronate group (n = 10) or non-alendronate group (n = 8) for each test. The quantitative response variables were the percent longitudinal change in Knoop microhardness (%LMC), the enamel carious/erosion lesion area (CELA) and enamel permeability.Groups were not significantly different (p 0.05) with regard to the %LMC and enamel permeability (25.58 μm ± 12.73 and 25.40 μm ± 4.6 for the experimental and control groups, respectively). For CELA, it was not observed significant difference (p 0.05) between the non-alendronate group (24.08 ± 1.36 and 25.22 ± 1.60, for caries and erosion, respectively) and the alendronate group (25.46 ± 1.60 and 25.0 ± 1.26) for caries and erosion, respectively).Based on the methodological conditions and the presented results of this study, sodium alendronate did not affect the longitudinal microhardness, demineralisation lesion area or permeability of the enamel after acid challenge; therefore, alendronate did not become the enamel of rats more resistant.The systemic alendronate treatment for 60 days did not change the enamel of rats regarding the susceptibility to acids.

Dental caries is still the most prevalent chronic disease affecting human populations. Among the preventive treatments performed, it has been reported that laser irradiation combined with topical fluoride can induce an even greater increase in enamel caries resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Nd:YAG laser, with or without fluoride, in occlusal caries prevention of the primary dentition. A double-blind split-mouth study design was used. Fifty-two children with high caries risk (7.6 ± 1.4 years) were selected and received the following: G1--the first molar was a negative control, and the second received a resin sealant; G2--the first molar was a negative control, and the second received laser irradiation (50 mJ, 10 Hz, 0.5 W); G3--the first molar received only acidulate phosphate fluoride (APF), and the second received APF + laser; G4--fisrt molar received only fluoride varnish, and the second received fluoride varnish + laser. Patients were followed up to 12 months to evaluate the presence of white-spot lesions and/or caries cavities by three calibrated observers. Thirty-five patients completed the study. Significant differences were found between the treatment and control groups (p 0.05). The laser-alone and resin sealant resulted in statistically lower caries formation than the negative control group (p 0.05). Nd:YAG laser irradiation in primary teeth effectively prevented occlusal caries in pits and fissures when used alone with lower energy over a 1-year period.

Most studies dealing with the caries preventive action of Nd:YAG laser have been done in permanent teeth and studies on primary teeth are still lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate in vitro the effect of Nd:YAG laser combined or not with fluoride sources on the acid resistance of primary tooth enamel after artificial caries induction by assessing longitudinal microhardness and demineralization depth. Sixty enamel blocks obtained from the buccal/lingual surface of exfoliated human primary molars were coated with nail polish/wax, leaving only a 9 mm² area exposed on the outer enamel surface, and randomly assigned to 6 groups (n=10) according to the type of treatment: C-control (no treatment); APF: 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride gel; FV: 5% fluoride varnish; L: Nd:YAG laser 0.5 W/10 Hz in contact mode; APFL: fluoride gel + laser; FVL: fluoride varnish + laser. After treatment, the specimens were subjected to a des-remineralization cycle for induction of artificial caries lesions. Longitudinal microhardness data (%LMC) were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis test and demineralization depth data were analyzed by oneway ANOVA and Fisher’s LSD test (á=0.05). APFL and APF groups presented the lowest percentage of microhardness change (p

To evaluate the effect of a 10% carbamide peroxide-containing bleaching agent on brushing abrasion of esthetic restorative materials.Using a randomized complete block design, 150 specimens (n = 15) measuring 3 x 3 x 2 mm were fabricated into acrylic resin cylinders, using one of the restorative materials: a microfilled resin composite (Al), a hybrid resin composite (Ch), a flowable resin composite (Wa), a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (Fj) and a polyacid-modified resin composite (Dy). The bleaching agent or artificial saliva (control) was applied for 2 hours/day. After that, 120 brushing strokes were simulated automatically and the samples were kept in artificial saliva. Such bleaching/brushing cycle was performed daily for 21 days. Wear depth was assessed using profilometry.Bleaching did not show significant effect on wear depth. There was a significant difference among the restorative materials. Tukey's test showed that (Al = Ch)(Wa)(Fj) and that Dy was only different from Fj.

To evaluate in vitro the susceptibility of caries-like lesion formation on enamel and root dentin that had been bleached with carbamide peroxide agents.150 slabs of bovine enamel and root dentin were ground flat and polished. According to a randomized complete block design, the specimens were then allocated to be bleached with agents (Rembrandt) containing 12% [CP12], 16% [CP16], 22% [CP22] or 30% [CP30] of carbamide peroxide over 21 days. The control group remained unbleached. Afterwards, all specimens were randomly distributed between two subgroups (n= 15): one was subjected to alternating demineralizing and remineralizing solutions to induce caries-like lesions and the other was not. Enamel specimens were cycled four times in demineralizing (pH 5.0) and remineralizing solutions (pH 7.0), while root dentin specimens were cycled twice. Microhardness measurements were carried out at the post-bleaching and at the post-caries lesion formation phases.In the post-bleaching condition, microhardness values for both enamel and root dentin were dependent on the bleaching agent used. At the post-caries formation stage, there was a significant interaction between the bleaching treatment and substrate condition (carious or noncarious) for enamel and root dentin. Regardless of the bleaching agent, carious enamel and root dentin presented significantly lower microhardness values as compared to the noncarious counterparts. For carious enamel, those specimens exposed to CP16 exhibited higher microhardness values than the subset group formed by CP22, CP30 and unbleached samples. Both subsets did not differ from CP12. For carious root dentin, no difference was observed among the microhardness values attained as a result of the different bleaching treatments.

To evaluate the microhardness and surface roughness of enamel and root dentin bleached with 10%, 15% and 22% carbamide peroxide agents.52 slabs of enamel and root dentin (6 x 3 x 2 mm) were cut from bovine incisors, ground flat and polished. According to a randomized complete block design, enamel and root dentin slabs (n = 13) were independently allocated to be bleached with one of the following carbamide peroxide-containing agents (CP): 10% (Rembrandt Bleaching Gel Plus), 15% (Rembrandt Xtra Comfort), or 22% (Rembrandt Xtra Comfort Ultra Strength). The control groups were mock-treated with artificial saliva. The bleaching procedures consisted of daily application of the agents on dental substrate surfaces for 2 hours, followed by immersion in artificial saliva for 22 hours over 21 days. Knoop microhardness and surface roughness were measured initially, on sound dental tissues, and at the postbleaching phase.In enamel, microhardness attained after bleaching with 10% CP and 15% CP were similar and significantly lower than that observed for the control group. Specimens bleached with CP 22% did not differ from any of the other groups tested. In root dentin, microhardness changes were indistinguishable. ANOVA showed no significant difference among treatments with respect to surface roughness.

This investigation sought to compare the abrasive wear rates of resin composites designed for posterior applications. Seventy-five specimens were fabricated with conventional hybrid (Charisma and Filtek Z250) or packable composites (Filtek P60, Solitaire II and Tetric Ceram HB), according to a randomized complete block design (n = 15). Specimens were finished and polished metallographically and subjected to abrasive wear which was performed under a normal load of 13N at a frequency of 2 Hz using a pneumatic device (MSM/Elquip) in the presence of a mucin-containing artificial saliva. Wear was quantified profilometrically in five different locations of each specimen after 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 and after every each 50,000 through 250,000 cycles. A split-plot ANOVA showed a significant difference between the wear resistance of composites (alpha = 0.05). Tukey's test ascertained that while the composites Filtek Z250 and Charisma wore significantly less than any other of the materials tested, Tetric Ceram HB experienced the greatest wear rates. Filtek P60 and Solitaire II showed intermediate rates of material removal. The wear pattern of composites proved to be biphasic with the primary phase having the faster wear rate. In conclusion, packable resin composites may not have superior wear compared to conventional hybrid composites.

This study assessed the influence of different beverages on the microhardness and surface roughness of microfilled (A110, 3M/ESPE), hybrid (Z250 3M/ESPE) and flowable (Flow, 3M/ESPE) resin composites, over time. Twenty-four disc-shaped specimens (10 mm; 2-mm thick) of each resin composite were fabricated, thereby forming three groups (n=24). Knoop microhardness and surface roughness (Ra) were analyzed at predetermined evaluation periods: 24 hours, and 7, 30 and 60 days after specimens fabrication. The 24-hour measurements were recorded after storage in artificial saliva. Next, each group (n=24) was divided into four subgroups (n=6) according to the test beverages: Coca-Cola, sugar cane spirit, coffee and artificial saliva (control). Control specimens were kept in saliva throughout the experiment (60 days). For experimental specimens, a 60-day testing cycle was carried out: specimens were initially stored in saliva for four hours, then submitted to a five-minute immersion in the beverages (Coca-Cola, sugar cane spirit, coffee) intercalated by immersions in saliva three times daily. Microhardness/roughness measurements were done at 7-, 30- and 60-day intervals. Data were submitted to three-way ANOVA and Scheffée test (p0.05). It was observed that the tested beverages somewhat altered (p0.05) the composites' microhardness and/or surface roughness. Knoop microhardness-for all resin composites, microhardness remained stable up to the 30-day record, decreasing significantly at the 60-day evaluation. During the interaction beverage X evaluation period, it was observed that the microhardness of materials immersed in coffee and Coca-Cola remained stable up to the seven-day measurement, showing a decrease at the 30-day record and a more accentuated drop at the 60-day evaluation (p0.05). Specimens immersed in sugar cane spirit exhibited no significant change in microhardness up to the seven-day measurement, increasing significantly at the 30-day record and later decreasing at the 60-day evaluation. Surface Roughness--For all resin composites, surface roughness increased at the seven-day measurement, while decreasing at the 30-day record and even more at the 60-day record. In the interaction beverage X evaluation period, the surface roughness of specimens immersed in test beverages increased at the seven-day measurement, showing a gradual decrease at the following records (30- and 60-day evaluations). The findings of the reported research disclosed that all beverages altered, to some degree, the microhardness and/or surface roughness of the tested resin composites. The alterations' effects ranged from slightly adverse to a markedly negative impact on the composites' microhardness and surface roughness, depending on the characteristics of the materials, type of beverage and the evaluated period. Generally, the greater number of immersions in beverages resulted in a more accentuated impact on the resins' properties.