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Objectives: This in vitro study compared the bonding performance of four adhesive luting agents to dentin and enamel of human and bovine primary teeth, in order to evaluate the suitability of primary bovine hard tissues for replacement of those of human origin for bond testing., Methods: A composite (Clearfil AP-X) was bonded to specimens from 167 extracted human (n=88) and bovine (n=88) primary teeth using the following adhesive systems: Syntac Assortment (SY), Adaper Prompt L-Pop (PLP), iBond Gluma inside (IB) and Clearfil Protect Bond (PB). After 24h storage in distilled water, shear bond strength was determined according to ISO/TS 11405:2003. The data (n=11 per group) were statistically analyzed with the Mann-Whitney U-test and the error-rates method (ERM). The fracture modes were analyzed with the chi2-test., Results: Bond strength data (ERM) and fracture modes (chi2-test) using human primary teeth were, in general, not statistically different from those of bovine origin. With few exceptions, pair wise comparisons showed the same results. The bond strength data for SY, PLP and PB bonded to primary human and bovine enamel were higher than those to primary human and bovine dentin, for IB vice versa., Significance: Bovine teeth may be considered as a suitable alternative to human teeth in bond strength tests for primary dentition.

Purpose: To assess in vitro the shear bond strength at the resin/dentin interface in primary teeth after contamination with fresh human blood., Methods: 75 crowns of primary molars were embedded in acrylic resin and mechanically ground to expose a flat dentin surface. The specimens were randomly assigned to five groups (n=15), according to the surface treatment. Group 1 (control) had no blood contamination. The other groups were blood-contaminated and subjected to different post-contamination protocols: in Group 2, the surfaces were rinsed with water; in Group 3, the surfaces were air-dried; in Group 4, the surfaces were rinsed and air-dried; and in Group 5, no post-contamination treatment was done. In all groups, a 3-mm dentin bonding site was demarcated, Single Bond adhesive system was applied and resin composite cylinders were bonded. After 24 hours in distilled water, shear bond strength was tested at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/minute., Results: Means (in MPa) were: Group 1: 7.1 (+/- 4.2); Group 2: 4.0 (+/- 1.8); Group 3: 0.9 (+/- 0.7); Group 4: 3.9 (+/- 2.2) and Group 5: 1.3 (+/- 1.5). Data were analyzed statistically by the Kruskal-Wallis test at 5% significance level. Groups 2 and 4 were similar to each other (P > 0.05) and both ware similar to Group 1 (P > 0.05). These groups (2, 3 and 4) had statistically significantly higher bond strengths than Groups 3 and 5 (P < 0.05). Blood contamination negatively affected the shear bond strength to primary tooth dentin. Among the blood-contaminated groups, water-rinsed specimens had higher bond strengths than those that were exclusively air-dried or not submitted to any post-contamination protocol before adhesive application.

Purpose: This study compared the effectiveness of self-etch and total-etch adhesive systems in bonding to the beveled and nonbeveled margins of primary and permanent teeth., Methods: This in vitro, factorial-designed study allowed evaluation of 3 factors: (1) tooth type; (2) presence of a bevel; and (3) adhesive type. Two preparations, each including a beveled and nonbeveled margin, were completed on buccal surfaces of 60 extracted molars (30 primary and 30 permanent). Preparations were randomly assigned to self-etch or a total-etch adhesive system and restored with resin composite. After thermocycling, teeth were stained with silver nitrate, sectioned, and measured for microleakage. Statistical analysis used a repeated measures analysis of variance., Results: Beveled margins had less microleakage than nonbeveled margins for primary and permanent teeth (P < .001). Total-etch had less microleakage than self-etch adhesives on primary (53% less, P < .001) and on permanent teeth (22% less, P = .01). Self-etch had considerably more microleakage when enamel margins were not beveled. Comparably less microleakage, however, was found for total-etch and self-etch in restorations with beveled margins., Conclusions: Total-etch adhesive and beveled margins resulted in the least microleakage. Margin beveling has a greater effect in minimizing microleakage than the type of adhesive used.

Aim: As bond strength of currently available adhesive systems in caries-affected teeth dentin on primary tooth dentin was not well known, the bond strength of two bonding systems (PQI and OptiBond Solo Plus) was evaluated on caries-affected and sound primary molar tooth dentin and observed the micromorphology of the adhesive-dentin interfaces., Methods: By grinding both the sound (n = 30) and caries-affected (n = 30) approximal surfaces of teeth, flat dentin surfaces were obtained. The prepared surfaces were bonded with one of the each adhesive systems and a composite resin. After storing the bonded specimens in water at 37 degrees C for 24 h, the samples were sectioned and the bond strength of the adhesive systems was tested by the microshear test method. The data were statistically analysed., Results: Microshear bond strengths of PQI group for caries-affected and sound primary tooth dentin were 9.43 +/- 2.44 (MPa) and 9.32 +/- 2.95 (MPa) (P > 0.05), respectively, and the bond strengths of OptiBond Solo Plus group for caries-affected and sound primary tooth dentin were 15.33 +/- 3.59 (MPa) and 11.96 +/- 2.30 (MPa) (P < 0.05), respectively. Micromorphological features between sound and caries-affected dentin were similar in both PQI and OptiBond Solo Plus groups., Conclusion: Both the adhesives showed significantly different bond strengths in caries-affected dentin but showed similar bond strengths in sound dentin.

This in vitro study sought to evaluate the bond strength and interfacial morphology of composite restorations in primary and permanent teeth that utilized different adhesive systems. In this study, 180 samples (n = 15 per subgroup) were submitted to shear bond strength tests while 72 samples were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (n = 6 per subgroup). Fifty-four blocks of permanent enamel, 54 blocks of permanent dentin, 54 blocks of primary enamel, and 54 blocks of primary dentin were randomly assigned to three groups for bonding. All of the blocks received a resin composite restoration made with a matrix after the application of the dental bonding systems, according to the manufacturer's instructions. The shear bond strength test found no statistical differences among the tissues or the adhesive systems used. However, a difference in quality of the interfacial seal was observed when Single Bond restorations were compared to restorations bonded with AdheSE and Prompt-L-Pop. The Single Bond system formed an authentic hybrid layer that can ensure adequate adhesion. The other adhesive systems showed an interface with inadequate sealing and even with no sealing. The self-etching systems must be used with caution in composite restorations because the quality of the hybrid layer formed is as important as the bond strength when determining the efficacy of the adhesive.

Objectives: The purpose of this descriptive scanning electron microscopic study was to characterize surface alterations in deciduous tooth enamel after in vitro infrared diode laser irradiation, using a photo-absorbing agent alone and also combined with fluoride, before and after laser irradiation., Background Data: Previous investigations have demonstrated increased enamel caries resistance after laser irradiation., Methods: Seven extracted or exfoliated primary molar teeth underwent soft tissue débridement and fluoride-free prophylaxis. Buccal surfaces were determined to be caries free by macroscopic examination. Sample groups were divided into: (1) control (no treatment); (2) infrared diode laser irradiation (lambda = 810 nm, 68 nm, 60 mW/mm(2), 30 W) using the photo-absorbing agent alone (IRDL + PA; 500 J/cm(2)); and (3) infrared diode laser irradiation using a photo-absorbing agent combined with 2% fluoride (IRDL + PFA; 500 J/cm(2)). Buccal surfaces were evaluated following standard scanning electron microscopy preparation techniques. Control samples of enamel surfaces were relatively smooth but presented occasional enamel prism ends. There were no areas with cavitations or surface defects., Results: After the IRDL + PA treatment, irradiated surfaces became rough and mildly to moderately irregular with scarce enamel cavitations and without exposure of enamel prism ends. The surfaces had adherent granules and only occasional fine cracks and porosities in surface coatings were noted. After the IRDL + PFA treatment, there was a homogenous confluent surface that masked typical enamel surface markings. The surfaces had well-defined globules resulting from the IRDL + PFA treatment, that were not seen after IRDL + PA treatment., Conclusions: Treatment of deciduous tooth enamel with infrared diode laser irradiation using a photo-absorbing agent and a photo-absorbing agent combined with 2% fluoride created surface coatings that may act as reservoirs for mineral phases during cariogenic activity on enamel, and also provide a certain degree of protection against cariogenic challenge.

Purpose: The purpose of this in vivo study of primary teeth was to analyze the ultrastructure and microbiology of dentin layers affected by caries lesions before and after restorations with resin-modified glass ionomer., Methods: Samples of carious dentin from primary teeth removed prior to restoration placement (baseline-0 day) were compared with samples taken after 30 and 60 days. Dentin from 8 primary molars was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dentin from 22 primary molars was examined microbiologically to compare bacteria (total of viable counts, Streptococcus spp, Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus spp, and Actinomyces spp) before and after treatment (30 and 60 days)., Results: Baseline caries samples had enlarged dentinal tubules with bacteriol invasion. SEM samples after treatment suggest better tissue organization, with more compact collagen fibers arrangement and narrower dentinal tubules. The number of bacteria decreased in all samples at both 30 (98%) and 60 (96%) days, with all bacteria species showing similar trends., Conclusions: The minimal intervention approach is very effective to promote beneficial changes in the lesion environment and favorable conditions for the healing process in primary teeth.

Biomechanical properties of bonded dentin are important factors for resin restoration. We evaluated the hardness and elastic modulus of bonded sound and caries-affected primary tooth dentin using a one-step adhesive system, and observed the microstructure of the bonded interface. Six sound and six carious primary teeth were used. For sound teeth, flat occlusal dentin surfaces were prepared with a water-cooled high-speed diamond bur. For carious teeth, infected dentin was stained with a caries detector and removed with a water-cooled low-speed round steel bur and hand instruments. The prepared dentin was bonded with One-Up Bond F Plus (Tokuyama Dental Co., Tokyo, Japan). The resin-dentin interface and dentin beneath the interface were measured with a nano-indentation tester and observed with SEM and TEM. For both the carious and sound teeth, there was no significant difference between the hardness of the interfacial dentin and dentin 10-80 microm beneath the interface. However, the Young's modulus of the interfacial dentin was significantly lower than the dentin 40-80 microm (carious teeth) or 50-80 microm (sound teeth) beneath the interface. Both the hardness and Young's modulus of the interfacial dentin were not significantly different between the carious and sound teeth. Compared to the sound dentin, the hybrid layer on the caries-affected dentin was thicker and exhibited more complicated morphologic features. The thickness of the hybrid layers was generally less than 1 microm., ((c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

This study is a first report on the modality of early dentin formation in respect to the scalloped pattern of the dentino-enamel junction (DEJ). We applied scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), histological serial sections, and three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions. TEM and SEM showed scallops and secondary scallops on the DEJ of deciduous dental primordia and on deciduous teeth with the enamel cap removed. This peculiar outline of the DEJ requires a specific dentin formation pattern; histological sections showed that dentin formation began at the brims of the scallops, seen as triangular spikes in serial sections. The dentin formation front was not uniform; instead, it was characterized by multiple, insular forming centers, as revealed by our 3D reconstructions. As thicker dentin layers formed, the islands became confluent. Factors are discussed, which may lead to crimpling of the inner enamel epithelium, and maintained as the scalloped pattern of the DEJ develops. Signaling patterns in accordance with the insular dentin formation are unknown so far.

It was the aim of this study to investigate the distribution of Ca, P and C in predentin, dentin and enamel in human tooth buds and permanent teeth by EDX element analysis. The mandible of a 16-week-old human fetus containing eight mineralizing tooth buds and three human permanent molars were fixed in formaldehyde and embedded in Technovit 9100. Serial sections of 80 microm thickness of the mandible were cut in the frontal-dorsal direction, and polarized light micrographs were taken of these sections. The permanent teeth were cut in mesio-distal direction. The sections were investigated with scanning electron microscopy and EDX element analysis with a Philips XL 30 FEG scanning microscope and an EDAX energy-dispersive X-ray system using spot measurements, EDX line-scans and element mapping. Quantitative measurements were made in predentin, mineralizing dentin adjacent to predentin, mature dentin, mineralizing enamel and young enamel of developing teeth and mature enamel of permanent teeth. In developing teeth the Ca and P content increased rapidly from outer predentin towards mineralizing dentin. In enamel prisms of developing teeth the Ca and P content increased linearly from the surface towards the enamel-dentin junction. In permanent teeth only a small layer of predentin was found. The Ca and P content in enamel and circumpulpal dentin of permanent teeth was higher than in developing teeth. The Ca/P ratio differed between predentin and dentin areas reflecting different calcium phosphate compositions, but it was the same in mineralizing and young enamel. The differences in the distribution of Ca and P reflect different mineralizing patterns of the enamel and dentin matrices.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two endodontic irrigants (2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 17% Ethylenediamintetraacetic acid) on the microleakage and micromorphology of the resin-dentin interface in pulpectomized primary molars. Standardized Class-II cavities were prepared in extracted, non-carious primary molars after which chemo-mechanical preparation of the root canals were performed in conjunction with K-Files and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) between each file size. Final irrigation of the specimens were made with either 2.5 NaOCl, 17% Ethylenediamintetraacetic acid (EDTA) or with saline (control). The root canals were filled with a calcium hydroxide paste and the cavities were sub-grouped to be restored with one of the following materials: a: Amalgam, b: Prime&Bond NT (with prior total etch) and TPH resin-based composite, c: Prime&Bond NT and Dyract d: Prime&Bond NT (with Non-Rinse Conditioner pre-treatment); and e:Prompt L-Pop and F2000. Following thermocycling and 90-day water storage, the occlusal and gingival microleakage of restorations were assessed with dye penetration and image analysis. Separate specimens were processed for scanning electron microscopic investigation of the resin-dentin interface. The occlusal and gingival microleakage of the tested restorative systems was not affected by different irrigation regimens (p>0.05), while final restoration with Prime&Bond NT+TPH and Prompt L-Pop+F2000 resulted in the lowest microleakage values (p<0.05). Following the use of 17% EDTA for final flush, the latter two groups produced relatively thicker hybrid zones, when compared to the saline-irrigated specimens.

Purpose: Laser pretreatment of dental hard tissues prior to preventive or restorative procedures has been a subject of research. Unground primary enamel bears a prismless superficial layer which is known to be acid resistant. This in vitro study was conducted in order to evaluate the potential use of Er,Cr:YSGG laser in the pretreatment of occlusal surfaces of primary teeth prior to bonded fissure sealant application., Materials and Methods: Occlusal surfaces of human primary mandibular molars were used (n =140). After pretreatment with Er,Cr:YSGG laser (group A) or not (group B), occlusal fissures were treated with one of the following in each of 7 subgroups (n = 10): 1. phosphoric acid-etch only; 2. Clearfil SE Bond; 3. FL Bond; 4. Adper Prompt L-Pop; 5. NRC+Prime & Bond NT; 6. One-Up Bond F; 7. Xeno III. All teeth were sealed with Fissurit F. The specimens were thermocycled (1000 times) and stored thereafter in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 8 months. Following immersion in 0.5% basic fuchsin solution, three bucco-lingual sections were made from each tooth. They were digitally photographed and the extent of dye penetration along the enamel-sealant interface was measured (in mm) with image analysis software., Results: There was no difference between the Er,Cr:YSGG laser pretreated group (group A) and the nonlased grou (group B) (p > 0.05). The lowest microleakage values were observed in subgroups A1 and B1. Within the laser pretreated group, subgroups A1, A4, and A5 showed lower microleakage scores when compared to subgroups A2, A3, A6, and A7 (p < 0.05). As for the nonlased group, subgroups B1, B3, B4, and B5 demonstrated significantly lower microleakage scores than subgroups B2, B6, and B7 (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: Er,Cr:YSGG laser pretreatment was not found to influence the resistance to microleakage of bonded fissure sealant application in primary teeth.

Purpose: Fatigue resistance of post and cores is critical to the long term behavior of restored nonvital teeth. The purpose of this in vitro trial was to evaluate the influence of the post material's physical properties on the adaptation of adhesive post and core restorations after cyclic mechanical loading., Materials and Methods: Composite post and cores were made on endodontically treated deciduous bovine teeth using 3 anisotropic posts (made of carbon, quartz, or quartz-and-carbon fibers) and 3 isotropic posts (zirconium, stainless steel, titanium). Specimens were submitted to 3 successive loading phases--250,000 cycles at 50 N, 250,000 at 75 N, and 500,000 at 100 N--at a rate of 1.5 Hz. Restoration adaptation was evaluated under SEM, before and during loading (margins) and after test completion (margins and internal interfaces). Six additional samples were fabricated for the characterization of interface micromorphology using confocal microscopy., Results: Mechanical loading increased the proportion of marginal gaps in all groups; carbon fiber posts presented the lowest final gap proportion (7.11%) compared to other stiffer metal-ceramic or softer fiber posts (11.0% to 19.1%). For internal adaptation, proportions of debonding between dentin and core or cement varied from 21.69% (carbon post) to 47.37% (stainless steel post). Debonding at the post-cement interface occurred only with isotropic materials. Confocal microscopy observation revealed that gaps were generally associated with an incomplete hybrid layer and reduced resin tags., Conclusion: Regardless of their rigidity, metal and ceramic isotropic posts proved less effective than fiber posts at stabilizing the post and core structure in the absence of the ferrule effect, due to the development of more interfacial defects with either composite or dentin.

Currently, there is little information regarding the bonding efficacy of single-step self-etch systems to primary tooth dentin. This study examined the microtensile bond strength of single-step self-etch systems (Clearfil tri-S Bond and One-Up Bond F Plus) to sound primary and permanent tooth dentin. Adhesives were applied to flat samples of primary and permanent tooth dentin, and resin composites were bonded according to the manufacturers' instructions. After 24 hours of storage in distilled water at 37 degrees C, hour glass-shaped specimens were produced. They were subjected to microtensile testing at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/minute. The results were analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Tukey HSD post-hoc test (alpha=0.05). Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) observations of the adhesive-treated dentin surfaces and the resin/dentin interface were also conducted. The bond strengths of primary tooth dentin were significantly lower than that of permanent tooth dentin for both self-etch systems: 44.7 +/- 10.4 versus 54.3 +/- 9.0 MPa for Clearfil tri-S Bond and 40.6 +/- 9.9 versus 50.0 +/- 8.7 MPa for One-Up Bond F Plus (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant interaction between the type of adhesive system and the dentin substrate (p=0.957). Although there was no statistically significant difference in the mean values among the different adhesive systems (p=0.094), there was a statistically significant difference in mean values among the different dentin substrates (p<0.001), which were lower for primary tooth dentin than for permanent tooth dentin. The failure modes were also independent of the type of dentin but dependent on the adhesive systems, an equal distribution among the 3 types of failure for Clearfil tri-S Bond and cohesive failures in adhesives for One-Up Bond F Plus. FE-SEM observations of dentin to which adhesive had been applied revealed that the smear layer had been removed and the collagen fibers exposed. Though the bond strengths to primary tooth dentin were lower than to permanent tooth dentin, excellent adaptation of the single-step self-etch systems to both dentin substrates was observed by FE-SEM. Further studies are required to determine the long-term clinical performance of these adhesive systems when applied to primary tooth dentin.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the cementoenamel junction of a group of 11 primary sound mandibular incisors extracted for orthodontic reasons., Materials and Methods: Eleven caries and defect-free human inferior deciduous incisors were extracted for orthodontic reasons and the cementoenamel junction was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The types of tissue interrelations were classified in four possible categories: 1) cementum and enamel edge-to-edge, 2) cementum overlapped by enamel, 3) enamel overlapped by cementum, 4) presence of exposed dentin between enamel and cementum., Results: In our observations root cementum and enamel edge-to-edge interrelation was the most frequent feature observed in overall sample, root cementum overlapping enamel tissues was observed in more than one third of the cementoenamel junction area, exposed dentin was a rare observation. In few, small and rare areas enamel overlapped cementum. Further studies could determine statistical prevalence., Conclusion: The cementoenamel junction of primary teeth differs from that of permanent teeth, the scarcity of gaps between cementum and enamel, the epithelial junction at the equator of the crown and the globosity of the crown are probable protective factors toward decay susceptibility.

The aims of this study were to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) off our adhesive systenms applied to primary dentin and enamel and verify, after SBS testing, the failure mode of the adhesive interface. Sixty extracted sound primary molars were selected and crowns were sectioned in a mesial-distal direction. Specimens were randomly assigned into two groups (adhesion to enamel and adhesion to dentin) and then subdivided into four subgroups according to the adhesive system (n=15). Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SMP)--Single Bond (SB)--Clearfil SE Bond (and Adper Prompt L-Pop (APL)--SBS tests were performed and the obtained values were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey tests (p < 0.05). The failure mode analysis was performed with a Scanning Electron Microscope (XL-30, Philips). SBS mean values on enamel were [MPa (SD)]: SMP--2789 (749); SB--23.92 (8.8); CSB--24.36 (6.69), APL--25.96 (4.08); and on dentin: SMP--17.29 (4.25) SB--18.2 (8.74); CSB--16.13 (714); APL--6. 04 (3.35). The predominant failure mode was cohesive (primarily of the bonding agent). On enamel SBS was statistically similar for all four adhesives. On dentin SBS ofAPL was lower than the other tested adhesives.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the alterations of etched deciduous dentin when submitted to different time and concentrations of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)., Material and Methods: Forty deciduous anterior teeth were selected, cleaned and ground until expose a flat dentin area on the buccal surface. The specimens were randomly distributed into eight groups (n=5), according to dentin surface treatment (35% phosphoric acid etching for 7s--AE and/or NaOCl application), NaOCl solution concentration (5% or 10%), and time of application (0, 30, 60, and 120 s), as follows: G1: control (without AE and NaOCl); G2: only AE; G3, G4, and G5: AE+5% NaOCl for 30, 60, and 120 s, respectively; G6, G7, and G8: AE+10% NaOCl for 30, 60, and 120 s, respectively. All specimens were prepared for SEM analysis and the photomicrographs (three for each specimen) were classified according to a score as follow: 0: presence of smear layer (SL); 1: absence of SL+non-altered collagen fibrils; 2: absence of SL+collagen fibrils slightly altered; 3: absence of SL+collagen fibrils severely altered; and 4: absence of SL and absence of collagen fibrils. Data were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests (p<0.05)., Results: All groups treated with NaOCl solution were significant different from G1 and G2, and showed alterations on the collagen fibrils network. Collagen complete removal was only observed when a 5% NaOCl solution was applied for 120 s and 10% NaOCl solution for 30, 60, and 120 s., Conclusions: The NaOCl action produced significant changes in the etched deciduous dentin. The higher NaOCl concentration, the lower the time required to completely removing the collagen fibrils network in deciduous dentin.

This study examines general health in the first year of life of a population of 127 subadults from the Imperial Roman necropolis of Isola Sacra (2nd-3rd century ACE). Health status was determined by analyzing 274 deciduous teeth from these children for Wilson bands (also known as accentuated striae), microscopic defects caused by a disruption to normal enamel development arising from some generalized external stressor. While macroscopic enamel defects, or hypoplasias, have long been used as proxies of general population health, we believe that this is the first population-wide study of microscopic defects in deciduous teeth. We used microstructural markers of enamel to attach very precise chronologies to Wilson band formation that allowed us to calculate maximum prevalence (MAP) and smoothed maximum prevalence (SMAP) distributions to portray what we believe to be a realistic risk profile for a past population of children. There appear to be two periods of high prevalence, the first beginning around age 2 months and continuing through month 5, and the second higher period beginning around month 6 and continuing through month 9. These results are discussed in light of historical records of Roman childhood rearing practices., ((c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the ultramorphological changes after agitated and nonagitated application of self-etching primer systems on unground primary and permanent enamel., Methods: Five self-etching primer systems were used: (1) Clearfil SE Bond; (2) Clearfil Protect Bond; (3) Adper Prompt; (4) Xeno III; and (5) nonrinse conditioner (NRC). Noncarious human primary and permanent incisors were collected and stored frozen until used. Intact labial surfaces were divided into 2 halves, applying the self-etching primers with (active application) and without (inactive agitation) using a microbrush within the times recommended by the manufacturers. Treated surfaces were further processed for ultramorphological evaluation under scanning electron microscope (SEM)., Results: All tested self-etching systems produced weaker etch patterns and less dissolution of enamel surface compared with acid-etched samples in both primary and permanent teeth. Except for NRC and Adper Prompt, agitation of the surface did not increase the etching efficacy. Clearfil SE Bond and Clearfil Protect Bond resulted in similar morphological features following application in either mode., Conclusion: While agitation of self-etching primers may improve etching efficacy, this effect appears to be dependent on the material used. Phosphoric acid produces well-defined etching patterns on intact primary and permanent enamel.

Kallikrein-4 is known to be highly expressed during the maturation stage of enamel formation and is thought to be critical for the final phase of crystallite growth. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the enamel phenotype in humans with a known KLK-4 mutation (g.2142G>A). Primary teeth from two individuals with a known KLK-4 mutation were evaluated using amino acid analysis and light and electron microscopy. Light microscopy showed the enamel was of normal thickness but opaque throughout its width compared with normal enamel. Electron microscopy showed enamel affected by the KLK-4 mutation had a normal prismatic structure and generally had a well-organized and discernable crystallite composition. In some areas, globular structures were present where crystallites were not discernable or appeared to have an altered morphology. The KLK-4 mutant enamel had an increased protein content compared with normal enamel. Human enamel formed with a lack of functioning KLK-4 proteinase is altered primarily in the completeness of crystallite growth, while enamel thickness and prism structure remains essentially normal. Collectively, these studies suggest that the KLK-4 proteinase is essential for the final crystallite growth of enamel but is not critical for crystallite orientation, prism formation or enamel thickness.

It was the purpose of this article to analyze the (micro) morphological structure of enamel at different stages of development in order to deduce movement patterns of ameloblasts during formation of the human dental primordium. Developing enamel and overlying ameloblasts were dried and fractured for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and sectioned for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Specimens of human permanent enamel were either fractured and/or ground and etched to visualize the enamel rods. All specimens were viewed by SEM. Moreover, three-dimensional reconstructions were made from serial ground sections of enamel blocks to follow the enamel rods for a longer distance. In addition, the outline of the dentino-enamel junction was analyzed under the SEM after removal (using nitric acid) of the enamel cap, and in serial histological sections. Two basic movements of the inner enamel epithelium can be derived from the micromorphological features: (i) the scalloped dentino-enamel junction may be a consequence of a bulged inner enamel epithelium owing to initial spatial impediment; and (ii) the undulating path of the enamel rods may be a consequence of unequal growth of the cells in the cervical loop.

This study aims to clarify the features of the clear zone of odontoclasts on shedding teeth of a teleost fish, Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum), using a light microscope to determine the orientation between a cell body and a resorptive lacuna, followed by transmission electron microscopy. Ultrathin sections of LR White embedded material were incubated in rabbit anti-actin polyclonal antibody and then were incubated with 15 nm gold-conjugated goat anti-rabbit IgG. The clear zones of odontoclasts showed a variable structure with electron-dense structures on sections, but distinct clear zones were not always seen on odontoclasts. In odontoclasts sectioned in the direction perpendicularly to the surface of a resorptive lacuna, some cells showed a wide clear zone, but two types of clear zones were usually observed: a part composed of some cytoplasmic processes and one composed of several complicatedly interwoven processes. Gold particles were localized on the clear zones, especially in electron-dense structures; very few gold particles were detected in ruffled borders. These results show that the clear zone of odontoclasts in Chinook salmon contains actin. Our results suggest that the clear zone of an odontoclast in Chinook salmon is not always a wide annular structure.

Purpose: To investigate the effects of saliva contamination on the bond strengths of two compomers applied to primary teeth dentin during different bonding stages., Methods: 30 extracted human non-carious primary molars were prepared for shear bond-strength testing. Specimens were randomly divided into three groups of 10. Prime & Bond NT (acetone-based) and Futura Bond A & B (water-based) adhesives were tested under the following conditions: (a) non-contaminated conditions; (b) after contamination of the dentin surface with fresh whole saliva for 20 seconds and removal of excess saliva before adhesive application; and (c) contamination of the dentin surface with fresh whole saliva for 20 seconds and removal of excess saliva after adhesive curing. Following adhesive application Dyract AP or Glasiosite was applied via a polytetrafluroethylene split mould and light-cured to the dentin surface. Shear bond strengths were measured using an Instron Universal testing machine running at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/minute. After measuring shear bond strengths, specimens were prepared for SEM evaluation and identification of failure type. Results were analyzed by two-factor experiment with repeated measures as one factor., Results: No statistically significant differences were found among the shear bond strengths (P > 0.05) of the groups. The results revealed that saliva contamination of dentin surfaces before or after adhesive application did not affect the shear bond strength of either compomer.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the enamel thickness of the maxillary primary incisors of preterm children with very low birth weight (< 1,500 g) compared to full-term children with normal birth weight., Methods: A total of 90 exfoliated maxillary primary central incisors were investigated using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Three serial buccolingual ground sections of each tooth were examined under light microscopy, and maximum dimensions of the prenatally and postnatally formed enamel were measured., Results: The enamel of preterm teeth was approximately 20% thinner than that for full-term teeth. Most of the reduction was observed in the prenatally formed enamel. This was 5 to 13 times thinner than that for full-term children (P<.001). The "catch-up" thickness of postnatally formed enamel did not compensate fully for the decrease in prenatal enamel (P<.001). Although none of the teeth used in this study had enamel defects visible to the naked eye, 52% of preterm teeth showed enamel hypoplasia under SEM, compared with only 16% found on full-term teeth (P<.001). These defects were present as pits or irregular, shallow areas of missing enamel., Conclusions: Preterm primary dental enamel is abnormal in surface quality, and is significantly thinner compared to full-term enamel. The thinner enamel is due mainly to reduced prenatal growth and results in smaller dimensions of the primary dentition.

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between large tubules and dentin caries by using human deciduous incisors that showed various levels of attrition but no macroscopical lesions resulting from caries. The teeth were cut longitudinally in the mesio-distal direction and the exposed surfaces observed with a high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscope. The inside of each large tubule showed dense collagen fibers running parallel to its long axis and small spherical bodies of aggregated crystals, but no marked attrition. In teeth where attrition had exposed dentin at the incisal edge, oral bacteria had infiltrated the large tubules. Furthermore, in teeth with advanced attrition, it was difficult to distinguish between the large tubules and the surrounding dentin matrix, and numerous bacteria were observed in both areas. These findings support the hypothesis that large tubules play a role in the pathway of caries formation in coronal dentin when incisal dentin is exposed by attrition. This suggests that early treatment of exposed dentin surfaces might be effective in preventing dental caries.

Background: The objec tives of this study were to determine microtensile bond strengths of two dentin adhesives and to compare the micromorphological structure of the resin/dentin interface in caries-affected dentin with that of intact dentin., Methods: The authors randomly divided 40 proximal dentinal carious primary teeth and 40 noncarious anterior primary teeth into two groups (self-etching and total-etching). They used a caries-detecting dye as an indicator of the need to remove the outer carious dentin. The authors restored the teeth with a hybrid resin-based composite. After 24 hours' storage in 37 C water, specimens were sectioned and shaped to form a curved section with a cross-sectional area of 1 square millimeter, then tension was applied until they fractured. The authors prepared the resin/dentin interfaces for the two bonding systems and examined them in 10 occlusal carious and 10 noncarious teeth., Statistical Analysis: The bond strengths for intact and caries-affected dentin within the same group were analyzed via a t test. The authors compared the remaining dentin thickness (RDT) and dentin hardness using analysis of variance and the least significant difference test at the .05 level of significance., Results: The self-etching adhesive demonstrated no statistical difference in bond strength between intact and caries-affected dentin. However, the total-etching adhesive demonstrated different bond strengths for intact and caries-affected dentin. Moreover, the RDT of specimens with intact and caries-affected dentin was not significantly different, whereas the dentin hardness of caries-affected dentin was significantly lower than that of intact dentin. The authors found a thicker hybrid layer in intact and caries-affected dentin of specimens in the total-etching group., Conclusion: The adhesives exhibited significantly different bond strengths in intact dentin of primary teeth. However, they exhibited similar bond strengths in caries-affected dentin.

Objective: This study evaluated the influence of Carisolv (Medi Team) for resin adhesion to sound human primary and young permanent dentin., Methods: The buccal surfaces of 28 primary molars and 64 premolars were used. Two adhesive systems and resin composites were used; SE: Clearfil SE (Kuraray) and Clearfil APX (Kuraray), and SB: Single Bond (3M) and Z250 (3M). Six groups were prepared. Groups 1-2 were primary dentin and Groups 3-6 were permanent dentin. Groups 1 and 3: SE was used. Groups 2 and 4: treated with Carisolv and then primed, SE was used. Group 5: SB was used. Group 6: treated with Carisolv and then etched, SB was used. The microstructural effects of primer or etchant, and Carisolv plus primer or etchant applied to dentin were evaluated by SEM. In addition, the microstructure of the resin-dentin interfaces of each group was studied using SEM. Shear bond strengths (SBS) were tested, and the failed surfaces were observed using SEM. Data was statistically analyzed using ANOVA with subsequent application of Fisher's PLSD at p<0.05., Results: The mean SBS (unit: MPa) of Groups 1-6 were: 27.8, 19.2, 21.3, 21.7, 6.7 and 7.6. The SBS of Group 2 was significantly lower than that of Group 1. There was no significant difference of the SBS among Groups 1 and 4, 2, 3 and 4, and 5 and 6. In SE groups, the hybrid layer for primary dentin was thicker than that for permanent dentin., Conclusions: Carisolv treatment before priming significantly decreased the SBS to primary dentin in SE groups, but did not influence the SBS to permanent dentin in both SE and SB groups.

Purpose: To assess the nature of clinically detectable alterations in glass-ionomer after long-term clinical service., Methods: In addition to clinical macro pictures, SEM was carried out on replicas and on two sectioned primary molars SEM-EDAX analysis was performed to determine chemical transformation in the glass-ionomer. Also with SEM-EDAX, the composition was determined of a partially removed half-year old sealant., Results: The clinically observed altered optical aspect and increased hardness could be related with surface structure changes as identified by SEM. The changed glass-ionomer showed a continuous integration with the adjacent enamel. The SEM-EDAX analysis revealed an increase of calcium and phosphorus in the surface layer, tentatively suggesting a sort of additional "mineralization" of the material. This phenomenon was only observed for restorations that had minimally 2-3 years in vivo dwell time.

Prior to the shedding of human deciduous teeth, odontoclastic resorption takes place at the pulpal surface of the coronal dentin, and this resorption occasionally extends coronally from the dentinoenamel junction into the enamel. After the end of resorption, however, the resorbed enamel surface is repaired by the deposition of a cementum-like tissue. Using this phenomenon as an observation model, in this study we examined the sequence of cellular and extracellular/matrix events involved in the enamel resorption repair by light and electron microscopy. As the odontoclast terminated its resorption activity, it detached from the resorbed enamel surface; thereafter, numerous mononuclear cells were observed along the resorbed enamel surface. Most of these mononuclear cells made close contact with the resorbed enamel surface, and coated pits or patches were observed on their plasma membrane facing this surface. Furthermore, they frequently contained thin needle- or plate-like enamel crystals in their cytoplasmic vacuoles as well as secondary lysozomes. Following the disappearance of these monononuclear cells, the resorbed enamel surface now displayed a thin coat of organic matrix. Ultrastructurally, this organic layer was composed of a reticular and/or granular organic matrix, but contained no collagen fibrils. Energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis of this thin organic layer in undecalcified sections revealed small spectral peaks of Ca and P. Cementum-like tissue initially formed along this thin organic layer, increased in width, and appeared to undergo mineralization as time progressed. The results of our observations demonstrate that regardless of type of matrix of dental hard tissues, tooth repair may be coupled to tooth resorption, and suggest that mononuclear cells and an organic thin layer found on the previously resorbed enamel surface may play an important role in the repair process initiated after resorption of the enamel.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of formalin cresol on bonding of two compomers (Prime & Bond and Dyract, Futurabond and Glasiosite to primary dentine. Eighteen non-carious primary mandibular molar teeth were used. The two materials were placed onto the tooth surfaces before being sheared with a knife-edged blade with a crosshead speed of 1 mm min(-1). Two randomly selected teeth from each group were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The statistical analysis (paired t-test and Student's t-test) revealed that shear bond strength was significantly higher in the formocresol-applied group than in the group that was not applied formocresol (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the restorative materials. SEM analyses also supported the results obtained. In conclusion, if compomers are used after endodontic processes which require the application of formocresol in primary teeth, dentinal bonding would not be decreased, but on the contrary, increase.

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a hereditary disorder resulting in generalized defects in the enamel. The case reported here is of a seven-year-old male child with yellow color of all his teeth. Two of his primary molars were extracted due to dental abscess with advanced root resorption. Histologically hypoplastic enamel layer, positively birefringent, generalized pitting, roughness with irregular general cracked borders were observed. Scanning electron microscope, revealed extensive irregular, disorganized rough superficial enamel layer. The enamel was irregularly decussate with filamentous prisms accompanied by small rounded formations. The morphological and histological examination of the tooth revealed that this patient has the features of AI. For genetic study blood sample were collected from the patient and PCR analysis revealed that there is no mutation in exons 1-7 of AMELX gene on the X chromosome of the patient. Hence, it is probable that the AI of this patient is not X-linked. It is more likely to be an autosomal mutation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the micro-tensile bond strength of adhesive systems (OptiBond Solo, Kerr; Prime & Bond NT, Dentsply) on occlusal surface of primary molars. The adhesives were tested under manufacturers' specifications and after contamination of the bonding site with saliva. Hourglass cylindrical-shaped samples were obtained and subjected to a tensile force. No significant difference was observed among the groups. OptiBond Solo and Prime & Bond NT showed similar values of bond strengths when applied on occlusal enamel of primary molar under either saliva contamination or not.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare the effect of phosphoric acid and a self-etching adhesive on the short and long-term bond strength of a light-curing sealant to unground primary and permanent enamel., Methods: A light-curing resin sealant (Delton Light Curing Pit & Fissure Sealant-CLEAR) was bonded to the flattest, peripheral surface of 40 primary and 40 permanent molars following conditioning of the cleaned enamel with 38% phosphoric acid or with the self-etching adhesive Prompt L-Pop (N=10/group). After either 1 week or 1 year in water, shear bond strengths were measured. Failure mode was determined in a stereo microscope., Results: There was no significant difference in bond strengths between the phosphoric acid-etch and the self-etching adhesive groups, nor between the 1-week and 1-year results (P>.05). However, the bond strengths to primary enamel were lower than those to permanent enamel (P=.0021). The number of pure adhesive failures in each of the 8 groups varied between 0 and 3 (0-30%), and the remaining teeth displayed mixed adhesive-cohesive failures., Conclusions: The self-etching adhesive studied seems an attractive alternative to the acid-etch technique for sealant application in young children where simplifications in the clinical procedure are warranted.

Purpose: This study measured the microtensile bond strengths of 2 tooth-colored restorative materials with and without conditioning of primary teeth dentin, and examined the micromorphology of the debonded surfaces and material-dentin interfaces., Methods: Cylindrical specimens of packable composite resin (PCR) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) bonded to dentin of primary teeth were ground to an hourglass shape and tested for microtensile bond strength. The debonded surfaces and material-dentin interfaces were prepared and examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM)., Results: The microtensile bond strength values (mean +/- SD, in MPa) of PCR (Filtek P60 with Single Bond) and RMGIC (Fuji II LC), with or without the application of Cavity Conditioner (14.8 +/- 5.36, 12.01 +/- 4.43, 11.94 +/- 4.60, respectively), did not differ significantly (P > .05). Partial adhesive and partial cohesive failures within the restorative material predominated. The distributions of failure modes did not differ significantly between groups (P > .05). Under SEM, each material was seen to be closely adapted to dentin. Dentinal tubules were enlarged with etching, and the depth of penetration of resin tags of PCR was greater than for RMGIC. Smear plugs were incompletely removed by cavity conditioning., Conclusions: The bond strength of the PCR, Filtek P60 with Single Bond, to dentin of primary teeth was comparable to that of the RMGIC, Fuji II LC. Conditioning of the cavity preparation with Cavity Conditioner did not improve the bond strength of Fuji II LC. The distribution of failure modes did not differ between materials.

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and anatomic characteristics of accessory foramina in the external and internal furcation areas of primary molars. Sixty human primary molars were divided into two equal groups. The teeth of the experimental group showed in previous radiographic examination the presence of a radiolucency area confined to the inter-radicular region, while the teeth of the control group had no sign of pulpal inflammation in the clinical and/or radiographic examination. The specimens were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The external furcation area (EFA) showed a higher prevalence of accessory foramina than the internal furcation area (IFA) (P<0.05). However, the comparison between the two groups did not show statistically significant difference (P>0.05). The presence of accessory canals should not be considered the only reason for inter-radicular pathological bone resorption following pulpal necrosis in deciduous molars.

Purpose: The purpose of this descriptive scanning electron microscopic study was to characterize surface alterations in primary tooth enamel after in vitro argon laser irradiation alone and combined with topical fluoride treatment either before or after argon laser irradiation., Methods: Twenty extracted or exfoliated primary teeth underwent soft tissue debridement and a fluoride-free prophylaxis. Buccal and lingual surfaces were determined to be caries-free by macroscopic examination (stereo-zoom binocular microscope, x16). Treatment groups were: (1) no-treatment control; (2) argon laser irradiation (ALI; 11.5 J/cm2); (3) 1.23% acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF before ALI); and (4) ALI before APF. Both buccal and lingual surfaces were evaluated following standard scanning electron microscopic preparation techniques., Results: With controls, enamel surfaces were relatively smooth with occasional enamel prism ends present on their surfaces. There were no areas with cavitations or surface defects. With ALI, the lased surfaces were roughened mildly to moderately irregular without cavitation of the enamel or exposure of enamel prism ends. The surfaces possessed adherent granules to globules, with most being <3 microm in greatest dimension. Only occasional fine cracks and porosities in the surface coatings were noted and these were typically less than 1 microm in width or diameter. With APF before ALI, the surfaces possessed an irregular contour, with numerous granules to globules varying in size from 1 to 3 microm in greatest dimension. With ALI before APF, a homogenous confluent surface was present that masked typical enamel surface markings. The previously noted adherent granules and globules with argon laser treatment alone or APF before ALI were not seen. The argon laser effects on the enamel surfaces were masked by the uniformity of these surface coatings., Conclusions: Argon laser irradiation and combined APF and argon laser treatment of primary tooth enamel created surfaces that may provide a protective barrier against a cariogenic attack. The surface coatings associated with combined APF and argon laser treatment may contain fluoride-rich calcium and phosphate mineral phases that could act as reservoirs for fluoride, calcium, and phosphate and provide a certain degree of protection from a caries lesion challenge.

Purpose: To evaluate the bond strengths of three polyacid-modified resin composites and one resin-modified glass-ionomer cement to caries-simulated primary dentin after 18-months' water immersion., Methods: Dyract AP, Compoglass F, F2000 and Vitremer were used as test materials. Standardized preparations cavities with a C-factor of 5 were prepared in primary molars. Half of the cavities were stored in a demineralizing media for 7 days to simulate caries-affected dentin. Thereafter, all preparations were restored with the test materials, after which the specimens were stored in water for 18 months, changing the water every week. The specimens were subjected to a microtensile test and all bond strength data (in MPa) were statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey HSD tests at P < 0.01., Results: The mean microtensile bond strength to normal primary dentin specimens were 11.2 +/- 1.5 (Dyract AP), 10.6 +/- 2.1 (Compoglass F), 10.8 +/- 1.1 (F2000) and 7.3 +/- 1.6 (Vitremer), while those to the caries-simulated dentin were 4.1 +/- 0.7 (Dyract AP), 3.0 +/- 0.6 (Compoglass F), 2.3 +/- 0.9 (F2000) and 1.9 +/- 0.5 (Vitremer). SEM evaluation of the unfractured specimens revealed evidence of gap formation in the adhesive interface in all samples.

Purpose: The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the shear bond strengths (SBS) of Non-Rinse Conditioner (NRC, Dentsply) combined with Prime & Bond NT (PBNT, Dentsply), a 1-bottle adhesive. The null hypothesis tested was that the use of NRC with PBNT would not result in SBS different from those obtained with conventional phosphoric acid (PA) etching and bonding application to permanent and primary dentin., Methods: Extracted human third molars and primary molars were mounted length-wise in acrylic resin. The occlusal surfaces were ground to expose a flat dentin surface, and then polished to 600 grit silicon carbide paper to create smear layers similar to those created with high-speed burs. The teeth were randomly assigned to 4 groups (N = 10) according to the etchant/conditioner (PA vs NRC) and dentin (permanent vs primary) used: (Group I: permanent dentin, PA, PBNT; Group II: primary dentin, PA, PBNT; Group III: permanent dentin, NRC, PBNT; Group IV: primary dentin, NRC, PBNT). Specimens were then secured in a split mold, having a 5 mm diameter opening and a polyacid-modified resin composite (Dyract AP, Dentsply) were inserted and light cured incrementally onto the treated dentin surfaces. All specimens were stored in water for 24 hours prior to shear strength testing using a Franell testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.8 mm/minute., Results: The mean dentin SBS values (MPa) for the groups were: Group I (13.32 +/- 6.6); Group II (15.21 +/- 5.25); Group III (8.87 +/- 3.12); and Group IV (7.42 +/- 2.98). Analysis of variance and Duncan's multiple range tests indicated significant differences among groups at P < 0.05., Conclusions: In general, the SBS were remarkably greater in the 2 groups etched with PA in comparison with the 2 groups conditioned with NRC. However, the type of dentin tissue did not influence SBS.

Direction of dentin tubules is an important factor that affects bond strength of contemporary adhesive materials. Because conservative proximal cavity preparations in primary teeth contain more dentin tubules running oblique or parallel to the cavity walls, this study was conducted to evaluate the influence of tubule orientation on the bond strength to primary dentin. A polyacid-modified resin composite material was used as the test material. A microtensile test was utilized to enable evaluation of bond strengths in three different tubule orientations (perpendicular, oblique, parallel) following aging of the resindentin bonds by long-term immersion of the test samples in water. Samples bonded parallel to the dentin tubules showed the highest microtensile bond strength, followed by the oblique and perpendicular groups. Statistical analysis of the data showed no significant difference between the bond strength of parallel and oblique groups. Independent of the tubule orientation, all samples revealed cohesive fracture within dentin.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effect on shear bond strength of chlorhexidine used as a cavity disinfectant on primary tooth dentin., Methods: Thirty specimens were randomly divided into 3 groups (N = 10) and treated as follows: (1) in Group I, the dentin was acid etched with a 37% phosphoric acid for 15 seconds, washed and dried; (2) in Group II, a 2% commercial chlorhexidine solution (Cav Clean) was applied for 40 seconds, washed and dried following acid etching for 15 seconds; and (3) in Group III, dentin was treated with a 37% phosphoric acid gel containing 2% digluconate of chlorhexidine (Cond AC) for 15 seconds. In all specimens, the adhesive Single Bond (3M) was applied, and composite cylinders (Filtek Z 250) were built. The specimens were sheared with a universal testing machine (Instron) running at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, and the results calculated in MPa. The specimens were also observed to record the failure mode., Results: ANOVA analysis revealed that the shear bond strength of Group II (17.99+1.15 MPa) was significantly lower than Group I (19.88+1.02 MPa) and Group III (19.57+1.02 MPa). After debonding, 63% of the specimens presented cohesive failure of the material, 24% adhesive failure and 10% cohesive failure of dentin., Conclusions: The commercial cavity disinfectant containing 2% chlorhexidine had an adverse effect on Single Bond and produced significantly lower shear bond strength than the etch gel with chlorhexidine and the acid etch alone.

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate by scanning electron microscopy the morphological aspects of the enamel of primary teeth after etching with 36% phosphoric acid or a non-rinse conditioner. Ten naturally exfoliated anterior primary teeth were selected. The samples were subjected to prophylaxis with pumice paste and water using a low-speed hand piece. Etching was done on the buccal surface. Specimens were divided into 2 groups: G1 (n=10): etching with 36% phosphoric acid gel - Conditioner 36 (Dentsply) for 20 s, followed by water rinse for 15 s; G2 (n=10): etching with NRC - Non Rinse Conditioner (Dentsply) for 20 s, followed by air drying for 15 s. The samples were dehydrated, mounted on metal stubs, coated with gold and observed with Jeol JSM-6100 scanning electron microscope. Electron-micrographic analysis showed that both etching agents were effective for etching the enamel of primary teeth causing the formation of microporosities on the enamel surface, although the etching pattern was more effective with the use of 36% phosphoric acid gel.

Hybridization of dentine is identified as a basic bonding mechanism between resin and dentine, hence studying the micro morphology of hybrid layer may explain lower bond strength that has been observed in primary teeth. The aim of the present study was to compare the thickness and micromorphology of Hybrid layer formed in primary and permanent teeth for 3 different durations of dentine etching time (5, 10 and 15 sec) with 10% phosphoric acid as etchant. Thickness and micromorphology of hybrid layer was observed on SEM photographs obtained at 750X. Results indicated that primary teeth presented with a significantly thicker hybrid layer compared to permanent teeth at 10 sec (P<0.05) and 15 sec (P<0.01) of dentine etching. It was concluded that owing to the high reactivity of primary teeth to etchants, the etchants be applied for shorter period on primary dentine compared to permanent dentine for better performance of composite restoration in primary dentition.

The aims of the present article were to assess the reliability of different techniques to assess marginal defects in Class II restorations in retrieved primary molars, and to determine the degree of agreement between the various assessment modalities. The material evaluated was comprised of 18 exfoliated primary molars that had been restored 20 to 22 months previously with a resin-modified glass ionomer (Vitremer--7 teeth), a hybridized composite resin (Z100 + Scotchbond Multipurpose--9 teeth), and amalgam (Dispersalloy--2 teeth). No significant differences could be observed between the groups. The majority of the restorations rated A at the buccal and lingual margins, but poor adaptation was disclosed at the cervical margin of the three types of restorations. SEM evaluation revealed that the highest percentage of defects was seen at the cervical margins with no statistically significant difference between the groups. No or minimal leakage was present at the occlusal margins and severe penetration of dye was seen at the cervical margins in all groups. Significantly less demineralization was seen adjacent to the Vitremer and Z100 restorations when compared to the Dispersalloy but no difference was found between the esthetic restorations. Except for the visual tactile examination, small marginal defects could be disclosed by the three assessment techniques (SEM, dye penetration, and polarized light microscopy). A good degree of agreement was observed between the three evaluation techniques.

The bonding performance of current adhesive systems to primary enamel has not been thoroughly researched. This study compared the micro-shear bond strength of two adhesive systems to primary and permanent tooth enamel. Two commercially available resin adhesives, a self-etching primer system (Clearfil SE Bond) and a single-bottle adhesive system (Single Bond) used with a total-etch wet bonding technique were tested. A micro-shear bond test was used to examine the adhesive systems on mid-coronal buccal enamel of extracted primary or permanent teeth. In addition, etched enamel surfaces and etched-bonded enamel interfaces were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). No statistically significant differences of shear bond strength values were found between the primary and permanent enamel or the adhesive systems used (p>0.01). The SEM observations showed that both adhesive systems etched the primary enamel deeper than the permanent enamel, suggesting that the action of acid etch seemed to be more intense on primary enamel than on permanent enamel. Bonding of the adhesive systems to primary enamel was almost identical to permanent enamel.

In this in vitro study, the compositional and structural changes of human dentin, and knoop harness of cavity floor following the removal of dental caries by Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation in primary teeth was compared with that of the conventional bur cavity. The results confirmed that laser irradiation revealed minimal thermal damage to the surrounding tissues, minimal thermal induced changes of dental hard tissue compositions, and favorable surface characteristic.

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a hereditary defect in enamel formation affecting both primary and permanent dentition. Scanning electron microscopic investigation is one of the most effective methods in diagnosing and identifying the type of amelogenesis imperfecta. The aim of this study was to investigate the ultrastructure of different types of amelogenesis imperfecta enamel. The primary teeth of three children with AI aged 4, 10 and 11-years-old were studied by scanning electron microscopy and irregular enamel, irregularities in enamel crystallites, hypoplastic areas on the enamel surface were seen. Histopathological evaluation revealed predentin areas with irregular canaliculi between normal dentin and internal resorption areas in the pulp tissue. Conclusively, in amelogenesis imperfecta, enamel tissue is mostly affected besides minor defects in dentinal and pulpal tissue.

Objectives: Limited information exists with regard to the adhesive ability of glass ionomer cements (GIC) and recently developed resin-based dentin bond systems to primary dentin. The aim of this study was to compare the microtensile bond strength of a conventional GIC (Fuji IX), a resin-modified GIC (Fuji II LC), and two resin-based dentin adhesives (Prime and Bond NT with NRC and Single Bond). The bonded interfaces were also observed using field emission electron microscopy(FE-SEM)., Methods: Microtensile bond test specimens were prepared on superficial dentin of primary and permanent molars. The specimens were bonded according to each manufacturer's instructions except for Prime and Bond NT/NRC which used Silux Plus resin composite instead of Dyract. Hour-glass shaped specimens were created (diameter of 1.2+/-0.02 mm) and stressed in tension at a crosshead speed of 1mm/min. Results were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and LSD test, fracture modes were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and Kruskall-Wallis test. Twelve specimens were prepared for each material on primary and permanent dentin. Samples were prepared in the same manner, then critical point dried, fractured and sputter-coated for the FE-SEM observations., Results: Two-way ANOVA showed the overall bond strengths were greater for the permanent dentin compared with primary dentin. However, for individual material comparisons no differences among the bond strengths to primary and permanent dentin for Fuji IX (9.7, 12.2 MPa), Fuji II LC (16, 20.1 MPa), Prime & Bond NT/NRC (18.1, 21.6 MPa) and Single Bond (18.2, 21.6 MPa), were detected. However, Fuji IX bond strengths were significantly lower than the other systems tested when bonded to either primary or permanent dentin (p<0.05). Failure mode showed cohesive failure of GIC and mostly adhesive failure for the resin-based adhesives. The FE-SEM observations showed hybrid-like layer formation for the GIC materials and hybrid layer formation for the resin-based adhesives., Significance: The materials tested would be suitable for bonding to either primary or permanent dentin, but the resin-modified GIC or resin-based systems are likely to provide a stronger bond than the conventional GIC, Fuji IX.

Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the effect of tip diameter, nozzle distance, and application time of an air-abrasion system for cavity preparation on the enamel of primary teeth., Method and Materials: Forty exfoliated primary teeth were air abraded with a microabrasion machine used with a handpiece with an 80-degree-angle nozzle, 50-micron abrasive particle size, and 80-psi air pressure. The effects of 0.38- or 0.48-mm inner tip diameter, 2- or 5-mm distance from tip to tooth surface, and 15 or 30 seconds of application time on cutting efficiency were evaluated. Cutting width and depth were analyzed and measured from scanning electron micrographs., Results: Statistical analysis revealed that the width of the cuts was significantly greater when the tip distance was increased. Significantly deeper cavities were produced by a tip with a 0.48-mm inner diameter. The application time did not influence the cuts., Conclusion: The cutting patterns found in this study suggest that precise removal of enamel in primary teeth is best accomplished when a tip with a 0.38-mm inner diameter is used at a 2-mm distance.

The aim of the present survey was to evaluate tubule density and diameter of dentin of first and second primary human molars and compare the two dental categories. These evaluations were done solely at the middle third of the crowns of twenty extracted noncarious teeth separated in two groups (first molars and second molars). The tubule diameters observed were 0. 794 microm and 1.0 microm for first and second molars, respectively (measurements done at 35-65% from the pulp-chamber walls). Regarding tubular density, the measurements indicated 17,997.594 tubules/mm2 and 25,211.317 tubules/mm2 for first and second molars, respectively. Comparisons between-groups indicated that tubule diameter and density of dentin were higher in second molars, being the difference highly significant (P<0.01).

Background and Objectives: We have investigated the fundamental aspects of Nd:YAG laser at the picosecond pulse regime interacting with primary teeth. Because little is present in the literature concerning specific laser ablation for primary teeth with respect to enamel and dentin, this work may open perspectives for new investigations., Study Design/materials and Methods: Using a picosecond Nd:YAG laser, different power levels (200, 300, and 350 mW) and different exposition times (5, 10, and 15 seconds) were considered., Results: Micro-morphological aspects of the laser-tooth interaction showed collateral effects in enamel more accentuated than in dentin. Penetration depth in dentin seems to scale up in rate as the time of application progress, for enamel the behavior is the opposite. The overall ablated volume is higher in dentin when compared with enamel, which results in a higher ablated rate as well., Conclusions: Specific ablation characteristics are observed in either dentin or enamel., (Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)