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To compare 2 different resin composites and 2 adhesive systems used in a new restorative protocol (partial restoration) to treat non-carious cervical lesions associated with gingival recession type 1 (RT1).Eighty combined defects (CDs) were treated with a partial restoration and periodontal plastic surgery for root coverage. The CDs were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: NP + TE (n = 20), nanofilled composite and 2-step total-etch adhesive system; NP + UA (n = 20), nanofilled composite and universal adhesive system; MH + TE (n = 20), microhybrid composite and 2-step total-etch adhesive; MH + UA (n = 20), microhybrid composite and universal adhesive. Restorations were assessed using the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria at 1 week (baseline) and 6, 12, and 24 months. Survival rate, periodontal parameters, dentin hypersensitivity (DH), and aesthetics were also evaluated.After 24 months, only the MH + TE group did not lose any restoration, with no significant differences between groups. For surface roughness parameter, MH presented 83.3% of the restorations scoring Bravo, whereas NP presented 48.5% of the restorations scoring Bravo. All groups presented restorations with marginal discoloration. All periodontal parameters behaved similarly, regardless of the restorative material. All groups presented significant reductions of dentin hypersensitivity and improved aesthetic perceptions (p 0.05).Both resin composites and adhesives tested can be combined for partial restorations to treat CDs.This new restorative-surgical protocol to treat CDs presents satisfactory outcomes. The partial restorations can be successfully executed with both combinations of adhesives and resin composites evaluated in this investigation. TRN : ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT03215615; registration date July 12, 2017.

Characterize the chemical structure of an elastomeric monomer (Exothane 24) and evaluate the degree of conversion (DC), polymerization shrinkage stress (PSS), rate of polymerization (Rp), flexural strength (FThe Exothane 24 was characterized using mass spectroscopy, elemental analysis,Exothane 24 is a urethane isophorone tetramethyl methacrylate monomer with polymerization stress-relieving properties. No differences were found in the DC up to 4 mm in depth for E25. All BFCs had similar FThe Exothane 24 reduced the PSS and increased the wear resistance of BFCs; however, the formulation is important to optimize the properties of the BFCs.

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanical, chemical, optical, and adhesive properties of BisGMA-free experimental resin composites containing Exothane-24—an elastomeric urethane monomer—and different co-initiators. A blend of urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), extended dimethacrylate urethane (PEG 400), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and camphorquinone was prepared. Two different co-initiators—dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) or 4-N alcohol, N-dimethylamine phenylethyl (DMPOH)—were added to the blend. Exothane-24 monomer was added to the blend for each co-initiator and four groups were established as follows: DMAEMA; DMAEMA + Exothane; DMPOH; and DMPOH + Exothane. Specimens were photo-activated using a multi-wave LED light-curing unit (VALO; 954 mW/cm2 of irradiance). Mechanical (ultimate tensile strength, flexural strength, flexural modulus and hardness), chemical (degree of conversion, hardness reduction, water sorption and solubility), optical (color change), and adhesive (microtensile bond strength) properties were analyzed. Data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). The resin composite containing DMPOH and Exothane-24 showed similar or superior performance to those of the other experimental composites for mechanical and chemical properties, except for flexural strength. It also showed less color change and greater micro-tensile bond strength. Among the combinations tested, the BisGMA-free resin composite containing Exothane-24 combined with the DMPOH co-initiator showed the best mechanical, chemical, optical, and adhesive properties. Clinical relevance Exothane-24 monomer and DMPOH co-initiator could be useful in the formulation of BisGMA-free resin composites in order to minimize exposure to BPA.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the exposure reciprocity law of a multi-wave light-emitting diode (LED) on the light transmittance (LT), depth of cure (DOC) and degree of conversion in-depth (DC) of a bulk fill composite. A bulk fill composite (EvoCeram® bulk fill, Ivoclar Vivadent) was photoactivated using the multi-wave LED (VALO™ Cordless, Ultradent). The LED was previously characterized using a spectrophotometer to standardize the time of exposure when using the Standard or Xtra-Power modes with the same radiant exposure of 20J/cm2. LT was evaluated through samples of the bulk fill composite every millimeter till 4 mm in-depth. DOC was evaluated according to the ISO 4049. DC of the central longitudinal cross-section from each sample of the DOC test was mapped using FT-NIR microscopy. Data were statistically analyzed according to the experimental design (α=0.05; ß=0.2). The radiant exposure in the violet wavelength range for Standard and Xtra-Power was 4.5 and 5.0 J/cm2, respectively; for the blue wavelength range the radiant exposure for Standard and Xtra-Power was 15.5 and 15.0 J/cm2, respectively. There was no statistical difference in the DOC using Standard or Xtra-Power light-curing modes, but the DOC was lower than the claimed by the manufacturer (4 mm). The DC was not significantly affected by the light-curing mode up to 4 mm in depth (p>0.05). According to exposure reciprocity law, the reduction in exposure time using the same radiant exposure did not affect the depth of cure of the bulk fill composite. Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da lei de reciprocidade de um diodo emissor de luz (LED) multi-wave na transmitância de luz (LT), profundidade de cura (DOC) e grau de conversão em profundidade (DC) de um compósito bulk fill. Material e Métodos: Um compósito bulk fill (EvoCeram®, Ivoclar Vivadent) foi fotoativado utilizando um LED multi-wave (VALO ™ Cordless, Ultradent). O LED foi previamente caracterizado usando um espectrofotômetro para padronizar o tempo de exposição utilizando os modos Standard ou Xtra-Power com a mesma dose de energia de 20 J/cm 2. A LT foi avaliada através de amostras do compósito bulk fill a cada milímetro até 4 mm de profundidade. O DOC foi avaliado de acordo com a ISO 4049. O DC foi realizado em forma de mapeamento da seção transversal longitudinal central de cada amostra do teste de DOC utilizando microscopia FT-NIR. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente de acordo com o delineamento experimental (α=0,05; ß=0,2). A exposição radiante na faixa de comprimento de onda violeta para os modos Standard e Xtra-Power foi de 4,5 e 5,0 J/cm2, respectivamente; e para a faixa de comprimento de onda azul, a exposição radiante para os modos Standard e Xtra-Power foi de 15,5 e 15,0 J/cm2, respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatística no DOC utilizando os modos de fotopolimerização Standard ou Xtra-Power, mas o DOC foi menor do que o reivindicado pelo fabricante (4 mm). O DC não foi afetado significativamente pelo modo de fotopolimerização até 4 mm de profundidade (p>0,05). De acordo com a lei de reciprocidade da exposição, a redução no tempo de exposição utilizando a mesma exposição radiante não afetou a profundidade de cura do compósito bulk fill.

Objectives The objective of this study is to test the wear of dual-cured bulkfill and flowable bulkfill composites. Materials and methods Six dual-cured bulkfill composites, Cention, Cention-Exp, Activa, Fill-up, Hyperfil Injectafill, and two flowable bulkfill composites Tetric Evoflow BulkFill and G-aenial Universal Flo were tested in this study (n = 8). Each composite was applied into an aluminum sample holder and cured with a Valo Grand (1230 mW/cm2 ) or self-cured according to manufacturer's recommendations, and stored in water for 3 weeks. The samples were subjected to 120 000 load cycles of 49 N (CS-4) against spherical steatite antagonists and simultaneously subjected to 4440 thermocycles (5°C-55°C). At intervals between load cycles, polyvinyl siloxane impressions were taken and scanned with a True Definition Laser Scanner. The volumetric wear was calculated using image software (Geomagic). Microscopic images of selected wear facets and their corresponding worn antagonists were obtained using SEM. All data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post hoc test for multiple comparison (α = .05; β = .2). Results The load cycles volumetric wear-increase was linear. Two-way ANOVA showed significant main effects (material and light-cured) and significant interactions. Self-cured materials (mean = 0.38 mm3 ) showed more wear than light-cured materials (mean = 0.35mm3 ). Conclusions The bioactive materials except Activa light-cured showed significantly more wear than the flowable composites. Clinical significance This study demonstrated that most of the dual-cured composites, if light-cured, showed the same wear as the flowable composites used as control. Therefore, to obtain adequate wear resistance the dual-cured composites should be routinely light-cured.

Dental zirconium oxide restorations are milled from pre-sintered blocks or disks which are produced either with high isostatic pressure (HIP) or, simpler, a slurry technique. The objective was to perform a fatigue test and an in vitro wear simulation of two ceramics, yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (3Y-TZP) ceramic and a hybrid zirconium oxide-aluminum oxide ceramic, (ATZ) both produced either the classical way using high isostatic pressure (HIP, control) or with a slurry technique.Ten discs/group were subjected to a cyclic biaxial fatigue test using a staircase approach under water at 37 °C in a dynamic universal testing machine. The 2-body wear test was performed on eight lapped 12 mm thick cylindrical samples subjected to spherical (ø 6 mm) leucite ceramic antagonists in a CS-4 chewing simulator at 49 N force and 0.7 mm lateral movement for 600 k cycles and 4167 thermal cycles (5-55 °C). Volumetric wear was calculated based on laser-scanned surfaces. Selected samples of both tests were viewed in SEM.All the ceramic specimens produced using the HIP method survived up to 1.2 M cycles with the maximum load of the equipment (1000 N) loading the specimens up to 1527 MPa. The fatigue limit stress at 1.2 M cycles for the Slurry ATZ samples was 946 MPa. For the Slurry Y-TZP samples the fatigue limit stress at 1.2 M cycles was 658 MPa. At 600 k cycles, all zirconium oxide ceramics showed no measurable wear and had a highly polished appearance. The leucite ceramic antagonists wear developed in a linear way. There was no difference between the materials produced with the slurry and the HIP process. ATZ ceramic produced significantly more wear than 3Y- TZP ceramic.The HIP method provided higher fatigue strength than the Slurry manufacturing method. All HIP ceramics surpassed the limit threshold (1527 MPa) of the testing machine. The tested ceramics did not show any measurable wear but had worn the leucite reinforced glass ceramic antagonists for a considerable amount.

Universal adhesives (UAs) were introduced about 10 years ago as alternative bonding systems to clinicians' demand for versatility and user-friendly clinical techniques. Clinical studies have shown that the performance of UAs is dependent on the bonding strategy used.

Objective This study aimed to perform the beam profile of dental light-curing units (LCUs) using mirrorless and smartphone cameras and correlate it to a camera-based laser beam profiling system. Materials and Methods Three LCUs were evaluated (Radii Plus; Bluephase G2; and VALO Cordless). The spectral power of the LCUs was measured by using a spectrophotometer. The light emitted from the LCUs was projected onto a glass diffuser, and the images were recorded by using a mirrorless camera (NEX-F3), a smartphone (iPhone) and a camera-based beam profiler. Bandpass optical-filters were used, and for each LCU, the total spectral power output was integrated to calibrate the images. Statistical analysis was performed by digital image correlation (pixel by pixel) using Pearson’s correlation (α = 0.05; β = 0.2). Results The beam profile images showed nonuniform radiant emittance and spectral emission distributions across all the LCUs light tip. A strong correlation was found among cameras (Pearson’s r = 0.91 ± 0.03 with 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88–0.94 for the NEX-F3 and Pearson’s r = 0.88 ± 0.04 with 95% CI: 0.84–0.92 for the iPhone). Conclusion The standard Ophir beam profile system presented the most accurate distribution, but the mirrorless and smartphone cameras presented a strong correlation in the irradiance distribution of the beam profile images. Alternative cameras can be used to perform light beam profile of dental LCUs, but caution is needed as the type of sensor, image bit depth, and image processing are important to obtain accurate results.

Objectives: To test wear of 10 universal composites and the antagonist. Null hypothesis: there are no differences in the composite and antagonist wear. Materials and Methods: Flat samples, light cured as of manufacturer’s instructions and polished were made from Admira Fusion (AF), Filtek Supreme Ultra (FS), G-aenial Sculpt (GS), Harmonize (HR), Herculite Ultra (HU), Tetric Evoceram (TE), TPH Spectra (SP) and three Ultradent experimental materials (UPI Exp 1-3) (n = 8), and stored in water for 3 weeks. They were subjected to wear in a chewing simulator (1.2 x 105 cycles, 49 N, 0.7 mm lateral movement, 1 Hz, steatite antagonists (Ø 6 mm), simultaneously thermocycled (5/55°C) every 90 s). The volumetric wear of the composite was measured with a 3D laser scanner) after 5,000, 10,000 then every 10,000, up to 120,000 cycles. The wear of antagonists was measured after 120,000 cycles. Results: From 5,000 – 120,000 load cycles wear was linear. The total volumetric wear of composites was: GS 0.428 ± 0.083 mm3, UPI Exp 3 0.51 ± 0.042 mm3, HU 0.576 ± 0.072 mm3, SP 0.609 ± 0.088 mm3, FS 0.635 ± 0.077 mm3, HR 0.658 ± 0.116 mm3, TE 0.714 ± 0.097 mm3, Ultradent UPI Exp2 0.725 ± 0.132 mm3, UPI Exp 1 0.894 ± 0.278 mm3 and AF 1.578 ± 0.37 mm3. The wear of AF was significantly the largest (p < 0.0001). GS showed the lowest wear, but shared this position with UPI Exp 3, HU, SP, FS and HR. The total wear of UPI Exp3 was the lowest. Conclusion: The null hypothesis was rejected. Clinical Relevance: Except for AF, wear should be within acceptable limits.

To evaluate the depth of cure (DOC) of ten contemporary resin-based composites (RBCs), light-cured using different LCUs and exposure times.The power, radiant emittance, irradiance, radiant exposure (RE), and beam profiles from a laser (M, Monet), a multi-peak (V, Valo Grand), and single-peak (S, SmartLite Pro) LCU were measured. The DOC was measured using a 6-mm diameter metal mold and a solvent dissolution method to remove the uncured RBC. The length of the remaining RBC was divided by 2. The exposure times were: 1 s and 3 s for M, 10 s and 20 s for V, and 10 s and 20 s for S. Data were analyzed using: Bland-Altman distribution, Pearson's Correlation, and an artificial neural network (ANN) to establish the relative importance of the factors on the DOC (α=0.05; β=0.2).Significant differences were found in the DOC achieved by the different LCUs and composites. The laser LCU emitted the highest power, radiant emittance is used above and in the tables and delivered the highest irradiance. However, this LCU used for 1 s delivered the lowest RE and produced the shortest DOC in all ten RBCs. The ANN demonstrated that the RE is the most critical factor for the DOC. Bland-Altman comparisons showed that the DOCs achieved with the laser LCU used for 1 s were between 17 and 34% shorter than the other conditions.Although the laser LCU cured all 10 RBCs when used for 1 s, it produced the shallowest DOC, and some RBCs did not achieve their minimum DOC threshold. The RE and not the irradiance was the most important factor in determining the DOC of these 10 RBCs.Despite delivering high power and irradiance, the laser used for l s delivered a lower radiant exposure than the conventional LCUs used for 10 s. This resulted in a shorter DOC.

Objective This study investigated whether a sample of anterior resin composite restorations could be differently evaluated in different centers of evaluation by clinical and lay evaluators. Methods Anterior resin composite restorations on high-quality intraoral digital photography were evaluated using FDI criteria (1-5 score) by pairs of clinical and lay evaluators in Brazil (BR), France (FR), Peru (PE), and the United States of America (USA). Scores were allocated as maintenance (1, 2, 3), repair (4) and replacement (5) when comparing clinical evaluators and, as acceptable (1, 2, 3) and unacceptable (4, 5) when comparing clinical vs. lay evaluators and lay vs. lay evaluators. The Chi-square test compared the frequencies of scores among the centers. Results The frequencies of maintaining, repairing, or replacing anterior resin composite restorations given by clinical evaluators varied depending on the evaluation center. BR and PE showed the highest frequencies for repair and replacement, while FR and USA showed the highest frequencies for maintenance. The comparison of frequencies of anterior resin composite restorations accepted or unaccepted by the clinical vs lay evaluators in the same centers showed a significantly higher frequency of acceptable dental restorations coming from clinical evaluators. Comparison between lay evaluators from different centers showed significant higher frequency of unacceptable dental restorations by BR, compared to other centers. Conclusions In the evaluation of anterior resin composite restorations, the maintenance, repair, or replacement trends can vary among different centers. The unacceptable rate came more frequently from lay than from clinical evaluators. Lay evaluators from different centers differed significantly. Clinical Significance Clinical and lay evaluators in distant evaluation centers can present different trends when assessing anterior resin composite restoration. Multicenter evaluations can help to understand such differences and it is important because clinical decision-making based on scientific evidence comes from clinical studies done in different research centers.

To evaluate and compare color stability and gloss retention of ceramic stains and glaze under simulated toothbrushing using dentifrices with different relative dentin abrasion (RDA).Feldspathic porcelain, lithium disilicate, 3 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia, and 5 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia were evaluated. Ceramics were externally stained, glazed and mounted in the toothbrush simulator. A toothbrush with 300 g force was applied. Regular toothpaste (72 RDA) and charcoal toothpaste (RDA200) were used. Linear brushing motion with cycle intervals: 5 k, 10 k, 30 k, and 50 k was achieved. Change in color (CIEΔE2000) and gloss measurements were collected using a reflection spectrophotometer (Ci 7600, X-rite) at baseline and cycle intervals. Repeated measures analysis of variance within specimen factors (ceramic type, toothpaste and cycles) was performed.ΔEGlass-phase ceramics retain stains longer than zirconia ceramics. Charcoal toothpaste affect color and gloss stability. Ceramic glaze maybe lost within the first 6 months in patients' mouth.Long-term color and gloss stability of externally stained and glazed ceramics maybe a clinical concern. Charcoal toothpastes enhance loss of color and gloss of ceramic restorations.

Purpose of the Study: Compare occlusal wear of PMMA DCL denture teeth under two different loads in vitro. Materials & Methods: Sixteen mandibular second premolars (SR Orthoplane DCL) with a flat occlusal surface (specimens) were worn by sixteen maxillary second premolar-antagonists (Ortholingual DCL). These teeth were subjected in a chewing simulator (CS-4, SD Mechatronik) up to 240,000 loading cylces at 19.6N (LL ≈ full denture) and 68.6N (HL ≈ implant-overdenture) and TC (2,222 x 5 °C - 55 °C). Replicas of mandibular teeth were obtained at 0, 10,000; 20,000; 40,000; up to 240,000 cycles with polyvinyl-siloxane impressions and dental stone. Antagonist-replicas were made at baseline and at 240,000 cycles. The volumetric wear was determined with Geomagic after scanning replicas with a laser scanner. Linear regressions and ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. Results: The wear rate of the HL-specimens was significantly higher than that of the LL-group (p < 0.0001). The LL-wear rate became linear after 60,000 cycles and was calculated to be 0.182 x 10-6 mm3/stroke. The HL-wear rate was linear from 20,000 to 140,000 cycles and was 1.056 x 10-6 mm3/stroke, then up to 240,000 cycles 0.656 x 10-6 mm3/stroke. At 240,000 cycles the HL-group showed significantly higher antagonist-wear (p < 0.0001). The antagonists in both groups demonstrated higher wear than their opposing specimens (p < 0.08). Conclusions: HL generated significantly higher wear of both the specimens and the antagonists. The antagonists showed higher wear than the specimens. As a clinical consequence one may expect more wear of denture teeth in implant supported overdentures than in full dentures.

Aim: To make dentists aware on the importance of correctly used light cure resin composites. Method: Highlighting important facts about light curing: Use of high quality light curing unit, use of the resin composite specific appropriate radiant exposure to adequately cure a resin composite, and highlighting important facts that may alter the radiant exposure received clinically by a resin composite restoration. Results: Application of this knowledge should change the behavior of dentists when it comes to light curing. Conclusions: The facts described should help educational institutes and professors to reinforce proper light curing techniques and associate training sessions within educational courses in order to improve teaching and learning.

Aim: The study aimed to measure light scattering of a broad spectrum light curing unit (LCU) as influenced by ceramic type, shade and thickness as well as exposure distance and LCU’s position. Methodology: A broad spectrum LED LCU (ASCENT OL5) was mounted above a spectrometer (MARC Resin Calibrator, Blue, Light Analytics) at exposure distances of 1.0, 1.5 or 2.5 mm. The position of the center of the head was aligned with the spectrophotometer’s sensor and then moved in 1 mm increments in the X-Y plane, while concomitantly recording the irradiance. The process was repeated with lithium disilicate and leucite glass ceramic slabs of similar thicknesses. The loss in irradiance related to the value measured at center position was analyzed by means of linear regressions and multiple ANOVA analysis. Results: The regressions showed a good fit (90% - 99%). Moving away from the center showed decreased irradiance. Values of slope obtained were divided by their respective intercept to eliminate the influence of the irradiance measured at the center. Two three-way ANOVA’s were performed. One examined the influence of ceramic slab, direction and translucency/shade. It shows only the direction of measurement exhibited significant influence (p < 0.0001) on the mean normalized slope values. The other one examined the influence of ceramic slab, direction and slab thickness. It shows the mean normalized slope values are significantly influenced by the direction of measurement and the slab thickness (p < 0.0001). Values of the slopes indicated the ceramic scattering effect of the light. Thicker samples showed more scattering. Conclusion: The ceramic types, translucency/ shade had no significant effect on the light scattering. The thicker the ceramic the less irradiance changes were found indicating that the ceramics were scattering the light and thus slightly alleviating the effect of the inhomogeneous beam profile.

SUMMARY Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate and three-month water storage behavior of adhesives when used for immediate dentin sealing (IDS). Methods and Materials: Four adhesive systems were used to perform IDS: a one-step self-etch (Xeno V), a two-step self-etch (Clearfil SE Bond), a two-step etch-and-rinse (XP Bond), and a three-step etch-and-rinse (Optibond FL). For the control group, IDS was not performed. The self-adhesive resin cement RelyX Unicem was used for the luting procedures. After seven days of water storage, specimens (n=6) were sectioned into beams (n=5) with an approximately 1-mm2 cross-sectional area. Half of the specimens were tested in tension after seven days of water storage at 37°C, while the other half was stored for three months prior to testing in tension using a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). The failure pattern was determined using a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. Microtensile bond strength (μTBS) data were statistically analyzed by two-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test (α=0.05). Results: After seven days, the control group presented the lowest μTBS but did not differ from XP Bond and Clearfil SE Bond. After three months, there was no μTBS difference between the IDS groups and the control. Conclusions: After seven days of water storage, the groups with IDS presented higher μTBS values than the control group, although XP Bond and Clearfil SE Bond did not present significant differences. However, after three months of storage in water, IDS groups did not differ significantly from control group, which did not receive IDS.

Introduction: This in vitro study aimed at testing the hypotheses that (1) there is no difference in wear in vitro among 3 bulk-fill composites investigated and their respective antagonists, and (2) the tested bulk-fill wear is not different from enamel. Methodology: X-tra fil (Voco; [X]), Tetric-N-Ceram Bulkfill (Ivoclar Vivadent; [T]), QuiXX (Dentsply; [Q]), and enamel [E] specimens (Ø=8 mm, depth=1.5 mm, n=8/material) were subjected to wear in a chewing simulator (CS 4.8, SD Mechatronik) with steatite antagonists (Ø=6mm). 1.2x105 cycles (0-49 N, 0.7 mm lateral movement, 1 Hz) were performed while simultaneously thermocycling (5/55°C) every 90 s. The volumetric wear of the materials was measured with a 3D laser scanner. Results: The total wear of bulk-fills was: [X]: 0.64±0.07 mm3; [T]: 0.66±0.08 mm3; [Q]: 1.58±0.14 mm3. The total wear of enamel (0.24±0.03 mm3) was significantly lower than that of the bulk-fills (p

This continuing education paper gives some guidelines on how to write a scientific paper. A good paper begins with a high quality experiment! Therefore, based on an idea, authors should first inform themselves by reading the literature, refine their idea and convert it into a scientific question. This is all laid down in the first draft of the “Introduction” of the future paper. The authors must seek for ways to answer the scientific question stated above, which is done by describing it in detail in the “Material & Methods” section of the paper. This may require a pilot study. Once the experimental design, the parameters to be measured and the materials involved are known, it is good practice to consult a statistician in order to determine the statistical method to be used for analyzing the results. The execution phase is dominated by meticulously applying the methods described above and documenting everything in detail. Once results are obtained, they should be first displayed in a descriptive manner to determine the final quantitative analysis, which leads to tables and figures showing the significant differences. What is left at this point is to write a “Discussion”, which should be well structured and then to compile the whole manuscript in the format required by the journal of choice to submit to. Finally some hints are given how to successfully deal with reviewers. Conclusion: Following the recommendations given, the probability to obtain acceptance of a paper may be quite good.

To evaluate the effect of diamond toothpastes on the gloss surface of five resin composites.30 discs of each resin composite in A2 shade [Filtek Supreme Ultra (FS), Tetric EvoCeram (TE), IPS Empress Direct (ED), Charisma (CC), Venus Diamond (VD)] were made. The samples were divided into three groups according to the toothpaste: Colgate Total Clean Mint (control) (CTC), Candida White Diamond (CWD) and Emoform-F Diamond (EFD). After standardized polishing, the samples were brushed using a toothbrushing simulator, and gloss measurements were assessed at baseline and 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 and 120 minutes.Diamond toothpastes behaved dif-ferently from each other: the CWD and CTC groups presented the lowest values compared to EFD (P0.05). Nanofilled composites presented higher gloss values than other composites when brushed with various toothpastes (P0.05). The addition of diamond particles as abrasives in toothpastes can affect resin composites' surface gloss.The various types of abrasive particles present in toothpastes may harm resin-composite restorations.

To evaluate the light transmittance of ceramic veneers of different thicknesses and verify their influence on the degree of conversion, color stability, and dentin bond strength of light-curing resin cements containing different photoinitiator systems.Experimental resin cements were fabricated containing camphorquinone and amine (CQ-amine), TPO, Ivocerin (IVO), or TPO and Ivocerin (TPO-IVO). All photoinitiators were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Disk-shaped lithium disilicate ceramic specimens that were 0.4, 0.7, and 1.5 mm in thickness were prepared using IPS e.max Press (Ivoclar Vivadent, shade LT/A2). Light transmittance through each specimen was measured using spectrophotometry. Specimens of each cement (n = 10) were made in a custom-designed mold and were light cured through each glass-ceramic disk using a multiwave LED (Bluephase G2, Ivoclar Vivadent). CS was evaluated using spectrophotometry before and after artificial aging with UV light. DC was evaluated using FTIR-spectroscopy. Dentin µSBS was evaluated using 0.75-mm-thick specimens that were light cured under the same protocol (n = 10). All data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05; β = 0.2).CQ-amine cements showed the highest color changes (p0.05) due to increased yellowing when compared to the amine-free cements (p0.05). However, all cements showed a significant color change after aging when cured through ceramics up to 1.5 mm thick (p0.05). The TPO-IVO cement showed the highest DC and the IVO cement showed a similar DC when compared to the CQ-amine cement. The TPO cement presented the lowest DC (p = 0.0377). No differences in mean dentin µSBS were found among the cements, except for the TPO cement, which presented a lower mean dentin µSBS (p = 0.0277).Amine-free cements containing Ivocerin and TPO seem to be a better alternative to CQ-amine cements, while not reducing either DC or dentin µSBS of amine-free cements. However, CQ-amine and amine-free cements still seem to change color over time.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the biaxial flexural strength, the crystalline structure, and the grain size of zirconia-based ceramics produced using a new slip-casting method. Materials and methods Yttria-stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia Polycrystal (Y-TZP) and Alumina Toughened Zirconia (ATZ) ceramics were purchased from different manufactures. For the experimental group, ceramics produced using a patent pending slip-casting method (Slurry, Decema GmbH) was used. Slurry ceramics (n = 42) with a diameter of 14 ± 0.2 mm were produced by a proprietary colloidal shaping process, sintered, and subsequently polished with a lapping process using 15 μm diamond particles to a thickness of 1.2 ± 0.2 mm. For the control group, ceramics produced using the hot isostatic pressure method (HIP, Metoxit AG) were used. HIP ceramics discs (n = 42) with a diameter of 15.5 ± 0.02 mm were produced by classical HIP method and subsequently machined to a thickness of 1.99 ± 0.04 mm 32 discs of each ceramic were submitted to a biaxial flexural strength test using an universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Statistical analyses using two-way ANOVA and Weibull distribution were performed. 2 discs of each ceramic were analyzed using X-ray diffraction for grain crystalline phase quantification. 2 discs of each ceramic were thermally etched and scanning electron microscopy images were obtained for grain size analysis (ISO 13383–1:2012). 6 discs of each ceramic were used for density measurement using the Archimedes’ method. Results For both ATZ and Y-TZP ceramics, the biaxial flexural strength and the characteristic strength of ceramics produced using the Slurry method were significantly higher than ones of the ceramic produced using HIP. The structure analysis confirmed the superiority of the Slurry ceramics which had only 1.2% tetragonal phase compared to 11–16% for the HIP ceramics. Grain size distributions covered a wide range 50–800 nm; the ZrO2 grains of the Slurry ceramics were significantly smaller than the ones of the control ceramics, while the Al2O3 grain distributions were not affected by the manufacturing process. The manufacturing process had no influence on the density of both materials. Conclusions The Slurry method using a new proprietary slip-casting method to produce Y-TZP and ATZ dental ceramics presented higher biaxial flexural strength, less monoclinic phase and smaller ZrO2 grains.

You may think writing a scientific manuscript is difficult. Providing you had a well-designed experiment based on a well-thought through question, it is quite simple, since it is a standard procedure. How to get it through the review process is a vital question for you, the author. The answer is very simple: please the editor and the reviewers. There is nothing more boring for editors and reviewers to make the same corrections again and again.Therefore, here is a list of the most common errors we see in our editorial work: The most prominent reasons for rejection or a straight route to revision are manuscripts that have a poor language or do not comply with the instructions for authors. We ask ourselves whether it is so difficult to read instructions and follow them. Not doing so at least prolongs the review process considerably. Most of us publish not in our mother tongue but in English. Ergo have an expert in dental research and English mother tongue look over your manuscript. If you do not know any, then look for some professional scientific editing service. The internet may help.

The effect of restoration depth on the curing time of a conventional and two bulk-fill composite resins by measuring microhardness and the respective radiosity of the bottom surface of the specimen was investigated. 1-, 3- and 5-mm thick washers were filled with Surefil SDR Flow–U (SDR), Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill-IVA (TEC) or Esthet-X HD–B1 (EHD), and cured with Bluephase® G2 for 40s. Additional 1-mm washers were filled with SDR, TEC or EHD, placed above the light sensor of MARC®, stacked with pre-cured 1-, 3- or 5-mm washer of respective material, and cured for 2.5~60s to mimic 2-, 4- and 6-mm thick composite curing. The sensor measured the radiosity (EB) at the bottom of specimen stacks. Vickers hardness (VH) was measured immediately at 5 locations with triplicate specimens. Nonlinear regression of VH vs EB by VH=α[1-exp(-EB/β)] with all thickness shows that the values of α, maximum hardness, are 21.6±1.0 kg/mm2 for SDR, 38.3±0.6 kg/mm2 for TEC and 45.3±2.6 kg/mm2 for EHD, and the values of β, rate parameter, are 0.40±0.06 J/cm2 for SDR, 0.77±0.04 J/cm2 for TEC and 0.58±0.09 J/cm2 for EHD. The radiosity of the bottom surface was calculated when the bottom surface of each material attained 80% of α of each material. The curing times for each material are in agreement with manufacturer recommendation for thickness. It is possible to estimate time needed to cure composite resin of known depth adequately by the radiosity and microhardness of the bottom surface.

This systematic review assessed the literature to evaluate the efficiency of polymerization of bulk-fill composite resins at 4 mm restoration depth. PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched with no restrictions on year, publication status, or article’s language. Selection criteria included studies that evaluated bulk-fill composite resin when inserted in a minimum thickness of 4 mm, followed by curing according to the manufacturers’ instructions; presented sound statistical data; and comparison with a control group and/or a reference measurement of quality of polymerization. The evidence level was evaluated by qualitative scoring system and classified as high-, moderate- and low- evidence level. A total of 534 articles were retrieved in the initial search. After the review process, only 10 full-text articles met the inclusion criteria. Most articles included (80%) were classified as high evidence level. Among several techniques, microhardness was the most frequently method performed by the studies included in this systematic review. Irrespective to the “in vitro” method performed, bulk fill RBCs were partially likely to fulfill the important requirement regarding properly curing in 4 mm of cavity depth measured by depth of cure and / or degree of conversion. In general, low viscosities BFCs performed better regarding polymerization efficiency compared to the high viscosities BFCs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of self-etch and etch-and-rinse adhesives systems compared in different dentin regions (central-CD or proximal-PD) in a class II cavity configuration. A class II (mesial-oclusal-distal) cavity configuration was simulated on 20 extracted human third-molars (4 mm wide/3 mm deep). Etch-and-rinse adhesive (Scotchbond Multi Purpose, n=5, SBMP and Optibond FL, n=5, OPFL) and self-etch adhesives (Clearfil SE Bond, n=5, CSE and Optibond XTR, n=5, OPXTR) were applied. Class II restorations were performed by incremental technique and photo-activated (Bluephase/G2). Samples were sectioned to beam shape (1 mm² cross-section), placed on Geraldeli’s device for µTBS test (0.5 mm/min cross-head speed). Fracture patterns were analyzed on stereomicroscope and classified as cohesive-resin, adhesive, mixed/resin or mixed/dentin. Samples (n=4) were prepared for scanning electron microscope observation. Data were submitted to one-way ANOVA with Split-Plot arrangement and Tukey’s test (α=0.05). There were no statistically significant differences among SBMP, OPFL, CSE and OPXTR on CD (p>0.05). However, on PD for SBMP and OPFL, µTBS values were significantly lower compared to CSE and OPXTR (p0,05). Entretanto, para SBMP e OPFL em DP, valores µTBS foram significativamente menores comparados com CSE e OPXTR (p

A consensus conference was convened to evaluate and address issues of safety and efficacy when using glycine powder in an air-powder jet device for supra- and subgingival applications during dental prophylaxis and periodontal maintenance. The conference reported the following conclusions: 1) Supra- and subgingival air polishing using glycine powder is safe and effective for removal of biofilms from natural tooth structure and restorative materials; 2) there is no evidence of soft-tissue abrasion when using glycine powder in an air-polishing device; 3) in periodontal probing depths of 1 mm to 4 mm, glycine-powder air polishing, using a standard air-polishing nozzle, is more effective at removing subgingival biofilm than manual or ultrasonic instruments; and 4) at probing depths of 5 mm to 9 mm, using a subgingival nozzle, glycine powder air polishing is more effective at removing subgingival biofilm than manual or ultrasonic instrumentation. This conference statement, supported by an industry grant, was drafted by a panel of distinguished dental professionals.

SUMMARY This study examined the effect of both the tooth substance and restorative filling materials on the increase in pulp chamber temperature when using light-curing units with different power densities. The tip of a temperature sensor was positioned on the pulpal dentinal wall of the buccal side of a maxillary premolar. Metal tubes were inserted in the palatal and buccal root of the tooth, one for water inflow and the other for water outflow. Polyethylene tubes were connected from the metal tubes to a pump to control the flow rate. For the unprepared tooth group (group 1), the tooth was light-cured from the buccal side using two light-curing units (three curing modes): the VIP Junior (QTH, BISCO, Schaumburg, IL, USA) and the Bluephase LED light-curing units (two modes: LEDlow and LEDhigh; Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein). The power densities of each light-curing unit for the LEDlow, QTH, and LEDhigh modes were 785 mW/cm2, 891 mW/cm2, and 1447 mW/cm2, respectively. All light-curing units were activated for 60 seconds. For the prepared tooth group (group 2), a Class V cavity, 4.0 mm in width by 4.0 mm in height by 1.8 mm in depth in size, was prepared on the buccal surface of the same tooth for the temperature measurement. The light-curing and temperature measurements were performed using the same methods used in group 1. The cavity prepared in group 2 was filled with a resin composite (Tetric N Ceram A3 shade, Ivoclar Vivadent) (group 3) or a flowable composite (Tetric N Flow with A3 shade, Ivoclar Vivadent) (group 4). The light-curing and temperature measurements were performed for these groups using the same methods used for the other groups. The highest intrapulpal temperature (TMAX) was measured, and a comparison was conducted between the groups using two-way analysis of variance with a post hoc Tukey test at the 95% confidence level. The TMAX values were as follows: 38.4°C (group 1), 39.0°C (group 2), 39.8°C (group 3), and 40.3°C (group 4) for the LEDlow mode. For the QTH mode, the TMAX values were 40.1°C (group 1), 40.4°C (group 2), 40.9°C (group 3), and 41.4°C (group 4). For the LEDhigh mode, the TMAX values were 43.3°C (group 1), 44.5°C (group 2), 44.7°C (group 3), and 45.3°C (group 4). The statistical analysis revealed the following: the TMAX values were arranged by mode in the following manner: LEDlow < QTH < LEDhigh (p

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a resistência de união ao microcisalhamento (uSBS) da interface de zircônia e cerâmica baseada em vidro tratada com diferentes liners após envelhecimento. Foram preparadas 20 barras (10x6x4 mm3) de zircônia para cada grupo, divididas em 3 grupos conforme o tratamento de superfície, totalizando 60 barras de zircônia (IPS emax.ZirCAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) utilizadas para o processamento de infraestrutura do sistema CAD-CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided design manufacturing). As amostras foram sinterizadas e submetidas a aplicação de liner (HeraCeram, Heraus Kulzer ou ZirLiner, Ivoclar Vivadent) de acordo com os seguintes grupos (n20): G1 - sem tratamento (controle) G2 – Liner HeraCeram G3 - Liner ZirLiner. As amostras de zircônia foram aderidas à cerâmica baseada em vidro (IPS e.max ZirPres, Ivoclar Vivadent) por meio da injeção pela técnica da cera perdida (conduto cilíndrico de 0,8mm de diâmetro). As amostras foram submetidas a 100.000 ciclos termo- mecânicos e, avaliadas por meio do teste uSBS. O modo de fratura e os aspectos morfológicos dos espécimes mais significativos foram analisados através de microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A análise estatística dos valores obtidos foi realizada por one-way ANOVA e teste de Tukey (a0,05). As médias da uSB (MPa) foram: G1-12,1B G2-9,7B G3-14,4A (médias seguidas por diferentes letras indicam diferença estatística). A aplicação do liner ZirLiner previamente à injeção, aumentou a resistência de união entre a zircônia e a cerâmica baseada em vidro.Palavras-chave: Cerâmica. Microcisalhamento. Resistência de União.

Resin to metal bond strength of two commercial and one experimental metal-resin bonding system for crown and bridge veneer composites was evaluated.All specimens were prepared and tested according to ISO 10477 Amendment 1. A high precious alloy (HPA), a Co/Cr-alloy (Co/Cr) and pure titanium (Ti) were wet-ground to a final surface finish of 800 grit and air-dried. Twenty specimens of each metal were treated with Rocatec (RO), 20 with a Silano-Pen (SP), and 20 with the experimental spark-erosion (SE) bonding system. A light-curing opaque and a crown and bridge veneer composite were applied to each metal specimen. Ten specimens of each metal and bonding system were stored in water for 24h at 37 degrees C, 10 were thermocycled (TC) 5000 times in a water-bath between +5 and +55 degrees C prior to measuring shear bond strength (SBS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the treated metal surfaces.After 24h SE generated significantly higher SBS values on Ti than RO (p0.05). SP revealed the highest SBS for Co/Cr. After TC significant decreases occurred for RO on HPA, for SP on Co/Cr and Ti, and for SP on Ti. SE revealed the highest mean bond values for all metals. These results and SEM proved that no sandblasting is required for SE to obtain good bond strength.The experimental spark-erosion bonding system is an easy and very effective method for surface-treating alloys to obtain high SBS values for crown and bridge veneer composites.

About 35 years ago, Ryge provided a practical approach to evaluation of clinical performance of restorative materials. This systematic approach was soon universally accepted. While that methodology has served us well, a large number of scientific methodologies and more detailed questions have arisen that require more rigor. Current restorative materials have vastly improved clinical performance and any changes over time are not easily detected by the limited sensitivity of the Ryge criteria in short term clinical investigations. However, the clinical evaluation of restorations not only involves the restorative material per se but also different operative techniques. For instance, a composite resin may show good longevity data when applied in conventional cavities but not in modified operative approaches. Insensitivity, combined with the continually evolving and non-standard investigator modifications of the categories, scales, and reporting methods, has created a body of literature that is extremely difficult to meaningfully interpret. In many cases, the insensitivity of the original Ryge methods is misinterpreted as good clinical performance. While there are many good features of the original system, it is now time to move to a more contemporary one. The current review approaches this challenge in two ways: (1) a proposal for a modern clinical testing protocol for controlled clinical trials, and (2) an in-depth discussion of relevant clinical evaluation parameters, providing 84 references that are primarily related to issues or problems for clinical research trials. Together, these two parts offer a standard for the clinical testing of restorative materials/procedures and provide significant guidance for research teams in the design and conduct of contemporary clinical trials. Part 1 of the review considers the recruitment of subjects, restorations per subject, clinical events, validity versus bias, legal and regulatory aspects, rationales for clinical trial designs, guidelines for design, randomization, number of subjects, characteristics of participants, clinical assessment, standards and calibration, categories for assessment, criteria for evaluation, and supplemental documentation. Part 2 of the review considers categories of assessment for esthetic evaluation, functional assessment, biological responses to restorative materials, and statistical analysis of results. The overall review represents a considerable effort to include a range of clinical research interests over the past years. As part of the recognition of the importance of these suggestions, the review is being published simultaneously in identical form in both the "Journal of Adhesive Dentistry" and the "Clinical Oral Investigations." Additionally an extended abstract will be published in the "International Dental Journal" giving a link to the web full version. This should help to introduce these considerations more quickly to the scientific community.

To evaluate the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of a bulk-fill low-stress resin-based composite to dentin from gingival walls of Class II MOD cavities.Class II MOD cavities were prepared in 44 human molars with the distal and mesial proximal boxes 4 and 6 mm deep, respectively. Eight experimental groups (n = 11) were obtained by a factorial design including 1. "composite" in two levels: a bulk-fill low-stress composite (SureFil SDR Flow, Dentsply Caulk) and a conventional composite (Filtek Z350 XT, 3M ESPE); 2. "filling technique" in two levels: bulk-fill (Bf) and incremental (In); and 3. "depth" in two levels: 4 mm and 6 mm in order to create different polymerization conditions. Twenty-four hours after placement of restorations, teeth were sectioned into beams with a cross-sectional bonded area of approximately 1 mm2. Bonded beams obtained from the gingival walls of the proximal boxes were tested in tension at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Data were submitted to a 3-way ANOVA followed by a post-hoc Tukey's test (p0.05).ANOVA failed to identify significant differences for the triple and double interaction between factors. However, significant differences were observed for the factors "composite" and "filling technique" (p0.05). SDR presented significantly higher μTBS values for bulk and incremental filling techniques (p0.05), and the incremental filling technique presented significantly higher μTBS values for both composites (p0.05).It can be concluded that the bulk-fill flowable composite SDR may improve the bond strength to the gingival walls of Class II MOD cavities.