Search

Ceramic materials are constantly evolving, achieving good functionality and aesthetics. Bonding to ceramics may be difficult because of high toxicity procedures and risk of surface damage. The review aims to answer several research questions: Is there a golden standard for bonding to ceramic? Are there adhesives or types of photopolymerization lamps that produce a higher bond strength on certain types of ceramics rather than others? Articles focusing on the bonding process of orthodontic attachments to ceramic surfaces searched in Pubmed, Medline and Embase, published between 1990 and 2018 were revised. Exclusions concerned bonding to non-ceramic surfaces, bonding to ceramic surfaces that are not destined for orthodontics or laser usage. Forty-nine articles that matched the inclusion criteria were researched. The following categories of original research articles were compared and discussed: metallic brackets bonding to ceramic surfaces, ceramic brackets to ceramic surfaces, bonding to new types of ceramics, such as zirconia, lithium disilicate, different photopolymerisation devices used on bonding to ceramics. Some types of adhesive may achieve minimal bond strength (6–8 MPa) even on glazed ceramic. Ceramic surface preparation may be done by sandblasting or hydrofluoric acid (60s application and 9.6%) with generally similar results. Studies rarely show any statistical difference and there are reduced number of samples in most studies. Ceramic brackets show better adhesion to ceramic surfaces and the same bonding protocol is advised. A higher bond strength may lead to ceramic surface. Few studies focus on newer types of ceramics; additional research is necessary. There is no clear evidence that a certain type of photopolymerization device produces higher shear bond strength values.

The purpose of modern dental medicine is to prevent dental caries and promote minimally invasive techniques at the expense of invasive methods. Dental sealants are largely recommended for occlusal surfaces protection, but concerns are related about microleakage at material-enamel interface. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the association between chemical structure, sealing capacity and marginal infiltration for 2 fluoride F containing commercially available resin-based sealants: Pit&Fissure� Sealant (DMP) and Fissurit FX� (Voco) in order to achieve a better description and ensure adequate material selection in every day practice. An optimal resin-based sealant should mimic the structural, physical and mechanical characteristics of enamel. The main difference between the sealing materials tested is based on the amounts of inorganic filler and on the various shapes of the particles in the filler. Pit&Fisure� Sealant express less attachment at enamel interface, higher sorption and greater water solubility, when compared to Fissurit FX�. The better sealing capacity of Fissurit FX� can be described by the homogeneity of the material and the very small size of the inorganic fillers. Dental materials properties used as pit and fissure sealants are sensitive to mechanical, thermic and chemical stress from oral cavity. Regular dental check-up can detect the presence and integrity of sealant and ensure preventive effect in time.

Background: In dental practice, different situations require etching the enamel layer. Acid etching, the present golden standard, may be replaced by other methods, such as laser etching. The main focus of our scoping review is to assess the existent literature regarding the effectiveness of different types of lasers, to identify the main aspects studied so far, and to understand where new search strategies are needed. Methods: The search was conducted in several databases focusing on the laser etching of human definitive enamel. We included English language articles published between January 2000 and December 2021. Results: The 34 articles reviewed showed that hard lasers, Er:YAG, Er,Cr:YAG, may represent an alternative etching method on enamel surfaces. They create a fractured, irregular surface and open dentin tubules, highly suitable for adhesion but with a lower risk of cavity formation. Nd:YAG, CO2, and Diode lasers do not help in creating sufficient shear bond strength. There is, however, evidence suggesting that microcracks in the enamel layer may appear after thermomechanical ablation using laser energy. Conclusions: While the use of acid etching is still successfully used for enamel conditioning, some researchers have emphasized the role played by saliva in the enamel-remineralization process a few days after the procedure. In this context, laser energy can be used, especially for bonding ceramic brackets in the case of orthodontic treatments. However, as thermomechanical ablation can generate microcracks, further research is required in order to establish clear findings concerning the use of laser energy on enamel etching.

Brackets are metallic dental devices that are very often associated with acidic soft drinks such as cola and energy drinks. Acid erosion may affect the bonding between brackets and the enamel surface. The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics of brackets’ adhesion, in the presence of two different commercially available drinks. Sixty human teeth were divided into six groups and bonded with either resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGIC) or resin composite (CR). A shared bond test (SBS) was evaluated by comparing two control groups with four other categories, in which teeth were immersed in either Coca-ColaTM or Red BullTM energy drink. The debonding between the bracket and enamel was evaluated by SEM. The morphological aspect correlated with SBS results showed the best results for the samples exposed to artificial saliva. The best adhesion resistance to the acid erosion environment was observed in the group of teeth immersed in Red BullTM and with brackets bonded with RMGIC. The debonded structures were also exposed to Coca-ColaTM and Red BullTM to assess, by atomic force microscopy investigation (AFM), the erosive effect on the enamel surface after debonding and after polishing restoration. The results showed a significant increase in surface roughness due to acid erosion. Polishing restoration of the enamel surface significantly reduced the surface roughness that resulted after debonding, and inhibited acid erosion. The roughness values obtained from polished samples after exposure to Coca-ColaTM and Red BullTM were significantly lower in that case than for the debonded structures. Statistical results evaluating roughness showed that Red BullTM has a more erosive effect than Coca-Cola™. This result is supported by the large contact surface that resulted after debonding. In conclusion, the prolonged exposure of the brackets to acidic drinks affected the bonding strength due to erosion propagation into both the enamel–adhesive interface and the bonding layer. The best resistance to acid erosion was obtained by RMGIC.

Objective. To evaluate the quality of life of edentulous patients with implant prosthetic work. Methods. Retrospective study, between 2015 and 2016, with a group of 50 patients in the over-implantation phase. Patients responded to a satisfaction questionnaire following overdenture prosthesis. Results. Overdenture has improved the quality of life of patients by regaining their self-esteem, regaining the aesthetic, phonetic and mastication functions, as well as the possibility of using a solid consistency diet without the occurrence of pain. Conclusion. The use of overdenture prosthesis is a treatment that gives patients satisfaction from all points of view (functional, psychological, aesthetic and economic). To reflect the reality, future studies will need to obtain information from a larger number of subjects from different backgrounds, being treated in different clinics.

Tooth decay in children and adolescents remains a public health problem, despite prophylaxis and preventive measures being largely available. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical behavior of four dental sealants, related to first permanent molar topography and patient age (when sealant was applied for the first time). We assessed, by means of visual inspection and palpation with a dental probe, a group of 200 children, enrolled corresponding to school age-grade (mean age of 7 years at baseline) and randomly divided according to the material used as dental sealant (Admira seal©, Embrace Wet Bond©, Fotoseal©, GC Fuji Triaje©) in 4 groups (n = 50). Sealant clinical evaluation was made at 6-, 12-, 18-month intervals for dental material retention assessment. At 6 months, the sealant detached the most from 3.6 molars, and the material used was Fotoseal© (27.6%). At 12 months, Fotoseal© (48.3%) and GC Fuji Triaje© (41.4%) from 3.6 molars express detachment. At 18 months, 4.6. molars sealed with Admira Seal© (25.7%) and Embrace Wet Bond© (28.6%) lost the sealant. We noticed less detachment in maxillary molars and if sealant was applied around 7 years of age. In conclusion, sealant application on first permanent molars must be encouraged and practitioners can choose between various materials available.

Orthodontists must sometimes bond attachments to ceramic crowns, by using one of the surface preparations available, such as sandblasting or acid etching with hydrofluoric acid. Research shows that different laser systems may also be used for this purpose. The aim of this review is to determine which laser type and modality of use is the most effective in increasing shear bond strength of brackets bonded to ceramic surfaces. Two independent researchers studied the current literature 1990–2018 and selected original articles focusing on in vitro research on laser use for ceramic surface preparation for bonding metallic or ceramic attachments. Twelve articles have met the criteria and have been thoroughly revised, focusing on 2 fractional, Nd:Yag, Er:Yag, femtosecond and Ti:Sapphire lasers. There is little difference shown by the current studies between ceramic types and information on orthodontic bonding to non-feldspathic ceramics is scarce. Femtosecond laser is a good alternative to classical surface preparation with hydrofluoric acid. Nd:Yag laser is more suitable for surface preparation of ceramics than different types of Er:Yag lasers. Difference in laser power may achieve different results, but the golden standard for lasers use has not been found. Laser usage does not obtain the same results as hydrofluoric acid and cannot, so far, eliminate its application.

The novelty of this study consists on the formulation and evaluation of five complex experimental natural photosensitizers (PS): gel with oregano essential oil (O), gel with methylene blue (AM), gel with a mixture of essential oils (Thieves-H), gel with arnica oil and curcuma extract (CU) and gel with frankincense essential oil (T), used as photosensitizing agents (PS) in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in the control of microbial biofilm in oral cavity. The experimental PS were characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-Vis spectroscopy, cytotoxicity assay, antimicrobial effect and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The IR spectra of the experimental PS with essential oils exhibit absorption bands due to the presence of water and glycerol in high quantities. The studied compounds had a reduced cytotoxic effect on cell cultures. The lowest cytotoxic effect was observed in experimental PS with oregano essential oil and methylene blue PS. Essential oils with proven antibacterial capabilities used in experimental PS confer antibacterial activity to the gels in which they are incorporated, an activity that may be more efficient use of a PDT therapy. Single bacteria were detected mainly by SEM after 12 h, while aggregate bacteria and micro colonies dominated the samples at 48 h.

Background and aims. The sterilization of the entire root canal system represents the main goal of every endodontist, given the fact that the control of the microbial flora is the key point of every root canal treatment. The diversity of microorganisms found inside the root canal and also the resistance of some bacterial species to intracanal medications led to a continuous development of new endodontic products. The present study focuses on the comparison of the antibacterial and antifungal properties of different endodontic products, two commercially available, one experimental plant based extract, and two control substances. Methods. The disc diffusion assay was used to determine the antibacterial and antifungal properties of chlorhexidine, calcium hydroxide, a mix extract between Arctium lappa root powder and Aloe barbadensis Miller gel, Amoxicillin with clavulanic acid and Fluconazole (as control substances). Two of the most common microorganisms found in endodontic infections were chosen: Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212) and Candida albicans ATCC(10231). Results. All tested substances showed inhibition zones around the discs, for Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans , including the experimental mix extract of Arctium lappa root powder with Aloe vera gel. Conclusion. The experimental mix extract of Arctium lappa root powder and Aloe vera gel is able to inhibit very resistant microorganisms, like Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans.

Loss of hard dental tissues of the posterior teeth during caries removal represents an important issue for conservative dentistry. The use of direct dental biomaterials in this case have to satisfy the requirements of the restored area. The studies have shown higher values of chewing forces at the molar teeth level (20-120N) compared to other teeth [1,2]. Thus, for a long-term clinical success the dental biomaterials have to assure a good marginal sealing and a high resistance to thermal and mechanical stresses developed in the lateral zones of the oral cavity [3]. The aim of this study was carried out to assess the effect of an in vitro chewing simulation model on the adhesively-bonded resin composite restorations. Standardized extended proximal cavities were prepared and restored in forty five sound human third molars. Three in vitro aging methods: a chewing simulation model (mechanical cycling and periodontal ligament simulation) (MC+PDL), thermocycling (TC) and distilled water storage (WS), were used to test the marginal sealing behavior of two adhesive techniques (an adhesive-free flowable resin composite and a self-etch all-in-one adhesive system). A weight-controlled dual-axis chewing device (CS-4.2, SD Mechatronik, Germany) was used for mechanical testing (MC) of the samples. Significantly higher marginal leakage values were observed for the chewing simulation model (MC) compared to TC and WS groups (p

Esthetic dentistry imposes several demands on the artistic abilities of the dentist, and knowledge of the underlying scientific principles of tooth color is considered to be essential by Sikri. The supervised classification methods, such as the artificial neural networks, the support vector machines, and also the Bayesian classifier, and the feature selection methods, such as decision trees, genetic algorithms and neural networks, as well as independent component analysis combined with least square support vector machines, were applied successfully in the medical field but were less implemented in the dental analysis domain. This study was conducted on extracted premolars from people who required orthodontic treatment. Data gathering was done using spectrophotometric recordings of tooth color parameters before and after accelerated bleaching, staining, and control procedures on extracted teeth on which was simulated orthodontic treatment. Comparison between data mining techniques and classical statistical...

The present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating and comparing the microleakage at the dentin and enamel/composite interfaces of two adhesive systems. The adhesives are: a new-developed experimental adhesive systems and OptiBond FL (Kerr Corp.) The new adhesive system was prepared for the composite material as three steps adhesive (etchant, primer and bonding). The bonding resin contains the base monomer that was present in the corresponding composite material, HEMA and TEGDMA as diluents. Twenty box-type Class V standardized cavities were prepared on the facial and oral surfaces of each tooth, with coronal margins in enamel and apical margins in cementum (dentin). The preparations were restored with two restorative materials a new experimental microfilled resin composites based on Bis-GMA analogue and hybrid resin composite Herculite XRV Ultra (Kerr Corp.). The teeth were thermocycled and immersed in 2% methyl blue solution for 24 hours. The specimens were sectioned buccolingually into 3 slices and the resulted sections were examined using a stereomicroscope under 40x magnification. The extent of dye penetration was measured in a quantitative manner. This measurement was converted into percentage using the formula described by Sano et al.I=p/Lx100. These percentage values were submitted to variance analyses (ANOVA) andttest at a p

The development of novel Bis-GMA derivatives incorporated as base monomers in resin-based composites (RBCs) may offer a potential reduction in polymerization stresses generated in the tooth/restoration complex compared with conventional Bis-GMA. The hypothesis of the current study was that RBCs based on either a urethane derivative of Bis-GMA (Bis-GMA1) or a Bis-GMA superior oligomer (Bis-GMA2) would produce less cuspal deformation and less cervical enamel microleakage than RBCs based on a conventional Bis-GMA. Standardized MOD cavities were prepared in extracted upper premolars (n = 9) and restored with each of the three experimental RBCs. The cuspal deformation of premolars was recorded during and post-irradiation using direct current differential transformer (DCDT) displacement transducers, and data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests at a p