Influence of surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler eluate on collagen morphology, remineralization, and ultimate tensile strength of demineralized dentin.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of ions released from surface pre-reacted glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler on collagen morphology, remineralization, and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of demineralized dentin.
Materials and Methods: Bovine incisor root dentins were demineralized with EDTA and divided into three treatment groups: 1) water (control); 2) S-PRG filler eluate; 3) 125 ppm sodium fluoride (NaF). After a 3-min treatment, the specimens were stored in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 3 months. Collagen morphology and remineralization were assessed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Additionally, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was measured.
Results: TEM and SEM demonstrated that S-PRG induced more effective remineralization compared to NaF, while the control group exhibited faint mineral deposition with collagen degradation. S-PRG displayed the most homogenous mineral deposition in collagen fibrils, along with closure of interfibrillar spaces. Extensive mineral precipitation was observed within dentinal tubules in the S-PRG group. In addition, S-PRG filler eluate demonstrated significantly higher phosphate-to-amide ratio and UTS compared to NaF and control groups (p < 0.05).
Conclusions: Ion released from S-PRG filler positively influenced collagen morphology, remineralization, and ultimate tensile strength of demineralized dentin.
Clinical Significance: S-PRG filler enhances remineralization and improve the biomechanics of demineralized dentin.
Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest On behalf of the authors, I declare that this manuscript is original, has not been published before and is not currently being considered for publication elsewhere. There are no known conflicts of interest associated with this publication and there has been no significant financial support for this work that could have influenced its outcome. The manuscript has been read and approved by all named authors and that there are no other persons who satisfied the criteria for authorship but are not listed. We confirm that the order of authors listed in the manuscript has been approved by all of us.
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