Determination of residual double bonds in resin-dentin interface by Raman spectroscopy

Does the universal adhesive's film thickness affect dentin-bonding effectiveness?

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the influence of adhesive resin application modalities on the film thickness of the adhesive resin and the effectiveness of a two-step universal adhesive (UA) bonded in self-etch (SE) bonding mode to high C-factor class-I cavity-bottom dentin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After application of the primer of G2-Bond Universal (G2B, GC), the adhesive resin was applied into standard class-I cavities (human molars) following four application modalities: (1) one layer, strongly air-blown; (2) one layer, gently air-blown; (3) two layers, each gently air-blown; (4) one layer, not air-blown. After being restored with composite, each tooth was sectioned to obtain one micro-specimen (n = 10), of which the adhesive resin film thickness was measured using optical microscopy. The micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) was tested immediately or upon 100,000 thermocycles. Statistical analyses involved Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U testing (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

G2B's μTBS was significantly affected by the adhesive resin application modality and aging. Gently air-blowing the adhesive resin resulted in significantly higher immediate μTBS than strong air-blowing or no air-blowing. No significant difference in μTBS was found between single or double gently air-blown adhesive resin applications. The adhesive resin film thickness significantly varied with the application modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

A too thin or too thick adhesive resin film thickness adversely affected bond strength of the two-step UA applied in SE mode and high C-factor condition.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The adhesive resin layer thickness can affect the bonding performance of two-step UAs in high C-factor cavities. Dental clinicians remain advised to avoid improper air-blowing of UAs and strictly follow the application instructions.

Influence of agitation methods of irrigants after methylene blue-mediated PDT on the bonding interface of a fiber post cementation system

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effects of final agitation methods of irrigants to remove methylene blue and sodium hypochlorite residues after PDT-assisted endodontic treatment on the bond strength of fiber posts cemented with etch-and-rinse adhesive and conventional resin cement.

METHODS

Ninety bovine teeth were endodontically treated. In sequence, post space preparation followed by methylene blue-mediated PDT and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) irrigation were performed. Six final irrigations protocols for dye and NaOCl removal were performed prior to cementation with etch-and-rinse adhesive (Adper Scocthbond Multipurpose) and conventional dual resin cement (RelyX ARC): Conventional endodontic irrigation (CEI), passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), mechanical agitation with XP Endo Finisher (XPF), XP Clean (XPC) or Easy Clean (ECL) and distilled water (NCO - control). After fiber post cementation, push-out bond strength test was performed at different thirds of the post space. Failure mode was also analyzed. ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test was used for data analysis (α=5%).

RESULTS

PUI, XPF e XPC protocols showed the highest bond strength values with no difference among them (p > 0.05), although they were similar to NCO, regardless of the post space third. CEI e ECL showed similar bond strength values, regardless of the third (p > 0.05). Adhesive failure was the most incident for CEI and ECL, while mixed and cohesive failures were predominant in PUI, XPF, XPC and NCO groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Mechanical agitation of distilled water with XPF, XPC and PUI after methylene blue-mediated PDT and irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite promoted bond strength of the resin cementation system in post space dentin comparable to control group.

Changes in color and contrast ratio of resin composites after curing and storage in water

Purpose

To verify the color change and contrast ratio of resin composites after curing and after 30 days of storage in water.

Methods

Dentin A2 shades of different light-cured dental resin composites (Vittra APS, FGM, Brazil; Z350 XT, 3M ESPE, EUA; Tetric N-Ceram, Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein, and Charisma Diamond, Heraeus Kulzer, Germany) were tested. Ten rounded specimens (8 mm × 2 mm) were prepared for each material. Reflectance for all samples was obtained using a spectrophotometer (Minolta CM 3700d, Konica Minolta, Japan) before curing, immediately after curing, and after 30 days of storage in water. The color change (ΔE*lab) and contrast ratio (CR) data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance with Tukey's and paired t-tests (α = 1%).

Results

For all materials tested, significant color changes were noticeable after curing and after 30 days in water (p < 0.01). Significant changes in the CR values before curing, after curing, and 30 days of storage in water were observed in the resin composites investigated (p < 0.01) except for Z350 (p > 0.01).

Conclusion

The CR values and color changes after curing and 30 days of storage in water varied depending on the material tested. This study corroborates the clinical practice of curing a small amount of unpolymerized resin composite on the tooth surface to select the desired shade before undertaking esthetic restorative procedures.

Dentin Bond Integrity of Hydroxyapatite Containing Resin Adhesive Enhanced with Graphene Oxide Nano-Particles-An SEM, EDX, Micro-Raman, and Microtensile Bond Strength Study

The aim was to synthesize and characterize an adhesive incorporating HA and GO nanoparticles. Techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS), and micro-Raman spectroscopy were employed to investigate bond durability, presence of nanoparticles inside adhesive, and dentin interaction. Control experimental adhesive (CEA) was synthesized with 5 wt% HA. GO particles were fabricated and added to CEA at 0.5 wt% (HA-GO-0.5%) and 2 wt% GO (HA-GO-2%). Teeth were prepared to produce bonded specimens using the three adhesive bonding agents for assessment of μTBS, with and without thermocycling (TC). The adhesives were applied twice on the dentin with a micro-brush followed by air thinning and photo-polymerization. The HA and GO nanoparticles demonstrated uniform dispersion inside adhesive. Resin tags with varying depths were observed on SEM micrographs. The EDX mapping revealed the presence of carbon (C), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) in the two GO adhesives. For both TC and NTC samples, HA-GO-2% had higher μTBS and durability, followed by HA-GO-0.5%. The representative micro-Raman spectra demonstrated D and G bands for nano-GO particles containing adhesives. HA-GO-2% group demonstrated uniform diffusion in adhesive, higher μTBS, adequate durability, and comparable resin tag development to controls.

Influence of Hydroxyapatite Nanospheres in Dentin Adhesive on the Dentin Bond Integrity and Degree of Conversion: A Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Raman, Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR), and Microtensile Study

An experimental adhesive incorporated with different nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) particle concentrations was synthesized and analyzed for dentin interaction, micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS), and degree of conversion (DC). n-HA powder (5 wt % and 10 wt %) were added in adhesive to yield three groups; gp-1: control experimental adhesive (CEA, 0 wt % HA), gp-2: 5 wt % n-HA (HAA-5%), and gp-3: 10 wt % n-HA (HAA-10%). The morphology of n-HA spheres was evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Their interaction in the adhesives was identified with SEM, Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Micro-Raman spectroscopy. Teeth were sectioned, divided in study groups, and assessed for μTBS and failure mode. Employing Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, the DC of the adhesives was assessed. EDX mapping revealed the occurrence of oxygen, calcium, and phosphorus in the HAA-5% and HAA-10% groups. HAA-5% had the greatest μTBS values followed by HAA-10%. The presence of apatite was shown by FTIR spectra and Micro-Raman demonstrated phosphate and carbonate groups for n-HA spheres. The highest DC was observed for the CEA group followed by HAA-5%. n-HA spheres exhibited dentin interaction and formed a hybrid layer with resin tags. HAA-5% demonstrated superior μTBS compared with HAA-10% and control adhesive. The DC for HAA-5% was comparable to control adhesive.

The effect of incorporating different concentrations of chlorhexidine digluconate on the degree of conversion of an experimental adhesive resin

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of chlorhexidine digluconate incorporation on the degree of conversion of an experimental adhesive resin.

Material and Methods

The experimental resin was prepared from 70 wt% bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate, 30 wt% hydroxyethyl methacrylate, silanized SiO2 nanofillers, 0.5% of camphorquinone and ethyl 4-dimethylaminebenzoate (binary photo-initiator system). Five chlorhexidine digluconate concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 wt%) were then incorporated into the experimental resin. Thirty Potassium Bromide pellets were prepared then divided into six groups (n=5/group), repre¬senting the tested adhesive resins (Single Bond 2, 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 wt% chlohexidine-incorporated experimental adhesive resins), that were applied to the pellets without light-curing (uncured specimens). Another 30 pellets were prepared and treated with the previous materials then light-cured using LED light-curing device (cured specimens). Degree of conversion of the uncured and the cured specimens were evaluated using FTIR analysis.

Results

Adper Single Bond 2 showed the highest degree of conversion mean values followed by 0.5 wt% chlorhexidine concentration then 2 wt% followed by 4 wt% then 1 wt% concentrations, while 0 wt% concentration showed the lowest mean values.

Conclusions

Chlorhexidine digluconate had slight significant influence on the efficiency of polymerization of the experimental adhesive resin.

Key words:Chlorhexidine digluconate, different concentrations, degree of conversion, experimental adhesive resin.

UVA-activated riboflavin improves the strength of human dentin

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of UVA-activated riboflavin (UVA-RF) on the mechanical properties of non-demineralized human dentin. Dentin specimens obtained from 20 teeth were randomly divided into the following four groups: group 1 (control): no treatment, group 2 (low UVA-RF): specimens were exposed to UVA-RF for 10 min, group 3 (medium UVA-RF): specimens were exposed to UVA-RF for 30 min, and group 4 (high UVA-RF): specimens were exposed to UVA-RF for 60 min. Three-point flexural test and Raman spectroscopic analyses were performed. The mean flexural strengths (MPa) were 129.96, 128.96, 144.21, and 147.54, and the mean elastic modulus (GPa) were 8.59, 8.38, 10.21, and 9.87 for groups 1 to 4, respectively. Raman spectra showed chemical modifications of dental collagen under medium and high UVA-RF treatment. We conclude that medium and high UVA-RF increases the strength of non-demineralized human dentin by collagen crosslinking.

Spectroscopic and Mechanical Properties of a New Generation of Bulk Fill Composites

Objectives: The aims of this study were to in vitro evaluate the degree of conversion and the microhardness properties of five bulk fill resin composites; in addition, the performance of two curing lamps, used for composites polymerization, was also analyzed.

Materials and Methods: The following five resin-based bulk fill composites were tested: SureFil SDR®, Fill Up!™, Filtek™, SonicFill™, and SonicFill2™. Samples of 4 mm in thickness were prepared using Teflon molds filled in one increment and light-polymerized using two LED power units. Ten samples for each composite were cured using Elipar S10 and 10 using Demi Ultra. Additional samples of SonicFill2, (3 and 5 mm-thick) were also tested. The degree of conversion (DC) was determined by Raman spectroscopy, while the Vickers microhardness (VMH) was evaluated using a microhardness tester. The experimental evaluation was carried out on top and bottom sides, immediately after curing (t0), and, on bottom, after 24 h (t24). Two-ways analysis of variance was applied to evaluate DC and VMH-values. In all analyses, the level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: All bulk fill resin composites recorded satisfactory DCs on top and bottom sides. At t0, the top of SDR and SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (85.56 ± 9.52 and 85.47 ± 1.90, respectively), when cured using Elipar S10; using Demi Ultra, SonicFill2 showed the highest DCs-values (90.53 ± 2.18). At t0, the highest DCs-values of bottom sides were recorded by SDR (84.64 ± 11.68), when cured using Elipar S10, and Filtek (81.52 ± 4.14), using Demi Ultra. On top sides, Demi Ultra lamp showed significant higher DCs compared to the Elipar S10 (p < 0.05). SonicFill2 reached suitable DCs also on bottom of 5 mm-thick samples. At t0, VMH-values ranged between 24.4 and 69.18 for Elipar S10, and between 26.5 and 67.3 for Demi Ultra. Using both lamps, the lowest VMH-values were shown by SDR, while the highest values by SonicFill2. At t24, all DC and VMH values significantly increased.

Conclusions: Differences in DC and VMH among materials are suggested to be material and curing lamp dependent. Even at t0, the three high viscosity bulk composites showed higher VMH than the flowable or dual curing composites.

Inhibition of Root Caries Progression by an Antibacterial Adhesive

A dentin primer containing the antibacterial monomer 12-methacryloyloxydodecylpyridinium bromide (MDPB) has been shown to penetrate and kill the bacteria in artificially demineralized dentin. We hypothesized that an experimental adhesive system, which incorporates the MDPB-containing primer, would be effective in inhibiting the progression of root caries in vitro. Artificial caries lesions were prepared by either an acid-gel or a Streptococcus mutans culture technique on the roots of extracted human teeth. The progression of these lesions after the application of the experimental or proprietary adhesive system was examined. Further demineralization was completely prevented by the experimental adhesive system, while lesions managed with the proprietary materials showed limited ability to inhibit further demineralization. We conclude that the experimental adhesive system can inhibit the progression of root-surface caries in vitro, through a combination of its antimicrobial activity and sealing of the demineralized dentin.

Bond Strength of a Novel One Bottle Multi-mode Adhesive to Human Dentin After Six Months of Storage

Objective:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of Scotchbond Universal to dentin using the etch-and-rinse or the self-etch technique after 24 h and 6 months of storage.

Materials and Methods:

Flat dentin surfaces were obtained in 24 third molars. The teeth were divided into four groups: G1 – Scotchbond Universal applied in the etch-and-rinse mode; G2 – Scotchbond Universal applied in the self-etch mode; G3 – Scotchbond Multi-Purpose; G4 – Clearfil SE Bond. A block of composite was built on the adhesive area. The tooth/resin sets were cut parallel to the long axis to obtain 40 beams (~0.8 mm²) for each group. Twenty specimens were immediately submitted to the µTBS test, and the remaining 20 were stored in water for 6 months. Failures and the adhesive interface were analyzed by SEM.

Results:

According to two-way ANOVA, the interaction between adhesive and storage time was significant (p=0.015).The µTBS (MPa) means were the following: 24 h – G1 (39.37±10.82), G2 (31.02±13.76), G3 (35.09±14.03) and G4 (35.84±11.06); 6 months – G1 (36.99±8.78), G2 (40.58±8.07), G3 (32.44±6.07) and G4 (41.75±8.25). Most failures were mixed. Evidence of hybrid layer and numerous resin tags were noted for Scotchbond Universal applied with the etch-and-rinse mode and Scotchbond Multi-Purpose. A thinner hybrid layer and fewer resin tags were noted for Scotchbond Universal applied in the self-etch mode and Clearfil SE Bond.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that the µTBS for Scotchbond Universal is comparable to the gold-standard adhesives. Scotchbond Universal applied in the self-etch mode and Clearfil SE Bond revealed higher bond stability compared to the etch-and-rinse mode.

Correlation between degree of conversion, resin-dentin bond strength and nanoleakage of simplified etch-and-rinse adhesives

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to correlate the degree of conversion measured inside the hybrid layer (DC) with the microtensile resin-dentin bond strength (μTBS) and silver nitrate uptake or nanoleakage (SNU) for five simplified etch-and-rinse adhesive systems.

METHODS

Fifty-five caries free extracted molars were used in this study. Thirty teeth were used for μTBS/SNU [n=6] and 25 teeth for DC [n=5]. The dentin surfaces were bonded with the following adhesives: Adper Single Bond 2 (SB), Ambar (AB), XP Bond (XP), Tetric N-Bond (TE) and Stae (ST) followed by composite resin build-ups. For μTBS and SNU test, bonded teeth were sectioned in order to obtain stick-shaped specimens (0.8mm(2)), which were tested under tensile stress (0.5mm/min). Three bonded sticks, from each tooth, were not tested in tensile stress and they were immersed in 50% silver nitrate, photo-developed and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Longitudinal 1-mm thick sections were prepared for the teeth assigned for DC measurement and evaluated by micro-Raman spectroscopy.

RESULTS

ST showed lowest DC, μTBS, and higher SNU (p<0.05). All other adhesives showed similar DC, μTBS, and SNU (p>0.05), except for TE which showed an intermediate SNU level. The DC was positively correlated with μTBS and negatively correlated with SNU (p<0.05). SNU was also negatively correlated with μTBS (p<0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

The measurement of DC inside the hybrid layer can provide some information about bonding performance of adhesive systems since this property showed a good correlation with resin-dentin bond strength and SNU values.

Overview of Clinical Alternatives to Minimize the Degradation of the Resin-dentin Bonds

The incorporation of hydrophilic and acidic resin monomers substantially improved the initial bonding of contemporary etch-and-rinse (ER) and self-etch (SE) adhesives to intrinsically wet dental substrates, providing quite favorable immediate results, regardless of the bonding approach used. However, in the long term, the bonding effectiveness of most simplified ER and SE adhesives drop dramatically. This review examines the fundamental processes that are responsible for the aging mechanisms involved in the degradation of the resin-bonded interfaces and some possible clinical approaches that have been effective in minimizing or even preventing the degradation of the adhesive interfaces produced with simplified adhesives. The incorporation of some of the feasible approaches - described in this review - may improve the quality of the adhesive restorations performed in clinical practice, while manufacturers develop bonding materials that are less susceptible to the aging mechanisms present in the oral environment.

The effect of ageing on the elastic modulus and degree of conversion of two multistep adhesive systems

During the curing reaction, the monomers of dentine bonding systems should cross-link sufficiently to strengthen an adhesive so that it is clinically reliable. This study evaluated how different storage conditions (air vs. water storage) affect the elastic modulus (E-modulus) and degree of conversion (DC) of a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive and a two-step self-etch adhesive. The biaxial flexural test and Raman microscopy were performed on resin disks made from the bonding agents Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SBMP; 3M ESPE) and Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB; Kuraray). The measurements were repeated after storage in either air or water for 15 and 30 min and for 1, 24, and 72 h. At time 0, the E-modulus was not affected by the adhesive system, whilst the degree of cure of CPB was higher than that of SBMP. Air storage increased the E-modulus at each ageing interval. Storage in water increased the E-modulus until it reached a maximum at 24 h, after which it decreased significantly at 72 h. No linear correlation between the percentage DC and E-modulus of the two adhesives was found when stored in water. The results of this study indicate that the mechanical properties and polymerization kinetics of SBMP and CPB are affected by storage time and medium.

Quantitative analysis of adhesive resin in the hybrid layer using Raman spectroscopy

The objective was to determine absolute molar concentration of adhesive resin components in the hybrid layer by establishing methods based on Raman spectroscopy fundamentals. The hybrid layer was treated as a three-component system consisting of collagen and an adhesive resin containing two monomers. Adhesive standard specimens and Raman peak area ratios obtained with a 785 nm excitation wavelength were used to construct separate calibration curves for comonomer relative molar concentration and Bis-GMA absolute molar concentration. As collagen and water had no measurable peaks in the fingerprint region, a dilution coefficient K(j) was defined to describe their impact on Raman peak area and to calculate HEMA absolute molar concentration. Methodology was validated using an analogous system containing acetone/ethanol/water. The absolute molar concentration of Bis-GMA and HEMA decreased 87% and 83%, respectively, from the top quarter to the middle of the hybrid layer. Additionally, less Bis-GMA penetrated the hybrid layer than HEMA, as indicated by the approximately 20% decrease in comonomer molar concentration ratio between the adhesive resin layer and the top half of the hybrid layer. Lack of complete monomer infiltration will further challenge dentin-adhesive bond longevity. (c) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010.

Effect of Double Layering and Prolonged Application Time on MTBS of Water/Ethanol-based Self-etch Adhesives to Dentin

Problems related to the chemical formulation and/or chemical dispersion of hydrophilic/hydrophobic components in one-step self-etch adhesives limit their efficacy and are not easily solved by changing the different bonding application parameters.

Effects of ethanol addition on the water sorption/solubility and percent conversion of comonomers in model dental adhesives

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the kinetics of water uptake and percent conversion in neat versus ethanol-solvated resins that were formulated to be used as dental bonding agents.

METHODS

Five methacrylate-based resins of known and increasing hydrophilicities (R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5) were used as reference materials. Resins were evaluated as neat bonding agents (100% resin) or they were solvated with absolute ethanol (95% resin/5% ethanol or 85% resin/15% ethanol). Specimens were prepared by dispensing the uncured resin into a circular mold (5.8 mm x 0.8 mm). Photo-activation was performed for 80s. The water sorption/diffusion/solubility was gravimetrically evaluated, while the degree of conversion (DC) was calculated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Water sorption increased with the hydrophilicity of the resin blends. In general, the solvated resins exhibited significantly higher water sorption, solubility and water diffusion coefficients when compared to their corresponding neat versions (p<0.05). The only exception was resin R1, the least hydrophilic resin, in which neat and solvated versions exhibited similar water sorption (p>0.05). Addition of ethanol increased the DC of all resins tested, especially of the least hydrophilic, R1 and R2 (p<0.05). Despite the increased DC of ethanol-solvated methacrylate-based resins, it occurs at the expense of an increase in their water sorption/diffusion and solubility values.

SIGNIFICANCE

Negative effects of residual ethanol on water sorption/solubility appeared to be greater as the hydrophilicity of the resin blends increased. That is, the use of less hydrophilic resins in dental adhesives may create more reliable and durable bonds to dentin.

Combined FT-Raman and SEM Studies of the Effects of Er:YAG Laser Irradiation on Dentin

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the molecular and morphological changes on dentin elements after Er:YAG laser irradiation.

BACKGROUND DATA

Spectroscopy studies reporting the effects of Er:YAG laser irradiation as an alternative to acid etching are needed to better understand the laser's effects.

METHODS

The occlusal one-third of the crown of six human third molars was removed. The dentin surface was schematically divided into areas corresponding to four surface treatment groups: control (group C): 37% phosphoric acid etching; group I: Er:YAG laser 80 mJ; group II: Er:YAG laser 120 mJ; and group III: Er:YAG laser 180 mJ. The analysis was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman) before and after the treatments. Raman data were submitted to ANOVA and Bonferroni tests.

RESULTS

The SEM photomicrographs revealed open dentin tubules in the control group. The molars from groups I, II, and III showed partially open dentin tubules. SEM images showed that the laser-irradiated dentin surface was not favorable to the diffusion of monomers. A significant reduction of the spectra relative intensity was observed in group III specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Er:YAG laser irradiation with 180 mJ could produce chemical changes in proteins, phosphate, and carbonate in dentin.

Effects of Treatment for Manipulation of Teeth and Er:YAG Laser Irradiation on Dentin: A Raman Spectroscopy Analysis

OBJECTIVE

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of Raman spectroscopy analysis as a research tool to study the effects of Er:YAG laser etching on dentin mineral and organic components. A secondary aim was to study the effects of the decontamination process and the storage procedure on dentin components.

BACKGROUND DATA

There are no spectroscopy reports relating the effects of Er:YAG laser irradiation as an alternative to acid etching and the manipulation process on the dentin structure.

METHODS

Twelve non-carious human third molars were divided in two main groups: stored in thymol solution (group A, n = 6) or autoclaved (group B, n = 6). The specimens were either etched with 37% phosphoric acid (control subgroup) or irradiated with Er:YAG laser. Irradiated samples were divided into the following subgroups: I, II, and III (80 mJ, 3 Hz, 30 sec; 120 mJ, 3 Hz, 30 sec; and 180 mJ, 3 Hz, 30 sec, respectively). Samples were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy.

RESULTS

The mineral and organic dentin contents were more affected in autoclaved teeth than in the specimens stored in thymol. Peak area reduction in group A specimens treated with phosphoric acid and pulse energy of 80 mJ were the most conservative surface treatments regarding changes in the peak area of organic and inorganic dentin components.

CONCLUSION

The autoclaving process and pulse energies of 120 and 180 mJ produced greater reduction of organic and inorganic contents in dentin, associated with greater reduction in the areas of 968, 1077, 1460, and 1670 cm(1) Raman peaks.

Increases in Dentin-bond Strength If Doubling Application Time of an Acetone-containing One-step Adhesive

When treating dentin surfaces with Futurabond one-step self-etch bonding agent, in order to obtain higher microtensile bond strength, doubling the application time of the adhesive should be considered.

Polymerization kinetics of dental adhesives cured with LED: correlation between extent of conversion and permeability

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the polymerization kinetics of different adhesive films in relation to their permeability after exposure to different LED curing units.

METHODS

One adhesive from each class was analyzed: a three-step etch-and-rinse (OptiBond FL; Sybron-Kerr), a two-step etch-and-rinse (One-Step, Bisco), a two-step self-etch (Clearfil Protect Bond, Kuraray) and a one-step self-etch adhesive (Xeno III; Dentsply DeTrey). Adhesive films were prepared and cured with SmartLite IQ (Dentsply) or L.E. Demetron I (Demetron Kerr) up to complete curing. Polymerization kinetic curves of the tested adhesives were obtained with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In particular, total reaction time and extent of polymerization (Ep) at 20, 40 or 60s were compared. Permeability of the adhesive films was evaluated on flat dentin surfaces of human extracted teeth connected to a permeability device and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Total reaction time differed among the adhesives tested: OptiBond FL<Clearfil Protect Bond<One-Step<Xeno III with both curing units (p<0.05). At 20s OptiBond FL showed the highest Ep, while the lowest values were obtained with One-Step and Xeno III (p<0.05). E(p) increased when curing time was prolonged (40 and 60s) for all adhesives tested (p<0.05), however, on simplified adhesives, incomplete polymerization took place even after prolonged exposure intervals. An inverse correlation was found between Ep of the adhesives and their permeability using LED curing units.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study supports the hypothesis that, longer curing times than those recommended by the respective manufacturer decrease permeability of the bonded interfaces.

Morphological and mechanical characterization of the acid-base resistant zone at the adhesive-dentin interface of intact and caries-affected dentin

This study examined the ultrastructure of both intact and caries affected dentin-adhesive interface after artificial secondary caries formation, using scanning electron microscopy and nanoindentation testing. Half of the prepared specimens were bonded with Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray Medical, Japan) and a resin composite (Metafil Flo, Sun Medical, Japan) for the nanoindentation test. The other specimens were stored in a buffered demineralizing solution for 90 minutes, then observed using SEM. An acid-base resistant zone (ABRZ) was observed beneath the hybrid layer, distinguished by argon-ion etching. The ABRZ of caries-affected dentin was thicker than that of normal dentin, while its nanohardess was lower than normal dentin (p<0.05). It is suggested that the monomer of Clearfil SE Bond penetrated deeper than previously reported, creating a so-called "hybrid layer." However, its physical properties depended on the condition of the dentin.

Bonding Efficacy of Single-step Self-etch Systems to Sound Primary and Permanent Tooth Dentin

Single-step self-etch systems are capable of producing a predictable bond to primary dentin, although the bond strength was found to be lower than permanent dentin.

Differential effect ofin vitro degradation on resin–dentin bonds produced by self-etchversus total-etch adhesives

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of an in vitro challenge (NaOCl immersion) on microtensile bond strength (MTBS) of five adhesive systems to dentin.

METHODS

Flat dentin surfaces from 40 molars were bonded with three total-etch adhesives (Single Bond, Prime&Bond NT and the experimental Prime&Bond XP), and two self-etching agents (Clearfil SE Bond and Etch&Prime 3.0). Composite build-ups were constructed with Tetric Ceram. Teeth were then sectioned into beams of 1.0 mm2 cross-sectional area. Half of the beams were immersed in 10% NaOCl aqueous solution for 5 h. Each beam was tested in tension in an Instron machine at 0.5 mm/min. Data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA and multiple comparisons tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

Clearfil SE Bond and Single Bond attained higher MTBS than the other three adhesives. Prime&Bond NT and Prime&Bond XP performed equally, and Etch&Prime resulted in the lowest MTBS. After NaOCl immersion, MTBS decreased in all groups. The highest MTBS values were obtained for Clearfil SE Bond and Prime&Bond XP. Scaning electron microscopy observation of debonded sticks evidenced dissolution and microstructural alterations of intertubular dentin, except when Clearfil SE Bond was used.

CONCLUSIONS

Resin-dentin bonds are prone to chemical degradation. The extent of the resin degradation is adhesive system specific. Chemical degradation of the nonresin infiltrated collagen fibers does also exist in total-etch adhesives. Both processes may reduce long-term resin-dentin bond strength.

Degree of conversion and permeability of dental adhesives

The aim of this study was to analyse the extent of polymerization of different adhesive films in relation to their permeability. One adhesive of each class was investigated: OptiBond FL; One-Step; Clearfil Protect Bond; and Xeno III. Adhesive films were prepared and cured with XL-2500 (3M ESPE) for 20, 40 or 60 s. Polymerization kinetic curves of the adhesives tested were obtained with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and data were correlated with microhardness. The permeability of the adhesives under the same experimental conditions was evaluated on human extracted teeth connected to a permeability device and analysed statistically. The results showed that the extent of polymerization obtained from DSC exotherms was directly correlated with microhardness. An increased level of polymerization after prolonged light-curing was confirmed for all adhesives. Simplified adhesives exhibited a lower extent of polymerization and showed incomplete polymerization, even after 60 s. An inverse correlation was found between the degree of cure and the permeability. This study supports the hypothesis that the permeability of simplified adhesives is correlated with incomplete polymerization of resin monomers and the extent of light exposure. These adhesives may be rendered less permeable by using longer curing times than those recommended by the respective manufacturer.

Spatially resolved photopolymerization kinetics and oxygen inhibition in dental adhesives

A comparative study of three commercial dental adhesives was performed by (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and Stray-Field magnetic resonance imaging. Spectroscopic evidence was found for the presence of solvent and unreacted methacrylate groups in photopolymerized adhesives. Spatially resolved photopolymerization kinetics and volumetric contraction (solvent evaporation and polymerization shrinkage) were obtained without solvent removal and in the presence of oxygen from the atmosphere. The oxygen and solvent inhibitor effects in the photopolymerization were found to be higher for water/ethanol based adhesives. However, was one of these adhesives that exhibited less spatially dependent irradiation time to start vitrification, higher concentration and a more uniform spatial distribution of rigid domains at the end of the photopolymerization.

Microhardness of acid-treated and resin infiltrated human dentine

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to determine if superficial or deep dentine microhardness (MH) is affected by different chemical dentine pre-treatments performed for resin bonding.

METHODS

Dentine discs of superficial (SD) and deep dentine (DD) were obtained by transversally sectioning the crowns of human third molars. Knoop MH was measured after different treatments: (1) polished up to 4000 grit, (2) polished and etched (37% ortophosphoric acid for 15 s), (3) resin (Single Bond -SB-) infiltrated dentine after acid etching, (4) polished, etched and treated with 5% NaOCl for 2 min, (5) resin infiltrated (SB) after etching and NaOCl treatment. For resin infiltrated surfaces care was taken in order to remove the excess adhesive layer, and obtain infiltrated dentine, by measuring thickness of the sample before resin infiltration and polishing after resin infiltration until obtaining the initial thickness of the sample. Indentations (n=20) were performed on moist surfaces with a standard Knoop MH tester (20 g, 5 s). Data were expressed in Knoop Hardness Numbers (KHN) and analysed by ANOVA and multiple comparisons (P<0.05).

RESULTS

Dentine KHN decreased on both SD and DD after acid etching. NaOCl treatment after acid etching did not affect MH on SD, but KHN of DD was lowered. Resin infiltration increased KHN but did not recover the initial MH values in both SD and DD.

CONCLUSIONS

Treating dentine with either H3PO4 or NaOCl caused marked reduction of its surface hardness and subsequent resin infiltration was not capable to restore it.

Effect of load cycling andin vitro degradation on resin-dentin bonds using a self-etching primer

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of in vitro degradation and mechanical loading on microtensile bond strength (MTBS) and microleakage (ML) of a resin composite to dentin using a self-etching primer adhesive [Clearfil SE Bond (SEB)] under two hydration statuses. Twenty-four flat dentin surfaces were divided in groups: 1) blot-dried, 2) air-dried. SEB was applied and resin buildups were performed with Tetric Ceram. Specimens were divided in four subgroups: a) sectioned into beams, b) load cycled, c) beams were immersed in NaOCl for 5 h, d) load cycled and immersed in NaOCl. Beams were tested in tension. For ML testing, 80 Class V cavities were prepared and molars divided in subgroups as described above (in group c and d, specimens were kept in distilled water for 1 year, instead of the 5-h NaOCl immersion). ML was assessed by dye penetration. Analysis of variance and multiple comparisons tests were used for MTBS. For ML, Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon matched pairs signed ranked were used (p<0.05). SEB applied to completely dehydrated dentin produced the highest MTBS, at 24-h evaluation. In vitro degradation always decreased MTBS, and fatigue loading only diminished MTBS on dehydrated dentin. Load cycling increased dye penetration on dentin margins. Degradation always increased ML in both enamel and dentin margins.

Vicker's hardness and Raman spectroscopy evaluation of a dental composite cured by an argon laser and a halogen lamp

We present the results of the Vicker's hardness test and the use of near-infrared Raman spectroscopy (RS) to measure in vitro the degree of conversion (DC) of a bis(phenol)-A-glycidyl-dimethacrylate-based composite resin, photoactivated by both a halogen lamp (power density=478 mW/cm(2); 8-mm diameter spot) and an argon laser (power density=625 mW/cm(2); 7-mm diameter spot). The degree of conversion was estimated by analyzing the relative intensities between the aromatic C=C stretching Raman mode at 1610 cm(-1) and the methacrylate C=C stretching Raman mode (1640 cm(-1)) on top and bottom surfaces. For the hardness evaluation, the samples were embedded in polyester resin and three indentations with a 50-g load for 10 s were made on the top surface. The higher relative DC values achieved by the photoactivation of a composite resin by the argon laser suggest a better biocompatibility in the bottom surface. The correlation test showed that the higher Vicker's hardness number (VHN) values were associated with higher DC values. The derivative analysis showed a greater curing rate from 5 to 20 s of exposure. The comparison of VHN and DC values with both light sources at each curing time showed that a small change in conversion is related to a large change in hardness. Raman spectroscopy is more sensitive to changes in the first stages of curing reaction than later ones, and the Vicker's hardness assay is more sensitive to changes in the last stages.

Influence of adhesive polymerization mode on dentin bond strength of direct core foundation systems

This study examined the influence of various adhesive systems on dentin bond strength of direct core foundation resins. Two commercially available direct core foundation resin systems and 2 adhesive polymerization modes were used. Facial bovine dentin surfaces were wet ground on 600-grit SiC paper. Dentin surfaces were treated according to the manufacturers' instructions and were light polymerized (control). Chemical- and light-polymerized adhesive systems were used separately. The resin paste was condensed into a mold and bonded to the dentin surface. Ten specimens per test group were stored in water at 37 degrees C for 24 hours, and a shear test was conducted at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/minute using a universal testing machine. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan's multiple comparison test were performed (alpha = 0.05). Dual polymerization of resin pastes revealed higher bond strength with the combination of light-polymerized adhesive (22.8-24.3 MPa), but significantly lower bond strength with the combination of a chemical-polymerized adhesive (4.2-5.7 MPa). The present data suggests that dentin bond strengths in direct core foundation systems can be influenced by the combination of adhesive and resin paste.