Effect of sterilisation methods on the structural integrity of artificial enamel caries for intra-oral cariogenicity tests

Pharmaceutical Applications of Biomass Polymers: Review of Current Research and Perspectives

Polymers derived from natural biomass have emerged as a valuable resource in the field of biomedicine due to their versatility. Polysaccharides, peptides, proteins, and lignin have demonstrated promising results in various applications, including drug delivery design. However, several challenges need to be addressed to realize the full potential of these polymers. The current paper provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research and perspectives in this area, with a particular focus on developing effective methods and efficient drug delivery systems. This review aims to offer insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with the use of natural polymers in biomedicine and to provide a roadmap for future research in this field.

Influence of a new method of sterilization on the morphology and physical properties of extracted human teeth

Abstract Introduction Sterilization methods adopted in Human Teeth Bank can promote structural changes in enamel and dentin. Thus, the ideal method should combine the antimicrobial efficacy and preservation of the substrate biomechanical properties. Aim Evaluated the morphology and physical properties of enamel and dentin of extracted human teeth, after being submitted to different sterilization methods. Method Sixteen extracted third molars were sectioned in the following tooth regions: mesio-distal, vestibular-lingual and at the cement enamel junction. Forty specimens were selected according to values of microhardness and roughness initials, and distributed in four experimental groups (n = 10/group): Group 1 = Autoclave 121 °C (30 minutes); Group 2 = 2.5% Sodium hypochlorite (07 days); Group 3 = 5.25% Sodium hypochlorite (07 days); Group 4= 30% Acetic Acid (7 days). After sterilization, the microhardness, roughness and morphology of enamel and dentin were evaluated. Data were analyzed by paired t-test, Wilcoxon, Kruskal-Wallis and Analysis of Variance. A significance level of 5% was adopted. Result All sterilization methods altered the microhardness and roughness of the dentine (p <0.05). Regarding to enamel, the microhardness was affected only by Autoclave and 2.5% Sodium hypochlorite treatment (p <0.05). A large aperture of the enamel pores and dentinal tubules was verified in the micrographs. Conclusion The sterilization methods adopted altered the morphology and/or physical properties of enamel and dentine.

Variation in Enamel Formation Genes Influences Enamel Demineralization In Vitro in a Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Model

Genetic studies have shown that variations in enamel formation genes are associated with caries susceptibility. The aim of this study was to test in vitro whether variants in these genes are associated with dental enamel demineralization in a Streptococcus mutans biofilm model. DNA and enamel samples were obtained from 213 individuals. DNA was extracted from saliva, and 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms were analyzed. The physical and chemical properties of sound enamel samples and the mineral loss and the lesion depth of the demineralized enamel samples under cariogenic challenge were analyzed. Microhardness, enamel chemicals, mineral loss and demineralization depth were compared between different genotypes at each single nucleotide polymorphism. The GG genotype of TUFT1 (rs17640579) and the GT genotype of MMP20 (rs1612069) exhibited increased microhardness (p = 0.044 and 0.016, respectively). The GG genotype of AMBN (rs7694409) had a higher magnesium level, while the CT genotype of TFIP11 (rs2097470) had a lower magnesium level (p = 0.044 and 0.046, respectively). The GT genotype of MMP20 (rs1612069) had a higher calcium level (p = 0.034). The GG genotype of AMBN (rs13115627), the AG genotype of ENAM (rs12640848) and the AA genotype of MMP20 (rs2292730) had a lower phosphorus level (p = 0.012, 0.006, and 0.023, respectively). The GG genotype of AMBN (rs13115627) was also associated with a higher calcium-phosphorus ratio (p = 0.034). Individuals with the CC genotype of TFIP11 (rs134143) exhibited significantly more mineral loss (p = 0.011) and a deeper lesions (p = 0.042). Individuals with the TT genotype of TFIP11 (rs2097470) had more mineral loss (p = 0.018). Individuals with the GG genotype of TUFT1 (rs17640579) exhibited a shallower demineralization depth (p = 0.047). Individuals with the GT genotype of MMP20 (rs1612069) exhibited a shallower demineralization depth (p = 0.042). Individuals with the GG genotype of ENAM (rs12640848) exhibited less mineral loss (p = 0.01) and a shallower demineralization depth (p = 0.03). Genetic variations in TFIP11, TUFT1, MMP20, and ENAM influenced enamel demineralization in a Streptococcus mutans biofilm model.

Chemical composition and morphology study of bovine enamel submitted to different sterilization methods

OBJECTIVES

The morphology and chemical composition of enamel submitted to different sterilization methods was studied.

METHODS

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were performed to evaluate 50 bovine enamel specimens sterilized using four methods: microwaving (MI), gamma irradiation (GI), ethylene oxide (EO), and steam autoclave (SA). Non-sterilized specimens were used as control.

RESULTS

XPS indicated that the concentration of P (phosphorus), CO₃ (carbonate), and CO₃/P was not changed in all groups. GI produced no significant change on elemental composition. SA produced the major decrease in calcium (Ca), Ca/P ratio, and increase in N (nitrogen). MI was found to decrease Ca, Ca/P ratio and O (oxygen), and increase in C (carbon) and N. EO produced decrease in Ca and O with increased C concentration. FEG-SEM revealed surface and in-depth morphological changes on SA specimens. Minor surface alterations were observed for EO and for MI groups, and no alteration was observed on GI group. EDS indicated no difference on elemental composition of enamel bulk among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

SA produced mineral loss and morphological alterations on surface and in depth. MI and EO sterilization caused mineral loss showing only slight alteration on enamel surface. GI sterilization preserves the morphological characteristics of enamel. The sterilization methods could be classified from lower to high damage as GI < MI < EO < SA.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This is a comprehensive comparative study where different methods for enamel sterilization were investigated in terms of chemical changes. The results presented here may help researchers to choose the most appropriate method for their research setting and purpose.

Morphological and chemical changes of dentin after applying different sterilization methods

Aim The present study evaluated the morphological and chemical changes of dentin produced by different sterilization methods, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) analysis. Material and method Five human teeth were sectioned into 4 samples, each divided into 3 specimens. The specimens were separated into sterilization groups, as follows: wet heat under pressure; cobalt 60 gamma radiation; and control (without sterilization). After sterilization, the 60 specimens were analyzed by SEM under 3 magnifications: 1500X, 5000X, and 10000X. The images were analyzed by 3 calibrated examiners, who assigned scores according to the changes observed in the dentinal tubules: 0 = no morphological change; 1, 2 and 3 = slight, medium and complete obliteration of the dentinal tubules. The chemical composition of dentin was assessed by EDS, with 15 kV incidence and 1 μm penetration. Result The data obtained were submitted to the statistical tests of Kruskall-Wallis and ANOVA. It was observed that both sterilization methods – with autoclave and with cobalt 60 gamma radiation – produced no significant changes to the morphology of the dentinal tubules or to the chemical composition of dentin. Conclusion Both methods may thus be used to sterilize teeth for research conducted in vitro.

The use of bur and laser for root caries treatment: a comparative study

This research analyzed the influence of bur and erbium, chromium:yttrium-scandium-gallium-garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser caries removal on cavity characteristics and marginal seal of composite resin restorations. One hundred and forty human dental root samples were used. After in vitro root caries induction using Streptococcus mutans, the carious lesions were removed either by a conventional technique using burs (G1=control) or by using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser (λ=2.78 μm, 20 Hz, pulse duration is approximately equal to 140 μs, noncontact mode using a 600-μm tip) with the following power outputs: G2: 1.0 W; G3: 1.25 W; G4: 1.5 W; G5: 1.75 W; G6: 2.0 W; G7: 2.25 W; G8: 2.5 W; G9: 2.75 W; G10: 3.0 W; G11: 3.25 W; G12: 3.5 W; G13: 3.75 W; and G14: 4.0 W. Samples in the 14 groups (n=10) were conditioned with Clearfil SE Bond and restored with a flowable composite. They were then thermocycled (1000 cycles) and immersed into a 2% methylene blue solution for microleakage analysis. The data were statistically compared (analysis of variance or Spearman correlation tests; p≤0.05). The lased groups showed significantly greater microleakage indexes, cavity depths, and presence of residual caries than did those of the control group. There was a strong positive correlation between residual caries and microleakage. The results indicate that Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation is not a good alternative to the use of burs for root caries removal since it may cause a significant loss of marginal sealing in composite resin restorations.

Influence of sterilization method on the bond strength of caries-affected dentin

This study evaluated the effect of sterilization method on the bond strength of caries-affected dentin before artificial caries development and after restoration. Twelve bovine incisors were sectioned perpendicularly to their long axes at 7 mm from the amelodentinal junction. They were painted with acid-resistant nail varnish, except on an exposed coronal dentin area. Four groups were formed (n = 3) in accordance with the sterilization method used, before artificial caries development and after complete restoration: NE - no sterilization (control group); G - gamma-rays before and after; A - steam autoclave before and after; AG - steam autoclave before and gamma-rays after. For artificial caries development, dentin sections were immersed in BHI broth with S. mutans. After the soft carious tissue was removed, dentin was restored with Scotchbond Multi-Purpose and Filtek Z250. Next, the samples were sterilized in accordance with the methods described above and microtensile testing was performed. The data were analyzed by the Mann-Whitney test (p < 0.05). The G (22.7 MPa) and AG groups (16.3 MPa) were not statistically different from the NE group (17.5 MPa). Nevertheless, there were statistical differences between groups A (6.3 MPa) and NE, A and G, A and AG, G and AG. The bond strength of caries-affected dentin was not influenced by gamma-ray sterilization irrespective of whether the sterilization was performed before or after restoration.

Effect of gamma irradiation on fluoride release and antibacterial activity of resin dental materials

This study evaluated the effect of gamma irradiation on fluoride release and antibacterial activity of FluroShield (FS) and Clearfil Protect Bond (CPB). Four groups were formed: G1-FS + gamma; G2-FS without gamma; G3-CPB + gamma; G4-CPB without gamma. For fluoride release analysis, 12 disks of each material were prepared and covered with nail polish, except for one side (50.4 mm(2) area). G1 and G3 were sterilized with a 14.5 KGy dose at 27 degrees C for 24 h, while G2 and G4 (controls) were not sterilized and were maintained under the same time and temperature conditions. Fluoride release measurements were made in duplicate (n=6) by an ion specific electrode. The antibacterial activity of the CPB and FS against Streptococcus mutans after gamma sterilization was evaluated by the agar-disc diffusion method. The diameter of the zones of microbial growth inhibition was recorded after 48 h. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha=5%). Gamma sterilization decreased the fluoride release of FS by approximately 50%, while CPB was not affected. There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) in the antibacterial effect of CPB between gamma and non-gamma sterilization groups. FS presented no antibacterial activity. Gamma irradiation decreased the fluoride release of FS, but did not affect the antibacterial activity of the studied materials.

Effect of ethylene oxide sterilization on enamel and dentin demineralization in vitro

For in situ studies into caries prevention, sterilization of tooth samples is essential. However, sterilization may influence the caries process itself. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of sterilising sound human enamel and dentin with ethylene oxide on lesion depth and mineral loss before and after in vitro demineralization. Lesion depth and mineral loss were measured using transversal microradiography (TMR). The experiment was carried out with 32 enamel and 32 dentin samples. We found a significant reduction of lesion depth due to sterilization in demineralized enamel (-9.8microm; 95% CI: -15.1 to -4.4microm). The small effect of sterilization on demineralized enamel is considered to be irrelevant for in situ studies of de- and remineralization.

Demineralization Effects of 2 Bleaching Procedures on Enamel Surfaces With and Without Post-treatment Fluoride Application

The results of this study suggest that post-treatment fluoride application prevents mineral loss in bleached enamel surfaces.

Effects of Er:YAG Laser on the Sealing of Glass Ionomer Cement Restorations of Bacterial Artificial Root Caries

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to test the effect of Er:YAG laser irradiation on the marginal sealing of root cavities restored with two glass ionomer cements.

BACKGROUND DATA

For preventing secondary root caries, new technologies for dental caries removal, such as the Er:YAG laser irradiation, have been proposed.

METHODS

Forty-five human teeth were used. Artificial root caries were induced using a microbiological model (Streptococcus mutans). The lesions were removed by three different methods: conventional technique using burs (controls; groups 1 and 2); Er:YAG laser irradiation using dentine preparation parameters (250 mJ, 4 Hz, 80.6 J/cm2; groups 3 and 4); irradiation with the dentine preparation parameters followed by surface conditioning parameters (60 mJ, 2 Hz, 19.2 J/cm2; groups 6 and 7). After each preparation method, three teeth were prepared for scanning electron microscopy morphological observation. The remaining teeth were restored by conventional glass ionomer cement (G1, G3, and G5) or resin modified glass ionomer cement (G2, G4, and G6). After restoration, the samples were thermocycled (1,000 cycles) and prepared for microleakage test.

RESULTS

Scores of less infiltrated samples were observed in groups treated by Er:YAG laser, and the smallest infiltration occurred in the group treated by the dentine preparation parameter, followed by cavity restoration with resin-modified glass ionomer (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that root caries removal by Er:YAG laser irradiation, followed by restoration with resin-modified glass ionomer cement, is a suitable choice for dental root caries restoration.

The effect of bleaching on enamel susceptibility to acid erosion and demineralisation

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine if enamel that had been bleached by carbamide (urea) peroxide gel (CPG) was at increased risk of either acid erosion or demineralisation (early caries) than un-bleached enamel.

METHODS

Human incisors were employed. The samples were randomly assigned to one of 4 groups; a) 10% CPG, b) 16% CPG, c) 22% CPG and d) 10% CPG with xylitol, fluoride and potassium. Each specimen was moistened with saliva and the appropriate formulation placed for 2 hours for a total of 40 hours of exposure. In order to ensure that bleaching had taken place, tooth shades were monitored using the Shade-Eye device. Following the bleaching process, one half of the specimen was subjected to an erosive challenge, the other to a demineralisation system with one half of each sub-sample retained as a non-bleached control. Samples were assessed longitudinally with quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) and at the conclusion of the study with transverse micro-radiography (TMR).

RESULTS

Erosion was detected in all samples (DeltaQ 126+/-23.4), in both bleached and non-bleached areas. There was no statistical difference between the bleached and non-bleached areas either within the treatment groups or between them. Caries-like lesions were detected on all samples; TMR revealed sub-surface lesions on all teeth and QLF data supported this (DeltaQ 89+/-18.9). Following statistical analysis there were no differences detected between the bleached and non-bleached areas, nor between the different concentrations of the bleaching solution.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that tooth bleaching with carbamide (urea) peroxide (using commercially available concentrations) does not increase the susceptibility of enamel to acid erosion or caries.

The effect of gamma radiation on enamel hardness and its resistance to demineralization in vitro

Given the importance of sterilizing human teeth before using them in research, the effects of a 25 kGy dose of gamma radiation on the mechanical properties of enamel and its resistance to demineralization were evaluated. Thirty human teeth were sectioned longitudinally, and while one half of each tooth was irradiated, the other half was kept as a control. Abraded and unabraded enamel slabs were obtained from these halves. The surface microhardness (SMH) of abraded slabs of irradiated and non-irradiated enamel was determined to evaluate the effect of radiation on enamel structure. Further, both abraded and unabraded slabs, either irradiated or non-irradiated, were submitted to a pH-cycling model to evaluate enamel resistance to demineralization, which was quantified by mineral loss (deltaZ) using cross-sectional microhardness. The data for SMH and deltaZ were statistically analyzed by t-test and ANOVA, respectively. The difference in enamel SMH between slabs from irradiated teeth and non-irradiated teeth was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The abraded enamel slabs showed higher values of deltaZ than unabraded enamel slabs (P < 0.05), but the irradiation effect was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The results suggest that the medical gamma radiation dose of 25 kGy does not affect either enamel hardness or its resistance to demineralization.