Enamel remineralisation prospect of Moringa Oleifera hydrogel, eggshell hydrogel versus sodium fluoride varnish on artificially demineralised primary teeth: in vitro study

PURPOSE

The purpose of the present in vitro study is to investigate and compare the remineralising potential of Moringa Oleifera extract, eggshell, and sodium fluoride varnish on microhardness of artificially demineralised enamel of primary teeth with biomimetic minimally invasive approach following the world paradigm shift towards natural products in paediatric dentistry.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sample size included 44 primary molars. The mineral content and surface microhardness of all specimens were initially assessed using energy dispersive x-ray examination (EDX) and Vickers microhardness. The specimens were artificially demineralised for 96 h at a temperature of 37°C and then reassessed directly after demineralisation. The demineralised enamel specimens were randomly divided into four groups according to the remineralisation regimen utilised. Group 1: Artificial saliva (control); Group 2: Sodium fluoride varnish; Group 3: Eggshell hydrogel; and Group 4: Moringa Oleifera hydrogel. The specimens were stored for 8 days and then subsequently evaluated using EDX and microhardness assessment by Vickers microhardness test and scanning electron microscope (SEM).  Results: Regarding the microhardness test, there was a significant difference between the Moringa Oleifera group and Eggshell group compared to fluoride varnish (p < 0.05). Regarding EDX analysis, there was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between Moringa Oleifera group and Eggshell group compared to fluoride varnish as the highest values were for Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) between Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell in both the measurements.

CONCLUSION

Moringa Oleifera and Eggshell might be considered as a biomimetic natural material capable of guiding enamel tissue remineralisation in early carious lesion of primary teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This research demonstrated the capability for early enamel caries to be remineralised using novel materials with a naturally counterpart implicated in biomineralisation as proved to be more effective than traditionally used fluoride varnish in primary teeth.

Photodynamic Inactivation of Legionella pneumophila Biofilm Formation by Cationic Tetra- and Tripyridylporphyrins in Waters of Different Hardness

The bacterium Legionella pneumophila is still one of the probable causes of waterborne diseases, causing serious respiratory illnesses. In the aquatic systems, L. pneumophila exists inside free-living amoebae or can form biofilms. Currently developed disinfection methods are not sufficient for complete eradication of L. pneumophila biofilms in water systems of interest. Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a method that results in an antimicrobial effect by using a combination of light and a photosensitizer (PS). In this work, the effect of PDI in waters of natural origin and of different hardness, as a treatment against L. pneumophila biofilm, was investigated. Three cationic tripyridylporphyrins, which were previously described as efficient agents against L. pneumophila alone, were used as PSs. We studied how differences in water hardness affect the PSs’ stability, the production of singlet oxygen, and the PDI activity on L. pneumophila adhesion and biofilm formation and in biofilm destruction. Amphiphilic porphyrin showed a stronger tendency for aggregation in hard and soft water, but its production of singlet oxygen was higher in comparison to tri- and tetracationic hydrophilic porphyrins that were stable in all water samples. All three studied porphyrins were shown to be effective as PDI agents against the adhesion of the L. pneumophila to polystyrene, against biofilm formation, and in the destruction of the formed biofilm, in their micromolar concentrations. However, a higher number of dissolved ions, i.e., water hardness, generally reduced somewhat the PDI activity of all the porphyrins at all tested biofilm growth stages.

Cortical stiffness of keratinocytes measured by lateral indentation with optical tweezers

Keratin intermediate filaments are the principal structural element of epithelial cells. Their importance in providing bulk cellular stiffness is well recognized, but their role in the mechanics of cell cortex is less understood. In this study, we therefore compared the cortical stiffness of three keratinocyte lines: primary wild type cells (NHEK2), immortalized wild type cells (NEB1) and immortalized mutant cells (KEB7). The cortical stiffness was measured by lateral indentation of cells with AOD-steered optical tweezers without employing any moving mechanical elements. The method was validated on fixed cells and Cytochalasin-D treated cells to ensure that the observed variations in stiffness within a single cell line were not a consequence of low measurement precision. The measurements of the cortical stiffness showed that primary wild type cells were significantly stiffer than immortalized wild type cells, which was also detected in previous studies of bulk elasticity. In addition, a small difference between the mutant and the wild type cells was detected, showing that mutation of keratin impacts also the cell cortex. Thus, our results indicate that the role of keratins in cortical stiffness is not negligible and call for further investigation of the mechanical interactions between keratins and elements of the cell cortex.

Evaluation of degree of conversion, rate of cure, microhardness, depth of cure, and contraction stress of new nanohybrid composites containing pre-polymerized spherical filler

The aim of the present study was to characterize nanohybrid and nanofilled composites in terms of degree of conversion (DC), rate of cure (RC), microhardness (Vickers hardness number; VHN), depth of cure, and contraction stress (CS). Ceram.X® universal- A3, duo enamel E2, and duo dentin D3 composites were compared to Tetric EvoCeram® and FiltekTMSupreme XTE composites of equivalent dentin and enamel shades under a 40 s photopolymerization protocol. DC was measured by infrared spectroscopy, calculating RC from the kinetic curve. Top and bottom VHN were determined using a Vickers indenter, and bottom/top surface ratio (Vickers hardness ratio; VHR) calculated. CS vs. time was assessed by a universal testing machine and normalized for the specimen bonding area. All materials showed DC  < 60%, Ceram.X® composites reaching higher values than the other composites of corresponding shades. RC at 5 s of photopolymerization was always higher than that at 10 s. All the Ceram.X® composites and the lighter-shaded Tetric EvoCeram® and FiltekTMSupreme XTE composites reached the RC plateau after 25 s, the remaining materials showed a slower kinetic trend. Tetric EvoCeram® and FiltekTMSupreme XTE composites displayed the softest and the hardest surfaces, respectively. Differently from darker-shaded materials, the universal and the three enamel-shaded composites resulted optimally cured (VHR >  80%). The tested composites differed in CS both during and after light cure, Tetric EvoCeram® and FiltekTMSupreme XTE composites displaying the highest and the lowest CS, respectively. Only the Ceram.X® universal-A3 reached a CS plateau value. The tested composites exhibited material-dependent chemo-mechanical properties. Increasing the curing time and/or reducing the composite layer thickness for dentin-shaded composites appears advisable.

Formulation development of sugar free antacid chewable tablets for diabetes induced acidity in patients

Sugar free chewable tablets are considered to be desired medication for diabetic population having acid reflex problems. The main objective of this study is to develop a patient complaint tablet dosage form which is sugar free, chewable and easy to use. The formulation is designed for hyperglycemic and dysphasic patients along acidity or stomach ulcer. For manufacturing Aluminum Hydroxide (Kyowa Japan), Magnesium Hydroxide (Taurus chemicals India) Simethicone, Povidone (JRS pharma) Sorbitol powder, Magnesium stearate, Dilcalcium phosphate anhydrous, SSG (JRS pharma) and Aspartame were used. The granules formed by wet granulation method and tablets are compressed by rotary compression machine. The pre-formulation studies of granules (Angle of repose, Bulk/Tapped density, Carr's compressibility index and Hausner's ratio), uniformity of content (assay), acid neutralizing capacity, Identification by FTIR spectroscopy all are found within the limits as per USP specifications. All three formulation batches are stable under accelerated and ambient stability conditions for 6 months and 24 months respectively. The formulation development of sugar free oral chewable antacid tablet is pharmaceutically stable and can further analyze for safety and efficacy studies.

Dental enamel bleached for a prolonged and excessive time: Morphological changes

This work aimed to evaluate the roughness, microhardness, ultrastructure, chemical composition and crystalline structure in submitted teeth to a prolonged home bleaching regimen with 10% carbamide peroxide (10% PC) for different periods. The specimens were divided into the following groups: G1: negative control (application of water-soluble gel); G2: tooth whitening group (positive control), under application time recommended by the manufacturer (4h/14 days); G3: prolonged whitening 50%, under prolonged time recommended by the manufacturer in 50% (4h/21 days); G4: excessive whitening 100%, under exceeded manufacturer recommended time by 100% (4h/ 28 days). The results were evaluated descriptively and analytically. There were no changes in the roughness in any of the evaluated groups. However, the microhardness decreased in the G4 group. Scanning electron microscopy showed changes in the enamel surface of groups G2, G3 and G4. Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy identified changes in the concentration of chemical elements O, Mg, P, K in all groups. Thus, this study showed that prolonged home bleaching could cause changes in the ultrastructure, chemical composition and microhardness of the enamel.

Young's modulus and hardness of human trabecular bone with bisphosphonate treatment durations up to 20 years

Bone modulus from patients with osteoporosis treated with bisphosphonates for 1 to 20 years was analyzed. Modulus increases during the first 6 years of treatment and remains unchanged thereafter.

INTRODUCTION

Bisphosphonates are widely used for treating osteoporosis, but the relationship between treatment duration and bone quality is unclear. Since material properties partially determine bone quality, the present study quantified the relationship between human bone modulus and hardness with bisphosphonate treatment duration.

METHODS

Iliac crest bone samples from a consecutive case series of 86 osteoporotic Caucasian women continuously treated with oral bisphosphonates for 1.1-20 years were histologically evaluated to assess bone turnover and then tested using nanoindentation. Young's modulus and hardness were measured and related to bisphosphonate treatment duration by statistical modeling.

RESULTS

All bone samples had low bone turnover. Statistical models showed that with increasing bisphosphonate treatment duration, modulus and hardness increased, peaked, and plateaued. These models used quadratic terms to model modulus increases from 1 to 6 years of bisphosphonate treatment and linear terms to model modulus plateaus from 6 to 20 years of treatment. The treatment duration at which the quadratic-linear transition (join point) occurred also depended upon trabecular location. Hardness increased and peaked at 12.4 years of treatment; it remained constant for the next 7.6 years of treatment and was insensitive to trabecular location.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone modulus increases with bisphosphonate treatment durations up to 6 years, no additional modulus increases occurred after 6 years of treatment. Although hardness increased, peaked at 12.4 years and remained constant for the next 7.6 years of BP treatment, the clinical relevance of hardness remains unclear.

Assessment of Enamel Surface Microhardness with different Fluoride Varnishes-An In Vitro Study

AIM

This study aimed to assess the microhardness of the enamel surface after fluoride varnish application.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thymol of 0.1% in distilled water was used to store the collected healthy sixty teeth. The samples were divided into three groups randomly as per the different applica -tion of fluoride varnish. Group A: Fluor protector varnish (FIV) application, group B: Duraphat varnish application and group C: Bifluorid 10 varnish application. The present study followed the pH cycling protocol. Microhardness tester was used to test the microhardness of enamel surface and was expressed as micro-hardness measurements of Vickers hardness number (VHN) which was performed at baseline, on the 3rd day andon 7th day.

RESULTS

At baseline, group A samples mean SMH value was 230.64 ± 12.32 which was slightly more than group B with 229.45 ± 10.22 and group C with 230.10 ± 11.45. There was no significant difference showed with the analysis of variance between the groups. On the 3rd day, there was a slight increase in the mean SMH in group A with 235.39 ± 6.44 and no significant difference between the groups was seen statistically. On the 7th day, the group A showed high SMH value of 262.20 ± 4.89 compared to other groups which didn't show a significantly high statistical difference.

CONCLUSION

On conclusion, post-application of fluorprotector varnish showed higher enamel surface microhardness compared to Duraphat and Bifluorid 10 varnishes.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In young children, fluoride varnishes are effectively used as a noninvasive, anti-caries agent in the treatment of initial caries. Therefore, in routine dental practice, the knowledge about different fluoride varnishes is of importance.

Effect of Henna Addition on the Surface Roughness and Hardness of Polymethylmethacrylate Denture Base Material: An in vitro Study

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the addition of various henna-which can have antifungal properties-on the surface roughness and hardness of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) denture base material.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 99 rectangular-shaped (10 × 20 × 3 mm³) specimens were prepared from heat-cured acrylic resin and divided into one control group without the addition of henna and five test groups, which were prepared by adding Yamanihenna powder to polymer at concentrations of 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt%. The polymer was added to the monomer, mixed, packed, and processed using the conventional water bath method. After processing, specimens were finished and polished, then kept in distilled water for 48 ± 2 hours. A profilom-eter and Vickers hardness tester were used to measure surface roughness and hardness respectively. Statistical data analysis was conducted via Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 (IBM, USA). The independent sample t-test was used and p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The addition of henna at varying concentrations significantly increased the surface roughness values (p ≤ 0.01) while decreasing hardness (p ≤ 0.0001). The most favorable addition value was 1% henna between all henna groups.

CONCLUSION

The addition of henna to the acrylic resin may negatively affect the surface properties of PMMA acrylic denture base.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Antimicrobial denture with minimum deterioration effects on its physical properties could be achieved with henna addition to denture base material in low concentration. However, 1% henna showed the best results between the henna groups as regards roughness and hardness values.

Effect of Over-the-counter Whitening Products associated or Not with 10% Carbamide Peroxide on Color Change and Microhardness: in vitro Study

Aim: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the color and microhardness of teeth subjected to different over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products in association or not with 10% carbamide peroxide (10% CP). Materials and methods: Enamel-dentin specimens (n = 210) were obtained from bovine incisors and stained. Half of the specimens were then subjected to daily cycles of staining (5 minutes), 10% CP bleaching (8 hours) in association with OTC products, and artificial saliva storage until complete 24 hours, for 2 weeks; the other half was subjected to daily cycles of staining, OTC treatment, and storage in artificial saliva for 12 weeks. The specimens were divided into 14 groups according to the OTC: CP-Water and Water (deionized water); CP-Listerine and Listerine (whitening mouth rinse); CP-Brushing and Brushing (mechanical brushing); CP-Colgate and Colgate (conventional toothpaste), CP-ColgateW and ColgateW, CP-OralBW and OralBW, and CP-CloseUpW and CloseUpW (whitening toothpaste). After staining and whitening, color and microhardness were measured. Data were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey's test for multiple comparisons for color analysis and the paired t-test for microhardness analysis. Results: The CP and CloseUpW groups had the largest color change (AE₀₀). The teeth treated with Colgate increased significantly in microhardness after whitening. Conclusion: The association of 10% CP with OTC whitening agents did not increase the whitening effect or microhardness. The OTC agents containing hydrogen peroxide and abrasives had a similar effect to one another but were not as effective as the CP groups and the subgroup brushed only with blue covarine toothpaste. Clinical significance: The current study provides information about the mechanism of OTC whitening products. None of the whitening agents evaluated damaged the enamel when used according to the manufacturers' instructions. The use of toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide or abrasives cannot provide a whitening effect similar to at-home bleaching, and this does not improve with the association with 10% CP. However, toothpaste containing blue covarine has a satisfactory whitening effect immediately after brushing. Keywords: Laboratory research, Mouthwashes, Tooth bleaching, Toothpaste.

Evaluation of CPP-ACP and Fluoride on Inhibition of Human Enamel demineralisation: Cross-sectional Hardness and MicroCT Studies

PURPOSE

To evaluate the in vitro effect of different application frequencies of dentifrices containing CPP-ACP and fluoride on enamel demineralisation inhibition using a pH cycling model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred twenty blocks of human enamel were divided into 8 groups according to the treatment and number of times that the dentifrice slurry was applied (3 or 5 times).

CONTROL

dentifrice without fluoride (CO3 and CO5); fluoride dentifrice (FD3 and FD5, commercial dentifrice 1100 ppm as NaF); MI Paste (MP3 and MP5, Recaldent) and MI Paste Plus (MPP3 and MPP5, Recaldent 900 ppm as NaF). After pH cycling, cross-sectional microhardness (CSH) measurements were taken. The demineralised enamel changes were analyzed on three blocks per group by MicroCT. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (p = 0.05).

RESULTS

Statistically significantly higher CSH values (p < 0.05) were obtained for the surface layers (25 and 50 µm) for FD3, FD5, MP3 and MP5. The MP and FD groups showed similar results and had the least mineral loss. The MP increased the mineral density in enamel and decreased the depth of the lesion.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of subsurface enamel demineralisation is possible with MP and FD, independent of the application frequencies. However, the MP and MPP groups had higher mineral density when five applications were performed.

The effect of home bleaching carbamide peroxide concentration on the microhardness of dental composite resins

Bleaching is a conservative treatment for discolored teeth, but the effect of this treatment on newer, silorane-based composite resins is unclear. This study evaluated the effect of at-home bleaching on the microhardness of methacrylate- and silorane-based composites. Forty blocks each of a methacrylate-based composite and a silorane-based composite were prepared. The 80 specimens were tested in 8 groups (n = 10): 2 composites, each exposed to 3 different carbamide peroxide concentrations (10%, 16%, or 22%) as well as distilled water (control). The surface of the test specimens was covered daily with the bleaching gel at room temperature for the time period recommended by the manufacturer for each carbamide peroxide concentration. A Vickers hardness testing machine was used with a 100-g load for 20 seconds to register specimen microhardness prior to and after 2 weeks of bleaching. The load was applied at 3 points, and the mean microhardness was calculated. Repeated-measures analysis of variance, paired t test, and Tukey test were used to analyze the data. All bleaching concentrations significantly decreased the microhardness of the methacrylate-based composite resin groups, while microhardness was significantly increased in the silorane-based composite resin groups. There was no evident difference in effects among the different gel concentrations (P > 0.05).

Effect of Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate and Three Calcium Phosphate on Enamel Microhardness

AIM

This study aims to investigate the effect of casein phos-phopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate and three calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP and TCP) on increasing the microhardness of human enamel after induction of erosion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 26 healthy human-impacted third molar teeth were chosen, and their hardness measured using a microhardness testing machine. The samples were immersed in Coca Cola (pH = 4.7) for 8 minutes. Then, micro-hardness was measured again, and these samples were randomly divided into four groups (two control groups and two experimental groups). (1) Negative control group: Artificial saliva was used for 10 minutes, (2) positive control group: Fluoride gel was used for 10 minutes, (3) β-TCP group: TCP was used for 10 minutes, (4) CCP-ACP group: CCP-ACP was used for 10 minutes. The final microhardness of those samples was measured, and the changes in microhardness of teeth within group and between groups were analyzed using the paired and analysis of variance tests respectively. Results were considered statistically significant at a level of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

No significant difference was observed in microhard-ness between CPP-ACP group and TCP group (p = 0.368) during the time microhardness significantly dropped after soaking in soda.

CONCLUSION

Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate and TCP increased the microhardness of teeth. The increase in hardness in the TCP group was higher than in the CPP-ACP group, but this difference was not significant (p = 0.36).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate and TCP can affect the remineralization of erosive lesions.

Development of a novel resin-based dental material with dual biocidal modes and sustained release of Ag+ ions based on photocurable core-shell AgBr/cationic polymer nanocomposites

Research on the incorporation of cutting-edge nano-antibacterial agent for designing dental materials with potent and long-lasting antibacterial property is demanding and provoking work. In this study, a novel resin-based dental material containing photocurable core-shell AgBr/cationic polymer nanocomposite (AgBr/BHPVP) was designed and developed. The shell of polymerizable cationic polymer not only provided non-releasing antibacterial capability for dental resins, but also had the potential to polymerize with other methacrylate monomers and prevented nanoparticles from aggregating in the resin matrix. As a result, incorporation of AgBr/BHPVP nanocomposites did not adversely affect the flexural strength and modulus but greatly increased the Vicker's hardness of resin disks. By continuing to release Ag⁺ ions without the impact of anaerobic environment, resins containing AgBr/BHPVP nanoparticles are particularly suitable to combat anaerobic cariogenic bacteria. By reason of the combined bactericidal effect of the contact-killing cationic polymers and the releasing-killing Ag⁺ ions, AgBr/BHPVP-containing resin disks had potent bactericidal activity against S. mutans. The long-lasting antibacterial activity was also achieved through the sustained release of Ag⁺ ions due to the core-shell structure of the nanocomposites. The results of macrophage cytotoxicity showed that the cell viability of dental resins loading less than 1.0 wt% AgBr/BHPVP was close to that of neat resins. The AgBr/BHPVP-containing dental resin with dual bactericidal capability and long term antimicrobial effect is a promising material aimed at preventing second caries and prolonging the longevity of resin composite restorations.

The role of fluoride and chlorhexidine in preserving hardness and mineralization of enamel and cementum after gamma irradiation

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of 0.05% sodium fluoride and 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwashes on the micro-hardness of tooth enamel and cementum that was exposed to therapeutic doses of gamma radiation. Sixty extracted human teeth were divided into two groups, one was irradiated, the other was not irradiated. The two groups were further subdivided into three subgroups, which were each treated either with 0.05% sodium fluoride or with 0.12% chlorhexidine; the third subgroup served as a control. After demineralization-remineralization cycling, teeth from the irradiated groups showed a significantly lower micro-hardness when compared to those from the non-irradiated groups. Both in the irradiated and non-irradiated groups, teeth from the control subgroups showed a significantly lower micro-hardness, as compared to teeth treated with sodium fluoride and chlorhexidine. For non-irradiated enamel samples, those treated with chlorhexidine showed a significantly less micro-hardness compared to those treated with sodium fluoride. In contrast, irradiated enamel showed no significant difference in micro-hardness, whatever treatment (chlorhexidine or sodium fluoride) was applied. For cementum, treatment with chlorhexidine resulted in a significantly lower micro-hardness compared to sodium fluoride, both for the irradiated and non-irradiated groups. It is concluded that gamma irradiation with therapeutic doses typically used for head and neck carcinoma treatment has a direct effect in reducing micro-hardness of tooth enamel and cementum. Mouthwash protocols including, for example, application of 0.05% sodium fluoride or 0.12% chlorhexidine three times per day for 6 weeks, can protect enamel and cementum against the reduction in hardness and demineralization caused by gamma irradiation. Sodium fluoride offers more protection compared to chlorhexidine.

Effect of Fluoride Treatments on Bleached Enamel Microhardness and Surface Morphology

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of three different fluoride treatments on the surface microhardness and morphology of human enamel exposed to two different bleaching agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-three extracted human third molars were sectioned to obtain 90 enamel fragments, mounted on acrylic resin supports, polished and randomly divided into 9 groups (n = 10). The specimens were exposed to a combination of two bleaching agents (22% carbamide peroxide [CP] and 38% hydrogen peroxide [HP]) and three fluoride treatments (0.05% NaF daily, 0.2% NaF weekly and 5% NaF final topical fluoridation). The positive control group specimens were not exposed to bleaching agents or fluoride treatments. The negative control group specimens were exposed to the bleaching agents but none of the fluoride treatments. All specimens were stored in artificial saliva during the entire experiment, and enamel microhardness was evaluated. Surface microhardness data were statistically analysed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test at a significance level of α = 0.05. Additionally, three specimens of each experimental group were examined under SEM.

RESULTS

Two-way ANOVA revealed significant differences between the experimental groups (p < 0.05). The bleached group specimens which did not receive fluoride treatment exhibited significantly lower microhardness than those treated with fluoride (p < 0.05). Varying degrees of surface changes were observed among the experimental groups.

CONCLUSION

Both bleaching agents significantly reduced enamel microhardness and the topical fluoride treatments after bleaching significantly enhanced the surface microhardness of the enamel. The surface morphology of the enamel was altered after bleaching and fluoride treatments.

How Does Fluoride Affect Dentin Microhardness and Mineralization?

Fluoride (F) has been a useful instrument in caries prevention. However, only limted data exist on the effect of its long-term use on dentin mineralization patterns and microhardness. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of tooth F concentration ([F]) and dental fluorosis (DF) severity on dentin microhardness and mineralization. We collected 137 teeth in Montreal and Toronto, Canada, and Fortaleza, Brazil, where optimum or suboptimum levels of water F were 0.2 ppm, 1 ppm, and 0.7 ppm, respectively. Teeth were analyzed for DF severity, dentin [F], enamel [F], dentin microhardness, and dentin mineralization. Dentin [F] correlated with DF severity; enamel [F] correlated with dentin microhardness and dentin mineralization; DF severity correlated with dentin microhardness. Genetic factors ( e.g., DF severity) and environmental factors ( e.g., tooth [F]) influenced the mechanical properties (microhardness) of the teeth, while only the environmental factors influenced their material properties ( e.g., mineralization). Fortaleza teeth were harder and less mineralized and presented higher dentin [F] values. Montreal teeth presented lower levels of DF when compared with both Toronto and Fortaleza teeth.

Harmful Effect of Beer on Bovine Enamel Microhardness - In Vitro Study

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of beers on the bovine enamel microhardness. Fifty rectangular (1 x 3 x 1 mm–height x width x thickness) enamel specimens were obtained from permanent bovine incisors, and divided into five groups (n = 10) according to the treatment employed: Saliva, Coke, Brahma, Heineken, and Budweiser. Microhardness (Knoop) were obtained before; after 5, 30 and 60 min of immersion in each solution. The data were analyzed using repeated two-way ANOVA and Tukey´s test (p<0.05). Coke decreased the microhardness in all immersion times, and Heineken, showed low values after 60 minutes. Beers tested have low potential to cause enamel erosion when compared to Coke.

Dental bleaching with ozone: effects on color and enamel microhardness

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of dental bleaching with ozone (O3) on color change and enamel microhardness. Enamel blocks (3 x 3 x 3mm) were randomly distributed for treatments (n=10). Color change (ΔE) and Knoop microhardness of the enamel blocks were evaluated before and after the following treatments: C - deionized water (control); HP - 37.5% hydrogen peroxide (Pola Office+/ SDI); PLA - placebo gel; O3 - ozone; and O2 - oxygen. Four 8-minute applications were used for HP and PLA, and one 19-minute application for O3 and O2.One-way ANOVA revealed that ΔE was not significantly influenced by the treatment (p = 0.112). For the treatments with HP, PLA, O3 andO2, ΔE was greater than 3.3. The paired t test showed significant decrease in microhardness after treatments (p < 0.001) but no significant difference between treatments (ANOVA; p = 0.313). Dental bleaching treatments with O3, HP, O2 and PLA induced enamel color changes that may be clinically discernible, although enamel microhardeness decreased.

COMPARISON OF CHILDREN'S FOLLOW-ON INSTANT POWDERED COW'S MILK FORMULA, BUFFALO MILK FORMULA AND CHICKEN-BASED FORMULA ON ENAMEL MICROHARDNESS OF BOVINE TEETH IN VITRO

Dental caries are a major public health problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of children's follow-on instant powdered cow's milk formula, buffalo milk formula and a chicken-based formula on microhardness of bovine enamel with artificial caries-like lesions. Forty bovine teeth were each placed in acrylic blocks and the enamel surfaces were polished to create flat 5 x 5 millimeter surfaces. The teeth surfaces were then demineralized using 0.1M lactic acid (pH 4.5) to achieve an enamel microhardness of 35-65 Vickers Hardness Numbers (VHN). All specimens were then randomly allocated into one of 4 groups (n=10/group). For remineralization, each group was soaked in a different kind of milk formula for 2 hours at 37°C except group 1 which was a negative control (artificial saliva) group. Group 2 was soaked in Murrah™ buffalo milk formula (a positive control ), group 3 in S-26-Promil-Gold™ (cow's milk formula) and group 4 in a chicken-based formula (Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University). The microhardness of the specimens was then measured again. Data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA and paired t-test with a 95% confidence interval. After exposure to the formula, the mean VHN for each study group was significantly higher (paired t-test, p < 0.05) except for group 1 (p = 0.345). The mean VHN for the the Murrah™ buffalo milk formula, the chicken-based formula and the S-26-Promil-Gold™ formula group were not significantly different from each other (one-way ANOVA, p > 0.05). In conclusion, S-26-Promil-Gold™ follow-on cow milk formula, Murrah™ buffalo milk formula and the chicken-based formula all increased bovine enamel microhardness after soaking for 2 hours.

Graded changes in enamel component volumes resulted from a short tooth bleaching procedure

AIM

To test the hypothesis that changes in enamel component volumes (mineral, organic, and water volumes, and permeability) are graded from outer to inner enamel after a short bleaching procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Extracted unerupted human third molars had half of their crowns bleached (single bleaching session, 3 × 15 min), and tooth shade changes in bleached parts were analyzed with a spectrophotometer. Ground sections were prepared, component volumes and permeability were quantified at histological points located at varying distances from the enamel surface (n=10 points/location), representing conditions before and after bleaching.

RESULTS

Tooth shade changes were significant (p<0.001; 95% CI=-1/-8; power=99%), and most of the enamel layer was unaffected after bleaching, except at the outer layers. Multiple analysis of covariances revealed that most of the variance of the change in enamel composition after bleaching was explained by the combination of the set of types of component volume (in decreasing order of relevance: mineral loss, organic gain, water gain, and decrease in permeability) with the set of distances from the enamel surface (graded from the enamel surface inward) (canonical R(2)=0.97; p<0.0001; power>99%).

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in enamel composition after a short bleaching procedure followed a gradient within component volumes (mineral loss>organic gain>water gain>decrease in permeability) and decreased from the enamel surface inward.

In Vitro Comparative Study of Two Different Bleaching Agents on Micro-hardness Dental Enamel

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of home-use bleaching agent containing 16% Carbamide Peroxide (CP) and in-office bleaching agent containing 38% Hydrogen Peroxide (HP) on enamel micro-hardness.

STUDY DESIGN

An in vitroexperimental study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Department of Operative Dentistry and Science of Dental Materials at Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences, Dow University of Health Sciences and Material Engineering Department of NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, from July to December 2014.

METHODOLOGY

Atotal of 90 enamel slabs from 45 sound human 3rd molar were randomly divided into 3 groups. Each group contained 30 specimens (n=30). Group 1 was kept in artificial saliva at 37°C in incubator during the whole experiment. However, Groups 2 and 3 were treated with power whitening gel and tooth whitening pen respectively. After bleaching session, specimens were thoroughly rinsed with deionized water again for 10 seconds and then stored in artificial saliva at 37°C in incubator. Artificial saliva was changed after every 2 days. The Vickers hardness tester (Wolpert 402 MVD, Germany) was adjusted to a load of 0.1 kg (100 gm) and dwell time of 5 seconds. Three Vickers were performed on each specimen using a hardness tester according to the ISO 6507-3:1998 specification. Micro-hardness measurements were performed before and after bleaching at day 1, 7 and 14.

RESULTS

In the control group, the baseline micro-hardness was 181.1 &plusmn;9.3 which was reduced after the storage on day 1, 7 and 14 (p = 0.104). In Group 2, baseline micro-hardness was 180.4 &plusmn;10.1 which was reduced to 179.79 &plusmn;10.0 units after day 1. Whereas, on day 7 and 14, the values of micro-hardness were 179.8 &plusmn;10 and 179.7 &plusmn;10.29, respectively (p=0.091). Furthermore, the baseline micro-hardness in Group 3 was 174.0 &plusmn;22.9 units which was reduced to 173 &plusmn;23 on day 1, 170 &plusmn;30 on day 7 and 173 &plusmn;23 on day 14 (p = 0.256). The statistically insignificant difference was found among micro-hardness values of different bleaching agents (p = 0.118).

CONCLUSION

Bleaching with 38% Hydrogen Peroxide (HP) and 16% Carbamide Peroxide (CP) resulted in insignificant effect on surface micro-hardness of enamel.

Microhardness of heat cure acrylic resin after treatment with disinfectants

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of disinfectants and distilled water on the micro-hardness of heat cure acrylic resins.

METHODS

The case-control study was conducted at Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences, Dow University of Health Sciences, and Nadirshaw Edulji Dinshaw University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, from April to October 2011. Specimens were fabricated from heat cure acrylic resin material and they were divided into four equal groups. Group 1 was evaluated at baseline and was taken as the control group. Group 2 was immersed in distilled water for 20 minutes, Group 3 in1% sodium hypochlorite for 20 minutes, and Group 4 in 2% alkaline gluteraldehyde for 10 minutes. All specimens were polished, stored in distilled water for 24 hours prior to experiment. All the specimens were immersed twice daily for a total of 60 days after which they were tested for Vickers micro-hardness test. Statistical analysis was conducted with one-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test (a=0.05).

RESULTS

There were 72 specimens divided into four groups of 18(25%) each. Statistically significant differences were found among all groups (p<0.0001). The storage medium had an effect on the micro-hardness of heat cure acrylic resins. Group 4 showed the most reduction in the hardness value which was followed by Group 3.

CONCLUSIONS

The hardness of heat cure acrylic resin was affected by disinfectants.

Remineralizing agents: effects on acid-softened enamel

This study sought to evaluate whether remineralizing toothpastes can protect acid-softened enamel against further erosive episodes. Fifty enamel slabs of bovine teeth with preformed erosion-like lesions were randomly assigned to 1 control and 4 experimental groups (n = 10): group 1, nanohydroxyapatite (nanoHAp) dentifrice; group 2, arginine and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) dentifrice; group 3, potassium nitrate (KNO3) and high-fluoride (F) availability dentifrice; group 4, ordinary fluoridated dentifrice (OFD); and group 5, control (deionized water). Initial hardness measurements were taken after the different treatments were applied. Statistically significant mineral gains of 8.0% and 10.0% were exhibited in groups 1 and 4, respectively. Groups 2 and 3 showed mineral gains of 4.5% and 2.1%, respectively; these were not statistically significant. Group 5 showed mineral loss (-11.8%). A 1-way analysis of variance showed no statistically significant differences in the mean microhardness values among groups. However, there are indications that the nanoHAp and OFD toothpastes may decrease erosive lesions after treatment, while the arginine + CaCO3 and KNO3 + F pastes may prevent the progression of erosive lesions.

Effect of hydrogen peroxide concentration on enamel color and microhardness

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hydrogen peroxide gels with different concentrations (20%, 25%, 30%, and 35%) on enamel Knoop microhardness (KNH) as well as on changes in dental color (C).

METHODS

Cylindrical specimens of enamel/dentin (3-mm diameter and 2-mm thickness) were obtained from bovine incisors and randomly divided into six groups (n=20), according to the concentration of the whitening gel (20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, control, thickener). After polishing, initial values of KNH0 and color measurement, assessed by spectrophotometry using the CIE L*a*b* system, were taken from the enamel surface. The gels were applied on the enamel surface for 30 minutes, and immediate values of KNHi were taken. After seven days of being stored in artificial saliva, new measures of KNH7 and color (L7* a7* b7*, for calculating ΔE, ΔL, and Δb) were made. Data were submitted to statistical analysis of variance, followed by Tukey test (p<0.05).

RESULTS

Differences in gel concentration and time did not influence the microhardness (p=0.54 and p=0.29, respectively). In relation to color changes, ΔE data showed that the 35% gel presented a higher color alteration than the 20% gel did (p=0.006).

CONCLUSION

Bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide gel was more effective than with the 20% gel, without promoting significant adverse effects on enamel surface microhardness.

Reliability assessment of different plate theories for elastic wave propagation analysis in functionally graded plates

The importance of elastic wave propagation problem in plates arises from the application of ultrasonic elastic waves in non-destructive evaluation of plate-like structures. However, precise study and analysis of acoustic guided waves especially in non-homogeneous waveguides such as functionally graded plates are so complicated that exact elastodynamic methods are rarely employed in practical applications. Thus, the simple approximate plate theories have attracted much interest for the calculation of wave fields in FGM plates. Therefore, in the current research, the classical plate theory (CPT), first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and third-order shear deformation theory (TSDT) are used to obtain the transient responses of flexural waves in FGM plates subjected to transverse impulsive loadings. Moreover, comparing the results with those based on a well recognized hybrid numerical method (HNM), we examine the accuracy of the plate theories for several plates of various thicknesses under excitations of different frequencies. The material properties of the plate are assumed to vary across the plate thickness according to a simple power-law distribution in terms of volume fractions of constituents. In all analyses, spatial Fourier transform together with modal analysis are applied to compute displacement responses of the plates. A comparison of the results demonstrates the reliability ranges of the approximate plate theories for elastic wave propagation analysis in FGM plates. Furthermore, based on various examples, it is shown that whenever the plate theories are used within the appropriate ranges of plate thickness and frequency content, solution process in wave number-time domain based on modal analysis approach is not only sufficient but also efficient for finding the transient waveforms in FGM plates.

Surface changes of enamel and dentin after two different bleaching procedures

Bleaching agents have effect on chemical/physical and morphological structure of enamel and dentin that must be taken into account when this therapy is used. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of two bleaching agents containing a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide for professional use on human enamel and dentin surface and to evaluate the potential remineralizing effect of amorphous calcium phosphate gel (ACP). Twenty-five human third molars were divided into two groups and dissected in half and both surfaces were bleached with either ZOOM2 or Opalescence BOOST for 3 x 15 minutes. Vickers microhardness of enamel and dentin was measured before, after the bleaching treatment, and after treatment with artificial saliva and ACP gel or 2-week storage in deionized water. Surface microstructure was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. The mixed model ANOVA and Wilcoxon Rank Sum test were used. Both bleaching agents showed significant reduction in surface microhardness (p < 0.001 for both BOOST and ZOOM2 application). ZOOM2, which had a lower pH value showed greater decrease in surface microhardness (p = 0.005) compared to BOOST. Post-treatment with artificial saliva and ACP showed significant increase in surface microhardness (p < 0.001). After the bleaching procedure, enamel and dentin surface microstructure showed mild or slight alterations with no loss of superficial structure. In conclusion, both bleaching agents resulted in reduction in surface enamel and dentin microhardness. Treatment with ACP led to increase in surface microhardness, improved surface roughness, and enhanced remineralization of the hard dental tissues.

Mineral loss and color change of enamel after bleaching and staining solutions combination

Pigments of food and beverages could affect dental bleaching efficacy. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate color change and mineral loss of tooth enamel as well as the influence of staining solutions normally used by adolescent patients undergoing home bleaching. Initial hardness and baseline color were measured on enamel blocks. Specimens were divided into five groups (n=5): G1 (control) specimens were kept in artificial saliva throughout the experiment (3 weeks); G2 enamel was exposed to 10% carbamide peroxide for 6 h daily, and after this period, the teeth were cleaned and stored in artificial saliva until the next bleaching session; and G3, G4, and G5 received the same treatments as G2, but after bleaching, they were stored for 1 h in cola soft drink, melted chocolate, or red wine, respectively. Mineral loss was obtained by the percentage of hardness reduction, and color change was determined by the difference between the data obtained before and after treatments. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and Fisher's test (α=0.05). G3 and G5 showed higher mineral loss (92.96 ± 5.50 and 94.46 ± 1.00, respectively) compared to the other groups (p ≤ 0.05). G5 showed high-color change (9.34 ± 2.90), whereas G1 presented lower color change (2.22 ± 0.44) (p ≤ 0.05). Acidic drinks cause mineral loss of the enamel, which could modify the surface and reduce staining resistance after bleaching.

ZnO nanoparticles induced effects on nanomechanical behavior and cell viability of chitosan films

The aim of this paper is to develop novel chitosan-zinc oxide nanocomposite films for biomedical applications. The films were fabricated with 1, 5, 10 and 15% w/w of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) incorporated with chitosan (CS) using a simple method. The prepared nanocomposite films were characterized using atomic force microscopy, Raman and X-ray diffraction studies. In addition, nano and micro mechanical properties were measured. It was found that the microhardness, nanohardness and its corresponding elastic modulus increased with the increase of ZnO NP percentage in the CS films. However, the ductility of films decreased as the percentage of ZnO NPs increased. Cell attachment and cytotoxicity of the prepared films at days two and five were evaluated in vitro using osteoblasts (OBs). It was observed that OB viability decreased in films with higher than 5% ZnO NPs. This result suggests that although ZnO NPs can improve the mechanical properties of pure CS films, only a low percentage of ZnO NPs can be applied for biomedical and bioengineering applications because of the cytotoxicity effects of these particles.

Friction coefficients and wear rates of different orthodontic archwires in artificial saliva

The aim of this paper is to analyze the influence of the nature of the orthodontic archwires on the friction coefficient and wear rate against materials used commonly as brackets (Ti-6Al-4V and 316L Stainless Steel). The materials selected as orthodontic archwires were ASI304 stainless steel, NiTi, Ti, TiMo and NiTiCu. The array archwire's materials selected presented very similar roughness but different hardness. Materials were chosen from lower and higher hardness degrees than that of the brackets. Wear tests were carried out at in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Results show a linear relationship between the hardness of the materials and the friction coefficients. The material that showed lower wear rate was the ASI304 stainless steel. To prevent wear, the wire and the brackets have high hardness values and in the same order of magnitude.

[The study on the influence of bovine enamel hardness measurement methods on the result evaluation]

The variation in hardness of enamel is a frequently used method to evaluate the influence of whiting materials on the enamel. The purpose of this study is to improve the veracity on the evaluation tests caused by the tooth itself with point selection method. Three kinds of testing point selection methods on enamel were carried out, i. e. random selection, grid measurement and symmetrical measurement, respectively. The selected points were used to measure the micro hardness by Vickers. The influence of the variation of tooth structure itself on the hardness measurements results can be reduced by using testing point selection methods of symmetry, and thus, the accuracy of the test method used in the evaluation of the influence of dental materials on tooth hardness will be guaranteed.

Setting solution concentration effect on properties of a TTCP/DCPA-derived calcium phosphate cement

The present work was to investigate the effects of concentration of (NH(4))(2)HPO(4) (diammonium hydrogen phosphate) setting solution on properties of a tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP)/dicalcium phosphate anhydrous (DCPA)--derived calcium phosphate cement. Experimental results indicated that working/setting time of the cement paste decreased with increasing (NH(4))(2)HPO(4) concentration of the setting solution. After being immersed in Hanks' solution for 1 day or longer, the XRD intensities of initial TTCP and DCPA phases largely decreased, while apatite phase became dominant. More residual TTCP phase was observed in the 1 day-immersed cement prepared from higher concentration setting solutions. Compressive strength of the cement immersed for 1 day was consistently higher than that immersed for 30 min or 7 days. After being immersed for 1 day, the average CS value reached a maximal value (59 MPa) as (NH(4))(2)HPO(4) concentration was increased to 0.6 M, beyond that the cement strength decreased and maintained in a relatively high range of 47-54 MPa. Cells incubated with conditioned medium of Al(2)O(3) powder and with blank medium exhibited similar average viability values (0.80 and 0.78, respectively). The OD value with extractions of cement decreased with increasing (NH(4))(2)HPO(4) concentration of the setting solution. The average 0.25, 0.5 and 0.6 M--OD values were 0.78, 0.67 and 0.66, respectively. When setting solution concentration was greater than 0.6 M, the OD value sharply declined to 0.47.

Effect of the calcium to phosphorus ratio on the setting properties of calcium phosphate bone cements

α-Tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) has become the main reactant of most experimental and commercial ceramic bone cements. It has calcium-to-phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio of 1.50. The present study expands and reports on the microstructures and mechanical properties of calcium phosphate (CP) cements containing sintered monolithic reactants obtained in the interval 1.29 < Ca/P < 1.77. The study focuses on their cement setting and hardening properties as well as on their microstructure and crystal phase evolution. The results showed that: (a) CP-cements made with reactants with Ca/P ratio other than 1.50 have longer setting and lower hardening properties; (b) CP-cements reactivity was clearly affected by the Ca/P ratio of the starting reactant; (c) reactants with Ca/P < 1.50 were composed of several phases, calcium pyrophosphate and α- and β-TCP. Similarly, reactants with Ca/P > 1.50 were composed of α-TCP, tetracalcium phosphate and hydroxyapatite; (d) only the reactant with Ca/P = 1.50 was monophasic and was made of α-TCP, which transformed during the setting into calcium deficient hydroxyapatite; (e) CP-cements developed different crystal microstructures with specific features depending on the Ca/P ratio of the starting reactant.

Influence of sodium hypochlorite treatment of electropolished and magnetoelectropolished nitinol surfaces on adhesion and proliferation of MC3T3 pre-osteoblast cells

The influence of 6 % sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) treatment on adhesion and proliferation of MC3T3 pre-osteoblast cells seeded on electropolished (EP) and magnetoelectropolished (MEP) nitinol surfaces were investigated. The chemistry, topography, roughness, surface energy, wettability of EP and MEP nitinol surfaces before and after NaClO treatment were studied with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), profilometry, and contact angle meter. In vitro interaction of osteoblast cell and NaClO treated EP and MEP nitinol surfaces were assessed after 3 days of incubation by scanning electron microscopy. The XPS analysis shows that NaClO treatment increases oxygen content especially in subsurface oxide layer of EP and MEP nitinol. The changes of both basic components of nitinol, namely nickel and titanium in oxide layer, were negligible. The NaClO treatment did not influence physico-morphological surface properties of EP and MEP nitinol to a big extent. The osteoblast cells show remarkable adherence and proliferation improvement on NaClO treated EP and MEP nitinol surfaces. After 3 days of incubation they show almost total confluence on both NaClO treated surfaces. The present study shows that NaClO treatment of EP and MEP nitinol surfaces alters oxide layer by enriching it in oxygen and by this improves bone cell-nitinol interaction.

Enamel properties after tooth bleaching with hydrogen/carbamide peroxides in association with a CPP-ACP paste

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the impact of bleaching teeth using blends of a CPP-ACP paste (MI Paste; MI) and carbamide/hydrogen peroxides in different proportions on surface properties of bleached enamel.

METHODS

Ninety bovine incisors were bleached with 7.5% hydrogen peroxide (HP), 16% carbamide peroxide (CP), MI and blends of HP or CP:MI at three proportions (1:1, 2:1, 1:2). Hardness and roughness were measured at baseline and after bleaching. Enamel morphology was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA for repeated measurements and Tukey's test.

RESULTS

Most of the samples bleached with MI in combination with peroxides presented increased hardness and roughness which were associated to mineral deposition, as observed by SEM images. Blends with higher fractions of MI did not offer superior benefits.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a CPP-ACP paste mixed to carbamide/hydrogen peroxides can decrease adverse side-effects from tooth bleaching on an enamel surface.

Secondary caries inhibition promoted by adhesive systems and bleaching agents with fluoride

PURPOSE

To evaluate the initial caries development at adhesive/enamel interface after 10% carbamide peroxide bleaching (CP) with or without fluoride (F) under dynamic pH-cycling.

METHODS

Standard cavities were prepared on the bucal surface of 60 bovine incisors, which were restored with two fluoride-containing adhesives: Optibond FL (FL) and Optibond Solo Plus (SP). The restored teeth were submitted to thermal cycling process in order to age the adhesive/enamel interface. Both SP and FL adhesive-restored teeth were divided into groups (n= 10) and bleached with 10% CP (CP) and 10% CP + F (CPF) or remained unbleached (Control). Bleaching was performed for 14 days simultaneously with pH-cycling. The specimens were prepared for cross-section microhardness evaluation and polarized light microscopy analysis to evaluate caries lesions at different depths around the bonded interface.

RESULTS

Group FL (not bleached) presented the lowest mineral loss rate among groups, but secondary caries formation was observed for all groups around the bonded interface. An inhibition zone was observed for all groups, with caries lesion detected at 5 microm from the cavity wall.

An in vitro study of the effect of aluminum and the combined effect of strontium, aluminum, and fluoride elements on early enamel carious lesions

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of aluminum and of combined strontium, aluminum, and fluoride treatments on enamel demineralization and remineralization. During a 6-day pH-cycling protocol, pre-softened bovine enamel slabs were immersed twice daily for 1 min in the following experimental solutions: (a) distilled water [W] (negative control); (b) 1,000 ppm F [F] (positive control); (c) 1,000 ppm Al [Al]; (d) 1,000 ppm Al,1,000 ppm F applied interchangeably [Al-F]; (e) 1,000 ppm Al, 1,000 ppm F, applied in sequential order [Al+F]; (f) combined 1,000 ppm Al and 150 ppm Sr [Al+Sr]; and (g) combined 150 ppm Sr and 1,000 ppm F [Sr+F]. Subsequently, the specimens were subjected to a 5-day acid resistance test. Lesions were evaluated quantitatively by performing surface microhardness and qualitatively by using polarized light microscopy. According to the results, solutions [Sr+F] and [Al-F] enhanced remineralization and inhibited demineralization as effectively as the [F] solution and significantly superiorly compared to [Al+Sr] and [Al] solutions. All tested solution groups, except for the [Al+Sr] group, presented significantly increased resistance to acidic attack, compared to [W]. PLM examination revealed that all solution groups, except for the [W] group, developed an acid-resistant zone at lesion surfaces. In conclusion, under the present experimental conditions, the combined strontium-fluoride and aluminum-fluoride treatments presented similar anti-caries efficacy compared to fluoride treatment alone, but they did not show evidence of synergistic activity on pre-softened enamel.

Blood compatibility of iron-doped nanosize hydroxyapatite and its drug release

Nanosize hydroxyapatite (nHAp) doped with varying levels of Fe(3+) (Fe-nHAp of average size 75 nm) was synthesized by hydrothermal and microwave techniques. The samples were characterized for physiochemical properties by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), mechanical and dielectric properties. The biological properties like hemocompatibility, antibacterial efficacy, in vitro bioactivity and the cell proliferation of the samples were determined. XRD pattern of the samples were of single phase hydroxyapatite. As the content of Fe(3+) increased, the crystallite size as well as crystallinity decreased along with a morphological change from spherulites to rods. The dielectric constants and Vickers hardness were enhanced on Fe(3+) doping. The VSM studies revealed that the saturation magnetization (M(s)) and retentivity (M(r)) were found to increase for Fe-nHAp. nHAp impregnated with an antibiotic as a new system for drug delivery in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis was also attempted. The in vitro drug release with an antibiotic amoxicillin and anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil showed sustained release for the lowest concentration of Fe(3+), while with an increase in the content; there was a rapid release of the drug. The hemolytic assay of Fe(3+) doped samples revealed high blood compatibility (<5% hemolysis). The antibacterial activities of the antibiotic impregnated materials were tested against a culture of E. coli, S. epidermidis and S. aureus by agar diffusion test. The in vitro bioactivity test using simulated body fluid (SBF) showed better bone bonding ability by the formation of an apatite layer on the doped samples. The growth of the apatite layer on the samples surface has been confirmed by EDS analysis. The proliferative potential of MG63 cells by MTT assay confirmed the noncytotoxicity of the samples.

Investigation of three home-applied bleaching agents on enamel structure and mechanical properties: an in situ study

The safety of at-home tooth bleaching, based upon carbamide peroxide (CP) or hydrogen peroxide (HP) as the active agent, has been questioned. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of three differently concentrated home-applied bleaching agents on human enamel under in situ conditions. Sixty specimens were divided randomly into four groups and treated with 10% CP, 15% CP, 20% CP, and distilled water, respectively. Raman spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance-infrared (ATR-IR) spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), microhardness, and fracture toughness (FT) measurements were conducted to determine variations on enamel structure and mechanical properties before and after the bleaching process. Raman revealed little variation of Raman relative intensity after treatment with CP, which was consistent with the results of ATR-IR, AFM, and microhardness analyses. In addition, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) intensity, and FT showed significant decreases on CP-treated specimens. These findings suggested there were minimal demineralization effects of the three at-home bleaching agents on enamel in situ. However, the decrease of LIF intensity and FT on enamel seemed to be inevitable.

Microhardness change of enamel due to bleaching with in-office bleaching gels of different acidity

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the enamel microhardness treated with three in-office bleaching agents, containing 35% hydrogen peroxide with different acidity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bovine incisors were divided into three groups that received the following bleaching agents: Whiteness HP, Total Bleach and Opalescence Xtra. Three gel applications/10-min each, totaling 30-min of bleaching treatment, were made on the teeth and activated with a blue LED (1000 mW/470 nm) combined to a LASER (120 mW/795 nm) device (Easy Bleach-Clean Line). Vickers hardness (VH) was evaluated at baseline and after the bleaching procedure. The values of Hardness loss [HNL] (% reduction) were calculated. The two-sample t-test was used for comparison of the HNL of the three bleaching products (5% level of significance).

RESULTS

The Opalescence Xtra, which had the lowest pH value (pH = 4.30), showed a significant increase of HNL when compared with Total Bleach bleaching agent, which had the highest pH value (pH = 6.62).

CONCLUSIONS

The 35% hydrogen peroxide bleaching agents resulted in a reduction in surface enamel microhardness and bleaching with the most acid agent resulted in a significant enamel hardness loss compared to the less acid agent (4.30 vs 6.62). Strategies proposed to reduce the enamel loss after bleaching treatment may include the use of daily fluoride therapy, mouth rinsing (fluoride, milk and sodium bicarbonate solution), fluoride/bicarbonate dentifrices without abrasives, do not toothbrush immediately after bleaching, fluorides and calcium add to bleaching agents.

Behaviors of printed circuit boards due to microwave supported curing process of coating materials

The Application of a microwave supported curing process for coatings in the field of electronic industry poses a challenge. Here the implementation of this technology is represented. Within the scope of the investigation special PCB Test Layouts were designed and the polymer curing process examined by the method of dielectric analysis. Furthermore the coupling of microwave radiation with conductive PCB structures was analyzed experimentally by means of special test boards. The formation of standing waves and regular heating distribution along the conductive wires on the PCB could be observed. The experimental results were compared with numerical simulation. In this context the numerical analysis of microwave PCB interaction led to important findings concerning wave propagation on wired PCB. The final valuation demonstrated a substantial similarity between numerical simulations and experimental results.

Analysis of surface roughness of human enamel exposed to bleaching agent and submitted to brushing

The aim of this study was to assess in vitro the surface roughness (Ra) of human enamel exposed or not exposed to the action of a bleaching agent containing 10% carbamide peroxide (CP) after brushing with different dentifrices. Ninety-six human enamel specimens were divided into 2 groups: GI--exposed to the action of 10% CP; GII--not exposed. These were subdivided into 4 brushing subgroups: (CEW) Close-Up Extra Whitening, (CUB) Colgate Ultra Branco, (CCP) Crest Cavity Protection and (DW) Deionized Water. The specimens from Group GI were exposed to 10% CP for 6 hours/14 days and those from Group GII were stored in artificial saliva for 14 days. Then they were submitted to 35.600 brushing cycles. Ra was measured before and after brushing. Ra difference was compared by two-way ANOVA. Ra was compared between subgroups using ANOVA and Tukey's test. Ra was compared between groups using T-test (alpha = 0.05). Final and initial Ra were compared by Paired t-test; using SPSS (15.0). Two-way ANOVA difference in the outcome revealed that the use of bleaching agent did not affect the difference in Ra (p = 0.45). Brushing significantly influenced the difference in Ra (p < 0.001), but the interaction between the two factors was not significant (p = 0.20). Among the brushing subgroups, a significant increase in Ra was observed for Subgroup CEW--GI: Rai 0.691 (0.112)a, Raf 0.993 (0.264)a; Raf-Rai: 0.303a (43. 7%)--G2: Rai 0.794 (0.167)a, Raf 1.006 (0.488)a; Raf-Rai: 0.212a (26.7%) with a statistical difference for Subgroup CUB--GI: Rai 0.639 (0.163)a, Raf 0.506 (0.113)b; Raf-Rai: -0.133b (-20.8%)--GII: Rai 0.647(0.166)a, Raf 0.472b (0.260); Raf-Rai: -0.134b (-0.27%). Regardless of whether or not the enamel had been exposed to 10% CP, Ra values varied according to the abrasives in the composition of the different dentifrices.

Changes in the stiffness of demineralized dentin following application of tooth whitening agents

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the bleaching agents on the elastic modulus of bovine demineralized dentin matrix (EMDM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-five slices were obtained from 17 bovine teeth. The slices were divided randomly into five experimental groups (n = 17): unbleached control group (CG), 4% hydrogen peroxide (HP4), 4% hydrogen peroxide + 0.05% Ca (HP4 + Ca), 7.5% hydrogen peroxide + ACP (HP7.5) and 10% carbamide peroxide (CP10). The HP4, HP4 + Ca and CP10 groups were treated with the bleaching agents for 8 h/day (14 days), while the samples of HP7.5 group were exposed to bleaching agent for 30 min twice a day (14 days). The CG was kept in 100% humidity. After bleaching treatments, the enamel of the samples was removed and 85 dentin beams (0.5 × 1.7 × 7.0 mm) were prepared. Afterwards, the beams were immersed in 10% phosphoric acid solution (5 h) and rinsed with water (10 min). The beams were tested after 24 h, 7 and 14 days of storage in distilled water, using three-point bend method. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Fisher's test.

RESULTS

All bleaching treatments reduced the EMDM. After 14 days post-bleaching, the EMDM increased for HP4 and HP4+Ca groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of bleaching agents promoted a decrease in EMDM, which indicates that the bleaching treatment interacts with the dentin organic matrix. The EMDM measurement for the specimens of the 7.5% hydrogen peroxide group that were immersed in water at 14 days post-bleaching did not recover the EMDM values when compared to the control group.

Separation of newly formed bone from older compact bone reveals clear compositional differences in bone matrix

In long bone diaphyses, woven bone forms first and then transitions into a more mineralized compact bone tissue. Prior evidence suggests that the non-collagenous protein composition of woven bone may be distinct from that of more mature bone tissue, particularly with respect to a diverse group of phosphorylated, extracellular matrix proteins. To critically test this hypothesis, we developed an in situ approach to isolate newly formed bone from more mature bone within the same long bone, and combine this anatomical approach with Western blotting to make relative comparisons of 7 phosphorylated matrix proteins important for bone physiology and biomineralization. Interestingly, 75 kDa bone sialoprotein (BSP), 63 kDa osteopontin, and the 75 kDa form of bone acidic glycoprotein-75 (BAG-75) were enriched in primary bone as opposed to more mature cortical bone, while osteonectin, fetuin A, matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein (MEPE) and dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP-1) appeared to be equally distributed between these two bone tissue compartments. Analyses also revealed the presence of larger sized forms of osteopontin (and to a lesser degree BSP) mostly in newly formed bone, while larger forms of BAG-75 were mostly detected in more mature cortical bone. Smaller sized forms of DMP-1 and BAG-75 were detected in both newly formed and more mature bone tissue extracts, and they are likely the result of proteolytic processing in vivo. Intact DMP-1 (97 kDa) was only detected in unmineralized matrix extracts. These findings indicate that newly formed bone exhibits a non-collagenous matrix protein composition distinct from that of more mature compact bone even within the same long bone, and suggest that the temporal fate of individual non-collagenous proteins is variable in growing bone.

Experimental stimulation of bone healing with teriparatide: histomorphometric and microhardness analysis in a mouse model of closed fracture

Fracture consolidation is a crucial goal to achieve as early as possible, but pharmacological stimulation has been neglected so far. Teriparatide has been considered for this purpose for its anabolic properties. We set up a murine model of closed tibial fracture on which different doses of teriparatide were tested. Closed fracture treatment avoids any bias introduced by surgical manipulations. Teriparatide's effect on callus formation was monitored during the first 4 weeks from fracture. Callus evolution was determined by histomorphometric and microhardness assessment. Daily administration of 40 μg/kg of teriparatide accelerated callus mineralization from day 9 onward without significant increase of sizes, and at day 15 the microhardness properties of treated callus were similar to those of bone tissue. Teriparatide considerably improved callus consolidation in the very early phases of bone healing.

Analysis of roughness and surface hardness of a dental composite using atomic force microscopy and microhardness testing

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of a cola soft drink (CSD) and coffee on the microhardness and surface roughness of composite resin. Fifty cavities were prepared on the vestibular surface of bovine incisors and restored with nanoparticulate resin. The teeth were divided into five groups (n = 10): group A (control), immersion in artificial saliva (AS) for 14 days; group B, immersion in coffee for 15 min (3×/day) for 7 days followed by immersion in AS for another 7 days; group C, immersion in CSD for 15 min (3×/day) for 7 days followed by immersion in AS for another 7 days; group D, immersion in AS for 7 days, immersion in coffee for 15 min (3×/day) for 7 days; group E, immersion in AS for 7 days, immersion in CSD for 15 min (3×/day) for 7 days. After the immersion periods the specimens were analyzed for their microhardness and surface roughness. The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by t-test with 5% significance. Group A presented the highest average microhardness and lowest surface roughness, so it was possible to conclude that the consumption of CSD and coffee alters the microhardness and surface roughness of new restorations.

In vitro biological and tribological properties of transparent magnesium aluminate (Spinel) and aluminum oxynitride (ALON®)

The purpose of this first generation investigation is to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity, cell-materials interactions and tribological performance of Spinel and ALON® transparent ceramics for potential wear resistant load bearing implant applications. Besides their non-toxicity, the high surface energy of these ceramics significantly enhanced in vitro cell-materials interactions compared to bioinert commercially pure Ti as control. These transparent ceramics with high hardness in the range of 1334 and 1543 HV showed in vitro wear rate of the order of 10⁻⁶ mm³ Nm⁻¹ against Al₂O₃ ball at a normal load of 20 N.

Amelogenin-assisted ex vivo remineralization of human enamel: Effects of supersaturation degree and fluoride concentration

The formation of organized nanocrystals that resemble enamel is crucial for successful enamel remineralization. Calcium, phosphate and fluoride ions, and amelogenin are important ingredients for the formation of organized hydroxyapatite (HAP) crystals in vitro. However, the effects of these remineralization agents on the enamel crystal morphology have not been thoroughly studied. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of fluoride ions, supersaturation degree and amelogenin on the crystal morphology and organization of ex vivo remineralized human enamel. Extracted third molars were sliced thin and acid-etched to provide the enamel surface for immersion in different remineralization solutions. The crystal morphology and mineral phase of the remineralized enamel surface were analyzed by field emission-scanning electron microscopy, attenuated total reflection-Fourier transformed infrared and X-ray diffraction. The concentration of fluoride and the supersaturation degree of hydroxyapatite had significant effects on the crystal morphology and crystal organization, which varied from plate-like loose crystals to rod-like densely packed nanocrystal arrays. Densely packed arrays of fluoridated hydroxyapatite nanorods were observed under the following conditions: σ(HAP)=10.2±2.0 with 1.5±0.5 mg l(-1) fluoride and 40±10 μg ml(-1) amelogenin, pH 6.8±0.4. A phase diagram summarizes the conditions that form dense or loose hydroxyapatite nanocrystal structures. This study provides the basis for the development of novel dental materials for caries management.

Synthesis, mechanical and biological characterization of ionic doped carbonated hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate mixtures

The influence of ionic substituents in calcium phosphates intended for bone and tooth replacement biomedical applications is an important research topic, owing to the essential roles played by trace elements in biological processes. The present study investigates the mechanical and biological evaluation of ionic doped hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate mixtures which have been prepared by a simple aqueous precipitation method. Heat treating the resultant calcium phosphates in a carbonated atmosphere led to the formation of ionic doped carbonated hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate mixtures containing the essential ions of biological apatite. The structural analysis determined by Rietveld refinement confirmed the presence of hydroxyapatite as the main phase, together with a considerable amount of β-tricalcium phosphate. Such phase assemblage is essentially due to the influence of substituted ions during synthesis. The results from mechanical tests proved that carbonate substitutions are detrimental for the mechanical properties of apatite-based ceramics. In vitro proliferation assays of osteoblastic-like cells (MC3T3-E1 cell line) to powders revealed that carbonate incorporation can either delay or accelerate MC3T3 proliferation, although reaching the same proliferation levels as control cells after 2 weeks in culture. Further, the powders enable pre-osteoblastic differentiation in a similar manner to control cells, as indirectly measured by ALP activity and Type-I collagen medium secretion.