Evaluation of shear bond strength and enamel remineralizing effect of experimental orthodontic composite containing nano-hydroxyapatite: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to prepare an orthodontic composite containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles to prevent demineralization and create a suitable environment for mineral deposition around orthodontic brackets, and to investigate the mechanical and remineralizing properties of the experimental adhesive composite.

METHODS

Experimental orthodontic composite were formulated using varying percentages of nano-hydroxyapatite particles. Assessments were based on four groups: a control group (3M™ Transbond™ XT) and experimental composites containing 2% (HA2), 5% (HA5) and 10% (HA10) hydroxyapatite. Vickers Microhardness test was performed to investigate the remineralizing effect in 3 stages: initial stage, after demineralization and after 4 weeks of exposure to artificial saliva. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyser (SEM/EDAX) was used to evaluate hydroxyapatite precipitation and elemental composition of enamel surface. Shear Bond Strength tests were carried out using a universal testing machine and the debonding pattern was assessed using Adhesive Remnant Index (ARI).

RESULTS

All groups showed clinically acceptable SBS values. The highest SBS was achieved in the HA2 group, followed by Transbond™ XT, HA5 and HA10. There was no significant difference in the ARI scores. In terms of microhardness properties, HA5 and HA10 demonstrated a significant increase after 4 weeks. The results of SEM analysis showed the precipitation of hydroxyapatite crystals and EDAX analysis indicated the increase of calcium and phosphate ion peaks compared to the demineralized sample. The data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's Post-hoc test.

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles to orthodontic composite can increase the mineral content and microhardness of the adjacent enamel. However, increasing the amount of nanoparticles reduces shear bond strength in a decreasing trend. The above-mentioned findings showed that incremental increase of nanoparticles of HA can be incorporated in composite to a certain extent and limitations are determined by mechanical properties (SBS) required for bracket bonding.

Evaluation of the Effect of Propolis Nanoparticles on Antimicrobial Properties and Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Composite Bonded to Bovine Enamel

Objectives:

We aimed to investigate the effects of propolis nanoparticles (prpNPs) on antimicrobial property and shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic composite bonded to bovine enamel.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty bovine teeth were randomly divided into five groups (n=12). PrpNPs were prepared at concentrations of 0% (control), 1%, 2%, 5%, and 10% in Transbond XT composite to bond stainless steel brackets to the teeth. SBS between brackets and teeth was measured using a universal testing machine. After debonding, the adhesive remnant index (ARI) on bracket bases was measured. In the microbial test, composites with the aforementioned concentrations of prpNPs were cured in metal discs. The bacteria included Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis), and Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), and antimicrobial effects of prpNPs were investigated by anti-biofilm, disc agar diffusion and eluted component tests.

Results:

The 10% prpNPs group showed the lowest SBS. Colony growths of S. mutans and S. sanguinis at all concentrations (except for 1%) was significantly lower than the control group. L. acidophilus colony growth was significantly reduced at 5% and 10% concentrations. Growth inhibition zone developed at 2%, 5%, and 10% concentrations for S. mutans and S. sanguinis. The lowest numbers of S. mutans and S. sanguinis colonies at all concentrations were observed on day 15. L. acidophilus colonies decreased significantly at all concentrations (except for 1%) until day 30.

Conclusion:

Nano propolis has a significant antimicrobial effect at 2% and 5% concentrations, and the SBS is maintained within the acceptable clinical range.