Comparison of the number and diameter of dentinal tubules in human and bovine dentine by scanning electron microscopic investigation

Tensile bond strength of self-etching versus total-etching adhesive systems under different dentinal substrate conditions

The use of acid etchants to produce surface demineralization and collagen network exposure, allowing adhesive monomers interdiffusion and consequently the formation of a hybrid layer, has been considered the most efficient mechanism of dentin bonding. The aim of this study was to compare the tensile bond strength to dentin of three adhesive systems, two self-etching ones (Clearfil SE Bond--CSEB and One Up Bond F--OUBF) and one total-etching one (Single Bond--SB), under three dentinal substrate conditions (wet, dry and re-wet). Ninety human, freshly extracted third molars were sectioned at the occlusal surface to remove enamel and to form a flat dentin wall. The specimens were restored with composite resin (Filtek Z250) and submitted to tensile bond strength testing (TBS) in an MTS 810. The data were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p = 0.05). Wet dentin presented the highest TBS values for SB and CSEB. Dry dentin and re-wet produced significantly lower TBS values when using SB. OUBF was not affected by the different conditions of the dentin substrate, producing similar TBS values regardless of the surface pretreatments.

Fracture strength of bovine incisors after intra-radicular treatment with MTA in an experimental immature tooth model

AIM

To evaluate, using an experimental immature tooth model, the fracture resistance of bovine incisors submitted to different reinforcement treatments with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA).

METHODOLOGY

An immature tooth model was created by sectioning the coronal and apical portions of 40 bovine incisors 8 mm above and 12 mm below the cementoenamel junction. The root canals were irrigated with 1.0% sodium hypochlorite. They were enlarged both coronally and apically using number 703 carbide burs (ISO: 500-104-168-007-021) and their internal diameter was standardized to 2.1 mm. The specimens were assigned to four groups (n = 10): GI-control (without filling); GII-apical MTA plug + filling with gutta-percha and endodontic sealer; GIII-filling with MTA; GIV-apical MTA plug + filling with MTA + metallic post (Reforpost I). A polyether impression material was used to simulate the periodontal ligament. The specimens were submitted to a compressive load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm min(-1) in a servo-hydraulic universal testing machine (MTS 810) applied at 45 degrees to the long axis of the tooth until failure. Data were submitted to statistical analysis by the Kruskal-Wallis test at 5% significance level.

RESULTS

GIV presented the highest fracture resistance (32.7N) and differed significantly from the other groups (P < 0.05). No statistically difference was found between GII (16.6N) and GIII (23.4N) (P > 0.05). GIII had a significantly higher fracture resistance than GI (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of MTA + metallic post as an intra-radicular reinforcement treatment increased the resistance to fracture of weakened bovine teeth in an experimental immature tooth model.

Morphological analysis of human and bovine dentine by scanning electron microscope investigation

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare the superficial morphology of bovine and human sclerotic dentine.

DESIGN

For the morphological analysis, bovine (n = 3) and human (n = 3) incisors exhibiting exposed dentine were used. Dentine presented characteristics of sclerosis: brownish, smooth and shiny--the vitreous appearance. The teeth were prepared for assessment on a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Three pre-determined areas of each sample were submitted to SEM. The number of open tubules per area was obtained from the electron micrographs (n = 9 per group) for comparison purposes.

RESULTS

The number of open tubules in both species compared were similar (p > 0.05). Human dentine presented 31.89 +/- 23.94 open tubules per area, whereas bovine dentine showed 30.33 +/- 18.14 open tubules per area.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results, we concluded that dentine exposed at the incisal surface of human and bovine teeth presented similar clinical and micro-morphological aspects, represented by surfaces with equivalent numbers of open dentinal tubules.

Scanning electron microscopic study of the dentinal tubules in dog canine teeth

Dentin adhesive restorative techniques are regularly used in veterinary dentistry. Knowledge of the microanatomic structure and properties of dentin is essential to ensure success in restorative procedures. The aim of this study was to describe the density and diameter of dentinal tubules in dog canine teeth using recently described standardized scanning electron microscopy techniques. The results showed dentin of dog canine teeth to be more oval-shaped with a higher tubular density and slightly larger tubular diameters compared with human teeth. These features suggest dog canine teeth have less intertubular dentin compared with human teeth, which may theoretically result in lower resin-dentin shear bond strengths.

Density and diameter of dentinal tubules in etched and non-etched bovine dentine examined by scanning electron microscopy

Bovine teeth have been widely used in studies focusing adhesion to dentine over the last years. However, little is known about main structural aspects of bovine dentine, especially regarding density and diameter of its tubules. Thirty bovine incisors were randomly divided into two groups. In group I, teeth were cross-sectioned at three depths: outer, middle and inner. The dentinal surfaces were etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 90s. In group II, the teeth were fractured at the same three depths. All the specimens were processed and examined in a Jeol 6100 SEM. Fifteen micrographs from each depth were obtained for the two groups at a magnification of 2500x. To determine the diameter of the dentinal tubules, the LEICA Q500 MC software was used. All the results were statistically processed in the EXCEL software. The dentinal tubules were wider at the outer regions (GI: 5.21+/-0.64microm; GII: 2.30+/-0.09microm) than that at the inner regions (GI: 2.71+/-0.72microm; GII: 1.77+/-0.06microm). Tubular density was higher at the inner regions (50310+/-11178tubules/mm(2)) than that at the outer regions (18772+/-2951tubules/mm(2)). In addition, the peritubular dentine was wider at the outer depth than at the inner one. Our results showed that bovine dentine possesses some structural aspects different from those previously reported for human dentine, mainly related to the diameter of dentinal tubules and to the thickness of peritubular dentine at the several depths.

Topographical, Diametral, and Quantitative Analysis of Dentin Tubules in the Root Canals of Human and Bovine Teeth

The aim of this study was to evaluate the number and the diameter of dentin tubules in root canals, in the cervical, middle, and apical thirds, of human and bovine teeth. Twenty-four single-rooted, human premolars were divided into four groups (n = 6): GH1, 10 to 15 years; GH2, 16 to 30 years; GH3, 31 to 45 years; and GH4, 46 to 80 years; and 24 bovine incisors were divided into four groups (n = 6): GB1, central; GB2, lateral first; GB3, lateral second; and GB4, lateral third. The crowns were removed from the specimens, which were then debrided, sectioned longitudinally in the vestibular-lingual direction, and submitted to ultrasonic cleaning. Scanning electron microscopic evaluations were made with 1,000x and 5,000x magnification. According to the root thirds, statistically significant differences were found both for the number and the diameter of dentin tubules, with the cervical third presenting the highest mean values for both specimen types. As regards the number of dentin tubules, it was observed that the bovine specimens presented a significantly higher mean value than the human specimens; this difference was not observed when the diameters of the two types were compared.

Holographic detection of a tooth structure deformation after dental filling polymerization

An experimental technique to reveal the effects of dental polymer contraction is established to choose the most appropriate polymerization technique. Tooth deformation following a dental filling polymerization is analyzed using double-exposure holographic interferometry. A caries-free, extracted human molar is mounted in dental gypsum and different cavity preparations and fillings are made on the same tooth. Dental composite fillings are polymerized by an LED light source especially designed for this purpose. Holographic interferograms are made for occlusal (class I), occlusomesial (class II), and mesioocclusodistal (class II MOD) cavities and fillings. Maximum intercuspal deformation ranges from 2 microm for the class I cavity to 14 mum for the MOD class cavity. A finite element method (FEM) is used to calculate von Mises stress on a simplified tooth model, based on experimental results. The stress varies between 50 and 100 MPa, depending on the cavity type.

Relationship between bond strength and marginal and internal adaptation of composite restorations photocured by different methods

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the relationship between bond strength and marginal and internal adaptation of composite restorations photocured using different methods with a quartz-tungsten-halogen light.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A push-out test was performed to evaluate bond strength of conical restorations in 50 bovine incisors. To evaluate marginal (external) and internal restoration adaptation, 50 circular all-enamel margin preparations were done in bovine incisors. For both tests, the preparations were filled with Esthet*X resin composite. Specimens were distributed into 5 groups (n=10) depending on photoactivation method: G1: continuous light 700; G2: continuous light 150; G3: soft-start; G4: intermittent light; and G5: pulse-delay. The energy density for each method was standardized: 14 J/cm2. Caries Detector (Kuraray) was placed in restoration margins for detection of marginal adaptation. The percentage of interfaces present as gaps was determined using digital images. Specimens were then sectioned, stained, and the internal adaptation was recorded in a similar manner. Data were submitted to ANOVA and the Tukey HSD test, pre-set alpha = 0.05.

RESULTS

Bond strength G5 (7.2 MPa+/-1.3) was significantly greater (p=0.00280) than G1 (4.6 MPa+/-1.5). G2, G3, and G4 showed equivalent, intermediate strength values. No significant difference was found in marginal adaptation of any of the groups (p=0.16911). Internal adaptation results were the inverse of strength results: G5 (2.8%+/-4.9) showed significantly less (p=0.00979) gap formation compared to G1 (10.1%+/-6.2).

CONCLUSION

Some modulated photocuring methods can increase bond strength while decreasing internal gap formation. An inverse relationship was found between push-out bond strength and internal adaptation. Marginal adaptation was not affected by any photoactivation method.

The effects of cavity size and incremental technique on micro-tensile bond strength of resin composite in Class I cavities

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate if incremental-filling technique and cavity size would affect the bond strength of resin composite.

METHODS

Two sizes of Class I cavities were prepared in bovine dentin (large cavities: pi x (5/2)2 x 5 mm3; small cavity: pi x (3/2)2 x 3 mm3). Light-cure resin composite (Clearfil Photocore) with a self-etching primer adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond) was placed into the cavities by bulk filling (C-factor=5) or incremental filling (two layers, C-factor=3) and light-cured. As a control, 3 or 5mm thick resin composite was bonded to the flat dentin surface. After 24h storage in 37 degrees C water, the micro-tensile bond strength was measured at a crosshead speed of 1mm/min. The results obtained were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA and t-test at a significance level of P=0.05.

RESULTS

The results obtained showed that there was no significant difference among the filling techniques in small cavities (P>0.05). However, in large cavities, bulk filling presented the lowest bond strength (P<0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

Not only the filling technique affected the bonding strength to the cavity floor, but the cavity size was also an influential factor in Class I cavities.

Ultrastructural patterns of human dentinal tubules, odontoblasts processes and nerve fibres

The structure of the dentin, consists of the following elements: the odontoblastic processes, dentinal tubules and their periodontoblastic spaces. The odontoblasts are aligned in a single layer in the periphery of the dental pulp and secrete the organic components of dentin. The vitality of dentin is mediated too by the nerve fibres. The ultrastructure of the trigeminal sensory nerves in dentin, especially in relation to odontoblasts remains to be clarified. We studied the third molars and young premolars. The specimens were fixed in glutaraldehyde immediately after extraction. Our investigations give evidence to prove that the distribution of the dentinary tubules is homogeneous, containing a principal odontoblastic prolongation in the regions of the inner dentine, and only in special cases more than one. The area of the dentinary tubules and the odontoblastic prolongations' area were studied. The nervous fibres appeared accompanying 30-70% of the odontoblastic prolongations and their synapsis-like relation with the odontotoblastic processes was demonstrated. The existence of very few periodontoblastic spaces, and intradentinal sensory axons, as well as the intercellular connections will allow us to discover more about the mechanisms of the dentinary permeability, and its significance in maintenance and repair of the human pulpodentinal complex.

Effect of a Caries-detecting Solution on the Tensile Bond Strength of Four Dentin Adhesive Systems

This study investigated the effect of a caries-detecting solution on the tensile bond strength (TBS) to sound bovine dentin--which was either rinsed thoroughly of or contaminated with the caries-detecting solution. Caries Detector (1.0% acid red in propylene glycol) was applied on flat dentin surfaces for 10 seconds, rinsed, and dried with syringe air. In another group, Caries Detector was not rinsed but air-dried. Then, the surfaces were treated with one of the following adhesive systems: Clearfil Protect Bond, Clearfil SE Bond, One-Up Bond F, or Single Bond. Furthermore, an ingredient of Caries Detector, either 1.0% acid red aqueous solution or propylene glycol, was applied to evaluate the effect of each component. In the control groups, Caries Detector was not applied to the dentin surfaces. Finally, a resin composite was light-cured and the TBS measured. Fractured specimens and treated dentin surfaces were observed by SEM. Caries Detector did not reduce the tensile bond strength of any adhesive system (p>0.05) when rinsed thoroughly. On the other hand, when dentin surface was contaminated with Caries Detector, TBS decreased significantly with Clearfil SE Bond and Single Bond. As for the ingredients of Caries Detector, the effect of acid red on TBS was not significant, but that of propylene glycol was significant.

Hydration and dynamic fatigue of dentin

An experimental investigation on the dynamic fatigue response of dentin was conducted to examine the influence of stress rate on the strength and energy to fracture. Rectangular beams were prepared from the coronal dentin of bovine maxillary molars and subjected to four-point flexure to failure. The dentin beams were examined in the fully hydrated and dehydrated condition at stress rates (sigma) ranging from 0.01 to 100 MPa/s. Results for the hydrated dentin showed that the flexure strength, energy to fracture, and flexure modulus all increased with increasing stress rate; the flexure strength increased from 100 MPa ((sigma) = 0.01 MPa/s) to 250 MPa ((sigma) = 100 MPa/s). In contrast, the elastic modulus and strength of the dehydrated dentin decreased with increasing stress rate; the flexural strength of the dehydrated dentin deceased from 170 MPa ((sigma) = 0.01 MPa/s) to 100 MPa ((sigma) = 100 MPa/s). While the hydrated dentin behaved more like a brittle material at low stress rates, the strain to fracture was found to be nearly independent of (sigma). According to the experimental results, restorative conditions that cause development of static stresses within the tooth could promote a decrease in the damage tolerance of dentin.

In vitro quantification of changes in human dentine tubule parameters using SEM and digital analysis

Dentine hypersensitivity is recognized as a pain arising from fluid movement within dentine tubules that are open to the oral environment. Blocking the tubules is considered to be the principal aim of treatment, and the accurate assessment of tubule occlusion is the primary goal of many in vitro studies. This assessment usually comprises either measuring tubule permeability or scanning electron microscope examination of the dentine surface. Several scanning microscopy studies have claimed to quantify tubule occlusion, but are descriptive, qualitative or semi-quantitative evaluations. The present study was undertaken to assess the use of digital image analysis in quantifying the effectiveness of a selected desensitizing agent from micrographs of control and treated dentine surfaces. Using a dentine disc model, an accurate methodology was sought to investigate the occluding potential of Butler Protect (J.O. Butler, Chicago, IL, USA). Subjective examination of the images indicated there was little difference after a single application, but considerable effect after 20 applications. Quantitative digital analysis of a test image, demonstrated reproducibility between two examiners when used in fully- and semi-automated mode. After a single application of Butler Protect, multilevel statistical modelling demonstrated decreases in tubule area and maximum, minimum and mean diameter measurements (P < 0.001), whereas single level analysis showed increases in area and maximum and mean diameters. Multiple application of Butler Protect demonstrated even greater decreases in all parameters (P < 0.001). This quantitative methodology was reproducible between examiners and, when combined with good controls and multilevel statistical modelling, was able to discriminate a single application of desensitizing agent.

An inhomogeneous and anisotropic constitutive model of human dentin

Dentin constitutes the major part of human tooth. It is composed of a large number of tubules with both variational radii and radially parallel pattern. In addition, peritubular dentin surrounds each tubule lumen and has a higher elastic modulus than the matrix of dentin, i.e. intertubular dentin. Considering the above microstructural characteristics, a micromechanics model is used in this paper to evaluate the overall elastic properties of dentin. Five independent effective elastic parameters in transverse isotropic elasticity matrix can be expressed analytically by the material parameters of peri- and intertubular dentin and the volume fraction of tubules. To determine the effectivity of this theoretical model, a finite element (FE) model simulating a longitudinal tooth slice in moire fringe testing of Wang and Weiner (J. Biomech. 31 (1998) 135) was performed. Furthermore, the FE model was developed incorporate modeling of variation of tubule's diameter and softer characteristic of intertubular dentin near the dentin-enamel junction and around the pulp chamber. It turned out that the isoline figure of longitudinal displacement by FE calculation has very similar patterns to the moire fringe results. However, the FE results of displacement by traditional stress-strain models which regard dentin as a homogeneous and isotropic material show an obviously different strain distributions as compared to published moire fringes results. Thus the inhomogeneous and anisotropic model developed in this paper more accurately reflects the true physical nature of human dentin.

Stress ratio contributes to fatigue crack growth in dentin

An experimental study of fatigue crack growth in dentin was conducted, and the influence of stress ratio (R) on the crack growth rate and mechanisms of cyclic extension were examined. Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) fatigue specimens were sectioned from bovine molars and then subjected to high cycle fatigue loading (10(5) < N < 10(6)) under hydrated conditions. The evaluation consisted of Mode I loads with stress ratios that ranged from -0.5 to 0.5. The fatigue crack growth rates were measured and used to estimate the crack growth exponent (m) and coefficient (C) according to the Paris Law model. The fatigue crack growth rates for steady-state extension (Region II) ranged from 1E-7 to 1E-4 mm/cycle. It was found that the rate of cyclic extension increased significantly with increasing R, and that the highest average crack growth rate occurred at a stress ratio of 0.5. However, the crack growth exponent decreased with increasing R from an average of 4.6 (R = 0.10) to 2.7 (R = 0.50). The stress intensity threshold for crack growth decreased with increasing R as well. Results from this study suggest that an increase in the cyclic stress ratio facilitates fatigue crack growth in dentin and increases the rate of cyclic extension, both of which are critical concerns in minimizing tooth fractures and maintaining lifelong oral health.

Effect of Sodium Hypochlorite on Dentin Microhardness

This study was designed to evaluate the effect on root dentin microhardness of 2.5% and 6% sodium hypochlorite solutions for various irrigation periods. Forty-two bovine roots were divided into seven groups. The control group was irrigated with saline. The experimental samples were continuously irrigated with 2.5% or 6% NaOCl for 5, 10, or 20 min. Microhardness was measured at depths of 500 mum, 1000 mum, and 1500 mum from the lumen. A decrease in microhardness was found at 500 mum between the control and samples irrigated with 6% NaOCl and 2.5% NaOCl (p = 0.352, p = 0.084 respectively) at all irrigation periods. There also was a significant difference in groups irrigated for 10 or 20 min (p = 0.001, p < 0.001 respectively). At all distances, the decrease in microhardness was more marked after irrigation with 6% NaOCl than 2.5% NaOCl.

Radiodensity of enamel and dentin of human, bovine and swine teeth

Several studies have aimed to evaluate the characteristics of hard dental tissues from animal species in order to adequately substitute the usage of human teeth. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the radiodensity of enamel and dentin of human, bovine and swine teeth. Five specimens of 2 mm in thickness were obtained from human, bovine and swine teeth and the radiographic images were taken positioning it on a phosphor plaque digital system, Digora (Soredex, Helsinki, Finland). The radiodensity of each specimen was obtained and data were compared by ANOVA following Tukey test (P < 0.05). The results showed that human and bovine enamel presented similar radiodensity, which was higher than the one from swine enamel; bovine and swine dentin presented similar radiodensity, and only bovine dentin presented greater similarity to human dentin. Bovine teeth seems to be more similar to human teeth in respect to radiodensity.

Fracture resistance of re-attached coronal fragments--influence of different adhesive materials and bevel preparation

The purpose of this study was to investigate the fracture resistance of re-attached coronal fragments of teeth using different materials and tooth preparations. Seventy-two recently extracted bovine incisors were selected. Eight incisors were maintained without any preparation as a control group. The incisal third of the other teeth was sectioned using a diamond saw. In one group (n = 32), a 2-mm bevel was prepared, whereas in the second group no preparation was made (n = 32). The specimens (beveled and non-beveled) were divided in four groups (n = 8) and re-attached with the following materials: a dual-cured resin cement RelyX ARC (RX); a chemically cured composite Bisfil 2B (B2); a light-cured composite Z250 (Z2); and a one-bottle adhesive Single Bond (SB). The bevel region was restored with adhesive and composite. All materials were used according to manufacturer's directions. A light-curing unit was used to polymerize the materials. Specimens were stored in saline solution for 72 h. De-bonding procedures were performed in a testing machine with cross-head speed of 0.6 mm min(-1). The load was applied in the incisal third. The resistance to fracture for control group was 70 (7) kg. The fracture resistance for non-beveled and beveled specimens were: SB, 3.3 (2.4) and 17.0 (4.1); RX, 11.5 (3.0) and 16.3 (3.1); Z2, 14.4 (4.2) and 20.5 (1.7); and B2, 19.5 (3.5) and 32.5 (7.4) kg. Analysis of variance (anova) and Fisher's protected least significant difference (PLSD) test disclosed significant influence for materials and cavity designs (P = 0.001). The highest failure loads were obtained with the B2 group and then with the Z2 with either bevel or non-bevel. RX produced lower failure loads than the restorative composites. The lowest failure load was obtained with SB in the non-beveled group. No technique studied was able to attain the fracture resistance of the control group and both materials and tooth preparation influenced the fracture resistance.

Microleakage in bonded amalgam restorations using different adhesive materials

The aim of this study was to verify the ability of different adhesive materials to prevent microleakage in bonded amalgam restorations. Standard cavities were prepared in both buccal and lingual surfaces of 35 bovine incisors. The gingival wall was located in cementum/dentin and the occlusal wall in enamel. Teeth (n=35) were divided into 5 groups, according to material employed (one glass-ionomer cement, two resin cements, one adhesive system, and Copalex varnish as a control). Following restoration, the teeth were submitted to thermal cycling. The teeth were subsequently immersed in methylene blue dye and sectioned to allow assessment of microleakage. Non-parametric statistical analysis indicated that all materials demonstrated less leakage than the control group (p<0.01). No leakage was found using the resin-modified glass-ionomer cement, which was significantly different from the other adhesive materials (p<0.05). Leakage in enamel was lower than in cementum/dentin margins. It was concluded that bonded amalgam was an effective technique, since all materials prevented microleakage in enamel and cementum/dentin, when compared to the control group, except Panavia in cementum/dentin margins.

CELLS AND EXTRACELLULAR MATRICES OF DENTIN AND PULP: A BIOLOGICAL BASIS FOR REPAIR AND TISSUE ENGINEERING

Odontoblasts produce most of the extracellular matrix (ECM) components found in dentin and implicated in dentin mineralization. Major differences in the pulp ECM explain why pulp is normally a non-mineralized tissue. In vitro or in vivo, some dentin ECM molecules act as crystal nucleators and contribute to crystal growth, whereas others are mineralization inhibitors. After treatment of caries lesions of moderate progression, odontoblasts and cells from the sub-odontoblastic Höhl's layer are implicated in the formation of reactionary dentin. Healing of deeper lesions in contact with the pulp results in the formation of reparative dentin by pulp cells. The response to direct pulp-capping with materials such as calcium hydroxide is the formation of a dentinal bridge, resulting from the recruitment and proliferation of undifferentiated cells, which may be either stem cells or dedifferentiated and transdifferentiated mature cells. Once differentiated, the cells synthesize a matrix that undergoes mineralization. Animal models have been used to test the capacity of potentially bioactive molecules to promote pulp repair following their implantation into the pulp. ECM molecules induce either the formation of dentinal bridges or large areas of mineralization in the coronal pulp. They may also stimulate the total closure of the pulp in the root canal. In conclusion, some molecules found in dentin extracellular matrix may have potential in dental therapy as bioactive agents for pulp repair or tissue engineering.

The effects of tubule orientation on fatigue crack growth in dentin

The fracture of restored teeth is a significant obstacle to lifelong oral health. Recent studies suggest that fatigue cracks originate at flaws introduced during cavity preparation and that fatigue crack growth is a principle cause of restored tooth fractures. In this study, the rate of fatigue crack growth in bovine dentin was estimated under mode I cyclic loading. Double cantilever beam (DCB) specimens were obtained from bovine molars and subjected to high cycle fatigue loading (10(5) < N < 10(6)). The fatigue crack growth rates were measured and used to estimate the crack growth exponent and coefficient according to the Paris Law. The average fatigue crack growth exponent was 4.7 +/- 0.6 for crack growth parallel to the dentin tubules, which was significantly larger than 4.3 +/- 0.5 for crack growth perpendicular to the tubules (t-test, CI > 80%). Although the crack growth rates varied considerably, there was no significant dependence on tubule orientation or tubule density. However, specific features of the fracture surfaces and tendencies for crack curving away from the tubules suggested preferential fatigue crack growth perpendicular to the dentin tubules. Results from this study are being used to guide an experimental investigation of fatigue crack growth in human dentin.

Class IV preparations for fractured anterior teeth restored with composite resin restorations

Pediatric dentists play a major role in treating most of the anterior teeth fractures due to the fact that most patients who suffer such traumatic injuries are between the ages of seven and fourteen. Several techniques has been developed to restore the fractured incisors to the original shape and color, these include full-coverage of the traumatized tooth, or restoring the incisors with a resin. The purpose of this study is to find the ideal combination of tooth preparation and restorative material, namely, to determine if stair step chamfer preparations provide more retention in class IV restorations than the plain chamfer preparation technique when restored with a combination of a hybrid composite resin and a microfilled composite resin. This was done by comparing the shear strength values between the buccal stair-step chamfer preparation, and a modification on it (buccal and lingual stair-step chamfer preparation) and the plain chamfer preparation techniques in class IV restorations on anterior incisors using different composite resin materials. The Instron machine was used to test shear strength. One hundred and two bovine incisor teeth were freshly harvested from the slaughterhouse. The teeth were prepared and restored according to the following six groups; Plain Chamfer preparation with Tetric Ceram Composite, Plain Chamfer preparation with Renamel Composite, buccal stair-step chamfer preparation with Tetric Ceram composite, buccal stair-step chamfer preparation with Renamel composite, Buccal and lingual stair-step preparation with Tetric Ceram Composite, Buccal and lingual stair-step chamfer preparation with renamel composite. All samples were fractured using the Instron testing machine then the surface area were measured using Image-J software. Shear strength for every sample was calculated using the load numeric result from the Instron machine and the measured surface area. The Two-Factorial (AB) Analysis of Variance For Independent Samples showed that the buccal stair-step chamfer preparation showed significantly higher shear strength and fracture resistance than plain chamfer or the buccal and lingual stair-step chamfer preparation. The combination of Renamel Hybrid and Renamel Microfill composite materials showed better results than the Tetric Ceram composite when used with all three preparation techniques, but did not show a statistical significance. It was concluded that buccal stair-step preparation technique provided the ideal preparation technique with bonded composite resins in fractured anterior teeth. Only 7% of the entire sample size had an adhesion failure versus 93% that had cohesion failure. There was no significant difference in shear strength, between the restorative materials used, in conjunction with all the preparation techniques.

Comparative study of the dental substrate used in shear bond strength tests

The purpose of this study was to compare shear bond strength values obtained in human enamel and dentin with the values obtained in bovine teeth using two adhesive systems with different actions. Forty human tooth half-crowns and forty bovine tooth crowns were flattened to a minimum plain area of 5 mm in diameter. The samples were divided in four groups of 20 specimens each: 1) human enamel; 2) bovine enamel; 3) human dentin; 4) bovine dentin. The samples of each group were divided in 2 subgroups of 10 samples each, according to the adhesive system used: 1) Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SBMP); and 2) Clearfil Liner Bond 2V (CLB2V) applied according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Afterwards, restorations of Z100 composite with cylindrical shape (4 mm diameter x 5 mm height) were made using a metallic mold to submit the samples to shear bond testing on an Instron universal testing machine, at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. The data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test (5%). In enamel, there was no statistical difference between bovine and human teeth for SBMP (7.36 MPa, human; 8.24 MPa, bovine), nor for CLB2V (10.01 MPa, human; 7.95, bovine). In dentin, SBMP showed a statistically lower mean on human dentin (7.01 MPa) than on bovine dentin (11.74 MPa). For CLB2V, there was no statistical difference between human (7.43 MPa) and bovine (9.27 MPa) substrates.

Tensile bond strength of four resin luting agents bonded to bovine enamel and dentin

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The resistance to fracture of ceramic restorations depends on adequate bonding to tooth structure. The dental substrate and the types of resin luting agents used are believed to produce variability in adhesive properties.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the tensile bond strength of 4 resin luting agents to bovine enamel and dentin.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty bovine incisors were embedded in acrylic resin and ground horizontally with water-cooled silicon carbide paper to expose enamel (20 teeth) and dentin at the enamel/dentin junction (20 teeth). Ten standard cone-shaped specimens with a 3-mm diameter base were prepared for each of the following resin cements: Resin Cement, Rely X ARC, Nexus, and Enforce. Five specimens of each material were bonded to enamel and the other 5 to dentin with these resin luting agents and their respective adhesive systems, according to the manufacturers' directions. After 7 days of storage in distilled water at 37 degrees C, specimens were subjected to tensile forces in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min until fracture. Bond strength data were analyzed with analysis of variance for substrate and material. Means were compared with Tukey's test at the 0.05 level of significance.

RESULTS

Analysis of variance disclosed that both substrate (P<.001) and material (P<.05) demonstrated statistically significant differences, but their interaction was not significant. The bond strengths (MPa) obtained for Resin Cement (11.5 +/- 3.0), Rely X ARC (11.4 +/- 3.1), Nexus (10.0 +/- 1.4), and Enforce (11.8 +/- 2.8) were statistically the same for enamel. For dentin, bond strengths (MPa) for Rely X ARC (9.6 +/- 1.8), Resin Cement (9.3 +/- 0.9), and Enforce (7.8 +/- 2.9) were significantly higher than for Nexus (3.5 +/- 0.8). Significantly higher bond strengths (MPa) were also observed for enamel (11.2 +/- 2.5) than dentin (7.5 +/- 1.6).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, tensile bond strengths of resin luting agents to enamel were higher than those to dentin, and the bond strength values of Nexus to dentin were significantly lower (P<.05) than the other cements tested.

Influence of tea on intrinsic colour of previously bleached enamel

Aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of tea applied at various time intervals after bleaching of enamel on intrinsic tooth colour. Ninety bovine specimens were distributed among six groups (A-F, n=15). The samples of group A-D were bleached with the 10% carbamide peroxide (CP) gel VivaStyle for 8 h, followed by storing in artificial saliva for the remaining period of the day. The specimens were removed from the saliva at different intervals (A: 0 min, B: 60 min, C: 240 min) and immersed in freshly prepared black tea for 10 min. Group D (bleaching, no tea), E (no bleaching, but tea) and F (no bleaching, no tea) served as controls. These procedures were repeated for 8 days. Colour was measured at baseline, after each day, and after final cleaning using the CIELab-system. Then Deltab (initial b-value - final reading), DeltaL, and composite colour (DeltaE) were statistically analysed. External bleaching (A-D) led to a distinct whitening effect with lower Deltab- (=reduction in yellow) and higher DeltaL-values (=increase in brightness) compared with controls. The Deltab- and DeltaL-values of the samples A-C were not significantly different from the samples which were bleached only. No significant difference was observed comparing specimens of group A-C. It is concluded that application of tea directly after bleaching with 10% CP does not significantly effect the outcome of a bleaching treatment irrespective of the time interval elapsed between the bleaching procedure and the contact of the tooth surface with tea.

Micro-mechanical characterisation of the properties of primary tooth dentine

OBJECTIVES

Understanding the mechanical properties of dentine is of importance as adhesive restorative materials mainly achieve their bonding to the tooth structure through dentine. The current study measures the hardness and modulus of elasticity of primary molar dentine using an Ultra-Micro-Indentation System (UMIS), which allows the dentine to remain hydrated and thus is assumed to be closer to the in vivo conditions.

METHODS

Eight sound primary molar teeth were axially sectioned, embedded in resin and fine polished. Two linear arrays of indentations were done on coronal dentine, from the pulp wall to dentino-enamel junction (DEJ) parallel to the tubule direction under a force load of 25mN.

RESULTS

The mean hardness and elastic modulus of the dentine nearest the pulp wall was 0.52+/-0.24 and 11.59+/-3.95GPa, respectively, which was significantly lower than those of dentine in the middle area, which was 0.85+/-0.19 and 17.06+/-3.09GPa, respectively, and the dentine nearest DEJ, which was 0.91+/-0.15 and 16.33+/-3.83GPa, respectively. There is a statistically significant linear correlation between the hardness and modulus of elasticity.

CONCLUSIONS

The hardness and modulus of elasticity of dentine decreases with decreasing distance from the pulp. This is of importance to clinicians because an extension of cavity preparation towards the pulp may lead to less mechanical support for a restoration.

A scanning electron microscopic study of dentinal erosion by final irrigation with EDTA and NaOCl solutions

AIM

The purpose of this in vitro study was to examine dentinal erosion caused by final irrigation with EDTA and NaOCl.

METHODOLOGY

Twenty-five single-rooted human teeth were instrumented with rotary nickel-titanium Series 29 Profile Instruments. The teeth were divided into five groups and subjected to final irrigation as follows: group A, irrigated with 6% NaOCl (3 mL) for 2 min; group B, 15% EDTA (3 mL) for 1 min; group C, 15% EDTA (3 mL) for 1 min, followed by 6% NaOCl (3 mL) for 2 min; group D, 15% EDTA (3 mL) for 3 min and group E, 15% EDTA (3 mL) for 3 min, followed by 6% NaOCl (3 mL) for 2 min. Photomicrographs of dentinal walls were produced using a scanning electron microscope (3000 x) at 1, 3 and 6 mm from the apex. The amount of debris and dentinal tubule diameter were evaluated, and values were statistically analysed using one-way ANOVA and Fisher's PLSD test.

RESULTS

When the root canal was irrigated with 15% EDTA alone, the dentine had a smooth and plane appearance, and dentinal tubule orifices were regular and separated. When the root canal was irrigated with EDTA followed by NaOCL the dentine was eroded and the dentinal tubule orifices were irregular and rough. Dentinal tubule diameter increased to 3.43 +/- 0.23 microm in group C and to 3.93 +/- 0.44 microm in group E. Significant differences were observed between groups B and C, and between groups D and E (P < 0.05). However, more debris was removed by irrigation with EDTA followed by NaOCl than with EDTA alone (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Final irrigation with 6% NaOCl accelerates dentinal erosion following treatment with 15% EDTA.

Effect of irrigation solutions on dentin bonding agents and restorative shear bond strength

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The presence of irrigation solution prior to the application of dentin bonding agents may be one source of contamination and may adversely affect bond strength.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to evaluate the effect of irrigation solutions of different purity levels on the shear bond strength of a hybrid composite to dentin.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty extracted, intact human molars were hand-scaled. All soft tissue was removed, and the teeth were stored in room-temperature tap water for 1 week. Subsequently, each tooth was embedded in autopolymerizing acrylic resin with the coronal portion exposed. After complete polymerization of the resin, the dentin surfaces were exposed, and the crown was cut longitudinally on all 4 sides to produce flat dentin surfaces for bonding. The prepared specimens were assigned to 4 groups of irrigation solutions: tap water (control), sterile water, 0.9% NaCl irrigation solution, and filtered water. Within each irrigation group were 4 dentin bonding agent subgroups: Prime & Bond NT, One-Step, Single Bond Adhesive, and OptiBond Solo. The dentin surfaces (n = 10 per irrigation/bonding agent pair) were etched with 37% phosphoric acid, rinsed with the assigned irrigation solution for 15 seconds, and then dried. Plastic cylinders (3 mm long x 3 mm inner diameter) were filled with a hybrid composite (Herculite XRV) and bonded to the dentin. Specimens were loaded in a universal testing machine, and shear force was applied to the base of the composite cylinders, parallel to the dentin surfaces, at a crosshead speed of 0.05 in/min until fracture. Failure loads were recorded. Bond strength data were compared with analysis of variance (P<.05). Post-hoc comparisons of means were performed with t tests and P values adjusted for multiple comparisons (Bonferroni method).

RESULTS

Tap water irrigation (control) produced no significant difference in bond strengths for all dentin bonding agents tested. When other irrigation solutions were used, One-Step consistently produced significantly lower bond strengths than other dentin bonding agents (P<.05). No preferential choice of irrigation solution could be made for Prime & Bond or Single Bond Adhesive. However, when One-Step or Solo was used, irrigation with normal saline significantly reduced bond strengths (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, the bond strength to dentin of a hybrid composite irrigated with different solutions was dependent on the dentin bonding agent used.

Biocompatibility of root canal filling materials

Results of in vitro and in vivo studies clearly indicate that some endodontic sealers may cause local and systemic adverse effects. Though occasionally contradictory data has been reported from various authors, it may be concluded that zinc-oxide-eugenol sealers possess a marked cytotoxic and tissue-irritating potency. Most Ca(OH)2-based materials, however, were biocompatible. Genotoxic effects have been observed with sealers releasing paraformaldehyde or containing mutagenic substances, such as bisphenol-A-diglycidyl-ether or its derivatives. It cannot be excluded that these materials may pose a systemic risk because formaldehyde is rapidly distributed systemically following its application into the pulp cavity. Furthermore an increasing number of cases with an aspergillosis of the maxillary sinus have been observed which were mainly caused by zinc-releasing endodontic sealers. Overall, it is recommended that for endodontic practice, sealers that have been found to be biocompatible in a "mixed bag" of various in vitro and in vivo tests, be selected. From this point of view, ZnOE-sealers should no longer be used for root canal fillings. This recommendation applies also to sealers containing paraformaldehyde or generating this substance during their setting reaction. More experimental and clinical studies are necessary to elucidate whether new materials, such as mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) or calcium phosphate cement, will be biocompatible alternatives in the future.