Effect of chitosan/riboflavin modification on resin/dentin interface: Spectroscopic and microscopic investigations

Effect of Salvadora persica on resin-dentin bond stability

BACKGROUND

The stability of resin-dentin interfaces is still highly questionable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Salvadora persica on resin-dentin bond durability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Extracted human third molars were used to provide mid-coronal dentin, which was treated with 20% Salvadora persica extract for 1 min after acid-etching. Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage were evaluated after 24 h and 6 months. A three-point flexure test was used to measure the stiffness of completely demineralized dentin sticks before and after treatment with Salvadora persica extract. The hydroxyproline release test was also used to measure collagen degradation by endogenous dentin proteases. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Bonferroni test and unpaired t-test. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The use of Salvadora persica as an additional primer with etch-and-rinse adhesive did not affect the immediate bond strengths and nanoleakage (p > 0.05). After 6 months, the bond strength of the control group decreased (p = 0.007), and nanoleakage increased (p = 0.006), while Salvadora persica group showed no significant difference in bond strength and nanoleakage compared to their 24 h groups (p > 0.05). Salvadora persica increased dentin stiffness and decreased collagen degradation (p < 0.001) compared to their controls.

CONCLUSION

Salvadora persica extract pretreatment of acid-etched dentin preserved resin-dentin bonded interface for 6 months.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Durability of resin-dentin bonded interfaces is still highly questionable. Endogenous dentinal matrix metalloproteinases play an important role in degradation of dentinal collagen within such interfaces. Salvadora persica may preserve resin-dentin interfaces for longer periods of time contributing to greater clinical success and longevity of resin composite restorations.

Analysis of the adhesive interface of dentine treated with carbodiimide and chitosan before cementation of fiberglass posts with different resin cements

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide (EDC) and chitosan (CHI) on the adhesive interface of resin cements to root dentine. Forty-five upper canines were sectioned, endodontically treated, prepared and divided into three groups according to dentine treatment (distilled water-DW, CHI 0.2% and EDC 0.5) and in three subgroups according to resin cement: RelyX ARC, Panavia F 2.0 or RelyX U200. Slices were obtained, with five slices of each third submitted to the analysis of the adaptation of the adhesive interface through scores and the perimeter with gaps in confocal laser scanning microscopy and one slice of each third later evaluated qualitatively in scanning electron microscopy. The results were analyzed using with Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman correlation tests. There was no difference in adaptation for the different resin cements (p = .438). EDC presented better adaptation when compared to the groups treated with DW and CHI (p < .001), while the CHI and DW presented similar adaptation values (p = .365). No difference was observed in the perimeter referring to the gap areas for the different resin cements (p = .510). EDC showed a lower percentage of perimeters with gaps when compared to CHI (p < .001), with the percentage of perimeter with gaps of teeth treated with CHI being lower than DW (p < .001). A positive correlation coefficient equal to 0.763 was obtained between the perimeter with gaps and the adaptation data of the adhesive interface (p < .001). EDC resulted in better adaptation of the adhesive interface and a lower percentage of perimeters with gaps compared to chitosan.

Photocrosslinkable natural polymers in tissue engineering

Natural polymers have been widely used in scaffolds for tissue engineering due to their superior biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low cytotoxicity compared to synthetic polymers. Despite these advantages, there remain drawbacks such as unsatisfying mechanical properties or low processability, which hinder natural tissue substitution. Several non-covalent or covalent crosslinking methods induced by chemicals, temperatures, pH, or light sources have been suggested to overcome these limitations. Among them, light-assisted crosslinking has been considered as a promising strategy for fabricating microstructures of scaffolds. This is due to the merits of non-invasiveness, relatively high crosslinking efficiency via light penetration, and easily controllable parameters, including light intensity or exposure time. This review focuses on photo-reactive moieties and their reaction mechanisms, which are widely exploited along with natural polymer and its tissue engineering applications.

Dexamethasone-doped nanoparticles improve mineralization, crystallinity and collagen structure of human dentin

OBJECTIVES

Bioactive materials have been used for functionalization of adhesives to promote dentin remineralization. This study aims to evaluate bonding ability and both mechanical and chemical behavior of demineralized dentin infiltrated with polymeric nanoparticles doped with dexamethasone (Dex-NPs).

METHODS

Dentin conditioned surfaces were infiltrated with NPs, Dex-NPs or Dex-Zn-NPs. Bonded interfaces were also created and stored for 24 h or 21d, and then submitted to microtensile bond strength testing. Dentin remineralization was analyzed by Nanohardness, Young's modulus and Raman analysis.

RESULTS

At 21d of storage, dentin treated with undoped-NPs attained the lowest nanohardness and Young's modulus. Dex-NPs and Zn-Dex-NPs increased dentin nanohardness and Young's modulus after 21d Raman analysis showed high remineralization, crystallinity, crosslinking and better structure of collagen when functionalized Dex-NPs were present at the dentin interface.

CONCLUSIONS

Infiltration of dentin with Dex-NPs promoted functional remineralization as proved by nanomechanical and morpho-chemical evaluation tests. Dexamethasone in dentin facilitated crystallographic maturity, crystallinity and improved maturity and secondary structure of dentin collagen.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Using dexamethasone-functionalized NPs before resin infiltration is a clear option to obtain dentin remineralization, as these NPs produce the reinforcement of the dentin structure, which will lead to the improvement of the longevity of resin restorations.

Effect of collagen cross-linkers on dentin bond strength: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the role of collagen cross-linkers in the bonding performance of the resin-dentin interface through a systematic review and a network meta-analysis. Sources: The literature search was conducted in several databases like PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus and Web of Science from their inception till 30 April 2022. Study selection: The inclusion criteria consisted of in vitro studies evaluating the micro-tensile and micro-shear bond strengths of different cross-linkers acting on dentin. Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted using RStudio. Data: Out of the 294 studies evaluated in the full-text analysis, 40 were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Most studies have used cross-linkers as primer (65.1%), followed by incorporating them into in adhesives and acid etching agents. The application methods of the adhesive system were classified as "etch-and-rinse (ER) adhesives" (77%) and "self-etching (SE) adhesives". Moreover, there were six types of cross-linkers in this presented review, of which the most numerous were polyphenols. Conclusion: Different application methods of cross-linkers, the long-term results showed that were only effective when used for longer durations, the immediate results were not statistically different. According to immediate and long-term results, etch-and-rinse (ER) adhesives showed a greater bonding performance than the control groups (p ≤ 0.05), whereas self-etching (SE) adhesives showed similar bond strength values (p ≥ 0.05). The result of network meta-analysis (NMA) showed that Dope like compound showed higher long-term bonding performance than other cross-linkers. Clinical significance: Long-term clinical studies may be needed to determine the effect of the cross-linkers on the bonding properties.

Effect of Collagen Crosslinkers on Dentin Bond Strength of Adhesive Systems: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study aimed to identify the role of crosslinking agents in the resin–dentin bond strength (BS) when used as modifiers in adhesives or pretreatments to the dentin surface through a systematic review and meta-analysis. This paper was conducted according to the directions of the PRISMA 2020 statement. The research question of this review was: “Would the use of crosslinkers agents improve the BS of resin-based materials to dentin?” The literature search was conducted in the following databases: Embase, PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, and Web of Science. Manuscripts that reported the effect on the BS after the use of crosslinking agents were included. The meta-analyses were performed using Review Manager v5.4.1. The comparisons were performed by comparing the standardized mean difference between the BS values obtained using the crosslinker agent or the control group. The subgroup comparisons were performed based on the adhesive strategy used (total-etch or self-etch). The immediate and long-term data were analyzed separately. A total of 50 articles were included in the qualitative analysis, while 45 articles were considered for the quantitative analysis. The meta-analysis suggested that pretreatment with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), carbodiimide, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), glutaraldehyde, and riboflavin crosslinking agents improved the long-term BS of resin composites to dentin (p ≤ 0.02). On the other hand, the use of proanthocyanidins as a pretreatment improved both the immediate and long-term BS values (p ≤ 0.02). When incorporated within the adhesive formulation, only glutaraldehyde, riboflavin, and EGCG improved the long-term BS to dentin. It could be concluded that the application of different crosslinking agents such as carbodiimide, EDTA, glutaraldehyde, riboflavin, and EGCG improved the long-term BS of adhesive systems to dentin. This effect was observed when these crosslinkers were used as a separate step and when incorporated within the formulation of the adhesive system.

Effects of the Combined Application of Trimethylated Chitosan and Carbodiimide on the Biostability and Antibacterial Activity of Dentin Collagen Matrix

The structural integrity of a dentin matrix that has been demineralized by the clinical use of etchants or calcium-depleting endodontic irrigants, such as endodontic ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), is often deteriorated due to the collagenolytic activities of reactivated endogenous enzymes as well as the infiltration of extrinsic bacteria. Therefore, the biomodification of dentin collagen with improved stability and antibacterial activity holds great promise in conservative dentistry. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the combined application of trimethylated chitosan (TMC) and 1-ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl]carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) on the biostability and antibacterial activity of the demineralized dentin collagen matrix. The morphological changes in the collagen matrix were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the amount of TMC adsorbed on the collagen surface was detected by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the elastic modulus was measured by a three-point bending device. Dry weight loss and amino acid release were detected to evaluate its anti-collagenase degradation performance. The antibacterial performance was detected by confocal microscopy. The TMC-treated group had less collagen space and a more compact collagen arrangement, while the untreated group had a looser collagen arrangement. The combined application of TMC and EDC can increase the elastic modulus, reduce the loss of elastic modulus, and result in good antibacterial performance. The current study proved that a dentin collagen matrix biomodified by TMC and EDC showed improved biodegradation resistance and antibacterial activities.

Zn-containing Adhesives Facilitate Collagen Protection and Remineralization at the Resin-Dentin Interface: A Narrative Review

This is a narrative review of the literature assessing the potential effectiveness of doping dentin polymeric adhesives with zinc compounds in order to improve bonding efficacy, remineralization and protection against degradation. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases, such as PubMed, MEDLINE, DIMDI and Web of Science. Through our search, we found literature demonstrating that Zn-doped dentin adhesives promote protection and remineralization of the resin-dentin interfaces. The increased bioactivity has also facilitated dentinal tubules' occlusion by crystals' precipitation contributing to improved sealing efficacy of restorations. Loading dentin adhesives with zinc gives rise to an increase of both crystallinity of mineral and crosslinking of collagen. The main role of zinc, in dentin adhesives, is to inhibit collagen proteolysis. We concluded that zinc exerts a protective effect through binding at the collagen-sensitive cleavage sites of matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs), contributing to dentin matrix stabilization. Zinc may not only act as a MMPs inhibitor, but also influence signaling pathways and stimulate metabolic effects in dentin mineralization and remineralization processes. Zn-doped adhesives increase the longevity of dentin bonding through MMPs inhibition. Zn poses a remineralization strategy in demineralized dentin.

Chitosan-induced biomodification on demineralized dentin to improve the adhesive interface

Objectives

Metalloproteinase-inhibiting agents, such as chitosan, can prevent collagen degradation in demineralized dental substrates, thereby improving the adhesive interface. This study evaluated the bond strength (BS) and chemical and morphological characterization of the adhesive interface after applying chitosan solution to demineralized dentin.

Materials and Methods

The 80 third molars were selected. Forty teeth underwent caries induction using the pH cycling method. The teeth were divided according to the treatment: distilled water (control) and 2.5% chitosan solution. The surfaces were restored using adhesive and composite resins. Half of the specimens in each group were aged, and the other half underwent immediate analyses. The teeth were sectioned and underwent the microtensile bond strength test (µTBS), and chemical and morphological analyses using energy-dispersive spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Data analysis was performed using 3-way analysis of variance.

Results

For µTBS, sound dentin was superior to demineralized dentin (p < 0.001), chitosan-treated specimens had higher bond strength than the untreated ones (p < 0.001), and those that underwent immediate analysis had higher values than the aged specimens (p = 0.019). No significant differences were observed in the chemical or morphological compositions.

Conclusions

Chitosan treatment improved bond strength both immediately and after aging, even in demineralized dentin.

Synthesis and Incorporation of Quaternary Ammonium Silane Antimicrobial into Self-Crosslinked Type I Collagen Scaffold: A Hybrid Formulation for 3D Printing

Novel 3D-biomaterial scaffold is constructed having a combination of a new quaternary ammonium silane (k21) antimicrobial impregnated in 3D collagen printed scaffolds cross linked with Riboflavin in presence of d-alpha-tocopheryl poly(ethyleneglycol)-1000-succinate. Groups of "0.1% and 0.2% k21", and "0.1% and 0.2% Chlorhexidine (CHX)" are prepared. k21/CHX with neutralized collagen is printed with BioX. Riboflavin is photo-activated and examined using epifluorescence for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (7-days). Collagen is examined using TEM and measured for porosity, and shape-fitting. Raman and tandem mass/solid-state are performed with molecular-docking and circular-dichroism. X-ray diffractions, rheological tests, contact angle, and ninhydrin assay are conducted. k21 samples demonstrated collagen aggregates while 0.1% CHX and 0.2% CHX showed irregularities. Porosity of control and "0.1% and 0.2% k21" scaffolds show no differences. Low contact angle, improved elastic-modulus, rigidity, and smaller strain in k21 groups are seen. Bacteria are reduced and strong organic intensities are seen in k21 scaffolds. Simulation shows hydrophobicity/electrostatic interaction. Crosslinking is observed in 0.2% CHX/79% and 0.2% k21/80%. Circular dichroism for k21 are suggestive of triple helix. XRD patterns appear at d = 5.97, 3.03, 2.78, 2.1, and 2.90 A°. 3D-printing of collagen impregnated with quaternary ammonium silane produces a promising scaffold with antimicrobial potency and structural stability.

Dentin Cross-linking Effect of Carbodiimide After 5 Years

Carbodiimide (EDC)-based dentin primers preserve hybrid layer (HL) integrity. However, aging >1 y has not been investigated. The present study examined whether the cross-linking effect of EDC was reflected in dentin bond strength, endogenous enzymatic activity, and the chemical profile of the HL after 5-y aging in artificial saliva. Noncarious human third molars (N = 42) were cut to expose middle/deep coronal dentin and treated as follows: group 1, dentin etched with 35% H₃PO₄, pretreated with a 0.3M aqueous EDC primer for 1 min and restored with XP Bond (Dentsply Sirona); group 2, as in group 1 but without EDC pretreatment; group 3, Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray-Noritake) primer applied to dentin surface, followed by EDC pretreatment as in group 1 and application of bond; group 4, as in group 3 without EDC pretreatment. After composite buildup, the specimens were cut into sticks or slabs, depending on the experiment. All tests were performed at baseline (T0) and after 5 y of aging (T5) in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Microtensile bond strength (µTBS) was tested at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. Endogenous enzymatic activity was investigated with in situ zymography. The chemical profile of HL was determined via Raman spectroscopy. Three-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey test were used to analyze µTBS and in situ zymography data (α = 0.05). EDC pretreatment and aging significantly influenced µTBS and in situ zymography results (P < 0.05). Higher bond strength and lower gelatinolytic activity were identified in the EDC-treated groups at T5 (P < 0.05), especially in the etch-and-rinse groups. Raman spectra revealed less defined amide III peaks in control specimens at T5. The EDC cross-linking effect persisted in the HL for 5 y in terms of bond strength, collagen structure preservation, and dentinal enzyme silencing.

Enhancement in corneal permeability of riboflavin using cyclodextrin derivates complexes as a previous step to transepithelial cross-linking

Corneal cross-linking has been described as an effective treatment to slow the progression of keratoconus. The standard protocol entails corneal epithelial removal to allow the diffusion of riboflavin into the stroma. Although, de-epithelization can generate risks or complications that transepithelial cross-linking tries to solve or avoid. Different formulations were developed after verifying that hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) and sulfobuthylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBEβCD) in a 20% concentration, increased the solubility of practically insoluble in water drugs such as riboflavin from 0.12 mg/mL to 0.35 mg/mL and 0.29 mg/mL respectively. These values were higher when chitosan and arginine were added to the formulation, showing solubility of 0.78 mg/mL when HPβCD concentration was not modified. Ex vivo corneal permeability was measured after having kept in contact bovine corneas with intact epithelium for 5 h with the 0.1 mg/mL riboflavin solution, the formulations developed and a reproduced nanoemulsion from another work. Riboflavin's permeability was increased when cyclodextrins, chitosan, and arginine were part of the formulations, compared to the control drug solution. The best permeability coefficient was reached when riboflavin was combined with 40% (w/v) HPβCD, 0.5% (w/w) arginine, and 0.5% (w/w) chitosan. After having carried out toxicity studies as bovine corneal opacity and permeability (BCOP) and Heńs Egg Test - Chorioallantoic Membrane Test (HET-CAM) it was verified that both, the active ingredients and the excipients of the different formulations were not harmful without generating irritation, loss of transparency or corneal permeability alterations. The results show the great potential of the ocular developed solution for their use in transepithelial cross-linking for keratoconus treatment.

Development of 3D printed resin reinforced with modified ZrO2 nanoparticles for long-term provisional dental restorations

OBJECTIVE

To characterize and investigate efficacy of loading functionalized ZrO₂ nanoparticles in 3-dimensional (3D) printed acrylate ester-based resin subjected to accelerated aging in artificial saliva. As well as to evaluate the effect of ZrO₂ nanoparticle volume fraction addition on mechanical and physical properties of printed composite.

METHODS

Functionalized ZrO₂ nanoparticles were characterized using TEM and Raman spectroscopy. 3D printed dental resin was reinforced, with ZrO₂ nanoparticles, in the concentration range (0-5wt.%). The resulted nanocomposites, in term of structure and physical/mechanical properties were evaluated using different mechanical testing, microscopic and spectroscopic techniques.

RESULTS

ZrO₂ based nanocomposite was successful and formed composites were more ductile. Degree of conversion was significant at the highest level with blank resin and 1wt.%. Sorption revealed reduction associated with volume fraction significant to neat resin, however solubility indicated neat and 4wt.% had the lowest significant dissolution. Vickers represented critical positive correlation with filler content, while nanohardness and elasticity behaved symmetrically and had the maximum strength at 3wt.% addition. In addition, 3wt.% showed the highest fracture toughness and modulus. Improvement of flexural strength was significantly linked to filler concentration. Overall properties dramatically were enhanced after 3 months aging in artificial saliva, especially degree of conversion, microhardness, nanoindentation/elasticity, and flexural modulus. However, significant reduction was observed with flexural modulus and fracture toughness.

SIGNIFICANCE

The outcomes suggest that the newly developed 3D printed nanocomposites modified with ZrO₂ nanoparticle have the superior potential and efficacy as long-term provisional dental restoration materials.

Effect of Chitosan as a Cross-Linker on Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity and Bond Stability with Different Adhesive Systems

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 0.1% chitosan (Ch) solution as an additional primer on the mechanical durability and enzymatic activity on dentine using an etch-and-rinse (E&R) adhesive and a universal self-etch (SE) adhesive. Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage expression of the bonded interfaces for all adhesives (with or without pretreatment with 0.1% Ch solution for 1 min and air-dried for 5 s) were analyzed immediately and after 10,000 thermocycles. Zymograms of protein extracts from human dentine powder incubated with Optibond FL and Scotchbond Universal on untreated or Ch-treated dentine were obtained to examine dentine matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities. The use of 0.1% Ch solution as an additional primer in conjunction with the E&R or SE adhesive did not appear to have influenced the immediate bond strength (T0) or bond strength after thermocycling (T1). Zymography showed a reduction in MMP activities only for mineralized and demineralized dentine powder after the application of Ch. Application of 0.1% Ch solution does not increase the longevity of resin–dentine bonds. Nonetheless, the procedure appears to be proficient in reducing dentine MMP activities within groups without adhesive treatments. Further studies are required to comprehend the cross-linking of Ch with dentine collagen.

Stored potential energy increases and elastic properties alterations are produced after restoring dentin with Zn-containing amalgams

The aim of this research was to ascertain the mechanical and chemical behavior of sound and caries-affected dentin (CAD), after the placement of Zn-free vs containing amalgam restorations. Peritubular and intertubular dentin were evaluated using, a) nanoindenter in scanning mode; the load and displacement responses were used to perform the nano-Dynamic mechanical analysis and to estimate the complex (E * ) and storage modulus (E'); b) Raman spectroscopy was used to describe the hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). Assessments were performed before restoration placement and after restoring, and after 3 months of storage with thermocycling (100,000cy/5 °C and 55 °C). When CAD was treated with Zn-containing restorations, differences between E * and E' at both peritubular and intertubular dentin augmented, with energy concentration and production of implications in the mechanical performance of the restored teeth. E * and E' were very low at intratubular dentin of CAD restored with Zn-containing restorations. The relative presence of minerals, the phosphate crystallinity and the crosslinking of collagen increased their values at both types of dentin (peritubular and intertubular) when CAD was treated with Zn-containing restorations. The nature and secondary structure of collagen improved in CAD treated with Zn-containing amalgams. Different levels of dentin remineralization were revealed by hierarchical cluster analysis.

Biochemical assessment of nanostructures in human trabecular bone: Proposal of a Raman microspectroscopy based measurements protocol

BACKGROUND

Improvements to the understating of the compositional contributions of bone mineral and organic components to the competence of trabecular bone are crucial. The purpose of this study was to propose a protocol to study biochemical composition of trabecular bone, based on two combined Raman analysis methodologies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Both cluster and single point Raman mappings were obtained, in order to assess bone degeneration associated with aging, disease, or injury, and to help in the evaluation and development of successful therapies. In this study, human trabecular bone has been analysed throughout a) Raman cluster analysis: bone mineral content, carbonate-to-phosphate ratio (both from the mineral components), the crosslinking and nature/secondary structure of collagen (both from the organic components); and b) Single point Raman spectra, where Raman points related to the minerals and organic components were also obtained, both techniques were employed in spectra attained at 400 to 1700 cm^-1.

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis confirmed: 1) the different spectral composition, 2) the existence of centroids grouped by chemical affinity of the various components of the trabecular bone, and 3) the several traces of centroids and distribution of chemical compositional clusters.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is important, because it delivers a study protocol that provides molecular variations information in both mineral and collagen structure of trabecular bone tissue. This will enable clinicians to benefit knowing the microstructural differences in the bone subjected to degeneration of their patients.

In vitro assessment of ribose modified two-step etch-and-rinse dentine adhesive

OBJECTIVE

Collagen fibrils aid in anchoring resin composite restorations to the dentine substrate. The aim of the study was to investigate effect of non-enzymatic glycation on bond strength and durability of demineralized dentine specimens in a modified two-step etch-and-rinse dentine adhesive.

METHODS

Dentine surfaces were etched with 37% phosphoric acid, bonded with respective in vitro ethanol and acetone adhesives modified with (m/m, 0, 1%, 2% and 3% ribose), restored with restorative composite-resin, and sectioned into resin-dentine slabs and beams to be stored for 24h or 12 months in artificial saliva. Bond-strength testing was performed with bond failure analysis. Pentosidine assay was performed on demineralized ribose modified dentine specimens with HPLC sensitive fluorescent detection. The structural variations of ribose-modified dentine were analysed using TEM and human dental pulpal cells were used for cell viability. Three-point bending test of ribose-modified dentine beams were performed and depth of penetration of adhesives evaluated with micro-Raman spectroscopy. The MMP-2 and cathepsin K activities in ribose-treated dentine powder were also quantified using ELISA. Bond strength data was expressed using two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test. Paired T tests were used to analyse the specimens for pentosidine crosslinks. The modulus of elasticity and dentinal MMP-2 and cathepsin K concentrations was separately analyzed using one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

The incorporation of RB in the experimental two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive at 1% improved the adhesive bond strength without adversely affecting the degree of polymerisation. The newly developed adhesive increases the resistance of dentine collagen to degradation by inhibiting endogenous matrix metalloproteinases and cysteine cathepsins. The application of RB to acid-etched dentine helps maintain the mechanical properties.

SIGNIFICANCE

The incorporation of 1%RB can be considered as a potential candidate stabilizing resin dentine bond.

Effects of Collagen Crosslinkers on Dentine: A Literature Review

This aim of this review is to explore the current research related to crosslinking agents used on dentine. A systematic search of publications in PubMed and Web of Science databases was performed. Further retrieval was conducted using the search terms of specific names of crosslinkers. Reviews, conference abstracts, dissertation and theses, non-English articles, studies of intrinsic crosslinking of dentine, studies of adhesives without specific crosslinker components, studies of crosslinker applications in other collagenous tissues or tooth-like structures and irrelevant studies were excluded. Manual screening was conducted on the bibliographies of remaining papers to identify other relevant articles. One hundred and one articles were included in this systematic review and full texts were retrieved. Both synthetic and naturally derived crosslinkers have been found to exhibit significant effects in biomodification of dentine via their multiple interactions with the dentine matrix. A stable matrix network or a durable hybrid layer in dentine bonding could be achieved, where the dentine collagen fibrils show improved biochemical and biomechanical properties and enzymatic biodegradation is reduced. Although no crosslinkers have been tested in clinical trials, extensive research has been conducted in laboratory studies to investigate their potential applicability for inhibition of demineralisation and/or promotion of remineralisation, caries prevention as well as improvement of bonding performance of adhesive systems. Further studies are needed to develop the feasibility for clinical use, reduce side effects as well as explore mechanisms of action and long-term effectiveness.

Comparative evaluation of chlorhexidine, grape seed extract, riboflavin/chitosan modification on microtensile bond strength of composite resin to dentin after polymerase chain reaction thermocycling: An in vitro study

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of chlorhexidine (CHX), grape seed extract (GSE), riboflavin/chitosan modification on microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of composite resin to dentin after polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thermocycling.

Materials and Methods:

Forty extracted human molars were used and a flat surface was then prepared by removing the occlusal one-third. The teeth were randomly assigned into four groups - Group I in which self-etch adhesive (Adper Easy One) was applied and Groups II, III, IV were pretreated with 2% CHX, 6.5% GSE, and 1% riboflavin/chitosan, respectively, before the application of self-etch adhesive. Composite build-ups were constructed, and PCR thermocycling (5000 cycles) was performed. The μTBS was evaluated using the universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test.

Results:

The mean μTBS values for Group I (control), Group II (CHX), Group III (GSE), and Group IV (riboflavin/chitosan modification) were 30.81, 43.15, 38.79, and 35.07 MPa, respectively.

Conclusion:

Pretreatment with CHX and GSE leads to a significant increase in μTBS of composite resin to dentin.

Mechanical properties and molecular structure analysis of subsurface dentin after Er:YAG laser irradiation

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the chemical and mechanical modifications in subsurface dentin layer after Er: YAG (Erbium-Yttrium Aluminium Garnet) laser irradiation, as the guidance of new dental restorative materials specific for laser irradiated dentin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dentin disks obtained from extracted human molars were prepared and exposed to a single pulse Er:YAG laser irradiation at 80mJ/pulse. After laser irradiation the mechanical and chemical characteristics of intertubular dentin in subsurface layer were studied using nanoindentation tester and micro-Raman spectromy (μ-RS). The dentin 5-50µm depth beneath the lased surface was determined as testing area. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to compare the mechanical values between lased and untreated subsurface dentin (P = 0.05).

RESULTS

A laser affected subsurface dentin layer after Er:YAG laser treatment is present. The laser irradiation is considered to decrease the mechanical properties in the superficial subsurface layer (<15µm deep). There was no significant difference in nanohardness and Young's modulus between lased subsurface dentin and untreated dentin (p > 0.05) under the depth of 15µm. However, the dentin at 5µm and 10µm depth beneath the lased surface exhibited significantly lower (~ 47.8% and ~ 33.6% respectively) hardness (p < 0.05). Er:YAG laser irradiation affected both mineral and organic components in subsurface dentin layer, a higher degree of crystallinity and reduced organic compounds occurred in the lased subsurface dentin.

CONCLUSION

Under the tested laser parameters, Er:YAG laser irradiation causes lower mechanical values and reduction of organic components in subsurface dentin, which has deleterious effects on resin adhesion to this area.

UVA-activated riboflavin improves the strength of human dentin

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

Wettability and surface morphology of eroded dentin treated with chitosan

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of chitosan, at concentrations of 2.5% and 5.0%, on the wettability of the eroded dentin, followed by analysis of surface morphology by SEM.

METHODS

104 bovine dentin slabs were ground, polished and then immersed in 20mL of citric acid (pH=3.2) under continuous stirring for 2h. Specimens were randomly divided according to the dentin substrate: sound and eroded, and then, subdivided into 4 groups (n=10): without rewetting (control), 1% acetic acid, 2.5% chitosan and 5.0% chitosan. Then, a drop of the adhesive system Single Bond 2 (3M) was deposited onto surface of each specimen. The contact angle between dentin surface and the adhesive system was measured by using a goniometer. The other 24 specimens were subjected to analysis under SEM. Statistical analysis was performed using the normality test (Kolmogorov-Smirnov) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) (p>0.05).

RESULTS

No differences were found between the angles produced on the eroded dentin rewetting with chitosan at the concentrations of 2.5% and 5%.

CONCLUSION

The chitosan, regardless of the concentration used, did not influence the eroded dentin wettability. Through SEM analysis, it was found particles of chitosan deposited on the surface and within the dentinal tubules.

Fabrication and evaluation of electrohydrodynamic jet 3D printed polycaprolactone/chitosan cell carriers using human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts

Biological function of adherent cells depends on the cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions in three-dimensional space. To understand the behavior of cells in 3D environment and their interactions with neighboring cells and matrix requires 3D culture systems. Here, we present a novel 3D cell carrier scaffold that provides an environment for routine 3D cell growth in vitro. We have developed thin, mechanically stable electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan macroporous scaffolds with precise fiber orientation for basic 3D cell culture application. We have evaluated the application of this technology by growing human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts within these 3D scaffolds. Assessment of cell viability and proliferation of cells seeded on polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan 3D-scaffolds show that the human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts could adhere and proliferate on the scaffolds over time. Further, using confocal microscopy we demonstrate the ability to use fluorescence-labelled cells that could be microscopically monitored in real-time. Hence, these 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan scaffolds could be used as a cell carrier for in vitro 3D cell culture-, bioreactor- and tissue engineering-related applications in the future.

Nanotechnology in dentistry: prevention, diagnosis, and therapy

Nanotechnology has rapidly expanded into all areas of science; it offers significant alternative ways to solve scientific and medical questions and problems. In dentistry, nanotechnology has been exploited in the development of restorative materials with some significant success. This review discusses nanointerfaces that could compromise the longevity of dental restorations, and how nanotechnolgy has been employed to modify them for providing long-term successful restorations. It also focuses on some challenging areas in dentistry, eg, oral biofilm and cancers, and how nanotechnology overcomes these challenges. The recent advances in nanodentistry and innovations in oral health-related diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic methods required to maintain and obtain perfect oral health, have been discussed. The recent advances in nanotechnology could hold promise in bringing a paradigm shift in dental field. Although there are numerous complex therapies being developed to treat many diseases, their clinical use requires careful consideration of the expense of synthesis and implementation.

Bond strength and bioactivity of Zn-doped dental adhesives promoted by load cycling

The purpose of this study was to evaluate if mechanical loading influences bioactivity and bond strength at the resin-dentin interface after bonding with Zn-doped etch-and-rinse adhesives. Dentin surfaces were subjected to demineralization by 37% phosphoric acid (PA) or 0.5 M ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Single bond (SB) adhesive—3M ESPE—SB+ZnO particles 20 wt% and SB+ZnCl2 2 wt% were applied on treated dentin to create the groups PA+SB, SB+ZnO, SB+ZnCl2, EDTA+SB, EDTA+ZnO, and EDTA+ZnCl2. Bonded interfaces were stored in simulated body fluid for 24 h and tested or submitted to mechanical loading. Microtensile bond strength (MTBS) was assessed. Debonded dentin surfaces were studied by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy. Remineralization of the bonded interfaces was assessed by atomic force microscope imaging/nanoindentation, Raman spectroscopy/cluster analysis, and Masson's trichrome staining. Load cycling (LC) produced reduction in MTBS in all PA+SB, and no change was encountered in EDTA+SB specimens, regardless of zinc doping. LC increased the mineralization and crystallographic maturity at the interface; a higher effect was noticed when using ZnO. Trichrome staining reflected a narrow demineralized dentin matrix after loading of dentin surfaces that were treated with SB-doped adhesives. This correlates with an increase in mineral platforms or plate-like multilayered crystals in PA or EDTA-treated dentin surfaces, respectively.

Masticatory function induced changes, at subnanostructural level, in proteins and mineral at the resin-dentine interface

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the ability of different in vitro mechanical loading tests to promote new mineral formation at the bonded dentine interfaces created with a two-step self-etching resin adhesive.

METHODOLOGY

Restored teeth were divided in the following groups: (1) unloaded, load cycling with (2) sine waveform, (3) square waveform, and hold waveform for (4) 24h, and (5) 72 h. Raman spectroscopy and cluster analysis were used to assess the resin-dentine interface.

RESULTS

Mechanical loading in CSEB-treated samples promoted a generalized increase of relative presence of minerals and ratio of phosphate peaks, except in square waveform, where the nature of collagen resulted damaged. Crystallinity of carbonate was higher than phosphate. The organic component showed, in general terms, an increase in crosslinking. Molecular orientation (α-helices) peaks augmented in all tests. Pentosidine vibration increases in all tests, except in hold 72 h. Ratios amide I and II/CH2 incremented, in general. Non uniform parameters of Bis-GMA and adhesive penetration were encountered, as both increased at the bottom of the hybrid layer when loading square and hold 72 h were applied.

SIGNIFICANCE

Functional remineralisation at the resin-dentine interface was attained after in vitro mechanical stimuli application. When loading in square waveform, the lowest vibrations to favor remineralisation were attained.

Surface microanalysis and chemical imaging of early dentin remineralization

This study reports physical and chemical changes that occur at early dentin remineralization stages. Extracted human third molars were sectioned to obtain dentin discs. After polishing the dentin surfaces, three groups were established: (1) untreated dentin (UD), (2) 37% phosphoric acid application for 15 s (partially demineralized dentin-PDD), and (3) 10% phosphoric acid for 12 h at 25° C (totally demineralized dentin-TDD). Five different remineralizing solutions were used: chlorhexidine (CHX), artificial saliva (AS), phosphate solution (PS), ZnCl2, and ZnO. Wettability (contact angle), ζ potential and Raman spectroscopy analysis were determined on dentin surfaces. Demineralization of dentin resulted in a higher contact angle. Wettability decreased after immersion in all solutions. ζ potential analysis showed dissimilar performance ranging from -6.21 mV (TDD + AS) up to 3.02 mV (PDD + PS). Raman analysis showed an increase in mineral components after immersing the dentin specimens, in terms of crystallinity, mineral content, and concentration. This confirmed the optimal incorporation and deposition of mineral on dentin collagen. Organic content reflected scarce changes, except in TDD that appeared partially denatured. Pyridinium, as an expression of cross-linking, appeared in all spectra except in specimens immersed in PS.