The effect of resin composite pre-heating on monomer conversion and polymerization shrinkage

The influence of finishing line and luting material selection on the seating accuracy of CAD/CAM indirect composite restorations

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the seating accuracy of resin composite CAD/CAM overlay restorations, employing various preparation designs and luting materials (pre-heated composite (HC) or resin cement (RC)).

METHODS

A human molar's STL file was utilized to create 100 3D-printed resin tooth replicas, randomly distributed into 5 groups (n = 20) based on finishing line preparation designs: 1) Rounded shoulder above the dental equator - DE (SA); 2) Chamfer above the DE (CA); 3) Butt joint above the DE (BJ); 4) Rounded shoulder below the DE (SB); 5) Chamfer below the DE (CB). Digital impressions were acquired for all replicas, and restorations milled using Tetric CAD (Ivoclar Vivadent). The restorations were luted with HC (Tetric Prime, Ivoclar Vivadent) or RC (RelyX Universal, 3 M). Seating accuracy was evaluated through digital scans during try-in without any luting agent and post-cementation using a 3D analysis software (Geomagic wrap, 3D Systems). Data were statistically analyzed using Two-Way ANOVA (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

The type of luting material (RC vs HC), preparation design, and their interactions significantly impacted 3D seating of the restorations (p < 0.001). HC exhibited higer volumetric increase than RC. BJ and CA designs consistently demonstrated superior seating accuracy, irrespective of the luting material used.

CONCLUSIONS

The utilization of pre-heated composite resin could negatively influence the seating of overlay restorations, probably due to its higher viscosity when compared to the resin cement. However, when HC is selected as luting agent, preparation designs lacking internal angles are recommended for enhancing the precision of overlays seating.

Does Preheating Influence the Cytotoxic Potential of Dental Resin Composites?

Resin-based dental composites (RBC) release cytotoxic components, however the extent of the elution from preheated RBCs is barely investigated. The aim was therefore to determine the cytotoxic effect of preheated conventional, bulk, and thermoviscous RBCs of clinically relevant sizes using different cell viability methods in a contact-free model. Samples (6 × 4 mm) were prepared from conventional [Estelite Sigma Quick (ESQ), Filtek Z250 (FZ)] and bulk-filled [Filtek One BulkFill Restorative (FOB), SDR Plus Bulk Flow (SDR), VisCalor Bulk (VCB)] RBCs. The pre-polymerization temperature was set to room temperature (RT) and 55/65 °C. Pulp cells were cultured, followed by a 2-day exposure to monomers released from solid RBC specimens suspended in the culture medium. Cytotoxicity was assessed using a WST-1, MTT, and LDH colorimetric viability assays. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc test, multivariate analysis, and independent t-test. The effect size (ƞp2) of material and temperature factors was also assessed. All the RBCs demonstrated cytotoxic effect upon exposure to pulp cells, but to a varying extent (ESQ >> VCB > FZ = FOB = SDR). The effect of pre-polymerization temperature was insignificant (ƞp2 < 0.03), except for the thermoviscous RBC, which showed inconsistent findings when subjected to distinct viability tests. Cell viability was predominantly dependent on the type of material used (p < 0.001) which showed a large effect size (ƞp2 > 0.90). Irrespective of the pre-polymerization temperature, RBC samples in a clinically relevant size can release monomers to such an extent, which can substantially decrease the cytocompatibility.

Comparative Evaluation of Microtensile Bond Strength in Three Different Dentin Luting Agents: An In vitro Study

Aim

Long-term clinical success on indirect restorations is largely determined by bonding efficiency of the luting agent, with adhesion to dentin being the main challenge. Therefore, aim of this study was to assess the microtensile bond strength when using flowable resin composite, preheated resin composite and dual self-adhesive resin cement as dentin luting agents.

Materials and Methods

Occlusal thirds of molar teeth were cut and randomly divided into 3 groups to be cemented: RelyX™U200, Filtek™ Z250 XT- preheated to 70° and Filtek Flow™ Z350XT. They were then thermocycled 5000 times between 5+/-2°C and 55+/-2°C. Subsequently, 10 microbars per group were prepared. The 30 samples were placed in saline solution for 24 hours at room temperature prior to microtensile test. This was performed with a digital universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. The bond strength values obtained were analyzed in Megapascals (MPa). Measures of central tendency such mean and measures of dispersion such standard deviation were used. In addition, the Kruskall Wallis non-parametric test with Bonferroni post hoc test was applied, considering a significance value of 5% (P < 0.05), with type I error.

Results

The dentin microtensile bond strengths of preheated resin composite, flowable resin composite and dual self-adhesive cement were 6.08 ± 0.66 Mpa, 5.25 ± 2.60Mpa and 2.82 ± 1.26Mpa, respectively. In addition, the preheated resin composite exhibited significantly higher microtensile bond strength compared to the dual self-adhesive cement (P < 0.001). While the flowable resin composite showed no significant difference with the dual self-adhesive cement (P = 0.054) and the preheated resin composite (P = 0.329).

Conclusions

The microtensile bond strength in dentin was significantly higher when using a preheated resin composite at 70°C as a luting agent compared to dual self-adhesive cement. However, the preheated resin composite showed similar microtensile bond strength compared to the flowable resin composite.

The influence of pre-heating the restoration and luting agent on the flexural strength of indirect ceramic and composite restorations

Background

This study investigated the impact of luting procedure and restoration thicknesses on the flexural strength of CAD/CAM restorations. Traditional luting agents have been questioned in favor of pre-heated resin composites or flowable composites.

Materials and Methods

400 disc-shaped restorations (lithium disilicate [IPS e.max CAD] or resin composite [Tetric CAD, Ivoclar]) were cemented onto dentin analog discs using different procedures (n = 20): dual-curing resin cement (Panavia V5), light-curing resin cement (Panavia Veneer LC), pre-heated resin composite (Clearfil™ AP-X) with or without pre-heated restoration, and high-filled flowable composite (Clearfil Majesty™ Flow). The biaxial flexural strength was calculated.

Results

There were significant effects of material, thickness, and luting procedure on flexural strength (p < 0.001). Resin composite specimens exhibited lower flexural strength (90 MPa) compared to lithium disilicate specimens (571 MPa), with thicker restorations (338 MPa) being stronger than thinner ones (323 MPa). Light-curing cement showed the highest strength (408.8 MPa)A, followed by dual-curing cement (362 MPa)B, pre-heated cement with pre-heated composite (318 MPa)C, pre-heated composite (304 MPa)C, and flowable resin composite (259 MPa)D. The light-curing cement yielded similar results to the pre-heated resin composite associated or not with the pre-heated crown for the thicker lithium disilicate specimens, whereas for the thinner lithium disilicate specimens all luting procedures performed similarly. Thin resin composite discs showed higher flexural strength when luted with light-curing cement, whereas the luting procedure had less influence for the thicker restorations.

Conclusion

Luting procedures impact the flexural strength of CAD/CAM lithium disilicate and resin composite restorations. Pre-heated resin composite, with or without pre-heated restoration, can replace dual-curing cement. Nevertheless, light-curing cement is superior for resin composite and 1.5 mm lithium disilicate restorations.

Support Structures Optimisation for High-Quality Metal Additive Manufacturing with Laser Powder Bed Fusion: A Numerical Simulation Study

This study focuses on Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM), an emerging method known for its ability to create lightweight components and intricate designs. However, Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), a prominent AM technique, faces a major challenge due to the development of high residual stress, resulting in flawed parts and printing failures. The study's goal was to assess the thermal behaviour of different support structures and optimised designs to reduce the support volume and residual stress while ensuring high-quality prints. To explore this, L-shaped specimens were printed using block-type support structures through an LPBF machine. This process was subsequently validated through numerical simulations, which were in alignment with experimental observations. In addition to block-type support structures, line, contour, and cone supports were examined numerically to identify the optimal solutions that minimise the support volume and residual stress while maintaining high-quality prints. The optimisation approach was based on the Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology and multi-objective optimisation. The findings revealed that block supports exhibited excellent thermal behaviour. High-density supports outperformed low-density alternatives in temperature distribution, while cone-type supports were more susceptible to warping. These insights provide valuable guidance for improving the metal AM and LPBF processes, enabling their broader use in industries like aerospace, medical, defence, and automotive.

3D-2D microleakage assessment of preheated bulk-fill composite resin applied with different parameters: a micro-CT analysis

This study evaluated microleakage from class II cavities filled with bulk-fill composite preheated to different temperatures, applied at different thicknesses, and with different polymerization modes. A total of 60 mesio-occlusal cavity were drilled into the extracted human third molars at 2 mm and 4 mm thickness. Preheated bulk-fill composite resin (Viscalor; VOCO, Germany) was applied to the cavities at 68 °C and 37 °C after the adhesive resin was applied, and cured using standard and high-power light-curing modes of a VALO light-curing unit. An incrementally applied microhybrid composite was used as the control. The teeth were subjected to 2000 cycles of heating to 55 °C and cooling to 5 °C with a 30-s hold time. Then, they were immersed in a 50% silver nitrate solution for 24 h and scanned with micro-computed tomography. Scanned data were processed using the CTAn software. Two (2D) and three (3D) dimensional analyses of leached silver nitrate were performed. The data's normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test before comparisons using a three-way analysis of variance. In both 2D and 3D analysis, bulk-fill composite resin preheated to 68 °C and applied at 2 mm thickness showed less microleakage. In the 3D analysis, restorations applied at 37 °C and 4 mm thickness in high-power mode showed significantly higher values (p < 0.001). Preheated bulk-fill composite resin can be applied at 68 °C and effectively cured at both 2 mm and 4 mm thickness.

Real-time multispectral transmission of hard tooth tissues and dental composites with their heating

The objective of the study was to investigate the real-time transmission of Violet, Blue, Red and Near Infra-Red (NIR) irradiation through 2 or 4 mm thick dental composites and tooth tissue samples at varying positions of Light Curing Unit (LCU) with polymerization temperature monitoring.

METHODS

The composites tested were: Filtek Universal Restorative (FUR), Filtek One Bulk Fill (FBF), Tetric EvoCeram (TEC), Tetric Bulk Fill (TBF) and Tetric PowerFill (TPF). The new LCU Pinkwave (a four-wavelength source manufactured by Vista Apex, USA) was placed either centrally or eccentrically for 3 mm above the sample. A Fiber spectrometer detected irradiation and Infrared Thermal camera polymerization temperatures.

RESULTS

All eccentric LCU positions significantly weaken transmitted spectra for all composites in both thickness, jeopardizing Blue light. The LCU position did not affect transmitted irradiation for tooth tissues. The reduction in wavelength intensity when penetrating through thicker compared to thinner composite samples was 62%, 50% and 31% for Blue, NIR and Red, respectively, and 90%, 50% and 35% for tooth tissue samples, respectively. The temperature of bulk fill composites with additional photoinitiators rises faster. Eccentric LCU positions cause a significant decrease in both speed and the maximal value of temperature rise. Red and NIR irradiations contribute to the polymerization temperature.

SIGNIFICANCE

Tested LCU source cause considerable inhomogeneity in the emitted and transmitted spectra. Tooth tissues homogenize irradiation, but drastically attenuates it. Red light has better potential than Blue light concerning penetration and could be further investigated as the wavelength for activation of an adjusted photoinitiator.

Effect of pre-heating methods and devices on the mechanical properties, post-gel shrinkage, and shrinkage stress of bulk-fill materials

This study evaluated the effect of using two different pre-heating methods on the three resin-based composite (RBCs). Three paste viscosity bulk-fill RBCs (VisCalor Bulk [VC]; VOCO; x-tra fil Caps [XF], VOCO; Filtek One Bulk Fill [FO], 3 M) were pre-heated using either a VisCalor Dispenser (VOCO) to 65 °C, or the Caps Warmer (VOCO) to 37 °C, 54 °C, or 68 °C. The temperature inside the capsules and cavity was monitored before and after insertion into the matrix. Within 30 s of inserting the RBC, they were light-activated using a VALO (Ultradent) curing light for 20 s. The post-gel shrinkage (Shr - %), Flexural Strength (FS - MPa), Elastic Modulus (E - MPa), degree of conversion (DC - %), Knoop Hardness (KH - N/mm²), diametral tensile strength (DTS - MPa), and compressive strength (CS - MPa) of the RBCs were measured (10 specimens per group). The shrinkage stress was calculated using three-dimensional finite element analysis. Data were analyzed using one-way, two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). The temperature fell rapidly after the RBC was inserted into the cavity. Pre-heating the RBCs did not affect the mechanical properties. FO had the lowest E, DC, and KH values, VC had intermediate values, and XF achieved the highest values. The DTS and CS values were not affected by the various pre-heating methods, the temperature, or RBC. Pre-heating methods at 37 °C produced higher shrinkage for all RBCs. VC pre-heated to 65 °C produced the lowest stress when measured at 10 min after light activation.

Effect of preheating on the physicochemical properties and bond strength of composite resins utilized as dental cements: An in vitro study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Little is known regarding the use of preheated composite resins to bond indirect restorations and its impact on mechanical properties when compared with resin cements.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the chemical and physical properties and bond strength to enamel and ceramics of preheated composite resins and resin cements.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two composite resins, the microhybrid Filtek Z250XT and the nanoparticulate Z350XT were tested, and 2 commercially available resin cements, the dual-polymerized Rely-X ARC and the light-polymerized Rely-X Veneer were used as controls. A device (HotSet) was used to preheat the composite resins to 69 °C before light-polymerization. The following properties were tested: flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, fracture toughness, microshear bond strength to enamel and ceramics, degree of conversion, flow, sorption and solubility, and color stability. Statistical analysis was done with ANOVA and Holm-Sidak for multiple comparisons (α=.05).

RESULTS

Preheating had no significant effect on the degree of conversion, flexural strength, fracture toughness, solubility, or microshear bond strength to the enamel of the tested composite resins (P>.05). However, preheating increased the sorption and reduced the microshear bond strength to the ceramic (P<.05). The flowability of the composite resins increased with heating but showed lower values when compared with both resin cements (P<.05). Color stability was more affected in the preheated composite resins than in the resin cements.

CONCLUSIONS

The preheating process resulted in little to no benefit in the evaluated properties for the composite resins. Resin cements appear to be the best option for cementing indirect restorations.

Effect of Pre-Heating on the Monomer Elution and Porosity of Conventional and Bulk-Fill Resin-Based Dental Composites

The pre-heating of dental resin-based composites (RBCs) improves adaptability to cavity walls, reducing microleakages. However, the rapid cooling of the pre-heated RBC may change the polymerization kinetics, and thus the final network configuration of the RBC. It is well known that unreacted monomers remaining in the set RBC can leach into the oral cavity. However, it is still not clear how the pre-heating and cooling of RBCs alter monomer elution (ME). Thus, the purpose was to determine the ME from room-temperature and pre-heated RBCs, in addition to determining the closed porosity (CP) volume. Bulk-filled RBCs and layered conventional RBC samples were prepared. The pre-polymerization temperature was set at 24 °C and 55/65 °C. The ME from RBC samples was assessed with high-performance liquid chromatography using standard monomers. CP was measured with micro-computed tomography. ME decreased significantly from bulk fills and increased from layered samples as a result of pre-heating. Pre-heating was unfavorable in terms of CP in most RBCs. Based on the effect size analysis, ME and CP were greatly influenced by both material composition, pre-polymerization temperature, and their interaction. While the pre-heating of high-viscosity bulk-fill RBCs is advantageous from a clinical aspect regarding biocompatibility, it increases CP, which is undesirable from a mechanical point of view.

Polymerization and shrinkage kinetics and fracture toughness of bulk-fill resin-composites

OBJECTIVES

To determine degree of conversion (DC), maximum polymerization rate (RPmax), polymerization shrinkage (PS), maximum shrinkage rate (PS Rmax) and fracture toughness (KIC) of different types of bulk-fill (BF) composites plus the effect of viscosity reduction techniques.

METHODS

BF specimens were created in 2 mm deep molds: SonicFill 3 (SF3), Viscalor (VC), One Bulk Fill (OBF) and Beautifil Bulk (BBR). SF3 was applied via sonic insertion using a SonicFill handpiece (Kerr Corp. USA). Viscalor was pre-heated in a Caps Warmer in T3 mode (at 68 °C) for 30 s (T3-30 s) and 3 min (T3-3 min), respectively. Specimens were irradiated at zero distance from the upper surface with an Elipar S10 LED unit (3 M ESPE, USA) of mean irradiance 1200 mW/cm2 for 40 s. Real-time polymerization kinetics and DC at 5 min and 24 h post-irradiation (DC5 min and DC24 h) were measured using ATR-FTIR (n = 3). PS was measured up to 1 h on 1 mm thick discs via the bonded-disk technique (n = 3) and PS Rmax obtained by numerical differentiation (n = 3). For fracture toughness, single-edge-notched specimens (32 × 6 ×3 mm) of each BF composite were prepared and measured by three-point bending after 7 d water storage (n = 5). Data were analysed using One-way ANOVA, independent T-tests and Tukey post-hoc tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

SF3 showed the significantly highest DC5 min, DC24 h and RPmax (p < 0.05), followed by OBF (p < 0.05). Regardless of pre-heating, VC showed comparable conversion kinetics to BBR (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in PS of these BF composites, except OBF had the highest PS (p > 0.05). However, PS Rmax significantly varied among materials (p = 0.047) and SF3 had the highest PS Rmax. Regarding fracture toughness, BBR had the lowest KIC (p < 0.05), whereas other composites showed similar KIC (p > 0.05). Strong correlations of filler content (wt%)-PS/KIC were found. Different pre-heating times had no significant influences on DC %, RPmax, PS, PS Rmax and KIC of VC (p > 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

Different types of bulk-fill composites showed comparable shrinkage. A highly filled BF giomer composite (BBR) had the lowest fracture toughness, whereas others had similar KIC. Pre-heating had no adverse effects on Viscalor properties. Sonication and pre-heating are beneficial techniques to enhance composite flowability without either increasing shrinkage or reducing fracture toughness.

Composite Pre-heating: A Novel Approach in Restorative Dentistry

Resin composite pre-heating is a novel approach that might improve handling and marginal adaptation of the unset material paste in clinical application. The goal of this review article is to compile all laboratory experiments on resin composite preheating and see how it impacts the mechanical properties of the material. Results have shown that preheating composite resins improves the degree of conversion, stiffness, marginal adaptability, and microhardness. While flexural strength is unbothered, polymerization shrinkage is hindered, and the microleakage results are unknown.

Luting indirect restorations with resin cements versus composite resins: Effects of preheating and ultrasound energy on film thickness

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate and compare the film thickness obtained with a resin cement and two composite resins, preheated and/or ultrasonically vibrated, as luting agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and twenty-six (126) pairs of resin discs were randomly assigned to six experimental groups (n = 21) according to luting agent (Variolink Esthetic LC, IPS Empress Direct or Estelite Omega) and cementation technique (preheating at 68°C and/or ultrasonic vibration). Specimens were luted by applying a controlled force. Following sectioning and film thickness measurement through field emission gun scanning electron microscopy, statistical analysis was carried out considering a 5% significance level.

RESULTS

Statistically significant lower film thickness was observed in Variolink Esthetic LC group when compared to all composite resin groups (p < 0.001), except IPS Empress Direct preheated and ultrasonically vibrated group (p = 0.073). IPS Empress Direct with ultrasonic vibration yielded statistically lower film thickness values than Estelite Omega groups, regardless of luting technique (p < 0.05). Ultrasonically vibrated Estelite Omega groups showed statistically lower film thickness values than solely preheated groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Both Variolink Esthetic LC and IPS Empress Direct preheated and ultrasonically vibrated provided the lowest film thickness. The addition of ultrasonic vibration during cementation proved to be effective in reducing film thickness of both tested composite resins.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The cementation technique will have variable results depending on the luting material. Adhesive cementation protocols with composite resins should mainly consider ultrasonic vibration, but also preheating, as strategies for reducing film thickness. The tested resin cement, alongside with IPS Empress Direct composite resin preheated and ultrasonically vibrated, provided the lowest film thickness among the tested materials and techniques.

Structural, Physical, and Mechanical Analysis of ZnO and TiO2 Nanoparticle-Reinforced Self-Adhesive Coating Restorative Material

This study aimed to modify an EQUIA coat (EC; GC, Japan) by incorporating 1 and 2 wt.% of zinc oxide (ZnO; EC-Z1 and EC-Z2) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂; EC-T1 and EC-T2) nanoparticles, whereby structural and phase analyses were assessed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry, micro-hardness, and water absorption analyses were conducted, and the microstructure was studied by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive spectroscopy. FTIR spectra showed a reduction in peak heights of amide (1521 cm^-1) and carbonyl (1716 cm^-1) groups. XRD showed peaks of ZnO (2θ ~ 31.3°, 34.0°, 35.8°, 47.1°, 56.2°, 62.5°, 67.6°, and 68.7°) and TiO₂ (2θ ~ 25.3°, 37.8°, 47.9, 54.5°, 62.8°, 69.5°, and 75.1°) corresponding to a hexagonal phase with a wurtzite structure and an anatase phase, respectively. Thermal stability was improved in newly modified materials in comparison to the control group. The sequence of obtained glass transitions was EC-T2 (111 °C), EC-T1 (102 °C), EC-Z2 (98 °C), EC-Z1 (92 °C), and EC-C (90 °C). EC-T2 and EC-T1 showed the highest (43.76 ± 2.78) and lowest (29.58 ± 3.2) micro-hardness values. EC showed the maximum water absorption (1.6%) at day 7 followed by EC-T1 (0.82%) and EC-Z1 (0.61%). These results suggest that EC with ZnO and TiO₂ nanoparticles has the potential to be used clinically as a coating material.

Pre-Heating Effect on Monomer Elution and Degree of Conversion of Contemporary and Thermoviscous Bulk-Fill Resin-Based Dental Composites

Detection of unreacted monomers from pre-heated resin-based dental composites (RBC) is not a well-investigated topic so far. The objectives were to determine the temperature changes during the application and polymerization, the degree of conversion (DC) and unreacted monomer elution of room temperature (RT), and pre-heated thermoviscous [VisCalor Bulk(VCB)] and high-viscosity full-body contemporary [Filtek One Bulk(FOB)] bulk-fill RBCs. The RBCs' temperatures during the sample preparation were recorded with a K-type thermocouple. The DC at the top and bottom was measured with micro-Raman spectroscopy and the amounts of eluted BisGMA, UDMA, DDMA, and TEGDMA were assessed with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. The temperatures of the pre-heated RBCs decreased rapidly during the manipulation phase. The temperature rise during photopolymerization reflects the bottom DCs. The differences in DC% between the top and the bottom were significant. RT VCB had a lower DC% compared to FOB. Pre-heating did not influence the DC, except on the bottom surface of FOB where a significant decrease was measured. Pre-heating significantly decreased the elution of BisGMA, UDMA, DDMA in the case of FOB, meanwhile, it had no effect on monomer release from VCB, except TEGDMA, which elution was decreased. In comparison, RBC composition had a stronger influence on DC and monomer elution, than pre-cure temperature.

Effect of repeated heating and cooling cycles on the degree of conversion and microhardness of four resin composites

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effect of repeatedly heating and cooling four resin-based composites (RBCs) for up to six cycles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four commercial RBCs were heated to 68°C and cooled to room temperature for up to six cycles before photocuring at 30°C. Specimens spent a total of 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 min, or 7 days at 68°C. The degree of conversion (DC) was measured at the bottom of the specimens immediately after photocuring. The Vickers microhardness was measured at the top and bottom of the RBC surfaces 24 h after photocuring. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, Dunnett's or Bonferroni post-hoc tests, and Spearman correlation analysis (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

For two brands of RBC, the DC decreased at various time points; however, these decreases were small, and there was no correlation (negative or positive) between the number of heating cycles and the DC for any of the RBCs. Repeated heated and cooling resulted in small changes in the hardness (compared to the control) in both directions (Dunnett; p < 0.05). Two of the RBCs showed a significant, positive correlation between the number of heating cycles and their hardness at the bottom surface.

CONCLUSION

Repeated heating, cooling, and then reheating the RBCs for up to 1 week had little overall effect on their DC and microhardness values. The 2 mm thick specimens of all four RBCs achieved a bottom: top hardness ratio exceeding 0.8 after a 20 s exposure to light from a commercial LED curing light CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Six repeated dry heating and cooling cycles of up to 1 week in duration had little effect on the DC and the microhardness of four commercial resin-based composites.

Spatio-temporal temperature fields generated coronally with bulk-fill resin composites: A thermography study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effects of (i) a high-irradiance (3s) light-curing protocol versus (ii) two standard-irradiance (10s) protocols on 2D temperature maps during intra-dental photo-irradiation within a molar cavity restored with either Ultra-Rapid Photo-Polymerized Bulk Fill (URPBF) composites or a pre-heated thermo-viscous bulk-fill composite, compared to a standard bulk-fill resin-based-composite (RBC). The specific objectives included visual assessment of the temperature maps and quantitative assessment of several temperature/time plots at four different locations.

METHODS

A caries-free lower first molar cavity served as a natural tooth mold. Resin composites were placed without intermediary adhesive. Two URPBF composites (PFill; PFlow) and one pre-heated thermo-viscous bulk-fill composite (Viscalor: VC) were compared to a contemporary bulk-fill composite (One Bulk Fill: OBF). Two LED-LCU devices were used: Bluephase PowerCure (PC) and Elipar S10 (S10), with three light-irradiation protocols (PC-3s, PC-10s and S10-10s). 2D temperature maps over the entire coronal area were recorded for 120 s during and after irradiation using a thermal imaging camera. Changes at four different levels were selected from the data sets: (0, 2 and 4 mm from the cavity top and at 1 mm below the dentin cavity floor). The maximum temperature attained (T_max), the mean temperature rise (ΔT), the time (s) to reach maximum temperature and the integrated areas (°C s) under the temperature/time (T/t) plots were identified. Data were analysed via three-way ANOVA, One-way ANOVA, independent t-tests and Tukey post-hoc tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS

All RBCs showed qualitatively similar temperature-time profiles. PFlow reached T_max in the shortest time. PC-3s (3000 mW/cm²) generated comparable ΔT to S10-10s, except with PFill, where ΔT was greater. Despite the same irradiance (1200 mW/cm²), Elipar S10 led to higher T_max and ΔT compared to PC-10s. The highest T_max and ΔT were observed at the 2 mm level, and the lowest were at 1 mm depth into the underlying dentin.

SIGNIFICANCE

Coronal 2D temperature maps showed rises largely confined within the bulk-fill RBC materials, with maxima at 2 mm rather than 4 mm depth indicating some extent of thermal insulation for the underlying dentin and pulp. RBCs polymerized via different irradiation protocols showed similar temperature changes. With the PC-3s protocol - also with pre-heated VC - minimal temperature rises at 1 mm within dentin suggest their clinical safety when sufficient remaining dentin thickness is present.

Evaluation of the Bond Strength and Marginal Seal of Indirect Restorations of Composites Bonded with Preheating Resin

Objective  Preheated resins (PR) are considered a cementing agent option for indirect adhesive restorations of composite inlays and onlays. The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the marginal sealing, adhesive interface, and microtensile bond strength of indirect adhesive restorations of composites in terms of dentin cemented with PR.

Materials and Methods  Standardized Class II preparations were performed on 30 extracted human premolars, impressions were taken, and indirect composite restorations were manufactured. In total, 15 restorations were cemented with PR (ENA HRi, SYNCA), and 15 restorations were cemented with self-adhesive resinous cement (RC) (Relyx U200, 3M ESPE), followed by a thermocycling regime. After that, these were segmented sagittally and longitudinally to evaluate the marginal sealing and the adhesive interface with scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. Microtensile bond strength was assessed with a mechanical device (TA. XT Plus C, Stable Micro System).

Statistical analysis  Statistical analysis was conducted using the two-sample Student’s t -test.

Results  The results showed that there is no statistically significant difference in the degree of microfiltration using PR or RC; however, microtensile bond strength is greater when the restoration is cemented with RC (278.75 N/cm ³ ) than with PR (144.49 N/cm ³ ), and better adjustment and sealing were observed for composite restorations with PR.

Conclusion  PR comprise an alternative cementing agent for indirect composite restorations in Class II cavities in premolars.

Viscosity and thermal kinetics of 10 preheated restorative resin composites and effect of ultrasound energy on film thickness

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated viscosity and thermal kinetics of 10 selected preheated restorative resin composites and the effect of ultrasound energy on film thickness.

METHODS

A range of different resin composites was tested: Charisma Diamond, IPS Empress Direct, Enamel Plus HRi, Essentia, Estelite Omega, Filtek Z100, Filtek Z350 XT, Gradia, TPH Spectrum and VisCalor. A flowable resin composite (Opallis Flow) and two resin cements (RelyX Veneer, Variolink Esthetic LC) also were tested. Viscosity (Pa s) was measured at 37 °C and 69 °C (preheating temperature) using a rheometer. Film thickness (μm) was measured before and after application of ultrasound energy. Temperature loss within resin composite following preheating (°C/s) was monitored. Data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Viscosity at 69 °C was lower than at 37 °C for all materials except the flowable resin composite. Preheating reduced viscosity between 47% and 92% for the restorative resin composites, which were generally more viscous than the flowable materials. Film thickness varied largely among materials. All preheated resin composites had films thicker than 50 μm without ultrasound energy. Application of ultrasound reduced film thickness between 21% and 49%. Linear and nonlinear regressions did not identify any relationship between filler loading, viscosity, and/or film thickness. All materials showed quick temperature reduction following preheating, showing maximum temperature loss rates after approximately 10 s.

SIGNIFICANCE

Distinct restorative resin composites react differently to preheating, affecting viscosity and film thickness. The overall performance of the preheating technique depends on proper material selection and use of ultrasound energy for reducing film thickness.

The effect of composite resin preheating on marginal adaptation of class II restorations

Background

One of the problems with a high filler content composite resins is gap formation at restorative material-tooth interface. The present study investigated the effect of preheating composite resins on the formation of marginal gap in Cl II restorations.

Material and Methods

In this in vitro study Sixty Cl II cavities were prepared on the mesial and distal surfaces of 30 extracted premolar teeth. The gingival floor of cavities was placed 1 m below the CEJ. The samples were randomly allocated to 4 groups for restoration placement: group 1, Filtek P60 composite resin at room temperature; group 2, Filtek P60 composite resin at 68°C; group 3, X-tra fil composite resin at room temperature; and group 4, X-tra fil composite resin at 68°C. After a thermocycling procedure, the teeth were sectioned longitudinally in a buccolingual direction. Then the marginal gaps of the samples were measured at proximal and gingival margins under a scanning electron microscope at ×2000 magnification in µm. The data were analyzed with SPSS 21, using one-way ANOVA, post hoc Tukey tests and paired t-test (α=0.05).

Results

Groups 2 and 4 exhibited significantly lower marginal gaps, compared to groups 1 and 3, at both enamel (P<0.0001 and P=0.001, respectively) and dentinal walls (P<0.0001). In all the groups, there was significantly less marginal gaps at composite-enamel wall compared to composite-dentin wall interfaces (P<0.0001). There was no significant difference between groups 1 and 3 and groups 2 and 4 in enamel walls (p= 0.96, p= 0.99 respectively) and dentinal walls (p= 0.85, p=0.98 respectively).

Conclusions

Preheating resulted in a decrease in marginal gaps in both composite resins. The effect of composite resin type on marginal adaptation was the same. Key words:Composite resin, dental marginal adaptation, preheating.

The effect of preheating of composite resin on its color stability after immersion in tea and coffee solutions: An in-vitro study

Background

One of the concerns in using composite resins is color change. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of preheating on color stability of composite resins when immersed in coffee and tea.

Material and Methods

This experimental study included 60 composite disks. The samples were divided into 2 groups, one group prepared at room temperature and the other prepared at 68 °C. After curing, the samples were placed in 37 °C distilled water for 24 hours. The color of the samples was measured (t0) using spectrophotometer according to CIE-L*a*b* system. The samples of each group were then divided into 3 subgroups and respectively immersed in distillated water, coffee and tea for 30 days and the final color (t1) was measured. The difference between the measured colors was calculated (∆E) and the results were analyzed using version 21.0 of SPSS software, Paired t-test, ANOVA, Tukey’s test, and Dunnett t-test.

Results

The preheated composites showed significantly lower staining in the coffee solution than the room temperature composites (p<0.0001). In contrast, no statistically significant difference was observed for the tea solution (p =0.317). The staining of the preheated composites in distillated water was higher than those in the room temperature, however, the difference was not significant (p =0.99).

Conclusions

Within the limits of this study, preheating was effective to improve color stability of composite resin after long time immersion in coffee solution.

Key words:Composite resin, color stability, preheating.

Influence of Pre-Heating Regular Resin Composites and Flowable Composites on Luting Ceramic Veneers with Different Thicknesses

The aim of this study was to evaluate of pre-heating, filler contents and ceramic thickness on film thickness, microshear bond strength, degree of conversion and color change on ceramic veneers. Two experimental composites were prepared (Bis-GMA/UDMA/BisEMA/ TEGDMA), with different amounts of filler (65% or 50%wt) simulating a conventional and a flowable composite. The flowable (F) was used at room temperature and, the conventional either at room temperature (C) or pre-heated (CPH). Disk-shaped ceramics with different thickness (0.4 mm, 0.8 mm, 1.5 mm) were prepared. The film thickness was evaluated according to the ISO 4049 (n=10). The microshear bond strength (n=10) was evaluated in enamel using tubing specimens light-cured through the ceramic veneer. The degree of conversion was evaluated using Raman spectroscopy. The color change of the ceramic restorations (n=10) was evaluated by spectrophotometry. The results were submitted to 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (a=5%). For the film thickness 1-way ANOVA was used (a=5%). The C presented the thicker film thickness; the CPH produced a similar film thickness in comparison to the F. All composites showed similar microshear bond strength. The degree of conversion of the F was higher than the C and CPH. The degree of conversion of the composites photo-activated through a 0.4 mm was higher than the composites photo-activated through thicker ceramics. The C showed the highest color change, while the CPH showed similar color change to the F. In conclusion, pre-heated conventional composites seem to be a potential alternative to lute ceramic veneers such as the flowable composites.

In Vitro Biocompatibility of Preheated Giomer and Microfilled-Hybrid Composite

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate cytotoxic potencies of two light cured composite materials after heating on different temperatures and cured directly and through CAD/CAM overlay.

Materials and methods

Composite materials (microfilled-hybrid Gradia Direct Posterior and Beautifil II) were heated in a Calset warming unit at three different temperatures (T1:37°C, T2:54°C, T3:68°C). A small amount of heated composite material was placed in a round mold (diameter 6mm; 0.65mm thick), covered with Mylar sheet, pressed and polymerized with Bluephase LED unit. One group of samples were polymerized directly, and the other group through 2mm thick CAD/CAM ceramic-reinforced polymer (CRP) and CAD/CAM lithium disilicate ceramic (LDC) overlay for 20 and 40 seconds. The polymerized samples were placed immediately after curing in a lymphocyte cell culture. The viability of peripheral blood lymphocytes was evaluated using a dye exclusion technique by simultaneous staining with ethidium bromide and acridine orange. Quantitative assessments were made by determination of the percentage of viable, apoptotic and necrotic cells. The Pearson chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

In case of 20 seconds polymerization, the highest number of viable cells polymerization were recorded when materials were heated at 37°C (T1), while in case of 40 seconds polymerization, the highest number of viable cells were recorded when the materials were heated at 54°C (T2). The samples polymerized through CAD/CAM overlays showed less cytotoxicity than samples polymerized directly.

Conclusion

Apart from composite material composition, the cell viability was also influenced by curing time, temperature of pre-heating and polymerization pattern.

Toxicology of Pre-heated Composites Polymerized Directly and Through CAD/CAM Overlay

Objectives

The aim was to compare cytotoxicity/genotoxicity of pre-heated composites polymerized through CAD/CAM overlays on isolated human peripheral blood lymphocytes.

Material and Methods

A microhybrid (Z100, 3M ESPE) and nanofilled composite (Filtek Supreme Ultra, 3M ESPE) were heated in a heating unit (Calset, AdDent Inc.) at different temperatures: 37 ^oC, 54 ^oC, and 68 ^oC. A small amount of heated composite was placed in a cylindrical mold (6mm diameter; 0.65mm thick), covered with a Mylar sheet, pressed and light-cured directly and through 2 mm thick CAD/CAM ceramic-reinforced polymer (CRP)(LAVA Ultimate, 3M ESPE) or CAD/CAM lithium disilicate ceramic (LDC)(e.max, Ivoclar/Vivadent) overlay. After curing, the specimens were immediately placed in a prepared lymphocyte cell culture. Cytotoxicity was assessed using a dye exclusion method by simultaneous staining with ethidium bromide and acridine orange, aimed to determine percentages of viable, apoptotic and necrotic cells. Genotoxicity was studied using alkaline comet assay.

Results

For Z100, the highest percentage of viable cells is recorded at T1 (93.7%) after direct light curing, followed by light curing through CRP (92.3%) and through LDC (91.7%T1,T3). For Filtek Supreme Ultra, the highest percentage of viable cells is recorded while curing through CRP (91.0% T2), followed by LDC (90% T1,T3) and direct light curing (88.7%T2).

Conclusion

For both tested materials, preheating the procedure at T1 and T2 may be the procedure of choice. In terms of genotoxicity, preheating at T3 may not be suggested.

Effect of exposure time and pre-heating on the conversion degree of conventional, bulk-fill, fiber reinforced and polyacid-modified resin composites

OBJECTIVE

To determine the degree of conversion (DC) of different type of resin-based composites (RBC) in eight-millimeter-deep clinically relevant molds, and investigate the influence of exposure time and pre-heating on DC.

METHODS

Two-millimeter-thick samples of conventional sculptable [FiltekZ250 (FZ)], flowable [Filtek Ultimate Flow (FUF)] and polyacid-modified [Twinky Star Flow (TS)] RBCs, and four-millimeter-thick samples of flowable bulk-fill [Filtek Bulk Fill Flow (FBF), Surefil SDR (SDR)] and sculptable fibre-reinforced [EverX Posterior (EX)] RBCs were prepared in an eight-millimeter-deep mold. The RBCs temperature was pre-set to 25, 35 and 55°C. The RBCs were photopolymerized with the recommended and its double exposure time. The DC at the top and bottom was measured with micro-Raman spectroscopy. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Scheffe post-hoc test (p<0.05).

RESULTS

The differences in DC% between the top/bottom and the recommended/extended exposure time were significant for the materials, except SDR (64.5/63.0% and 67.4/63.0%). FUF (69.0% and 53.4%) and TS (64.9% and 60.9%) in 2mm provided higher DC% at the top and bottom with the recommended curing time, compared to the other materials, except SDR. Pre-heating had negative effect on DC at the bottom in flowable RBCs (FUF: 48.9%, FBF: 36.7%, SDR: 43%, TS: 54.7%). Pre-heating to 55 °C significantly increased the DC% in fibre-reinforced RBC (75.0% at the top, 64.7% at the bottom).

SIGNIFICANCE

Increased exposure time improves the DC for each material. Among bulk-fills, only SDR performed similarly, compared to the two-millimeter-thick flowable RBCs. Pre-heating of low-viscosity RBCs decreased the DC% at the bottom. Pre-heating of fibre-reinforced RBC to 55°C increased the DC% at a higher rate than the extended curing time.

Influence of preheating and post-curing on a novel fiber-reinforced composite post material

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of preheating and post-curing methods on diametral tensile strength (DTS), flexural strength (FS), knoop microhardness (KHN), and degree of conversion (DC) of an experimental fiber-reinforced composite (FRC). Specimens (30 wt% of 3-mm-short E-glass fiber, 22.5 wt% of methacrylated-based resin and 47.5 wt% of filler particles) were subjected to: P - photocuring at 1500 mW/cm2 for 40 s (control); P/M - photocuring and microwave post-curing (540W/5 minutes); P/A - photocuring and autoclave post-curing (120°C/15 minutes); PH-P - preheating (60°C) and photocuring; PH-P/M - preheating, photocuring and microwave post-curing; and PH-P/A - preheating, photocuring and autoclave post-curing. Specimens for DTS (Ø 3 x 6 mm) and FS (25 x 2 x 2 mm) were tested at Instron 5965. KHN employed a 50g load for 30s. DC was measured using FTIR spectroscopy. Statistical analysis employed: factorial analysis, normality test, one-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test, independent T-test and the Dunnett test. Interaction between factors was not significant (P>0.05). Preheating promoted significantly higher values of FS and KHN (p = 0.0001). Post-curing promoted significantly higher values for KHN (p = 0.0001). For DTS (p = 0.066) and DC (p= 0.724) no statistical difference was found between groups. SEM images showed that preheating promoted better interaction between glass fibers and resin matrix. Preheating increased FS, KHN and DTS, and post-curing increased KHN. DC was not affected by both methods. Preheating and post-curing methods can be used to improve some mechanical properties of FRCs' but degree of conversion remains unaffected.

The effect of repeated preheating of dimethacrylate and silorane-based composite resins on marginal gap of class V restorations

Background. One of the problems with composite resin restorations is gap formation at resin‒tooth interface. The present study evaluated the effect of preheating cycles of silorane- and dimethacrylate-based composite resins on gap formation at the gingival margins of Class V restorations.

Methods. In this in vitro study, standard Class V cavities were prepared on the buccal surfaces of 48 bovine incisors. For restorative procedure, the samples were randomly divided into 2 groups based on the type of composite resin (group 1: di-methacrylate composite [Filtek Z250]; group 2: silorane composite [Filtek P90]) and each group was randomly divided into 2 subgroups based on the composite temperature (A: room temperature; B: after 40 preheating cycles up to 55°C). Marginal gaps were measured using a stereomicroscope at ×40 and analyzed with two-way ANOVA. Inter- and intra-group comparisons were analyzed with post-hoc Tukey tests. Significance level was defined at P < 0.05.

Results. The maximum and minimum gaps were detected in groups 1-A and 2-B, respectively. The effects of composite resin type, preheating and interactive effect of these variables on gap formation were significant (P<0.001). Post-hoc Tukey tests showed greater gap in dimethacrylate compared to silorane composite resins (P< 0.001). In each group, gap values were greater in composite resins at room temperature compared to composite resins after 40 preheating cycles (P<0.001).

Conclusion. Gap formation at the gingival margins of Class V cavities decreased due to preheating of both composite re-sins. Preheating of silorane-based composites can result in the best marginal adaptation.

Effect of Resin Cement Pre-heating on the Push-out Bond Strength of Fiber Post to Root Canal Dentin

Background and aims. Various factors influence the interfacial bond between the fiber posts and root canal dentin. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pre-warming of resin cement on the push-out bond strength of fiber posts to various segments of root canal dentin.

Materials and methods. In this in vitro study, 40 single-rooted human premolars were decoronated and underwent root canal treatment along with post space preparation. The samples were randomly divided into two groups: In group 1, Panavia F 2.0 cement was used at room temperature; in group 2, the same cement was warmed to 55‒60°C before mixing. After fiber posts were placed and cemented in the root canals, 3 dentin/post sections (coronal, middle and apical) with a thickness of 3 mm were prepared. A universal testing machine was used to measure push-out bond strength in MPa. Data was analyzed using two-factor ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey test at α=0.05.

Results. The mean value of push-out bond strength was high at room temperature, and the differences in the means of push-out bond strength values between the resin cement temperatures and between different root segments in each temperature were significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion. Pre-warming of Panavia F 2.0 resin cement up to 55-60°C reduced push-out bond strength to root canal dentin. In addition, in each temperature group bond strengths decreased from coronal to apical segments.

Flexural Strength of Preheated Resin Composites and Bonding Properties to Glass-Ceramic and Dentin

To test the impact of preheating (25, 37, 54, or 68 °C) of TetricEvoCeram (TEC), FiltekSupremeXT (FSXT), and Venus (V) on flexural strength (FS), shear bond strength (SBS) and interfacial tension (IFT). FS was tested with TEC and FSXT. For SBS, glass-ceramic and human dentin substrate were fabricated and luted with the preheated resin composite (RC). SBSs of 1500 thermal cycled specimens were measured. For IFT, glass slides covered with the non-polymerized RC were prepared and contact angles were measured. Data were analyzed using 2/1-way ANOVA with Scheffé-test, and t-test (p < 0.05). Preheated TEC (37–68 °C) showed higher FS compared to the control-group (25 °C) (p < 0.001). FSXT presented higher FS than TEC (p < 0.001). For SBS to dentin higher values for FSXT than TEC were found. The preheating temperature showed no impact on SBS to dentin. SBS to glass-ceramic revealed a positive influence of temperature for TEC 25–68 °C (p = 0.015). TEC showed higher values than V and FSXT (p < 0.001). IFT values increased with the preheating temperature. A significant difference could be observed in every RC group between 25 and 68 °C (p < 0.001).

Improving Composite Resin Performance Through Decreasing its Viscosity by Different Methods

The aim of this work was to present the different current methods of decreasing viscosity of resin composite materials such as (using flowable composites, lowering the viscosity of the monomer mixture, heating composites and applying sonic vibration) and furnish dentists with a basis that can provide criteria for choosing one or another to suit their therapeutic requirements. The four discussed methods proved that lowering composite viscosity improves its handling and facilitates its application to cavities with complicated forms, decreasing time for procedure and improving marginal adaptation. Other properties improved by decreasing composite resin viscosity were controversial between the four methods and affected by other factors such as composite brand and light cure unit.

Pre-heating of high-viscosity bulk-fill resin composites: effects on shrinkage force and monomer conversion

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the influence of pre-heating of high-viscosity bulk-fill composite materials on their degree of conversion and shrinkage force formation.

METHODS

Four bulk-fill composite materials (Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill-TECBF, x-tra fil-XF, QuixFil-QF, SonicFill-SF) and one conventional nano-hybrid resin composite (Tetric EvoCeram-TEC) were used. The test materials were either kept at room temperature or pre-heated to 68°C by means of a commercial heating device, before being photoactivated with a LED curing unit for 20s at 1170mW/cm(2). Shrinkage forces (n=5) of 1.5-mm-thick specimens were recorded in real-time for 15min inside a temperature-controlled chamber at 25°C (simulating intraoral temperature after rubber dam application) with a custom-made stress analyzer. Degree of conversion (n=5) was determined at the bottom of equally thick (1.5mm) specimens using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Data were analyzed with Student's t-test, ANOVA and Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Composite pre-heating significantly increased the degree of conversion of TECBF, but had no effect on monomer conversion of the other materials investigated. For each of the test materials, pre-heated composite generated significantly lower shrinkage forces than room-temperature composite. At both temperature levels, TECBF created the significantly highest shrinkage forces, and QF caused significantly higher shrinkage forces than both XF and TEC.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the composite material and the pre-cure temperature affect shrinkage force formation. Pre-heating of bulk-fill and conventional restorative composites prior to photoactivation decreases polymerization-induced shrinkage forces without compromising the degree of conversion.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Composite pre-heating significantly reduces shrinkage force formation of high-viscosity bulk-fill and conventional resin composites, while maintaining or increasing the degree of monomer conversion, dependent upon the specific composite material used.

Influence of a Repeated Preheating Procedure on Mechanical Properties of Three Resin Composites

The aim of this study was to assess the flexural strength, flexural elastic modulus and Vickers microhardness of three resin composites prepared at room temperature or cured after one or repeated preheating cycles to a temperature of 39°C. Three resin composites were evaluated: Enamel Plus HFO (Micerium), Opallis (FGM), and Ceram X Duo (Dentsply DeTrey). For each trial, one group of specimens of each material was fabricated under ambient laboratory conditions, whereas in the other groups, the composites were cured after 1, 10, 20, 30, or 40 preheating cycles to a temperature of 39°C in a preheating device. Ten rectangular prismatic specimens (25 × 2 × 2 mm) were prepared for each group (N=180; n=10) and subjected to a three-point bending test for flexural strength and flexural modulus evaluation. Vickers microhardness was assessed on 10 cylindrical specimens from each group (N=180; n=10). Statistical analysis showed that, regardless of the material, the number of heating cycles was not a significant factor and was unable to influence the three mechanical properties tested. However, a significant main effect of the employed material on the marginal means of the three dependent variables was detected.

The evaluation of various restoration techniques on internal adaptation of composites in class v cavities

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different restoration techniques on the formation of internal microgaps between materials and dentin in class V restorations. Materials and Methods. Twenty-five extracted human premolars were prepared with standardized class V cavity outlines (3 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm). The cavities were randomly divided into 5 groups of 10 cavities each and restored according to manufacturer's instructions: Group 1: preheating (55°C) conventional composite (Filtek Z250), Group 2: flowable composite (Filtek Flow), Group 3: Filtek Flow + Filtek Z250 light-cured separately, Group 4: Filtek Flow + Filtek Z250 light-cured simultaneously, and Group 5 (control): Filtek Z250 at room temperature (23°C). The specimens were then thermocycled and cross-sectioned through the center of the restoration. Subsequently, impressions were taken, and epoxy resin replicas were made. The internal adaptation of the materials to the axial wall was analyzed under SEM. Results. The preheated Filtek Z250 (Group 1) showed better internal adaptation than the room temperature groups (P < 0.05). The combination of Filtek Flow with Filtek Z250 which was light-cured separately (Group 3) exhibited better internal adaptation than control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. Different restoration techniques exhibit different behavior regarding internal adaptation to dentin after photopolymerization.

Influence of preheating the bonding agent of a conventional three-step adhesive system and the light activated resin cement on dentin bond strength

Aims:

to evaluate the influence of preheating the bonding agent (Scotchbond Multipurpose Adhesive/3M ESPE) and the light-activated resin cement (RelyX Venner/3M ESPE) on dentin microtensile bond strength.

Materials and Methods:

The exposed flat dentin surface of 40 human third molars were randomly distributed into four groups for cementation (SR Adoro/Ivoclar Vivadent) (n = 10): G1-bond and resin cement, both at room temperature (22°C), G2-bond preheated to 58°C and cement at room temperature (22°C), G3-bond at room temperature (22°C) and the cement preheated to 58°C, G4-bond preheated to 58°C and cement preheated to 58°C. Sticks of dentin/block set measuring approximately 1 mm² were obtained and used for the microtensile bond strength test. All sticks had their failure mode classified.

Statistical analysis used:

Factorial analysis of variance was applied, 2 × 2 (bond × cement) (P < 0.05).

Results:

Preheating the bonding agent (P = 0.8411) or the cement (P = 0.7155), yielded no significant difference. The interaction bond × cement was not significant (P = 0.9389).

Conclusions:

Preheating the bond and/or the light-activated resin cement did not influence dentin bond strength or fracture failure mode.

Temperature and curing time affect composite sorption and solubility

Objective:

This study evaluated the effect of temperature and curing time on composite sorption and solubility.

Material and Methods:

Seventy five specimens (8x2 mm) were prepared using a commercial composite resin (ICE, SDI). Three temperatures (10º C, 25º C and 60º C) and five curing times (5 s, 10 s, 20 s, 40 s and 60 s) were evaluated. The specimens were weighed on an analytical balance three times: A: before storage (M1); B: 7 days after storage (M2); C: 7 days after storage plus 1 day of drying (M3). The storage solution consisted of 75% alcohol/25% water. Sorption and solubility were calculated using these three weights and specimen dimensions. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U Tests (α=5%).

Results:

The results showed that time, temperature and their interaction influenced the sorption and solubility of the composite (p<0.05). At 60º C, the composite sorption showed an inverse relationship with the curing time (p<0.05). The composite cured for 5 s showed higher sorption for the 40 s or 60 s curing times when compared with all temperatures (p<0.05). Curing times of 20 s and 40 s showed similar sorption data for all temperatures (p>0.05). The 60º C composite temperature led to lower values of sorption for all curing times when compared with the 10º C temperature (p<0.05). The same results were found when comparing 10º C and 25º C (p<0.05), except that the 20 s and 40 s curing times behaved similarly (p>0.05). Solubility was similar at 40 s and 60 s for all temperatures (p>0.05), but was higher at 10º C than at 60º C for all curing times (p<0.05). When the composite was cured at 25º C, similar solubility values were found when comparing the 5 s and 10 s or 20 s and 40 s curing times (p>0.05).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, higher temperatures or longer curing times led to lower sorption and solubility values for the composite tested; however, this trend was only significant in specific combinations of temperature and curing times.

Degree of conversion and hardness of two different systems of the Vitrebond™ glass ionomer cement light cured with blue LED

This study investigated the physicochemical properties of the new formulation of the glass ionomer cements through hardness test and degree of conversion by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Forty specimens (n = 40) were made in a metallic mold (4 mm diameter x 2 mm thickness) with two resin-modified glass ionomer cements, Vitrebond™ and Vitrebond™ Plus (3M/ ESPE). Each specimen was light cured with blue LED with power density of 500 mW/cm(2) during 30 s. Immediately after light curing, 24h, 48h and 7 days the hardness and degree of conversion was determined. The Vickers hardness was performed by the MMT-3 microhardness tester using load of 50 gm force for 30 seconds. For degree of conversion, the specimens were pulverized, pressed with KBr and analyzed with FT-IR (Nexus 470). The statistical analysis of the data by ANOVA showed that the Vitrebond™ and Vitrebond™ Plus were no difference significant between the same storage times (p > 0.05). For degree of conversion, the Vitrebond™ and Vitrebond™ Plus were statistically different in all storage times after light curing. The Vitrebond™ showed higher values than Vitrebond™ Plus (p < 0.05). The performance of Vitrebond™ had greater results for degree of conversion than Vitrebond™ Plus. The correlation between hardness and degree of conversion was no evidence in this study.

Degree of conversion of polymer-matrix composite assessed by FTIR analysis

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The behavior of polymer-matrix composite is dependent on the degree of conversion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of conversion of two resin cements following storage at 37°C immediately, 24 and 48 hours, and 7 days after light-curing by FTIR analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The specimens were made in a metallic mold and cured with blue LED with power density of 500 mW/ cm(2) for 30 seconds. The specimens were pulverized, pressed with KBr and analyzed with FTIR following storage times.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

ANOVA (two-way) and Tukey's post hoc.

RESULTS

To the polymer-matrix composites between 24 and 48 hours does not show a significant increase (p > 0.05), however, the highest values were found after 7 days.

CONCLUSION

The polymer-matrix composites used in this study showed similarity on the degree of conversion and increased of according to the time of storage.