Optimization of the etch-and-rinse technique: New perspectives to improve resin–dentin bonding and hybrid layer integrity by reducing residual water using dimethyl sulfoxide pretreatments

Effects of combined modification of sulfonation, oxygen plasma and silane on the bond strength of PEEK to resin

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of sulfonation, non-thermal oxygen plasma and silane on the shear bond strength (SBS) of PEEK to resin materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred and eighty specimens were randomly divided into four groups: (A) untreated; (B) sulfonation for 60 s; (C) oxygen plasma for 20 min; (D) sulfonation for 60 s and oxygen plasma for 20 min. According to the instructions, 120 samples (N = 30) were coated with silane, adhesive, and resin composites. Each group of bonding specimens was divided into two subgroups (n = 15) to measure immediate and post-aging SBS. The surface morphology and the interface between the samples and adhesive were analyzed through SEM. Physicochemical characteristics of the surface and mechanical properties were determined through XPS, FTIR, light interferometry, contact angle measurement, and three-point bending tests.

RESULTS

Sulfonation produced a porous layer of approximately 20 µm thickness on the surface, and the oxygen plasma increased the O/C ratio and oxygen-containing groups of the sample surface. After coating with silane, the SBS values of sulfonated PEEK and plasma-treated PEEK increased (9.96 and 10.72 MPa, respectively), and dual-modified PEEK exhibited the highest SBS value (20.99 MPa), which was significantly higher than that of blank group (p > 0.01). After 10,000 thermal cycles, the dual-modified PEEK still displayed a favorable SBS (18.68 MPa).

SIGNIFICANCE

Sulfonation strengthened the mechanical interlocking between PEEK and the resin while oxygen plasma established a chemical bonding between silane and PEEK. This dual modification of the surface microstructure and chemical state synergistically improved the bond strength of PEEK to resin and resulted in considerable long-term effects.

Biomechanical behavior of molars restored with direct and indirect restorations in combination with deep margin elevation

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The existing knowledge is insufficient for comprehending the fatigue survival and fracture resistance of molars that have deep approximal direct and indirect restorations, whether with or without deep margin elevation (DME).

PURPOSE

The aim of this laboratory and in silico study is to investigate the fatigue survival, fracture strength, failure pattern and tooth deformation of molars restored with DME in combination with a direct or indirect restoration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study utilized 45 extracted sound human molars, divided into three groups (n = 15). Standardized 100% inter-cuspal inlay preparations were performed, extending 2 mm below the CEJ and immediate dentin sealing (IDS) was applied. Group 1 (Co_1) was restored with direct composite; Group 2 (Hyb_2) with a 2 mm DME of direct composite and a glass-ceramic lithium disilicate restoration; Group 3 (Cer_3) a glass-ceramic lithium disilicate restoration. All specimens were exposed to a fatigue process involving thermal-cyclic loading (50N for 1.2 × 106 cycles at 1.7 Hz, between 5 and 55 °C), if teeth survived, they were fractured using a load-to-failure test and failure types were analyzed. Finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted to assess tooth deformation and tensile stress in the restorations. Statistical evaluation of fracture strength was conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Fisher's exact test was utilized to analyze the fracture types and repairability. A statistical significance level of α < 0.05 was set for all analyses.

RESULTS

All specimens successfully withstood the fatigue testing procedure, and no statistically significant differences in fracture strength were observed among the three groups (P > 0.05). The Fisher's exact test indicated a significant association between the restorative material and fracture type (F2 = 18.315, df = 2, P = 0.004), but also for repairability (F2 = 13.725, df = 2, P = 0.001). Crown-root fractures were significantly more common in the Cer_3 group compared to the Co_1 group (P = 0.001) and the Co_1 group had significantly more repairable fractures (F2 = 13.197, df = 2, P = 0.001). FEA revealed comparable outcomes of deformation among models and higher maximum tensile stress on models with higher frequency of catastrophic failures.

CONCLUSIONS

All tested restoration materials exhibited comparable fatigue survival and fracture strength in this laboratory and in silico study. However, it is important to recognize the potential for more severe and irreparable fractures when opting for deeply luted glass-ceramic inlay restorations in clinical practice. In such cases, it would be prudent to consider the alternative option being a direct composite approach, because of its more forgiving fracture types and repairability.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Molars with deep approximal direct and indirect restorations, whether with or without DME, are comparable in their fatigue survival and fracture resistance to withstand intra-oral forces. Deep direct restorations exhibit more repairable fractures compared to deeply luted glass-ceramics.

Effects of dimethyl sulfoxide pretreatment on the bonding properties of fluorotic dentin of different severity: An in vitro study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Bonding to fluorotic dentin is weaker than to sound dentin, but methods to improve bonding have not been well addressed.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) pretreatment on the bond strength and resin-dentin surface of fluorotic dentin of different severity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Phosphoric acid-etched dentin specimens exhibiting mild fluorosis (ML-F), moderate fluorosis (MD-F), and severe fluorosis (SE-F) were randomly bonded with Single Bond 2 (SB2) pretreated with 50% DMSO (experimental groups) or deionized water (control groups). The bonded teeth were sectioned for microshear bond strength (μSBS) testing immediately or after aging, for micromorphology observation of the bonding interface under a scanning electron microscope, and for resin tags and microleakage evaluation under a confocal laser scanning microscope. The degree of conversion of the adhesive resin was calculated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. According to varying bonding steps, the mineralized dentin powders of ML-F, MD-F, and SE-F were randomly divided into 4 subgroups (blank, PA, PA+SB2, and PA+DMSO+SB2) and incubated in artificial saliva to examine the level of enzymatic degradation product of type I collagen. Data were analyzed by using ANOVA and the Tukey test (α=.05).

RESULTS

Dental fluorosis and thermocycling had negative effects on μSBS (P<.001), while DMSO pretreatment preserved or even improved μSBS (P<.001). DMSO had no influence on the degree of conversion (P=.618). Significant effects were found for bonding steps (P<.001), but not that of dental fluorosis (P=.131) on the enzymatic degradation product of type I collagen. Images showed sparser and more expanded collagen fibril meshwork, deeper resin penetration, and less microleakage in the experimental groups.

CONCLUSIONS

DMSO pretreatment provided increased and durable dentin bonding to fluorotic dentin probably by dispersing collagen fibrils into a sparser network and inhibiting the degradation of type I collagen.

The flow behavior and sealing ability of calcium silicate root canal cement containing dimethyl sulfoxide: An in vitro study

INTRODUCTION

To develop a calcium silicate (CaSi)-based cement containing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and cement deliver device for new root canal filling technique, and to assess the flow behavior, leakage, and root canal filling quality of CaSi containing DMSO.

METHODS

CaSi containing DMSO (CSC-DMSO) and CaSi containing PEG (CSC-PEG) were prepared, and the flow characteristics of both cements were compared in gypsum and resin channels using a high-speed camera. Eight root canals were obturated by CSC-DMSO or CSC-PEG using a cement delivery device, and root canal filling quality was assessed in terms of filling length using periapical radiographs. The filling length was evaluated by 'apico-coronal extension,' measuring length in reference to apical constriction. Microleakage was measured for thirty human molars that were randomly filled with CSC-DMSO, CSC-PEG, or gutta-percha and AH plus. Preliminary obturation of CSC-DMSO with cement delivery device in human teeth was analyzed in terms of filling length and void, using periapical radiographs. Statistical analysis was performed with the Kruskal Wallis test for simulated root canal fillings and one-way ANOVA for leakage test.

RESULTS

The flow speed of CSC-DMSO reduced in gypsum channels compared to resin channels, but CSC-PEG did not exhibit significant differences in the channels. The median absolute value of apico-coronal extension was significantly lower in CSC-DMSO compared to CSC-PEG (p < 0.05). Microleakage did not statistically differ between the groups (p > 0.05). In the preliminary obturation, the mean apico-coronal extension of CSC-DMSO was -0.297 ± 0.724 mm, while CSC-PEG was not feasible due to excess apical extrusions.

CONCLUSIONS

CSC-DMSO could be considered as an alternative filling material for root canal obturation.

Concentration effect of DMSO-dry bonding on the stability of etch-and-rinse bonds

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether lower dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations would affect long-term bond stability of simplified or multistep water-based adhesives to dry-etched dentin.

METHODS

H3PO4-etched mid-coronal dentin surfaces from human molars were randomly blot- or air-dried for 30 s and pretreated or not with 5 or 50 % (v/v) ethanolic DMSO solutions. Untreated samples served as control. Samples were bonded with a two-step or a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive. Restored crown segments (n = 5/group) were stored in distilled water for 24 h and sectioned for microtensile bond strength testing. Resin-dentin beams (0.8 mm2) were tested under tension until fracture (0.5 mm/min) after 24 h and one year of storage in artificial saliva at 37 °C. Nanoleakage evaluation and hybrid layer characterization were performed by SEM. Bond strength data was examined by three-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Dry bonding produced significantly lower bond strengths than conventional wet bonding for both water-based adhesive systems (p < 0.05). DMSO-dry bonding restored bond strengths and reduced nanoleakage levels, regardless of adhesive type or DMSO concentration (p < 0.05). Bond strengths of DMSO-dry bonded samples were not significantly affected by long-term ageing regardless of adhesive type or DMSO concentration (p < 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

Although bonding methacrylate-based resins to etched dentin is normally performed under wet conditions, hybridization of air-dried collagen can outperform conventional wet bonding by employing water-free DMSO solutions with concentrations as low as 5 %. Reduced moisture-related technique sensitivity, higher bonding performance and improved hybrid layer stability may contribute to extend the service life of resin-dentin bonding.

Does the application of dimethyl sulfoxide improve resin bonding to eroded dentine? Four-year in vitro evaluation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) and nanoleakage (NL) of universal adhesives on eroded dentine, immediately and after four years of water storage.

METHODS

Sixty-four sound human molars were distributed into 16 groups according to (1) Dentine surface (sound and eroded dentine); (2) dimethyl sulfoxide application (with or without); (3) Application mode (etch-and-rinse or self-etch) and (4) Storage time (immediate and four years). One mild universal adhesive was used (Scotchbond Universal). The restoration was then performed with a composite resin and the specimens were sectioned into resin-dentine bonded sticks. Resin-dentine bonded sticks were tested (immediately and after four years of water storage) for µTBS (0.5 mm/min) or used to assess NL. Data on μTBS and NL were analyzed using four-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Only the 3-way cross-product interaction 'substrate vs DMSO vs time' was statistically significant (p = 0.007). Eroded dentine showed a lower mean of µTBS and a higher mean of NL values than sound dentine. However, when DMSO was applied, no significant decrease of μTBS or NL values was observed after four years of water storage, regardless of adhesive strategies, or dentine evaluated, when compared to immediate results.

SIGNIFICANCE

Water-based DMSO pre-treatments not only prevent degradation of MDP-containing simplified adhesives but also serve as a potential alternative to improve long-term bonding properties to eroded dentine. The versatility of using a single pre-treatment for both self-etch or etch-and-rinse bonding to eroded dentin may facilitate future clinical applications.

The effect of dentin surface pretreatment using dimethyl sulfoxide on the bond strength of a universal bonding agent to dentin

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dentin pretreatment by Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) on the bond strength and microleakage of a universal bonding agent to dentin.

METHODS

Fifty-six dentinal discs (thickness = 2 mm) were obtained from the crowns of the human third molars. The disks were assigned into 4 groups and treated as follows; self-etch-control group: G-Premio universal adhesive was used in self-etch mode, total-etch-control: G-Premio universal adhesive was used in total-etch mode, self-etch-DMSO: Water-based DMSO (50% volume) was applied on the samples for 60 s followed by application of G-Premio universal adhesive in self-etch mode, and Total-etch-DMSO: The samples were etched, and then, water-based DMSO was applied on them for 60 s followed by the application of G-Premio universal adhesive in total-etch mode. Afterward, resin composite was placed on all samples and light-cured. The samples were kept in distilled water and subjected to 5000 thermal cycles. Microshear bond strength was measured using the universal testing machine and failure modes were analyzed using a stereomicroscope. Forty-eight human third molars were used for microleakage evaluation and a standardized class five cavity was prepared on the buccal surface of each tooth. The teeth were assigned into 4 groups and received aforementioned surface treatment and the cavities were filled with resin composite. After storing in water for 24 h, the samples were subjected to 5000 cycles of thermocycling and the microleakage level of the samples was evaluated using silver nitrate uptake at the bonded interface. Two-way ANOVA test was used to analyze the effect of bonding technique (self-etch/ total-etch) and DMSO pretreatment on the microshear bond strength and microleakage of G-Premio adhesive to dentin.

RESULTS

Bonding technique had no effect on the bond strength values (p = 0.17) while DMSO pretreatment significantly decreased the microshear bond strength of the samples (p = 0.001). DMSO application increased microleakage significantly in total-etch (P-value = 0.02) while it had no effect in self-etch mode (P-value = 0.44).

CONCLUSIONS

Pretreatment of dentin using 50% DMSO significantly reduced the bond strength of G-Premio Bond in both self-etch and total-etch modes. DMSO effect on microleakage depended on the etching technique; DMSO increased the microleakage level when the adhesive was used in total-etch mode while did not affect the microleakage in self-etch mode.

EDTA-functionalized silica nanoparticles as a conditioning agent for dentin bonding using etch-and-rinse technique

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the possibility of using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid functionalized silica nanoparticles (EDTA-SiO₂) as a dentin-conditioning agent using etch-and-rinse technique to promote the durability of dentin bonding.

METHODS

The SiO₂-EDTA were synthesized by N- [(3- trimethoxysilyl) propyl] ethylenediamine triacetic acid (EDTA-TMS) and SiO₂ (50 nm), then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The capacity of SiO₂-EDTA to chelate calcium ions from dentin was examined by inductively coupled plasma-optic emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The dentin surfaces conditioned with SiO₂-EDTA were detected by field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM), TEM and microhardness testing. For dentin bonding, dentin surfaces were adopted wet- or dry-bonding technique and bonded with adhesive (Adper^TM Single Bond2) and applied composite resin (Filtek Z350) on them. The durability of dentin bonding was evaluated by mircotensile bond strength test, in-situ zymography and nanoleakage testing.

RESULTS

FTIR, TGA and XPS results showed that SiO₂-EDTA contained N element and carboxyl groups. SEM, TEM and microhardness results indicated that SiO₂-EDTA group created extrafibrillar demineralization and retained more intrafibrillar minerals within dentin surface. In the dentin bonding experiment, SiO₂-EDTA group achieved acceptable bond strength, and reduced the activity of matrix metalloproteinase and nanoleakage along bonding interface.

CONCLUSION

It was possible to generate a feasible dentin conditioning agent (SiO₂-EDTA), which could create dentin extrafibrillar demineralization and improve dentin bond durability.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This study introduces a new dentin conditioning scheme based on SiO₂-EDTA to create extrafibrillar demineralization for dentin bonding. This strategy has the potential to be used in clinic to promote the life of restoration bonding.

Solvation role of dimethyl sulfoxide on the interaction with dentin bonding systems after 30 months

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether DMSO could serve as an effective pretreatment to improve the mechanical properties and minimize the degradation of the adhesive interface, through the degree of conversion (DC) and bond strength to dentin of different categories of dentin bonding systems (DBSs) after 30 months.

METHODS

DMSO (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10 vol%) were incorporated into four categories of DBSs: Adper Scotchbond Multipurpose (MP), Adper Single Bond 2 (SB), Clearfil SE Bond (CSE) and Adper Scotchbond Universal (SU). DC was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). For microtensile bond strength test (µTBS), 1 % DMSO were applied on dentin as pretreatment before DBSs. For SU, both strategies were tested. Specimens for µTBS were tested after 24 h, 6 and 30 months. DC and µTBS data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α < 0.05).

RESULTS

Incorporating 5 %/10 % DMSO increased the DC of CSE. Controversially, when combined with SU, 2 % and 10 % DMSO jeopardized the DC. Regarding µTBS, 1 % DMSO pre-treatment increased the bond strength for MP, SB, SU-ER and SU-SE. After 30 months, MP, SU-ER and SU-SE showed a decrease compared to baseline but remained higher than the control.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

DMSO pretreatment may be a useful strategy to improve the bond interface over time. Its incorporation seems to favor the non-solvated systems regarding DC while it seems to show long-term benefits for bond strength using 1 % DMSO for MP and SU systems.

Insight into the development of versatile dentin bonding agents to increase the durability of the bonding interface

Despite the huge improvements made in adhesive technology over the past 50 years, there are still some unresolved issues regarding the durability of the adhesive interface. A complete sealing of the interface between the resin and the dentin substrate remains difficult to achieve, and it is doubtful whether an optimal interdiffusion of the adhesive system within the demineralized collagen framework can be produced in a complete and homogeneous way. In fact, it is suggested that hydrolytic degradation, combined with the action of dentin matrix enzymes, destabilizes the tooth-adhesive bond and disrupts the unprotected collagen fibrils. While a sufficient resin–dentin adhesion is usually achieved immediately, bonding efficiency declines over time. Thus, here, a review will be carried out through a bibliographic survey of scientific articles published in the last few years to present strategies that have been proposed to improve and/or develop new adhesive systems that can help prevent degradation at the adhesive interface. It will specially focus on new clinical techniques or new materials with characteristics that contribute to increasing the durability of adhesive restorations and avoiding the recurrent replacement restorative cycle and the consequent increase in damage to the tooth.

Dental Adhesives-Surface Modifications of Dentin Structure for Stable Bonding

The latest advancements in dentin bonding have focused on strategies to impair degradation mechanisms in order to extend the longevity of bonded interfaces. Protease inhibitors can reduce collagen degradation within the hybrid layer (HL). Collagen cross-linkers allow better adhesive infiltration and also inhibit proteases activity. Particles added to adhesive can promote mineral precipitation within the HL, reducing nanoleakage and micropermeability, besides possible antimicrobial and enzymatic inhibition effects. Most of these approaches are still experimental, and aspects of the adhesive under the clinician's control are still determinant for the long-term stability of adhesive restorations.

Which self-etch acidic composition may result in higher dental bonds at the long-term? A network meta-analysis review of in vitro studies

OBJECTIVES

This review evaluated the effects of the acidic composition of self-etch (SE) adhesives at the long-term bond strengths to dentin and enamel.

DATA

The review followed the PRISMA Extension Statement for network meta-analysis. Studies were identified by a systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases.

STUDY SELECTION

The inclusion criteria were in vitro studies that evaluated bond strength data of samples analyzed at both immediate and long-term (after aging simulation) periods and that were bonded to sound dentin/enamel using SE adhesives, with at least one group of adhesives being based on 10-MDP (10-methacryloyloxy-decyl-dihydrogen-phosphate; control) and the other group being comprised of alternative acidic monomers. Statistical analyses were conducted using two methods: standard pairwise meta-analysis (SPMA) and Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA). Heterogeneity was assessed by using the Cochran Q test and I² statistics.

RESULTS

From 5220 studies identified, 87 met the eligibility criteria and 83 were meta-analyzed. Seventeen adhesives were based on 10-MDP and 44 systems were based on alternative acids. The resin-dentin/enamel bonds were predominantly reduced after aging (∼84% of cases). From the SPMA findings, the following acidic compositions showed lower bond strength values (effect size: mean difference [MD] with 95% confidence interval [95% CI]) than 10-MDP: 4-META (MD -4.99, 95% CI: -7.21, -2.78; p<0.001); sulfonic acids (MD -9.59, 95% CI -12.19, -6.98; p<0.001); unspecified phosphate esters (MD -8.89, 95% CI -17.50, -0.28; p = 0.04); or mixed acids (MD -11.0, 95% CI -13.62, -8.38; p<0.001). The dental bonds were benefited from the presence of 10-MDP upon longer aging (>6 months). From the NMA probabilistic findings, adhesives based on 10-MDP and phosphonic acids ranked as having the best and the worst bonding potential to dentin, respectively. More than one composition (phosphonic acids and mixed acids) ranked similarly to 10-MDP in enamel. The studies scored as having moderate risk of bias (58.6%), followed by low (39.1%) and high (2.3%) risk of bias.

CONCLUSION

10-MDP is an outstanding acidic monomer that contributes to higher bonds to dentin at the long-term. In enamel, there is no evidence that one acidic composition prevails over the other.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The acidic composition of SE adhesives affects the resistance of dental bonds after simulated aging, with 10-MDP playing a significant role in the adhesion to dentin but not to the enamel.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

This report is registered at the Open Science Framework (osf.io/urtdf).

Effect of pretreatment with matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors on the durability of bond strength of fiber posts to radicular dentin

Objectives

Application of matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors has been suggested to improve the durability of resin–dentin bonding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), carbodiimide (EDC), and chlorhexidine (CHX) treatment on the push‐out bond strength of fiber posts to radicular dentin.

Materials and Methods

24 extracted premolars were assigned randomly to 4 groups after root canal treatment and post space preparation (n = 6). In the first, second, and third groups, radicular dentin was treated with 1 ml of 5% DMSO, 0.3 M EDC, and 2% CHX, respectively. The fourth group (control) received no treatment. The root canals were primed with ED primer II, and the fiber posts were cemented with Panavia F2.0. In each group, half of the specimens were subjected to the push‐out test and the other half to 3000 thermal cycles before testing. Data were analyzed using two‐way analysis of variance via SPSS version 20 (p < .05).

Results

Among the nonthermocycled specimens, the values of push‐out bond strength were observed in the control, EDC, CHX, and DMSO groups, in decreasing order. Among the thermocycled specimens, the values were observed in the control, EDC, DMSO, and CHX groups in decreasing order. Thermocycling had a significant adverse effect on the push‐out bond strength (p = .015), but the effect of material (p = .375), and the interaction effect of material and thermocycling (p = .998) were not significant.

Conclusions

Application of CHX, DMSO, and EDC had no significant effect on the bond strength of fiber posts to radicular dentin.

Collagen-depletion strategies in dentin as alternatives to the hybrid layer concept and their effect on bond strength: a systematic review

Strategies aiming to improve the longevity of resin-dentin adhesive interface developed so far have only been able to retard the problem. Different approaches are thus needed. The objective of this review was to determine whether the use of collagen-depletion strategies after acid-etching procedures may improve the bond strength of resin-based materials to dentin. A systematic review was planned following 2021 PRISMA statement guidelines, with a search strategy performed in five electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, EMBASE, SciELO and IADR Abstract Archive (last search: 17/01/2022). Inclusion criteria encompassed studies which evaluated a collagen-depletion strategy in acid-etched human dentin and tensile/shear bond strength tests. Risk of bias assessment was carried out by two reviewers, working independently on an adapted five-domain risk of bias (RoB) checklist for laboratory studies. Results were synthesized qualitatively, as a meta-analysis was not possible due to limited number of studies and their RoB. A total of eight studies were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review after inclusion/exclusion criteria application. Out of these, two evaluated the effect of using NaOCl followed by an antioxidant, and the remaining six evaluated different enzymatic treatments (bromelain, chondroitinase ABC, papain, and trypsin). None of the studies reported a decrease of bond strength when a collagen-depletion strategy was used, in comparison to traditional hybrid layers (control). All enzymatic treatment studies which respected the inclusion criteria improved the bond strength to dentin. Some specific collagen-depletion strategies seem to play a favorable role in improving immediate bond strengths to dentin. Further research with sound methodology is required to consolidate these findings, since limitations in RoB and a low number of studies were found. The assessment of further proteolytic agents and long-term outcomes is also required.

Association of solvents improves selected properties of experimental dental adhesives

The aim of the study was to evaluate how the association of solvents (tetrahydrofuran [THF], dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], ethanol [ET] or acetone [ACT]) with experimental dental adhesives affects selected properties of experimental dental adhesives and dentin bond durability. Six adhesive combinations were prepared containing: 30 % ET, 30 % ACT, 30 % THF, 28 % ET + 2 % DMSO (ET+DMSO), 15 % ethanol + 15 % THF (ET+THF), or 28 % THF + 2 % DMSO (THF+DMSO). Thirty-six molars (n = 6) were cut to expose the coronary dentin, and were randomly divided according to the adhesives. They were restored, and then cut into resindentin sticks (1 mm²), and stored in distilled water for 24 h or 6 months, until conducting the microtensile bond strength and nanoleakage tests. Other experiments performed with adhesives included viscosity assessment using a rheometer, and degree of conversion using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The data were analyzed statistically using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). The adhesive formulated exclusively with THF showed the highest viscosity, followed by ET+THF, which obtained the highest degree of conversion compared to ET, and THF alone. ET+DMSO obtained the highest 24-h and aged bond strengths (p < 0.05). ET+THF increased the nanoleakage slightly after 6 months, but attained the only gap-free adhesive interface among all the groups. The combination of alternative solvents, particularly THF, with conventional ones (ET) has improved chemical properties, and the dentin bonding of experimental simplified adhesives.

Collagen cross-linking agents + dimethyl sulfoxide improving the adhesive properties of erosive lesion dentin

To investigate the effect of the dimethyl sulfoxide combined with cross-linking agents on microtensile bond strength, silver nitrate penetration and in situ degree of conversion analysis of adhesives to the erosive dentin treatment with Cola-based soft drink. One hundred and sixty-six molars were assigned to 20 groups: (1) Treatment: Sound dentin; Erosive dentin; Erosive dentin treated with primer of dimethyl sulfoxide; Erosive dentin treated with DMSO primer containing proanthocyanidin and rivoflavin; (2) Adhesive systems: iBond Universal and Scotchbond Universal; and (3) adhesive strategy: etch-and-rinse or self-etch strategy. After restoration, specimens were sectioned into sticks to be tested. The data from microtensile bond strength (MPa), silver nitrate penetration (%) and in situ degree of conversion (%) were analyzed by (three- and two-factor ANOVA; Tukey's test α=5%). The application of dimethyl sulfoxide combined of not with cross-linkers improved all properties evaluated when compared to only erosive dentin treatment with Cola-based soft drink. However, only when dimethyl sulfoxide was combined to cross-linkers, the values of the microtensile bond strength, silver nitrate penetration and in situ degree of conversion in erosive dentin treatment with Cola-based soft drink was similar to sound dentin, for both adhesives and adhesive strategies. The application of dimethyl sulfoxide combined with the collagen cross-linking agent contributed to increasing the bond strength and degree of conversion in erosive lesion dentin, at the same time that significantly reduction of nanoleakage in this substrate.

Comparative evaluation and influence of new Optibond eXTRa self-etch Universal adhesive and conventional Transbond XT on shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets—An in vitro study

INTRODUCTION:

The demand by dental practitioners for adhesives led to the innovation of newer self-etched universal adhesive systems. The objectives were to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of metal brackets bonded with Optibond eXTRa Universal self-etch adhesive and Transbond XT primer and also to assess the adhesive remnant index (ARI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total of 100 extracted human premolar tooth samples were divided into 2 groups (n = 50) according to the adhesive system employed: Transbond XT (3M Unitek) and Optibond eXTRa Universal (KaVo Kerr). In group A, Transbond XT primer was applied, and in group B, Optibond eXTRa was applied, and metal brackets (American Orthodontics) were bonded with the Transbond XT adhesive, followed by photopolymerization with LEDition. The samples were preserved in artificial saliva for 30 days. SBS was tested using a universal testing machine (DAK Series7200, India). The ARI was assessed at 10× magnification under a stereomicroscope (Meiji Techno, Japan). The SBS scores were subjected to independent sample t-test and ARI scores to Pearson's Chi-square test.

RESULTS:

The mean SBS and standard deviation of Transbond XT is 12.11 ± 2.6 MPa and that of Optibond eXTRa Universal is 11.36 ± 2.8 MPa, revealing a statistically nonsignificant difference. Transbond XT displayed higher ARI scores and was statistically significant (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

The Optibond eXTRa Universal adhesive appears to be preferable for orthodontic bonding as it exhibited clinically acceptable SBS and performed better in terms of the ARI.

Mechanical Stability and Proteolytic Activity of Resin-dentin Bonds Using the Cross-linked Dry Bonding Technique

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the mechanical stability and the proteolytic activity of bonds created by a two-step, etch-and-rinse adhesive applied to cross-linked and air-dried etched dentin.

METHODS

Flat dentin surfaces were produced in 64 extracted sound human molars. The dentin was etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 15 seconds, and then the teeth were divided into groups according to the cross-linking solution applied on the etched dentin. Group 1: 5% grape seed extract (GSE), Group 2: 5% glutaraldehyde, Group 3: Gluma Desensitizer, or Group 4: deionized water (control). Solutions were applied for 60 seconds, followed by rinse and blot drying. Then, the teeth were separated into two subgroups where the etched dentin was kept moist or air-dried. The adhesive was applied followed by a composite resin buildup. After 24 hours, the teeth were cut into beams (0.81 mm2) that were tested for microtensile strength immediately or after 12 months of aging in a 37°C saliva-like buffer. Additional teeth (n=32) were bonded as described and cut into 0.5-mm-thick slabs. The slabs were prepared for nanoleakage (scanning electron microscopy) and in situ zymography (EnzChek Protease Assay Kit). Bond strength data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

Significant reduction in immediate bond strength (ca 65%) and increase in proteolytic activity was seen when the etched dentin was air dried without previous cross-linking biomodification. Conversely, bond strengths did not differ from those produced on wet dentin when collagen was cross-linked before air drying, irrespective of the solution applied. For both moist and air-dried etched dentin, collagen cross-linking resulted in mechanically stable bonds and reduced proteolytic activity after 12 months of storage.

CONCLUSION

Bonds produced by the application of a two-step, etch-and-rinse adhesive to cross-linked, air-dried, etched dentin were mechanically stable and revealed reduced proteolytic activity after 1 year of aging.

Dry bonding to dentin: Broadening the moisture spectrum and increasing wettability of etch-and-rinse adhesives

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the effect of dentin moisture on the etch-and-rinse bonding may be minimized by dry-bonding protocols utilizing aqueous or ethanolic dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) pretreatments.

METHODS

H₃PO₄-etched mid-coronal dentin surfaces from human molars were randomly blot- or air-dried for 30 s and pretreated with DMSO/H₂O or DMSO/EtOH solutions. Untreated samples served as control. Moisture control was performed by either blot- or air-drying. Samples were bonded with a multistep etch-and-rinse adhesive. Restored crown segments (n = 8/group) were stored in distilled water for 24 h and sectioned for microtensile bond strength testing. Resin-dentin beams (0.8 mm²) were tested under tension until fracture (0.5 mm/min) after 24 h and two years of storage in artificial saliva at 37 °C. SEM nanoleakage evaluation was performed on aged samples. Collagen wettability was also measured by sessile drops of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic bonding resins (n = 8/group). Data were examined by factorial ANOVA followed by the Tukey test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Dry bonding to untreated collagen produced inferior immediate and long-term bond strengths than wet bonding (p < 0.05). Regardless of initial hydration and moisture control, DMSO-dry bonding produced initially higher and stable bond strengths after aging (p < 0.05). DMSO-pretreated groups presented improved collagen wettability with lower silver uptake (p < 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE

Despite the common belief that etch-and-rinse adhesives must be applied onto moist collagen, DMSO-dry bonding protocols not only improved bonding performance and hybrid layer integrity, but also brought more versatility to collagen hybridization by reducing overdrying-related issues.

The pursuit of resin-dentin bond durability: Simultaneous enhancement of collagen structure and polymer network formation in hybrid layers

OBJECTIVE

Imperfect polymer formation as well as collagen's susceptibility to enzymatic degradation increase the vulnerability of hybrid layers over time. This study investigated the effect of new dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)-containing pretreatments on long-term bond strength, hybrid layer quality, monomer conversion and collagen structure.

METHODS

H₃PO₄-etched mid-coronal dentin surfaces from extracted human molars (n = 8) were randomly treated with aqueous and ethanolic DMSO solutions or following the ethanol-wet bonding technique. Dentin bonding was performed with a three-step etch-and-rinse adhesive. Resin-dentin beams (0.8 mm²) were stored in artificial saliva at 37 °C for 24 h and 2.5 years, submitted to microtensile bond strength testing at 0.5 mm/min and semi-quantitative SEM nanoleakage analysis (n = 8). Micro-Raman spectroscopy was used to determine the degree of conversion at different depths in the hybrid layer (n = 6). Changes in the apparent modulus of elasticity of demineralized collagen beams measuring 0.5 × 1.7 × 7 mm (n = 10) and loss of dry mass (n = 10) after 30 days were calculated via three-point bending and precision weighing, respectively.

RESULTS

DMSO-containing pretreatments produced higher bond strengths, which did not change significantly over time presenting lower incidence of water-filled zones. Higher uniformity in monomer conversion across the hybrid layer occurred for all pretreatments. DMSO-induced collagen stiffening was reversible in water, but with lower peptide solubilization.

SIGNIFICANCE

Improved polymer formation and higher stability of the collagen-structure can be attributed to DMSO's unique ability to simultaneously modify both biological and resin components within the hybrid layer. Pretreatments composed of DMSO/ethanol may be a viable-effective alternative to extend the longevity of resin-dentin bonds.

Bond Strength of Universal Adhesives to Dentin: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Currently, the availability of a wide variety of universal adhesives makes it difficult for clinicians to choose the correct system for specific bonding situations to dentin substrate. This study aimed to determine whether there are any alternative techniques or additional strategies available to enhance the bond strength of universal adhesives to dentin through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Two reviewers executed a literature search up to September 2020 in four electronic databases: PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE. Only in vitro studies that reported the dentin bond strength of universal adhesives using additional strategies were included. An analysis was carried out using Review Manager Software version 5.3.5 (The Nordic Cochrane Centre, The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark). The methodological quality of each in vitro study was assessed according to the parameters of a previous systematic. A total of 5671 potentially relevant studies were identified. After title and abstract examination, 74 studies remained in systematic review. From these, a total of 61 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The bond strength of universal adhesives to dentin was improved by the use of one of the following techniques: Previous application of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) inhibitors (p < 0.001), prolonged application time (p = 0.007), scrubbing technique (p < 0.001), selective dentin etching (p < 0.001), non-atmospheric plasma (p = 0.01), ethanol-wet bonding (p < 0.01), prolonged blowing time (p = 0.02), multiple layer application (p = 0.005), prolonged curing time (p = 0.006), and hydrophobic layer coating (p < 0.001). On the other hand, the use of a shortened application time (p = 0.006), and dentin desensitizers (p = 0.01) impaired the bond strength of universal adhesives to dentin. Most of the analyses performed showed a high heterogenicity. The in vitro evidence suggests that the application of universal adhesives using some alternative techniques or additional strategies may be beneficial for improving their bonding performance to dentin. This research received no external funding. Considering that this systematic review was carried out only with in vitro studies, registration was not performed.

The effect of chlorhexidine and dimethyl sulfoxide on long-term sealing ability of two calcium silicate cements in root canal

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the long-term effect of chlorhexidine (CHX) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on the sealing ability and biomineralization of two different calcium silicate cements (CSC) in root canal.

METHODS

Sixty human third molar root canals were obturated with ProRoot MTA or Biodentine. Before obturation the canals were irrigated with saline (control), 2% CHX or 5% DMSO. Microleakage was tested after three days and after six months. After additional six months (12 months after root filling) the roots were cut into 2 mm thick dentine discs. The discs were stored in artificial saliva for one year. The bond strength was measured with the push-out method, and the failure mode was evaluated with a stereomicroscope. The most apical disc of each tooth was used for Vickers hardness test.

RESULTS

No significant differences between the groups was found in initial microleakage. The leakage increased significantly during the 6-month storage in all groups except in Biodentine-CHX group and Biodentine-DMSO group. CHX and DMSO irrigation significantly increased the leakage with ProRoot MTA with time, but there was no statistically significant difference compared to the ProRoot MTA-control group at six months' time point. CHX significantly reduced the push-out bond strength of ProRoot MTA. With Biodentine irrigation with CHX or DMSO resulted with significantly higher push-out strength compared to the Biodentine control group. Fracture analysis showed statistically significant difference in the distribution of the fractures between the groups, but neither CHX nor DMSO change the fracture pattern statistically significantly. With Vickers hardness test ProRoot MTA with and without DMSO as the final irrigant showed significantly higher dentin hardness than any Biodentine-group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Considering that aging increased the leakage in all groups except with Biodentine-DMSO and the differences in the push-out strength and surface microhardness data, it appears that the time-related biomineralizing effect of MTA and Biodentine does not improve sealing to dentin. CHX significantly reduced ProRoot MTA bond strength and increased pure adhesive failures with both cements.

Bond Strength to Microtraction and Nanofiltration Using Ethanol Wet Bonding Technique in Fresh Extracted Teeth: An Ex Vivo Study

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the bond strength to microtraction and nanofiltration using ethanol wet bonding technique in fresh extracted teeth.

Materials and Methods

This quasi-experimental ex vivo study evaluated 48 teeth that had an indication of premolar extraction due to orthodontic reasons. The protocol of dental preparation and restorative procedure was carried out to evaluate the adhesion resistance by means of the universal testing machine at a loading speed of 0.5 mm/min and 500MPa. To evaluate the nanofiltration, matches were made that were immersed in ammoniac silver nitrate for 24h, and then the specimens impregnated with silver were washed thoroughly in distilled water and placed in a photo-developer solution for 8h under a fluorescent light. All statistical analyses were statistically evaluated with a level of significance P < 0.05.

Results

The ethanol technique without premature failure (PF) group had an average of 31.26 ± 10.26MPa, whereas the lowest value was found in the water technique group with PF, which had 22.59 ± 12.27MPa. When performing inferential statistics, it was evidenced that there were statistically significant differences between both techniques with a value of P < 0.05.

Conclusion

According to the results in both cases, the adhesive strength showed superiority in the ethanol wash group. It determines that this technique presents greater tolerance to the residual presence of water. Finally, in relation to nanofiltration we found that there were no significant differences between the groups evaluated.

Threats to adhesive/dentin interfacial integrity and next generation bio-enabled multifunctional adhesives

Nearly 100 million of the 170 million composite and amalgam restorations placed annually in the United States are replacements for failed restorations. The primary reason both composite and amalgam restorations fail is recurrent decay, for which composite restorations experience a 2.0-3.5-fold increase compared to amalgam. Recurrent decay is a pernicious problem-the standard treatment is replacement of defective composites with larger restorations that will also fail, initiating a cycle of ever-larger restorations that can lead to root canals, and eventually, to tooth loss. Unlike amalgam, composite lacks the inherent capability to seal discrepancies at the restorative material/tooth interface. The low-viscosity adhesive that bonds the composite to the tooth is intended to seal the interface, but the adhesive degrades, which can breach the composite/tooth margin. Bacteria and bacterial by-products such as acids and enzymes infiltrate the marginal gaps and the composite's inability to increase the interfacial pH facilitates cariogenic and aciduric bacterial outgrowth. Together, these characteristics encourage recurrent decay, pulpal damage, and composite failure. This review article examines key biological and physicochemical interactions involved in the failure of composite restorations and discusses innovative strategies to mitigate the negative effects of pathogens at the adhesive/dentin interface. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B:2466-2475, 2019.