Preparation of glass ionomer cement using N-acryloyl-substituted amino acid monomers--evaluation of physical properties

Comparative evaluation of compressive and flexural strength, fluoride release and bacterial adhesion of GIC modified with CPP-ACP, bioactive glass, chitosan and MDPB

Background. This study evaluated the incorporation of casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), calcium sodium phosphosilicate bioactive glass (BAG), chitosan (CH), and methacryloyloxydodecylpyridinium bromide (MDPB) on the compressive and flexural strength, fluoride (F^‒ ) release, and bacterial adhesion of conventional glass-ionomer cement (C-GIC).

Methods. Modifications were implemented by adding CPP-ACP, BAG, and CH to the glass powder, while MDPB-GIC was prepared by incorporating MDPB to the liquid of C-GIC. Custom-made molds were used for specimen preparation. Compressive and flexural strengths were evaluated using a universal testing machine. F^‒ release was calculated with Erichrome cyanide reagent, using UV-spectrophotometry, at two time intervals of 24 hours and seven days. For bacterial adhesion, the test specimens were exposed to the bacterial suspension of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus for 4 hours, and the adherent bacteria were quantified using colorimetry as the optical density (OD).

Results. The incorporation of MDPB increased the flexural strength of C-GIC, with no effect on its compressive strength. CH significantly improved the compressive and flexural strength; modifications with CPP-ACP, BAG, and MDPB significantly improved the flexural strength of C-GIC. While MDPB-GIC released significantly higher F^‒ at 24 hours, CPP-ACP- and BAG-modified GICs were comparable to C-GIC on day 7. C-GIC exhibited the highest bacterial adhesion, and MDPB-GIC showed the least. The data were analyzed with one-way (ANOVA), and pairwise comparisons were made with Tukey HSD tests.

Conclusion. Hence, it can be concluded that the incorporation of CPP-ACP, BAG, and CH improved the mechanical properties of C-GIC, whereas MDPB improved the resistance of C-GIC to bacterial adhesion.

Comparative Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Zinc-reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement and Glass Ionomer Type IX Cement: An In Vitro Study

Aims and objectives

The aims and objectives of this study were to evaluate and compare the flexural strength and microhardness of zinc reinforced glass ionomer cement and glass ionomer type IX cement.

Materials and methods

The sample size of twenty each of group I (zinc-reinforced glass ionomer cement) and group II (glass ionomer type IX cement) were selected. The samples were prepared in the customized steel molds and subjected to test for flexural strength and microhardness. The flexural strength was determined by the three-point bending test. After determining the flexural strength, the fragments were used to determine Vickers Hardness by means of an automatic microhardness indenter. The flexural strength and microhardness was calculated for all samples and subjected to statistical analysis. Two sample t-test with unequal variances were used, as the data are found to be from the same material. The normality was checked by using the usual normal probability plot. For flexural strength, p value was found to be 0.007530. Hence, zinc-reinforced glass ionomer cement was superior to glass ionomer type IX cement. For microhardness the p value was found to be 0.0023. So, glass ionomer type IX cement was superior to zinc reinforced glass ionomer cement.

Conclusion

The zinc-reinforced glass ionomer cement showed enhanced flexural strength when compared to glass ionomer type IX cement, thus increasing the longevity whereas glass ionomer type IX cement had a better microhardness than zinc-reinforced glass ionomer cement. Hence, the mechanical properties of various materials should be considered for the long-term clinical success by selecting the appropriate material based on the clinical condition.

How to cite this article

Patil K, Patel A, Kunte S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Zinc-reinforced Glass Ionomer Cement and Glass Ionomer Type IX Cement: An In Vitro Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(4):381–389.

Surface modification of polyisobutylene via grafting amino acid-based poly (acryloyl-6-aminocaproic acid) as multifunctional material

Amino acid-based P(acryloyl-6-aminocaproic acid) (PAACA) brushes were fabricated on polyisobutylene (PIB) surface combined with plasma pre-treatment and UV-induced grafting polymerization to construct an antifouling and functional material. The hydrophilicity and hemocompatibility of PIB were largely improved by surface modification of AACA, which were confirmed by water contact angle and platelet adhesion, respectively. PAACA brushes were precisely located onto the surface of PIB to create a patterned PIB-g-PAACA structure, and then the carboxyl groups on PAACA was activated to immobilize functional protein-Concanavalin A (Con A). The obtained Con A-coupled microdomains could further capture erythrocytes. This method developed a platform on commercial PIB surface via amino acid-based polymer brushes which had a promising application in drug delivery and disease diagnosis.

Effects of incorporation of nano-fluorapatite particles on microhardness, fluoride releasing properties, and biocompatibility of a conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC)

Present study evaluated effects of addition of Nanoparticles fluorapatite (Nano-FA) on microhardness and fluoride release of a Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC, Fuji IX GP Fast). Forty-eight specimens prepared, divided equally into 4 groups (2 with Nano-FA); after 24 h and one week Vickers microhardness (HV) was measured. Nano-FA specimens were made from addition of nano-FA to Fuji IX powder (glass powder/Nano-FA ratio=20:1 wt/wt, 3.6:1 P/L ratio). At 24 h, mean (95% CI) HV for GIC and Nano-FA GIC were 40.59 (39.51-41.66) and 46.89 (45.95-47.82) kg/mm², and at one week 44.98 (44.23-45.72), 53.29 (52.58-53.99) kg/mm², respectively. Findings indicated higher HV in Nano-FA specimens (F=221.088, p<0.001). Twenty-eight days weekly cumulative fluoride release in both groups was not different (p>0.05). MTT assay exhibited no inhibition of cell proliferation or reduction in metabolic activity in experimental [84.0 (3.3)] or control groups [85.1 (4.7)] with no difference between groups (p>0.05). New nano-FA GIC was biocompatible and showed improved surface hardness. Future clinical trials can verify the usefulness of Nano-FA GIC.

Modifications in Glass Ionomer Cements: Nano-Sized Fillers and Bioactive Nanoceramics

Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are being used for a wide range of applications in dentistry. In order to overcome the poor mechanical properties of glass ionomers, several modifications have been introduced to the conventional GICs. Nanotechnology involves the use of systems, modifications or materials the size of which is in the range of 1–100 nm. Nano-modification of conventional GICs and resin modified GICs (RMGICs) can be achieved by incorporation of nano-sized fillers to RMGICs, reducing the size of the glass particles, and introducing nano-sized bioceramics to the glass powder. Studies suggest that the commercially available nano-filled RMGIC does not hold any significant advantage over conventional RMGICs as far as the mechanical and bonding properties are concerned. Conversely, incorporation of nano-sized apatite crystals not only increases the mechanical properties of conventional GICs, but also can enhance fluoride release and bioactivity. By increasing the crystallinity of the set matrix, apatites can make the set cement chemically more stable, insoluble, and improve the bond strength with tooth structure. Increased fluoride release can also reduce and arrest secondary caries. However, due to a lack of long-term clinical studies, the use of nano-modified glass ionomers is still limited in daily clinical dentistry. In addition to the in vitro and in vivo studies, more randomized clinical trials are required to justify the use of these promising materials. The aim of this paper is to review the modification performed in GIC-based materials to improve their physicochemical properties.

The role of poly(acrylic acid) in conventional glass polyalkenoate cements

Glass polyalkenoate cements (GPCs) have been used in dentistry for over 40 years. These novel bioactive materials are the result of a reaction between a finely ground glass (base) and a polymer (acid), usually poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), in the presence of water. This article reviews the types of PAA used as reagents (including how they vary by molar mass, molecular weight, concentration, polydispersity and content) and the way that they control the properties of the conventional GPCs (CGPCs) formulated from them. The article also considers the effect of PAA on the clinical performance of CGPCs, including biocompatibility, rheological and mechanical properties, adhesion, ion release, acid erosion and clinical durability. The review has critically evaluated the literature and clarified the role that the polyacid component of CGPCs plays in setting and maturation. This review will lead to an improved understanding of the chemistry and properties of the PAA phase which will lead to further innovation in the glass-based cements field.

Conventional glass-ionomer materials: A review of the developments in glass powder, polyacid liquid and the strategies of reinforcement

OBJECTIVES

The development of glass-ionomers (GIs) from the earliest experimental GI formulations to the modern day commercially available GIs was reviewed. The aim of the review was to identify the developments in the glass powder and polyacid liquid constituents of GIs since their inception in the late 1960s.

DATA

The glass powder has undergone major changes from the earliest GI powder formulation (G200) in an effort to enhance the reactivity with the polyacid liquid. The GI liquids have also been optimised by the manufacturers in terms of polyacid composition, molecular weight and concentration to improve the handling characteristics. Despite these developments in the glass powder and polyacid liquid constituents, GIs cannot 'truly' be advocated for the restoration of posterior dentition due to the poor mechanical properties when compared with dental amalgam and resin-based composites (RBCs).

SOURCES

Various attempts to improve the mechanical properties of GIs through substitution of reinforcing fillers to the GI powder or modification of the GI liquid were identified in the dental literature. Despite the claimed improvements in mechanical properties of the modified GIs, a wide variation in mixing and testing conditions was identified which prevented a valid assessment of the reported reinforcement strategies. When investigating a GI reinforcement strategy it is crucial that the mixing and testing conditions are standardised to allow a valid comparison between studies.

STUDY SELECTION

The dental literature reporting the earliest experimental GIs to modern day commercially available GIs (1969-2015) was reviewed. In addition, full-text publications and abstracts published in English reporting various GI reinforcement strategies were included.

CONCLUSION

Nevertheless, major improvements in GI formulations through a reinforcement strategy have yet to be made to enable clinical usage of GIs for the restoration of posterior dentition.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

GIs chemically are inherently weak but bond to sound tooth structure without the need for preconditioning or removal of sound tooth structure such that improvements in the mechanical properties of GIs would be desirable. Although advances have been made through different GI glass powder and polyacid liquid formulations over the past 40 years, further improvements in the mechanical properties of the current GIs are required to be indicated for the restoration of posterior dentition. The literature is replete with reports on GI reinforcement, however, improved reporting and control of mixing and testing conditions are required for a valid assessment of the reinforcement strategies.

A novel star-shaped poly(carboxylic acid) for resin-modified glass-ionomer restoratives

We have developed a novel glass-ionomer cement (GIC) system composed of photo-curable star-shaped poly(acrylic acid-co-itaconic acid)s. These polyacids were synthesized via a chain-transfer radical polymerization using a newly synthesized multi-arm chain-transfer agent. The star-shaped polyacids showed significantly lower viscosities in water as compared to the linear polyacids. Due to the lower viscosities, the molecular weight (MW) of the polyacids can be significantly increased for enhancing the mechanical strengths while keeping the ease of mixing and handling. The effects of MW, GM-tethering ratio, P/L ratio, and aging on the compressive properties of the experimental cements were significant. The light-cured experimental cements showed significantly improved mechanical strengths i.e. 49% in yield strength, 41% in modulus, 25% in CS, 20% in DTS, and 36% in FS, higher than commercial Fuji II LC. After aging in water for 1 month, the compressive strength of the novel light-cured experimental cement reached 343 MPa, which was 34% and 42% higher than Fuji II and Fuji II LC, respectively. This one-month aged experimental cement was also 23% higher than itself after one day aging, indicating that aging in water can significantly enhance salt-bridge formation for this novel star-shaped polyacid-comprised GIC.

Synthesis of poly(alkenoic acid) with L-leucine residue and methacrylate photopolymerizable groups useful in formulating dental restorative materials

To develop resin-modified glass ionomer materials, we synthesized methacrylate-functionalized acrylic copolymer (PAlk-LeuM) derived from acrylic acid, itaconic acid and N-acryloyl-L-leucine using (N-methacryloyloxyethylcarbamoyl-N'-4-hydroxybutyl) urea as the modifying agent. The spectroscopic (proton/carbon nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) characteristics, and the gel permeation chromatography/Brookfield viscosity measurements were analysed and compared with those of the non-modified copolymer (PAlk-Leu). The photocurable copolymer (PAlk-LeuM, ~14 mol% methacrylate groups) and its precursor (PAlk-Leu) were incorporated in dental ionomer compositions besides diglycidyl methacrylate of bisphenol A (Bis-GMA) or an analogue of Bis-GMA (Bis-GMA-1), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate. The kinetic data obtained by photo-differential scanning calorimetry showed that both the degree of conversion (60.50-75.62%) and the polymerization rate (0.07-0.14 s(-1)) depend mainly on the amount of copolymer (40-50 wt.%), and conversions over 70% were attained in the formulations with 40 wt.% PAlk-LeuM. To formulate light-curable cements, each organic composition was mixed with filler (90 wt.% fluoroaluminosilicate/10 wt.% hydroxyapatite) into a 2.7:1 ratio (powder/liquid ratio). The light-cured specimens exhibited flexural strength (FS), compressive strength (CS) and diametral tensile strength (DTS) varying between 28.08 and 64.79 MPa (FS), 103.68-147.13 MPa (CS) and 16.89-31.87 MPa (DTS). The best values for FS, CS and DTS were found for the materials with the lowest amount of PAlk-LeuM. Other properties such as the surface hardness, water sorption/water solubility, surface morphology and fluorescence caused by adding the fluorescein monomer were also evaluated.

A Novel Glass Polyalkenoate Cement for Fixation and Stabilisation of the Ribcage, Post Sternotomy Surgery: An ex-Vivo Study

This study investigates the use of gallium (Ga) based glass polyalkenoate cements (GPCs) as a possible alternative adhesive in sternal fixation, post sternotomy surgery. The glass series consists of a Control (CaO-ZnO-SiO2), and LGa-1 and LGa-2 which contain Ga at the expense of zinc (Zn) in 0.08 mol% increments. The additions of Ga resulted in increased working time (75 s to 137 s) and setting time (113 to 254 s). Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis indicated that this was a direct result of increased unreacted poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and the reduction of crosslink formation during cement maturation. LGa samples (0.16 wt % Ga) resulted in an altered ion release profile, particularly for 30 days analysis, with maximum Ca2+, Zn2+, Si4+ and Ga3+ ions released into the distilled water. The additions of Ga resulted in increased roughness and decreased contact angles during cement maturation. The presence of Ga has a positive effect on the compressive strength of the samples with strengths increasing over 10 MPa at 7 days analysis compared to the 1 day results. The additions of Ga had relatively no effect on the flexural strength. Tensile testing of bovine sterna proved that the LGa samples (0.16 wt % Ga) are comparable to the Control samples.

Preparation, formulation and evaluation of novel photo-cured glass ionomers based on co-polymers of (meth)acrylated amino acids

A novel photo-cured amino-acid-constructed glass-ionomer cement system has been developed. Glutamic acid- and beta-alanine-based methacrylate and acrylate derivatives were synthesized, characterized and used to construct the polyalkenoic acids and formulated with water and Fuji II glass filler to form self-cured cement. Compressive strength (CS) of the cement and viscosity of the liquid were used as tools for evaluation. The effects of molar ratio and molecular weight (MW) were studied. The optimized co-polymer was further modified with glycidyl methacrylate (GM) and formulated with water, acrylic acid and Fuji II LC filler to form photo-cured cement. The effects of MW, GM tethering ratio, polymer liquid ratio and glass filler powder/polymer liquid (P/L) ratio were investigated. CS, flexural strength (FS) and viscosity were used as screening tools to find the optimal formulation. All the specimens were conditioned in distilled water at 37 degrees C for either 24 h or 7 days prior to testing. The results show that amino-acid-constructed polyalkenoic acids can be formed only from amino acid methacrylate derivatives or by co-polymerization of methacrylate with acrylate derivatives. Among the numerous co-polymers synthesized, poly(methacryloyl glutamic acid-co-acryloyl beta-alanine) or poly(MGA-co-ABA) with the molar ratio of 8:2 and MW of 19.5 kg/mol contributed the highest mechanical strengths and lower working viscosity to the cement. For photo-cured system, the effects of GM tethering ratio, polymer content and P/L ratio were significant. It is found that an appropriate ratio balance between these parameters is very important. The effect of molecular weight was not significant. The self-cured experimental cement was 32% higher in FS than Fuji II and the same in CS and DTS as Fuji II. The photo-cured experimental cement was 19%, 47% and 176% higher in CS, DTS and FS than Fuji II LC.

A novel hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid) for improved resin-modified glass-ionomer restoratives

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to synthesize and characterize novel hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid)s via atom-transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) technique and tether the photo-curable methacrylate onto the poly(acrylic acid), use these polymers to formulate the resin-modified glass-ionomer cements, and evaluate the mechanical strengths of the formed cements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid)s were synthesized using a self-condensing vinyl polymerization initiator via ATRP. The effects of the concentrations of both catalyst and initiator on molecular weight (MW) and degree of branching (DB) were studied. Compressive, diametral tensile as well as flexural strengths, fracture toughness, hardness and wear-resistance of the experimental cement were evaluated and compared to those of Fuji II LC cement. The specimens were conditioned in distilled water at 37°C for 24h prior to testing.

RESULTS

The concentrations of both catalyst and initiator had significant effects on MW and DB of the synthesized polymers. The concentration of the initiator also significantly affected both CS and DTS values of the cement. The experimental cement showed significantly higher mechanical properties, i.e., 53% in CS, 50% in compressive modulus, 125% in DTS, 95% in FS, 21% in FT and 96% in KHN, higher than Fuji II LC. The experimental cement was only 5.4% of abrasive and 6.4% attritional wear depths of Fuji II LC.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed a novel resin-modified glass-ionomer cement system composed of newly synthesized hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid)s. It appears that this novel experimental cement is a clinically attractive dental restorative and may potentially be used for high-wear and high-stress-bearing site restorations.

Strong nanocomposites with Ca, PO(4), and F release for caries inhibition

This article reviews recent studies on: (1) the synthesis of novel calcium phosphate and calcium fluoride nanoparticles and their incorporation into dental resins to develop nanocomposites; (2) the effects of key microstructural parameters on Ca, PO(4), and F ion release from nanocomposites, including the effects of nanofiller volume fraction, particle size, and silanization; and (3) mechanical properties of nanocomposites, including water-aging effects, flexural strength, fracture toughness, and three-body wear. This article demonstrates that a major advantage of using the new nanoparticles is that high levels of Ca, PO(4), and F release can be achieved at low filler levels in the resin, because of the high surface areas of the nanoparticles. This leaves room in the resin for substantial reinforcement fillers. The combination of releasing nanofillers with stable and strong reinforcing fillers is promising to yield a nanocomposite with both stress-bearing and caries-inhibiting capabilities, a combination not yet available in current materials.

Synthesis and characterization of a novel N-vinylcaprolactam-containing acrylic acid terpolymer for applications in glass-ionomer dental cements

In this study a novel N-vinylcaprolactam (NVC)-containing copolymer of acrylic-itaconic acid was synthesized, characterized and incorporated into Fuji IX conventional glass-ionomer cement (GIC). Subsequently, the effects of incorporation of synthesized terpolymer on the mechanical properties of GIC were studied. The synthesized terpolymer was characterized using (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The viscosity and molecular weight of the terpolymer were also measured. The compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS) and biaxial flexural strength (BFS) of the modified GICs were evaluated after 24h and 1week of immersion in distilled water at 37 degrees C. The handling properties (working and setting times) of the resulting modified cements were also evaluated. One-way analysis of variance was used to study the statistical significance of the mechanical strengths and handling properties in comparison to the control group. The results showed that NVC-containing GIC samples exhibited significantly higher (P<0.05) DTS (38.3+/-10.9MPa) and BFS (82.2+/-12.8MPa) in comparison to Fuji IX GIC (DTS=19.6+/-11.4MPa; BFS=41.3+/-10.5MPa). The experimental cement also showed higher but not statistically significant values for CS compared to the control material (CS for NVC-containing sample=303+/-32.8MPa; CS for Fuji XI=236+/-41.5MPa). Novel NVC-containing GIC has been developed in this study, with a 28% increase in CS. The presented GIC is capable of doubling the DTS and BFS in comparison to commercial Fuji IX GIC. The working properties of NVC-containing glass-ionomer formulations are comparable and are acceptable for water-based cements.

Synthesis of a proline-modified acrylic acid copolymer in supercritical CO2 for glass-ionomer dental cement applications

Supercritical (sc-) fluids (such as sc-CO(2)) represent interesting media for the synthesis of polymers in dental and biomedical applications. Sc-CO(2) has several advantages for polymerization reactions in comparison to conventional organic solvents. It has several advantages in comparison to conventional polymerization solvents, such as enhanced kinetics, being less harmful to the environment and simplified solvent removal process. In our previous work, we synthesized poly(acrylic acid-co-itaconic acid-co-N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PAA-IA-NVP) terpolymers in a supercritical CO(2)/methanol mixture for applications in glass-ionomer dental cements. In this study, proline-containing acrylic acid copolymers were synthesized, in a supercritical CO(2) mixture or in water. Subsequently, the synthesized polymers were used in commercially available glass-ionomer cement formulations (Fuji IX commercial GIC). Mechanical strength (compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS) and biaxial flexural strength (BFS)) and handling properties (working and setting time) of the resulting modified cements were evaluated. It was found that the polymerization reaction in an sc-CO(2)/methanol mixture was significantly faster than the corresponding polymerization reaction in water and the purification procedures were simpler for the former. Furthermore, glass-ionomer cement samples made from the terpolymer prepared in sc-CO(2)/methanol exhibited higher CS and DTS and comparable BFS compared to the same polymer synthesized in water. The working properties of glass-ionomer formulations made in sc-CO(2)/methanol were comparable and better than the values of those for polymers synthesized in water.

Bioactive glass-ionomer cement with potential therapeutic function to dentin capping mineralization

We have developed a novel bioactive resin-modified glass-ionomer cement system with therapeutic function to dentin capping mineralization. In the system, the newly synthesized star-shape poly(acrylic acid) was formulated with water, Fuji II LC filler, and bioactive glass S53P4 to form resin-modified glass-ionomer cement. Compressive strength (CS) was used as a screening tool for evaluation. The commercial glass-ionomer cement Fuji II LC was used as a control. All the specimens were conditioned in simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37 degrees C prior to testing. The effect of aging in SBF on CS and microhardness of the cements was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the in vitro dentin surface changes caused by the incorporation of bioactive glass. The results show that the system not only provided strengths comparable to original commercial Fuji II LC cement but also allowed the cement to help mineralize the dentin in the presence of SBF. It appears that this bioactive glass-ionomer cement system has direct therapeutic impact on dental restorations that require root surface fillings.

A novel light-cured glass-ionomer system for improved dental restoratives

A novel light-cured glass-ionomer cement (LCGIC) system based on the 4-arm star-shape poly(acrylic acid) (AA) tethered with glycidyl methacrylate has been developed. The 4-arm poly(AA) polymer was synthesized using atom-transfer radical polymerization. The purified polymer was used to formulate with water and Fuji II LC filler to form LCGICs. Compressive strength (CS) was used as a screening tool for evaluation. The effects of grafting ratio, polymer/water (P/W) ratio, filler powder/polymer liquid (P/L) ratio and aging on strengths were investigated. All the specimens were conditioned in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 24 h prior to testing. The results show that the 4-arm poly(AA) polymer exhibited a lower viscosity as compared to its linear counterpart that was synthesized via conventional free-radical polymerization. This novel LCGIC system was 13% in CS, 86% in diametral tensile strength (DTS) and 123% in flexural strength higher but 93.6% in shrinkage lower than Fuji II LC. Increasing P/W ratio significantly increased both CS and DTS. Upon increasing grafting ratio, the CS was increased from 35% to 50% but not from 50% to 70%. Likewise, when P/L ratio was increased, the CS was increased from 2.2 to 2.7 but not from 2.7 to 3.0. During aging, the ultimate CS (MPa) was significantly increased from 209.2 at 1 h to 329.7 at 1 week. It appears that this novel LCGIC system will be a better dental restorative because it demonstrated improved mechanical strengths as well as little shrinkage and may eliminate cytotoxicity in current LCGICs caused by leached HEMA.

A novel comonomer-free light-cured glass-ionomer cement for reduced cytotoxicity and enhanced mechanical strength

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to develop a novel comonomer-free light-cured glass-ionomer system based on the 4-arm star-shape poly(acrylic acid). The mechanical strengths and in vitro cytotoxicity of the formed system were evaluated and compared with those of several representative commercial glass-ionomer cements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 4-arm poly(acrylic acid) was synthesized using ATRP and tethered with glycidyl methacrylate (GM). The GM-tethered polymer was formulated with water, photo-initiators, and Fuji II LC filler. Fuji II, Fuji II LC and Vitremer were used for comparison. Compressive strength (CS) and MTT assay were used as tools to evaluate the mechanical strengths and in vitro cytotoxicity of the cements, respectively.

RESULTS

The experimental cement exhibited significantly high compressive, diametral tensile and flexural strengths as compared to commercial glass-ionomer cements, Fuji II, Fuji II LC and Vitremer. The effects of polymer/water (P/W) ratio, GM-grafting ratio, glass powder/polymer liquid (P/L) ratio and aging in water on strengths were significant. Similar to conventional glass-ionomer cement Fuji II, the eluates from the experimental cement showed little in vitro cytotoxicity to Balb/c mouse fibroblast cells, as compared to Fuji II LC and Vitremer that contain HEMA as a comonomer.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that this novel comonomer-free light-cured glass-ionomer cement will be a promising dental restorative because it demonstrated significantly improved mechanical strengths and almost no in vitro cytotoxicity as compared to current commercial light-cured glass-ionomer cements.

New polymeric materials for use in glass-ionomer cements

The polymeric materials currently used in GIC are based on poly(acrylic acid), poly(acrylic acid-co-itaconic acid), or poly(acrylic acid-co-maleic acid). For the visible light cured (VLC) type GIC, the polymeric material is chemically modified to have pendant free-radical polymerizable double bonds, with the aqueous formulation solution also containing a monomer having methacrylate groups. Exploring ways to improve both conventional and VLC GIC, routes to new acrylic acid copolymers have been explored, where acid groups are made more available for salt-bridge formation. In particular, amino acid modified acrylic acid copolymers have been prepared and shown to provide improved GIC. Also, it was discovered that the monomer N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) could be used to modify acrylic acid copolymers to provide a path to improved GIC. A new route to develop VLC GIC, based on the reaction of the acid copolymer, in water, with a cyclic imino ether (oxazoline) functionalized methacrylate monomer was developed. Looking for ways to change the microstructure of the acrylic acid copolymers, as a possible route to improve GIC, acrylic acid copolymers have been prepared under super critical conditions. A review of the aforesaid areas of research is provided in this manuscript.

Synthesis and preparation of novel 4-arm star-shape poly(carboxylic acid)s for improved light-cured glass-ionomer cements

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to synthesize and characterize novel 4-arm star-shape poly(acrylic acid)s (poly(AA)s) via atom-transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) technique, tether in situ light-curable methacrylate functionalities onto the poly(AA) backbone, use these star-shape poly(AA)s to formulate the light-cured glass-ionomer cements (LCGICs), and evaluate the mechanical strengths of the formed cements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 4-arm poly(AA)s were synthesized using ATRP and tethered with either 2-isocyanatoethyl methacrylate (IEM) or glycidyl methacrylate (GM). The polymers were formulated with 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylte (HEMA) or methacryloyl beta-alanine (MBA), water, initiators, and Fuji II LC filler. Compressive strength (CS) was used as a tool to evaluate the formed cements. The specimens were conditioned in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 24h prior to testing.

RESULTS

The 4-arm poly(AA) showed a lower viscosity as compared to its linear counterpart. Both IEM-tethered and GM-tethered 4-arm poly(AA) constructed LCGICs showed significantly high mechanical strengths. Both types of co-monomer and grafting agent dramatically affected the mechanical strengths. The MBA-containing poly(AA) cements exhibited much higher CS than the HEMA-containing cements. The IEM-tethered poly(AA) cements showed much higher CS and DTS than the GM-tethered cements.

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed a novel light-curable 4-arm star-shape poly(AA) system. The system was 13% in CS, 178% in DTS and 123% in FS, compared to Fuji II LC.

Novel amino acid-constructed polyalkenoates for dental glass-ionomer restoratives

Several methacrylate or acrylate derivatives of natural amino acids were synthesized and characterized. Based upon these derivatives, novel amino acid-constructed polyalkenoic acids were prepared and used to formulate glass-ionomer cements (GICs) with Fuji II glass filler. The effects of type of derivatives, molar ratio, molecular weight, and powder/liquid ratio were investigated. The results show that amino acid-constructed polyalkenoic acids can be formed only from amino acid methacrylate derivatives or by copolymerization of methacrylate with acrylate derivatives. Strong hydrogen bond interactions failed the polymer formation from acrylate derivatives. The cement composed of poly(methacryloyl glutamic acid-co-acryloyl beta-alanine) with the molar ratio of 8:2 demonstrated the best mechanical strengths along with a workable viscosity. By using the powder/liquid ratio of 3.0/1, the experimental cement exhibited a significantly higher FS (27.7 MPa), and nearly the same CS (198.5 MPa) and DTS (11.8 MPa), as compared to Fuji II (18.9 for FS, 189.1 for CS, and 11.4 MPa for DTS). During aging, the cement showed a significant increase in strength over 24 h, followed by a slow increase over 6 months.

The effect of mixing time on the handling and compressive strength of an encapsulated glass-ionomer cement

OBJECTIVES

The effects of varying mixing times on the properties of glass-ionomer cements have been poorly investigated, and many clinicians are uninformed about the potential changes in handling achieved by this. This study aims to explore the effects of mixing time variation.

METHODS

An experimental glass-ionomer system was dosed into a capsule, activated, and triturated for varying lengths of time, from 2 to 14 s. Measurements were made of working time, initial setting time, compressive strength and compressive modulus, and a subjective assessment of handling conducted.

RESULTS

The working time and initial setting time decreased as mixing time increased, while compressive strength and compressive modulus increased to a maximum at 12 s mixing time. The material essentially pre-gelled after 14 s of mixing, which resulted in breaking of the gel matrix and poorer properties.

SIGNIFICANCE

Clinicians should feel confident, within limits, of varying mixing times of glass ionomer cements to improve properties or to slow the reaction.

Dental resin composites containing ceramic whiskers and precured glass ionomer particles

OBJECTIVES

Glass ionomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, and compomer materials are susceptible to brittle fracture and are inadequate for use in large stress-bearing posterior restorations. The aim of this study was to use ceramic single crystal whiskers to reinforce composites formulated with precured glass ionomer, and to examine the effects of whisker-to-precured glass ionomer mass ratio on mechanical properties, fluoride release, and polishability of the composites.

METHODS

Silica particles were fused onto silicon nitride whiskers to facilitate silanization and to improve whisker retention in the matrix. Hardened glass ionomer was ground into a fine powder, mixed with whiskers, and used as fillers for a dental resin. Four control materials were also tested: a glass ionomer, a resin-modified glass ionomer, a compomer, and a hybrid composite. A three-point flexural test was used to measure flexural strength, modulus, and work-of-fracture. A fluoride ion-selective electrode was used to measure fluoride release. Composite surfaces polished simulating clinical procedures were examined by SEM and profilometry.

RESULTS

At whisker/(whisker + precured glass ionomer) mass fractions of 1.0 and 0.91, the whisker composite had a flexural strength in MPa (mean (SD); n = 6) of (196 (10)) and (150 (16)), respectively, compared to (15 (7)) for glass ionomer, (39 (8)) for resin-modified glass ionomer, (89 (18)) for compomer, and (120 (16)) for hybrid composite. The whisker composite had a cumulative fluoride release of nearly 20% of that of the glass ionomer after 90 days. The whisker composites had surface roughness comparable to the hybrid resin composite.

SIGNIFICANCE

Composites filled with precured glass ionomer particles and whiskers exhibit moderate fluoride release with improved mechanical properties; the whisker-to-glass ionomer ratio is a key microstructural parameter that controls fluoride release and mechanical properties.

Mechanical properties and microstructures of glass-ionomer cements

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the flexural strength (FS), compressive strength (CS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), Knoop hardness (KHN) and wear resistance of ten commercial glass-ionomer cements (GICs). The fracture surfaces of these cements were examined using scanning electron microscopic (SEM) techniques to ascertain relationships between the mechanical properties and microstructures of these cements.

METHODS

Specimens were fabricated according to the instructions from each manufacturer. The FS, CS, DTS, KHN and wear rate were measured after conditioning the specimens for 7 d in distilled water at 37 degrees C. One-way analysis of variance with the post hoc Tukey-Kramer multiple range test was used to determine which specimen groups were significantly different for each test. The fracture surface of one representative specimen of each GIC from the FS tests was examined using a scanning electron microscope.

RESULTS

The resin-modified GICs (RM GICs) exhibited much higher FS and DTS, not generally higher CS, often lower Knoop hardness and generally lower wear resistance, compared to the conventional GICs (C GICs). Vitremer (3M) had the highest values of FS and DTS; Fuji II LC (GC International) and Ketac-Molar (ESPE) had the highest CS; Ketac-Fil (ESPE) had the highest KHN. Ketac-Bond (ESPE) had the lowest FS; alpha-Silver (DMG-Hamburg) had the lowest CS. Four GICs (alpha-Fil (DMG-Hamburg), alpha-Silver, Ketac-Bond and Fuji II) had the lowest values of DTS, which were not significantly different from each other; alpha-Silver and Ketac-Silver had the lowest values of KHN. The highest wear resistance was exhibited by alpha-Silver and Ketac-Fil; F2LC had the lowest wear resistance. The C GICs exhibited brittle behavior, whereas the RM GICs underwent substantial plastic deformation in compression. The more integrated the microstructure, the higher were the FS and DTS. Higher CS was correlated with smaller glass particles, and higher KHN was found where there was a combination of smaller glass particles and lower porosity. Larger glass particle sizes and a more integrated microstructure contributed to a higher wear resistance.

SIGNIFICANCE

The mechanical properties of GICs were closely related to their microstructures. Factors such as the integrity of the interface between the glass particles and the polymer matrix, the particle size, and the number and size of voids have important roles in determining the mechanical properties.

Dental luting agents: A review of the current literature

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The practice of fixed prosthodontic has changed dramatically with the introduction of innovative techniques and materials. Adhesive resin systems are examples of these changes that have led to the popularity of bonded ceramics and resin-retained fixed partial dentures. Today's dentist has the choice of a water-based luting agent (zinc phosphate, zinc polycarboxylate, glass ionomer, or reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol) or a resin system with or without an adhesive. Recent formulations of glass ionomer luting agents include resin components (resin-modified glass ionomers), which are increasingly popular in clinical practice.

PURPOSE

This review summarizes the research on these systems with the goal of providing information that will help the reader choose the most suitable material.

MATERIAL

The scientific studies have been evaluated in relation to the following categories: (1) biocompatibility, (2) caries or plaque inhibition, (3) microleakage, (4) strength and other mechanical properties, (5) solubility, (6) water sorption, (7) adhesion, (8) setting stresses, (9) wear resistance, (10) color stability, (11) radiopacity, (12) film thickness or viscosity, and (13) working and setting times. In addition, guidelines on luting-agent manipulation are related to available literature and include: (1) temporary cement removal, (2) smear layer removal, (3) powder/liquid ratio, (4) mixing temperature and speed, (5) seating force and vibration, and (6) moisture control. Tables of available products and their properties are also presented together with current recommendations by the authors with a rationale.

Dental materials: 1996 literature review

This critical review of the published literature on dental materials for the year 1996 has been compiled by the Dental Materials Panel of the UK. It continues the series of annual reviews started in 1973 and published in the Journal of Dentistry. Emphasis has been placed upon publications which report upon the materials science or clinical performance of the materials. The review has been divided by accepted materials classifications (fissure sealants, glass polyalkenoate cements, dentine bonding, dental amalgam, endodontic materials, casting alloys, resin-bonded bridges and ceramo-metallic restorations, ceramics, denture base resins and soft lining materials, impression materials, implants materials, orthodontic materials, biomechanics and image processing, resin composites and casting investment materials and waxes). Three hundred and thirteen articles have been reviewed.