Microshear Bond Strength of Resin Cements to Lithium Disilicate Substrates as a Function of Surface Preparation

Effect of hydrofluoric acid concentration and aging on the bond strength ceramics to a resin cement

This study evaluated the influence of hydrofluoric acid (HF) concentration and thermal cycling on the microshear bond strength (µSBS) of a resin luting agent to IPS e.max® CAD and Rosetta® SM. Ceramic specimens (12.0 x 14.0 x 1.5mm) were randomized into 8 groups (n=10) according to HF concentration, commercial brand, and aging. Immediately after polishing, and etching, all specimens were silanized and a layer of adhesive was applied. A PVS mold of 3 mm thickness and 10mm diameter with (four) 1.0mm holes was fabricated, placed on each specimen, and then filled with a resin luting agent. Half of the specimens were subjected to the µSBS test using an Instron at a speed of 1.0 mm/min, following a 24-hour storage in deionized water at 37ºC. The remaining specimens were subjected to thermal cycling (5ºC-55ºC, 30 seconds per bath) and µSBS. The data were evaluated utilizing a three-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc test (α=0.05). Significant differences were found for HF concentration and aging (p<0.0001). No significant difference in µSBS was found for commercial brands (p=0.085). The interaction between brand and HF concentration (p=0.358), brand and aging (p=0.135), and HF concentration and aging (p=0.138) were not statistically significant. The triple interaction among these factors was not statistically significant (p=0.610). In conclusion, the bond strength is affected by the HF concentration. No statistical difference was observed between the two ceramics. Thermal cycling significantly reduced µSBS.

Effect of filler contents on the bond strength of CAD/CAM resin crowns: New resin primer versus conventional silane agents

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the effects of resin primers containing methyl methacrylate (MMA) and silane agent on the bonding effectiveness of indirect resin composite blocks with three different filler contents.Methods A commercially available computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) resin composite block and two experimental resin composite blocks with different filler contents were alumina-blasted and two surface treatments (primer and silane agent) were applied. The resin cement was built up, and the micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) was measured after 24 hours, 1 month or 3 months of water storage (n = 24 per group). The fracture surfaces after μTBS measurements and resin block/cement interface were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).Results The primer treatment group showed a significantly higher bond strength than the silane group only in F0 (filler content 0 wt%) group (P < 0.001). In the primer group, F0 and F41 (filler content 41 wt%) groups showed significantly higher bond strengths than F82 (filler content 82 wt%) group (P < 0.001). In contrast, in the silane group, F41 group showed significantly higher bond strength than F0 and F82 groups (P < 0.001), and F82 group showed significantly higher bond strength than F0 group (P < 0.001). SEM revealed that the matrix resin was partially destroyed on the fracture surface of the primer group, and an uneven interface surface was observed compared with that of the silane group.Conclusions MMA-containing primers showed higher bonding effectiveness to CAD/CAM resin composite blocks than the silane treatment.

Effect of different surface treatment protocols on the bond strength between lithium disilicate and resin cements

Because the use of hydrofluoric acid (HF) poses health risks if handled improperly, many clinicians prefer to have the ceramic restorations pre-etched in dental laboratories. However, during the try-in procedure, the pre-etched glass-ceramic restorations may be contaminated with saliva resulting in reduced bond strength. This in-vitro study aimed to investigate the effect of different surface treatments on the bond strength of lithium disilicate (LD) glass-ceramic restorations (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar Vivadent) to two resin cements. One-hundred eighty blocks (4X4X3mm) of LD glass-ceramic were divided into twelve groups (n = 15), of which six received Variolink Esthetic DC (VE) cement and six received RelyX Ultimate (RU) cement, following the surface treatments: G1) Control: Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane (HF + Sil); G2) Hydrofluoric Acid + Saliva + Silane (HF + S + Sil); G3) Hydrofluoric Acid + Saliva + Ivoclean + Silane (HF + S + IC + Sil); G4) Hydrofluoric Acid + Saliva + Phosphoric Acid + Silane (HF + S + P + Sil); G5) Hydrofluoric Acid + Saliva + Monobond Etch & Prime (HF + S + EP); G6) Monobond Etch & Prime (EP). Following treatment, a resin-cement cylinder (2.3 mm diameter) was built on the glass-ceramic surface, photocured (20 s), stored in distilled water (37 °C, 24 h) and submitted to the shear bond strength test. Bond strength data (MPa) were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey (α = 0.01). Cement type and surface treatment had a significant effect on the bond strength (p < 0.001) (Table 4). Single-step Monobond Etch & Prime (EP) significantly improved the bond strength of resin-cements to glass-ceramic with and without saliva contamination.

Effects of Hydrofluoric Acid Concentrations, Commercial Brands, and Adhesive Application on the Bond Strength of a Resin Luting Agent to Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the surface topography/roughness and bond strength of a resin luting agent to a lithium disilicate glass ceramic after etching with different concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) and commercial brands.

METHODS

For bond strength evaluation, 260 lithium disilicate glass ceramic (EMX) discs were randomly distributed into 13 groups based on concentrations of HF and commercial brands (n=20): 5% and 10%, Lysanda (LY5 and LY10); 5% and 10%, Maquira (MA5 and MA10); 5% and 10%, FGM (FG5 and FG10); 4.8%, Ivoclar Vivadent (IV5); 5% and 10%, PHS do Brasil (PH5 and PH10); 5% and 10%, BM4 (BM5 and BM10); 9%, Ultradent Inc (UL10); and Dentsply (DE10). A further random distribution (n=10) was made based on the application (+) or absence (-) of an adhesive layer. Resin luting agent cylinders (1 mm in diameter) were added on EMX surfaces, light-cured, and stored for 24 hours in deionized water at 37°C. On a universal testing machine (DL 500, EMIC), specimens were submitted to a microshear bond strength test at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. A representative etched EMX disc from each group underwent surface topography analysis using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (n=1), and five (n=5) etched EMX discs from each group were tested for surface roughness. Data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance and Tukey test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

A less conditioned and smoother surface was observed for 5% HF compared to 10%. Additionally, commercial brands of HF were shown to affect bond strength. When the adhesive layer was not used (-), a 10% concentration promoted higher bond strengths to EMX. However, when adhesive was applied (+), the concentrations of HF and commercial brands had no effect on bond strength results.

CONCLUSIONS

A 10% concentration of HF results in higher bond strength than a 5% concentration. If an adhesive layer is applied, neither this distinction nor the influence of commercial brands is observed.

Effect of Repressing Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramics on The Shear Bond Strength of Resin Cements

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of repeated pressing of lithium disilicate ceramic on the shear bond strength (SBS) of three types of resin cement.

METHODOLOGY

A lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS e.max® Press) was first heat-pressed to form rectangular disk specimens. Then, leftovers were used for the second and third presses. A total of 90 specimens were prepared and separated, according to the number of pressing cycles, into three groups: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd presses (n = 30). Each group was further subdivided into three groups (n = 10) according to the type of resin cement used, as follows: Multilink N (MN), Variolink Esthetic DC (VDC), and Variolink Esthetic LC (VLC). All the cement was bonded to the ceramic surface, which was etched with hydrofluoric acid and primed with Monobond Plus. All samples were light-cured and stored for 24 h. Shear bond strength was tested on a universal testing machine.

RESULTS

A two-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the influence of repeated pressing cycles and cement type as well as their interaction. The results indicated that cement type has a significant impact (p < 0.001) but not the number of pressing cycles (p = 0.970) or their interaction (p = 0.836). The Bonferroni post-hoc test showed that the SBS of MN was significantly higher than that of VDC and VLC in the first press and second press cycles, respectively. The SBS of MN was significantly higher than that of VDC and VLC cements in the third pressing cycle. There was no significant difference in the SBS between VLC and VDC in all three pressing cycles.

CONCLUSION

The results of the current study did not report a detrimental effect of repeated pressing up to three cycles on the shear bond strength of the IPS e.max® Press. Multilink resin cement showed the highest SBS to IPS e.max® Press at the third pressing cycle. For all types of cement and heat pressing cycles, the majority of cement failures were adhesive. No cohesive failures occurred in any of the tested resin cements, regardless of the cement type or the number of heat pressing cycles tested.

Comparison of the Micro-Shear Bond Strength of Resin Cements to CAD/CAM Glass Ceramics with Various Surface Treatments

This study aimed to compare the effect of acid etching, sandblasting, or silica coating on the micro-shear bond strength of dual-cured resin cements to computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) glass ceramic materials. Feldspathic, lithium disilicate, and zirconia-reinforced CAD/CAM ceramics were divided into four groups: control group (C), no surface treatment; hydrofluoric (HF) group, 5% HF acid-etched; sandblasting (SB) group, abraded with 50 µm aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) particles; silica-coated (CJ) group, abraded with 30 µm silica-modified Al₂O₃ particles. Roughness values were obtained by using a profilometer. The cements were condensed on the surface-treated specimens and a micro-shear bond test was conducted. The ceramic material (p < 0.001) and surface treatment type (p < 0.001) significantly affected the micro-shear bond strength values. HF acid etching can be recommended for the surface pretreatment of feldspathic, lithium disilicate, and zirconia-reinforced CAD/CAM ceramics. Better bond strengths can be obtained with HF acid etching than with sandblasting and silica coating.

Ceramic Bonding Interface under Shear-Compression Stress: Ultra-High-Speed Imaging Contribution

The aim of this study is to visualize and characterize by ultra-high-speed imaging (UHSI) the failure phenomena at the resin-ceramic bonding interface of lithium disilicate (LiSi2) samples bonded with gold-standard protocol (Monobond Plus [MB]) and the nontoxic one (Monobond Etch & Prime [MEP]) subjected to mechanical loading. Unprecedented frame rate, image resolution, and recording time were reached by using the most advanced UHSI camera. The finite element analysis (FEA) of the proposed mechanical test confirmed that the specific design of our samples enables a combined shear and compression stress state, prone to test the bonding interface while being close to physiological stresses. Ten LiSi2 samples were pretreated by gold standard (MB, n = 5) and self-etching primer (MEP, n = 5). Axial compression loading gradually increased until catastrophic failure was performed. As shown by the FEA, the angle between the bonding interface and load direction leads to shear-compression stresses at the resin-ceramic bonding interface. Failure was recorded by UHSI at 300,000 fps. All recorded images were analyzed to segregate events and isolate the origin of fracture. For the first time, thanks to the image recording setup, it was observed that debonding is the first event before breakage, highlighting that sample fracture occurs by interfacial rupture followed by slippage and cohesive failure of materials. Failure mode could be described as mixed. MEP and MB showed similar results and behavior.

Surface characterization of indirect restorative materials submitted to different etching protocols

OBJECTIVES

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of different times and concentrations of hydrofluoric acid etching on the surface of indirect restorative materials obtained from blocks used in CAD-CAM technology.

METHODS

Specimens (4 mm × 4 mm × 0.8 mm) were obtained for each indirect restorative material: zirconia-reinforced lithium monosilicate ceramic (Celtra Duo), nanoceramic resin (Lava Ultimate), and polymer-infiltrated ceramic network material (Vita Enamic). The materials were submitted to etching with 5% or 10% hydrofluoric acid for 20, 40, 60, or 90 s. A control group for each material was evaluated without any surface treatment, totaling nine experimental groups for each material (n = 10). The specimens were evaluated for surface roughness (R_a and R_z), confocal optical microscopy, the contact angle (θ), surface free energy (γs), total free interaction energy (∆G) using a goniometer, and microshear bond strength to resin cement. Specimen images were obtained using scanning electron microscopy, confocal optical microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Data on the surface roughness, the contact angle, surface free energy, total free interaction energy, and bond strength were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey´s test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

In general, Celtra Duo showed better results after etching with 10% hydrofluoric acid for 40 or 60 s. Lava Ultimate showed better performance after etching with 10% hydrofluoric acid for 20 or 40 s, whereas Vita Enamic showed better results after etching with 5% hydrofluoric acid for 90 s.

CONCLUSION

Each material showed different characteristics after etching with hydrofluoric acid. Knowledge of the proper protocol for each material is essential to ensure improvements in the adhesion process and durability of indirect restorations. In general, Celtra Duo presented mechanical properties superior to those of Lava Ultimate and Vita Enamic.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Specific etching protocols must be recommended for each indirect material because longer exposure to hydrofluoric acid can jeopardize the surface, thus affecting the mechanical and bond strength properties.

Biaxial flexure strength and physicochemical characterization of a CAD/CAM lithium disilicate ceramic: effect of etching time, silane, and adhesive applications

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of different acid etching time and bonding agent (silane and/or adhesive system) on biaxial flexural strength and physico-chemical properties of a lithium disilicate ceramic.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred twenty ceramic discs were made and divided into 8 groups (n = 15) according to factors "etching time" (20 and 120 s) with hydrofluoric acid (HF) and "bonding agent" (C, no bonding agent; S, silane, A, adhesive; and SA, silane + adhesive). After surface treatment, a resin cement layer was applied to the surface and all specimens were subjected to biaxial flexural strength (BFS) test with treated surfaces loaded in tension (1 mm/min). The Weibull analyses and complementary analyses were also performed. Statistical analysis was done with 2-way ANOVA and the Tukey test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

ANOVA revealed that the factors "etching time" (p = 0.0003) and "bonding agent" (p = 0.007) were statistically significant. In the overall analysis, the HF120S group (272.02 ± 35.30A MPa) presented significantly higher BFS than that of HF120C (218.45 ± 17.15CD MPa) and HF20S (228.40 ± 37.83BCDMPa). On the other hand, the HF20A group (208.92 ± 31.16D MPa) had significantly lower BFS than HF120S (272.02 ± 35.30A), HF120A (254.42 ± 26.87ABC) and HF120SA (259.30 ± 36.55AB) groups (Tukey). The Weibull modulus (m) of all groups was significantly different from each other (p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of etching time, the application of silane alone is sufficient to increase the flexural strength of glass ceramic, eliminating the need for the application of adhesive systems. Moreover, if only silane or adhesive is applied, 120-s HF application should increase the flexural resistance of the lithium disilicate ceramic.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Applications of adhesive systems after silanization can be suppressed from the surface treatment protocol of glass ceramics, since it does not improve their mechanical strength.

HASTABAŞI CAD-CAM BLOKLARIN EROZE DENTİNE MAKASLAMA BAĞLANMA DAYANIMI

Amaç: Bu çalışmada hastabaşı bilgisayar destekli tasarım-bilgisayar destekli üretim (CAD-CAM) bloklarının self-etch ve self-adeziv rezin simanlar kullanılarak gastrik erozyona uğratılmış dentine olan makaslama bağlanma dayanımlarının değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntemler: Yüz seksen dentin örneği sağlam dentin ve eroze dentin olmak üzere iki gruba ayrılmıştır. Eroze dentin grubunda örnekler HCI (0,01 M, pH 2, 2 dk) ile erozyona uğratılmış ve 60 dk yapay tükrükte bekletilmiş, sonrasında, elektrikli diş fırçası kullanılarak (2N, 15 s) fırçalanmıştır. Bu döngü üç kere tekrar edilmiştir. Lava Ultimate (LU), Vita Enamic (VE) ve Vita Suprinity (VS) CAD-CAM blokları (3x3x3 mm3, n=15/grup) self-etch Multilink N (MN) ve self-adeziv RelyX U200 Automix (RU) rezin simanları kullanılarak sağlam ve eroze dentin örneklerine simante edilmiştir. Makaslama bağlanma dayanımı 24 saat sonra ölçülmüştür. Başarısızlık tipi stereomikroskop kullanılarak değerlendirilmiştir. Veriler üç-yönlü ANOVA ve Bonferroni düzeltmesi kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir (p˂0,05). Bulgular: Makaslama bağlanma dayanımı ana faktörlerden önemli ölçüde etkilenmiştir: diş yapısı (p=0,011), rezin simanlar (p˂0,001) ve CAD-CAM bloklar (p=0,001). LU sağlam dentine RU ile simante edildiğinde, eroze dentinle karşılaştırıldığında daha yüksek bağlanma dayanımı elde edilmiştir (p=0,001). MN kullanıldığında, RU’dan daha yüksek bağlanma dayanımı değerleri elde edilmiştir (p

Is the application of a silane-based coupling agent necessary to stabilize the fatigue performance of bonded simplified lithium disilicate restorations?

This study evaluated the influence of ceramic surface conditioning and storage regimen (baseline vs. aging) on the fatigue performance of simplified lithium disilicate glass-ceramic restorations. A total of 90 ceramic discs (Ø= 10 mm; thickness= 1.0 mm) were allocated into 6 groups (n= 15), considering 2 factors: "ceramic surface treatment" - CA (only silane-based coupling agent, Monobond N), HF (5% hydrofluoric acid etching), or HF+CA (5% HF acid etching plus silane-based coupling agent); and "storage regimen" - baseline (24 hours - 5 days of distilled water at 37 °C), or long-term aging (180 days of distilled water at 37 °C + 25,000 thermal cycles). After intaglio ceramic conditioning, adhesive bonding (Multilink N) was performed onto epoxy resin discs (Ø= 10 mm; thickness= 2.5 mm) and the bonded sets were subjected to step-stress fatigue tests (initial load: 200 N; step-size: 50 N; 10,000 cycles per step; 20 Hz). Fatigue data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier and Weibull statistical analyses. Fractography and topography analyses were also conducted. The fatigue findings demonstrated that the performance among groups for both baseline and aging conditions maintained a tendency: the CA groups had the worst behavior (baseline: 893 N/143,667 cycles; aging: 639 N/84,179 cycles), while the surface etching with HF (baseline: 1247 N/214,333 cycles; aging: 816.67 N/128,333 cycles) and HF+CA groups (baseline: 1290 N/222,333 cycles; aging: 900 N/145,000 cycles) had no statistically significant difference between them. The aging protocol reduced the performance of all groups. The groups with better fatigue performance (HF and HF+CA) did not have statistical differences regarding structural reliability (Weibull modulus). Most failures were radial cracks from the cementation interface, except for CA aging specimens, with 27% failing from debonding. The HF etching led to noteworthy surface topographical alterations. Micromechanical interlocking resulting from HF acid etching remained prevalent in the fatigue behavior. Thus, the silane-based coupling agent (Monobond N) does not need to be applied after HF etching in terms of fatigue behavior outcomes.

Evaluation of the Bond Strength of Densely Sintered Ceramics Subjected to Extended Firing

Introduction

Critical failures in ceramic materials can be caused by the processing mode, which includes all steps taken in the manufacture of a ceramic part, from molding to firing.

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of extended firing on bond strength in densely sintered ceramics of the zirconium reinforced lithium silicate, lithium disilicate, and feldspathic ceramic.

Materials and Methods

Three types of ceramics were evaluated: zirconium reinforced lithium silicate, lithium disilicate, feldspathic ceramic. A total of 6 ceramic blocks, two for each material were used in the study. Each block was cut into four square sections. A total of 24 ceramic surfaces were randomly distributed into 6 groups (n = 4 surfaces per group) divided according to the variables: heat treatment: conventional firing or extended firing; test time: immediate (24 hours after cementation) or longevity (after 1000 cycles of thermocycling). The bond strength tests were performed in a semi-universal test machine for microshear bond strength. For data analysis, the Shapiro-Wilk test was performed to evaluate the normality between the groups measured, and regarding homoscedasticity (homogeneity of variances) by the Bartlett test. The comparisons between the groups were made using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference of the resistance values in relation to the thermal treatment methods (conventional firing and extended firing) in any ceramic group (p <0.05). Among the times (immediate and long), there was a statistically significant difference (p <0.05), with higher resistance values for immediate time.

Conclusion

Extended firing did not influence the micro-shear bond strength of zirconium reinforced lithium silicate, lithium disilicate, feldspathic ceramic.

Effect of different surface treatments on the biaxial flexure strength, Weibull characteristics, roughness, and surface topography of bonded CAD/CAM silica-based ceramics

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the influence of different surface treatments on biaxial flexure strength, roughness, and surface topography of lithium silicate/disilicate-based ceramics.

METHODS

225 discs (∅: 12 mm; 1.2 mm - ISO 6872) were made from three ceramics: IPS e.max CAD (LD - Ivoclar Vivadent), Suprinity (LSS - Vita) and Celtra Duo (LSC - Dentsply). The samples were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 15): no treatment (C); 10% hydrofluoric acid + silane (HF); sandblasting Al₂O₃ + silane (SB); silicatization + silane (SC); and self-etching ceramic primer (SEP). After surface treatment, a resin cement layer was applied to the disc surface (RelyX U200, 3M ESPE), mechanical cycled (1.2 × 10⁶ cycles, 50 N, 3.8 Hz) and submitted to biaxial flexural strength test (1 mm/min, 1000 Kgf). Roughness, EDS and SEM were also performed. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tukey test (5%) and Weibull.

RESULTS

ANOVA revealed that the "surface treatment" factor was significant for all ceramics (p < 0.05). The groups LD-HF (289.30 ± 40) LD-SEP (298. 87 ± 53.29), LSC-HF (195.51 ± 42.12), LSS-HF (269.58 ± 27.07) and LSS-SEP (207.45 ± 28.63) presented significantly higher biaxial flexure strength than respective control groups, except for the LSC-SEP (165.41 ± 33.86), which was statistically similar to the control. The Weibull modulus was significantly higher for the LD-SB, LSC-SC groups. Additionally, the LD-SB, LSC-SC and LSS-HF groups showed higher roughness compared to the other treatments.

SIGNIFICANCE

HF etching followed by silanization and self-etching ceramic primer are the most suitable surface treatments for lithium silicate/disilicate-based glass-ceramics.

Influence of Low-Pressure Plasma on the Surface Properties of CAD-CAM Leucite-Reinforced Feldspar and Resin Matrix Ceramics

The introduction of new ceramic materials for dental restorations is currently a reality; however, little information is available on their surface treatment for the bonding process. Furthermore, surface treatment with plasma on ceramic materials has been recently introduced, although not many studies are available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the surface properties of a leucite-reinforced feldspar ceramic (LIC) and resin matrix ceramic (RMC) after low-pressure plasma treatment. From each material, 48 discs were prepared and subject to surface treatment. The LIC group was treated by hydrofluoric acid (HF) (LIC-HF), plasma with oxygen (LIC-O2), and plasma with argon (LIC-Ar). The RMC group was treated by sandblasting with alumina (RMC-SB), plasma with oxygen (RMC-O2), and plasma with argon (RMC-Ar). The groups whose surfaces were not subjected to treatment were considered as the control group. Surface wettability and roughness was analyzed. The results showed significant differences among the treatments for both ceramics regarding wettability and roughness. Plasma treatments increased the wettability and had a very low effect on the roughness. Plasma treatments achieved similar values for both surface properties in each ceramic group with no differences between both treatments. Plasma treatment seems to be a promising alternative for ceramic surface treatments since it increased the surface energy of the ceramics analyzed and hardly affects the roughness. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the effect of plasma treatment on the bond strength of ceramics.

Effect of etching with low concentration hydrofluoric acid on the bond strength of CAD/CAM resin block

The effect of etching for 90 s with low concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0%) of hydrofluoric acid (HF) on the adhesiveness of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) resin blocks [CERASMART (CS), SHOFU BLOCK HC (HC), KATANA AVENCIA Block(KA), and VITA ENAMIC (EN)] was investigated. Energy dispersive spectroscopy revealed that the silicon content of HC, KA, and EN groups remained almost constant with HF etching of ≤4%. HF etching increased the surface roughness of all blocks. The HF concentration resulting in the highest shear bond strength in each group was as follows: CS (2.0%), HC (3.0%), KA (3.5%) and EN (0.5%). Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the bonding interface of etched surfaces differed significantly from that of airborne-particle abrasion surfaces. Thus, low concentration HF etching is effective for surface treatment of CAD/CAM resin blocks. The etching effect and optimum HF concentration differ with the block composition and structure.

Two-year Follow-up of Ceramic Veneers and a Full Crown Treated With Self-etching Ceramic Primer: A Case Report

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The Monobond Etch & Prime seems to be an efficient option for adhesive cementation of ultrathin veneers and full crown ceramic with good properties after two years of clinical follow-up.

SUMMARY

The use of the self-etching ceramic primer combines the stages of acid conditioning and silanization in cementation procedures of ceramic restorations. The protocol is a simpler and safer alternative to the conventional protocol for surface treatment of silica-based ceramics. This case report describes the steps of an esthetic rehabilitation with ultrathin veneers and full crown based on lithium disilicate treated with a ceramic primer (Monobond Etch & Prime, Ivoclar Vivadent, Schaan, Liechtenstein). After two years of clinical follow-up, the restorations presented satisfactory esthetic and functional performance, color stability, surface and marginal integrity, and absence of cracks and debonding. More research is needed to investigate the clinical performance and longevity of the ceramic restorations treated with self-etching ceramic primers.

Hydroxyapatite coating effect on the bond strength between CAD/CAM materials and a resin cement

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the bond strength between CAD/CAM materials and a resin cement using hydroxyapatite coating as a surface treatment method. Different surface treatments (Control, no treatment-C; Sandblasting-SB; Hydrofluoric acid etching-HF; applying tooth desensitizer-TeM; applying topical crème-ToM, HAp coating with Pulse Laser Deposition technique-PLD) were applied to three different CAD/CAM materials (LAVA Ultimate, VITA Enamic, and Cerec Blocs). After surface treatments, a universal adhesive (Single Bond Universal, 3M ESPE) was applied and adhesive resin (Rely X Ultimate, 3M ESPE) were cemented on each material surface using plastic tubes (4 mm in diameter). The shear bond strength values were measured using a universal testing machine. Scanning electron microscope analysis were performed to evaluate failure modes and effects of surface treatments. Obtained data were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (p = 0.05). The bond strength of PLD groups were significantly higher than other groups in resin-ceramics (p < 0.05). In Cerec Blocs, HF resulted significantly higher bond strength than other groups (p < 0.05). SEM analysis of surface treatment methods (except TeM and ToM) revealed an increase in surface alterations compared to control groups. Failure modes were dominantly adhesive in groups C, TeM, and ToM, whereas mostly mix or cohesive failures were observed in PLD, HF, and SB. Hydroxyapatite coating with PLD technique exhibited promising bond strength results for CAD/CAM resin-ceramics. HAp coating can be used as a replacement for hydrofluoric acid etching and sandblasting in CAD/CAM resin-ceramic materials to obtain better bond strength values.

Short communication: Influence of retainer configuration and loading direction on the stress distribution of lithium disilicate resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses: 3D finite element analysis

The present study elucidates the mechanical performance of different designs of resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses made of lithium disilicate simulating masticatory loads of anterior or canine guidance. A three-dimensional model of maxilla was constructed containing central incisor and canine teeth, with edentulous space of the lateral incisor. Three designs of prosthesis were created: retained in central incisor (1-I), retained in canine (1-C) and fixed in both teeth (2-IC). The computational analysis was performed for load in canine and central incisor separately (100N, 45°). The tensile and shear stresses were calculated for the resin-bonded fixed dental prosthesis, bonding surface of each retainer and cement layer using 3D finite element analysis. The 20 highest stress values were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey test, all with α = 5%. The computational analysis showed that 2-retainer resin-bonded fixed dental prosthesis presented the worst prognosis regardless of the mandibular movement. ANOVA showed that Mandibular movement*Retainer interaction influenced on the tensile and shear stresses values (p < 0.01). Higher stresses were observed in the connector region for all groups (13-82.2 MPa; 11-70.2 MPa). In order to reduce the stress concentration in the resin-bonded fixed dental prosthesis and the retainer made of lithium disilicate, the occlusion may serve as the selection criteria of the unitary abutment for better sustainability.

HF etching of CAD/CAM materials: influence of HF concentration and etching time on shear bond strength

Background

The required pretreatment of CAD/CAM ceramic materials before resin composite cement application varies among studies. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of hydrofluoric acid concentration and etching time on the shear bond strength (SBS) of two adhesive and two self-adhesive resin composite cements to different CAD/CAM ceramic materials.

Methods

SBS of two adhesive (Panavia V5, Kuraray, [PV5]; Vita Adiva F-Cem, Vita Zahnfabrik, [VAF]) and two self-adhesive (RelyX Unicem 2 Automix, 3 M Espe, [RUN]; Vita Adiva S-Cem, Vita, [VAS]) cements to four different CAD/CAM materials (Vitablocs Mark II, Vita, [VM]; Vita Enamic, Vita, [VE]; e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent, [EC]; Vita Suprinity PC, Vita, [VS]) was measured. The effect of the surface pretreatment by using two different hydrofluoric acid products (HF5% Vita Ceramics Etch, Vita and HF9% buffered, Ultradent Porcelain Etch, Ultradent Products) were assessed at etching times of 0 s, 5 s, 15 s, 30s and 60s for each cement and restorative material combination (n = 10 per group, total n = 1440).

Results

Significant effects were found for the etching time and cement for all materials with highest shear bond strength for etching times of 60s = 30s = 15 s ≥ 5 s > 0 s and for RUN>PV5 = VAF > VAS (p < 0.05). Etching with HF5% for 5 s to 15 s resulted in higher SBS values, while no differences were observed between HF5% and HF9% buffered when the substrates were etched for 30s to 60s (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study the recommended surface pretreatment of silicate ceramics is HF etching with concentrations of 5% or 9% for 15 s to 60s to achieve highest shear bond strength while the glassy matrix is sufficiently dissolved. The tested resin composite cements can be applied with all tested materials and suggested for clinical application.

Interaction of a universal adhesive with different surface treatments with feldespathic ceramics

Introduction

Universal adhesives provide the possibility of simplified protocols for using ceramics; however, determining the synergy of these adhesives with silanes and the possibility of replacing silanes requires extensive research.

Objective

To evaluate the influence of a universal adhesive, associated with airborne-particle abrasion, acid etching, and silane, on the bond strength of a feldspathic ceramic CAD-CAM to composite resin.

Materials and methods

CAD-CAM feldspathic ceramic blocks were cut into 2-mm slices and were randomly divided into six groups (n = 10): A1, Single Bond Universal (SBU); A2, Adper Single Bond 2 (SB2); B1, silane + SBU; B2, silane + SB2; C1, acid etching + silane + SBU; C2, and acid etching + silane + SB2. Tygon tubes were placed and filled with composite resin. All samples were stored in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h and then subjected to micro-shear tests. The type of failure was analyzed using a stereomicroscope.

Results

SBU demonstrated slightly higher adhesion values compared with SB2 in all groups; however, no significant differences were observed between the adhesives (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

SBU was not statistically superior to the control adhesive. The use of silane prior to a universal adhesive should not yet be eliminated.

Effect of Self-Etching Primer Associated to Hydrofluoric acid or Silane on Bonding to Lithium Disilicate

Abstract To evaluate the effect of combining 5% hydrofluoric acid (HF) and silane (SI) with the self-etching ceramic primer on the immediate and after 1-year of water storage on bonding efficacy, conditioning pattern (CP) and chemical interaction (CI) to the lithium disilicate. A total of 16 CAD/CAM blocks of lithium disilicate (LD) were cut into four square sections (n=64). For bonding efficacy evaluation, the LD specimens were divided into 4 groups (n=10): 1) HF+SI; 2) self-etching ceramic primer (MEP); 3) HF+MEP; 4) MEP+SI. After each treatment, an adhesive system was applied and Tygon matrices were filled with a dual-cured resin cement followed by light curing. Cylinder specimens (0.8 mmx0.5mm) were stored in water (37 °C for 24 h or 1-year) and submitted to the μSBS test (2-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test; a=0.05). CP and CI were only evaluated qualitatively. No significant difference on the μSBS was observed between groups (p=0.73), but reduced μSBS was observed after 1-year of water storage (p>0.0001). After application of HF+SI and MEP, reduction in a number of siloxane bonds was observed, suggesting the coupling of SI on the LD surface. HF or HF+MEP produced a higher dissolution of the glassy matrix than the use of MEP alone. The MEP can be an alternative to traditional ceramic treatment once the chemical interaction and long-term bond strength were similar between both groups. The association of hydrofluoric acid or silane with a self-etching ceramic primer did not add any benefits in terms of chemical interaction and bonding stability.

Simplified Surface Treatments for Ceramic Cementation: Use of Universal Adhesive and Self-Etching Ceramic Primer

The aim of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength of resin cement and lithium disilicate ceramic after various surface treatments of the ceramic. Sixty blocks of ceramic (IPS e.max Press, Ivoclar Vivadent) were obtained. After cleaning, they were placed in polyvinyl chloride tubes with acrylic resin. The blocks were divided into six groups (n=10) depending on surface treatment: H/S/A - 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane + Adhesive, H/S -10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane, H/S/UA - 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Silane + Universal Adhesive, H/UA- 10% Hydrofluoric Acid + Universal Adhesive, MBEP/A - Monobond Etch & Prime + Adhesive, and MBEP - Monobond Etch & Prime. The light-cured resin cement (Variolink Esthetic LC, Ivoclar Vivadent) was inserted in a mold placed over the treated area of the ceramics and photocured with an LED for 20 s to produce cylinders (3 mm x 3 mm). The samples were subjected to a shear bond strength test in a universal test machine (Instron 5965) by 0.5 mm/min. ANOVA and Tukey tests showed a statistically significant difference between groups (p<0.05). The results of the shear strength test were H/S/A (9.61±2.50)^A, H/S (10.22±3.28)^A, H/S/UA (7.39±2.02)^ABC, H/UA (4.28±1.32)^C, MBEP/A (9.01±1.97)^AB, and MBEP (6.18±2.75)^BC. The H/S group showed cohesive failures, and the H/UA group was the only one that presented adhesive failures. The conventional treatment with hydrofluoric acid and silane showed the best bond strength. The use of a new ceramic primer associated with adhesive bonding obtained similar results to conventional surface treatment, being a satisfactory alternative to replace the use of hydrofluoric acid.

Comparative analysis of shear bond strength of lithium disilicate samples cemented using different resin cement systems: An in vitro study

Aim

This study aims to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of three different resin cements - total etch and rinse, self-etch and self-adhesive resin cements, used to bond the lithium disilicate restorations to human dentin.

Settings and Design

Comparative -Invitro study design.

Materials and Methods

Forty-five lithium disilicate (IPS E.max) discs (4 mm in diameter and 3 mm thick) were fabricated and randomly divided into three groups (n = 15). The occlusal surfaces of 45 extracted human maxillary premolars were ground flat. Fifteen specimens were luted, under a constant load, with each of the following resin cement: Variolink N (Group VN), Multilink N (Group MN), and Multilink Speed (Group MS). All cemented specimens were stored in distilled water for 1-week following which, they were tested under shear loading at a constant crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until fracture on a universal testing machine; the load at fracture was reported in megapascals (MPa) as the bond strength. Fractured specimens were also inspected by the scanning electron microscopy. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed using one-way ANOVA test, post hoc Bonferroni test, and Chi-square test (α =0.05).

Statistical Analysis Used

Oneway ANOVA test and post hoc Bonferroni test.

Results

Mean SBS data of the groups in MPa were: Variolink N (Group VN): 14.19 ± 0.76; Multilink N (Group MN): 10.702 ± 0.75; and Multilink Speed (Group MS): 5.462 ± 0.66. Significant differences in SBS (P < 0.001) of the three resin cement were found. Intergroup comparison revealed statistically significant differences in SBS between Groups VN and MN (P < 0.001), Groups B and C (P < 0.001), and Groups VN and MS (P < 0.001). Chi-square test used to compare the distribution of mode of bond failure among the three groups delineated that the cohesive failure was significantly more among Group VN, whereas adhesive failure was significantly more among Group MN and MS.

Conclusion

Total etch and rinse resin cement, i.e., Variolink N (Group VN) produced significantly higher bond strength of all-ceramics to dentin surfaces than did the self-etch and self-adhesive resin cements, i.e., Multilink N and Multilink Speed, respectively.

Adhesion to a Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic Etched with Hydrofluoric Acid at Distinct Concentrations

This study evaluated the effect of different hydrofluoric acid (HF) concentrations on the bond strength between a lithium disilicate-based glass ceramic and a resin cement. Eighty ceramic-blocks (12×7×2 mm) of IPS e.Max CAD (Ivoclar Vivadent) were produced and randomly assigned to 8 groups, considering 2 study factors: HF concentration in 4 levels, i.e., 1% (HF1), 3% (HF3), 5% (HF5), and 10% (HF10), and storage in 2 levels, i.e., baseline (tests were performed 24 h after cementation), and aged (storage for 150 days + 12,000 thermal-cycles at 5°C and 55°C). Acid etching (20 s) was performed, followed by washing, drying, and silanization. Four resin cement cylinders (ϕ= 0.96 mm) were built-up from starch matrices on each ceramic sample (n= 40). Additional ceramic samples were etched and analyzed for contact angle, micro-morphology, and roughness. In baseline condition (without aging), the HF3, HF5, and HF10 groups showed similar bond strength values (13.9 - 15.9 MPa), and HF1 (11.2 MPa) presented lower values than HF5, being that statistically different (p= 0.012). After aging, all the mean bond strengths statistically decreased, being that HF3, HF5, and HF10 (7.8 - 11 MPa) were similar and higher than HF1 (1.8 MPa) (p= 0.0001). For contact angle, HF3, HF5, and HF10 presented similar values (7.8 - 10.4°), lower than HF1 and CTRL groups. HF5 and HF10 presented rougher surfaces than other conditions. For better bond strength results, the tested ceramic may be etched by HF acid in concentrations of 3%, 5%, and 10%.

A Comparative Study on the Mechanical Properties of a Polymer-Infiltrated Ceramic-Network Material Used for the Fabrication of Hybrid Abutment

Polymer-infiltrated ceramic-network (PICN) material is a new type of material used for the hybrid abutments of dental implants. This study aimed to compare flexural strength, bond strengths, and fracture-resistance values of PICN with lithium disilicate ceramic (LDS) and to evaluate the effect of thermocycling on the tested parameters. Twenty specimens were fabricated using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD-CAM) technology for each material according to three-point bending (n = 10), microshear bond strength (µSBS), and a fracture-resistance test (hybrid abutment, n = 10). All specimens of each test group were divided into two subgroups, thermocycled or nonthermocycled. Hybrid abutments were cemented on titanium insert bases and then fixed on implants to compare fracture resistance. Failure loads were recorded for each test and data were statistically analyzed. Thermocycling decreased bond strength to the resin luting agent and the fracture-resistance values of both materials (p < 0.001), whereas flexural-strength values were not affected. LDS ceramic showed significantly higher flexural strength, bond strength, and fracture-resistance values than PICN material (p < 0.001). Within the limitations of this study, LDS may be a preferable hybrid-abutment material to PICN in terms of mechanical and bonding properties.

Does a Self-etching Ceramic Primer Improve Bonding to Lithium Disilicate Ceramics? Bond Strengths and FESEM Analyses

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the effect of hydrofluoric acid (HF) vs self-etching ceramic primer on resin cement microshear bond strength (μSBS) and ultramorphology of lithium disilicate (LD) ceramic.

METHODS AND MATERIALS:

LD (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) blocks (14×4×2 mm³) were polished to 1200 grit and assigned to nine groups (n=5): CON: control, no LD surface treatment; IVO: 5.0% HF (IPS Ceramic Etching Gel, Ivoclar Vivadent); VIT: 5.0% HF (Vita Ceramics Etch, VITA Zahnfabrik); FGM: 5.0% HF (Condac Porcelana, FGM); ULT: 9.0% HF (Porcelain Etch, Ultradent); PRM: 9.6% HF (Premier Porcelain Etch Gel, Premier); BIS: 9.5% HF (Porcelain Etchant, Bisco Inc); DEN: 10.0% HF (Condicionador de Porcelanas, Dentsply Brazil); and MEP: self-etching ceramic primer (Monobond Etch & Prime, Ivoclar Vivadent). For all HF groups and control, an MDP-containing silane solution (MB⁺, Monobond Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent) was applied on rinsing the HF gel and air drying. Three transparent matrices for each specimen were filled with light-cured resin cement (Variolink Veneer, Ivoclar Vivadent). After storage in water for 48 hours at 37°C, specimens were tested in shear mode to measure μSBS. Mode of failure was analyzed at 50×. Statistical analysis included one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan post hoc test (α=0.05). Thirty-six additional LD specimens were assigned to the same experimental groups (n=4) and observed under a field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) at magnifications ranging from 10,000× to 100,000×.

RESULTS:

IVO resulted in statistically higher mean μSBS than all the other groups. MEP resulted in statistically lower μSBS than all HF groups. The failure mode for MEP was predominantly adhesive. The most frequent failure mode for the HF groups was mixed. CON resulted in 100% pretesting failures. For FESEM, no retentive pattern was observed for CON specimens. MEP resulted in the least pronounced etching pattern, few areas around crystals exhibited a slight increase in retention pattern compared to the control group. All HF gels created microporosities on the LD surface with distinct etching patterns. VIT and DEN resulted in an LD ultramorphology that suggested overetching.

CONCLUSIONS:

HF etching followed by a silane solution resulted in higher bond strengths than a self-etching ceramic primer. Some HF gels may cause overetching of the LD intaglio surface.

The effect of hydrofluoric acid and resin cement formulation on the bond strength to lithium disilicate ceramic

To investigate how the hydrofluoric acid (HF) concentrations applied to a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (EMX) affects the surface morphology and microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of ceramics to dentin, using light-cured resin cements with or without UDMA. Sixty-three EMX square ceramic blocks were etched for 20 seconds using different HF concentrations (1%, 5% and 10%) and luted to dentin using two types of resin cement combinations: BisGMA/TEGDMA and BisGMA/TEGDMA/UDMA (n = 10). Each bonded EMX-dentin block was sectioned to obtain 1 mm2 sticks for μTBS evaluation. Half of the sticks were tested after 24 hours and the other half was assessed after 6 months of water storage. Data were statistically assessed using split-plot three-way ANOVA and multiple comparisons were performed using the Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). One EMX sample from each HF concentration was analyzed using field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) to characterize the etching pattern. According to the FE-SEM images, increasing the concentration of HF from 1 to 5 and then to 10% led to increased removal of glassy matrix and greater exposure of lithium disilicate crystals. The 10% HF concentration yielded higher μTBS when compared to 1% for BisGMA/TEGDMA formulation (p < 0.05); whereas HF 1% and 5% showed similar μTBS values when compared to 10% HF for BisGMA/TEGDMA/UDMA resin matrix (p > 0.05) at both storage times. Water aging decreased the μTBS values (p < 0.05), except when 10% HF was associated with BisGMA/TEGDMA resin cement. Resin cement formulation and hydrofluoric acid concentrations can interfere with the immediate and long-term glass-ceramic bond strength to dentin.

Fatigue failure load of an adhesively-cemented lithium disilicate glass-ceramic: Conventional ceramic etching vs etch & prime one-step primer

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of different glass-ceramic surface treatments and aging on the fatigue failure load of a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic adhesively cemented to a dentin analogue material.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty (120) disc-shaped lithium disilicate specimens (Ø=10mm, thickness=1.5mm) were produced and randomly allocated (n=20) into 6 groups, considering 2 study factors: "surface treatment" in 3 levels (SIL-silane application only; HF5+SIL-5% hydrofluoric acid etching and silane application; ME&P-etching with an one-step ceramic primer), and "storage" in 2 levels (baseline-storage for 7 days; aging-storage for 90 days+12,000 thermal cycles). Ceramic discs were adhesively cemented to discs of a dentin analogue material (Ø=10mm, thickness=2.0mm) following the manufacturers' instructions. The fatigue failure load was determined by the staircase approach (250,000 cycles; 20Hz; initial load=1050N [∼70% of mean load-to-failure]; step size=52.5N [5% of initial load]). Micro-morphologic, fractographic, and atomic force microscope analysis were also performed. Fatigue failure load data were evaluated by one-way ANOVA, Bonferroni and t-tests for independent samples.

RESULTS

HF5+SIL presented higher fatigue failure load in both conditions (baseline and aging); ME&P presented intermediary mean values, while the SIL group presented the worst performance. All groups had a statistically significant decrease in the fatigue performance after aging.

SIGNIFICANCE

Hydrofluoric acid followed by silane application showed the best fatigue performance for an adhesively-cemented lithium disilicate ceramic. Aging negatively influenced the fatigue performance for all tested groups.

Adhesive/silane application effects on bond strength durability to a lithium disilicate ceramic

OBJECTIVE

To test the effects of different adhesive protocols and silane application on the adhesive durability to a Lithium Disilicate reinforced glass ceramic.

METHODS

Forty disks of 13 mm diameter (E.max Press) were used. After etching with 9.5% HF for 20 seconds, disks were randomly assigned into 4 groups according to the adhesive/silane protocol: silane application only (SIL); silane application followed by adhesive (SILXP-XP Bond); silane-containing adhesive (SBU-ScotchBond Universal); silane application followed by silane-containing adhesive (SILSBU). Four resin composite cylinders of 1-mm diameter and 3-mm height were made on each ceramic disk and tested in shear. Specimens were stored in water for 24 hours or 12 months prior to testing. Results were statistically analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test.

RESULTS

After 24 hours, the highest SBS values were observed for SILXP and SILSBU. However, after 12 months, SILXP and SILSBU presented a significant reduction in SBS, while the highest SBS were observed for SIL. For SBU, no significant reduction in SBS was observed, however, it showed the lowest SBS after 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of the presence of silane in the composition of SBU, previous silane application is still recommended prior to cementation of Lithium Disilicate.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The application of silane as a separate step is recommended prior to cementation of Lithium Disilicate reinforced glass-ceramic, independent of the presence of silane within the universal adhesive solution.

Effect of Hydrofluoric Acid Concentration and Etching Time on Bond Strength to Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different concentrations of hydrofluoric acid (HF) associated with varied etching times on the microshear bond strength (μSBS) of a resin cement to a lithium disilicate glass ceramic. Two hundred seventy-five ceramic blocks (IPS e.max Press [EMX], Ivoclar Vivadent), measuring 8 mm × 3 mm thickness, were randomly distributed into five groups according to the HF concentrations (n=50): 1%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. Further random distribution into subgroups was performed according to the following etching times (n=10): 20, 40, 60, 120, and 20 + 20 seconds. After etching, all blocks were treated with a silane coupling agent followed by a thin layer of an unfilled resin. Three resin cement cylinders (∅=1 mm) were made on each EMX surface, which was then stored in deionized water at 37°C for 24 hours before testing. The μSBS was in a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until failure. Data were submitted to two-way analysis of variance, and multiple comparisons were performed using the Tukey post hoc test (α=0.05). One representative EMX sample was etched according to the description of each subgroup and evaluated using scanning electron microscopy for surface characterization. The HF concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10% provided significantly higher μSBS values than 1% and 2.5% (p<0.05), regardless of the etching times. For 1% and 2.5% HF, the etching times from 40 to 120 seconds increased the μSBS values compared with 20 seconds (p<0.05), but etching periods did not differ within the 5%, 7.5%, and 10% HF groups (p>0.05). The effect of re-etching was more evident for 1% and 2.5% HF (p<0.05). Different HF concentrations/etching times directly influenced the bond strength and surface morphology of EMX.

The Effect of Hydrofluoric Acid Concentration and Heat on the Bonding to Lithium Disilicate Glass Ceramic

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydrofluoric acid (HF) concentration and previous heat treatment (PHT) on the surface morphology and micro-shear bond strength (mSBS) of a lithium disilicate glass ceramic (EMX) to resin cement. One hundred four EMX specimens were randomly assigned to two groups (n=52) according to the HF concentration: 5% and 10%. A new random distribution was made according to the PHTs (n=13): control (no PHT); previously heated HF (70 °C); previously heated EMX surface (85 °C); the combination of heated HF + heated EMX surface. The etching time was set at 20 s. All EMX blocks were silanated and received a thin layer of an unfilled resin. Five resin cement cylinders were made on each EMX surface using Tygon tubes as matrices, and then stored for 24 h at 37 °C. One random etched EMX sample from each group was analyzed using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and multiple comparisons were performed using the Tukey post hoc test (a=0.05). For the control groups, 5% HF showed statistically lower mSBS values when compared to 10% HF (p<0.05). PHT increased the mSBS values for 5% HF, yielding statistically similar results to non-PHT 10% HF (p<0.05). FE-SEM images showed increased glassy matrix removal when PHT was applied to HF 5%, but not to the same degree as for 10% HF. PHT has the potential to improve the bond strength of 5% HF concentration on lithium disilicate glass ceramic.

Bonding of the silane containing multi-mode universal adhesive for lithium disilicate ceramics

Objectives

This study evaluated the influence of a multi-mode universal adhesive (MUA) containing silane (Single Bond Universal, 3M EPSE) on the bonding of resin cement to lithium disilicate.

Materials and Methods

Thirty IPS e.max CAD specimens (Ivoclar Vivadent) were fabricated. The surfaces were treated as follows: Group A, adhesive that did not contain silane (ANS, Porcelain Bonding Resin, Bisco); Group B, silane (S) and ANS; Group C, hydrofluoric acid (HF), S, and ANS; Group D, MUA; Group E, HF and MUA. Dual-cure resin cement (NX3, Kerr) was applied and composite resin cylinders of 0.8 mm in diameter were placed on it before light polymerization. Bonded specimens were stored in water for 24 hours or underwent a 10,000 thermocycling process prior to microshear bond strength testing. The data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (p < 0.05).

Results

Bond strength varied significantly among the groups (p < 0.05), except for Groups A and D. Group C showed the highest initial bond strength (27.1 ± 6.9 MPa), followed by Group E, Group B, Group D, and Group A. Thermocycling significantly reduced bond strength in Groups B, C, and E (p < 0.05). Bond strength in Group C was the highest regardless of the storage conditions (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Surface treatment of lithium disilicate using HF and silane increased the bond strength of resin cement. However, after thermocycling, the silane in MUA did not help achieve durable bond strength between lithium disilicate and resin cement, even when HF was applied.

Microtensile Bond Strength of Composite Cement to Novel CAD/CAM Materials as a Function of Surface Treatment and Aging

Objectives: To evaluate the effect of different surface treatments on the bond strength to a composite and a polymer-infiltrated ceramic CAD/CAM block after six-month artificial aging.

Methods and Materials: Two types of CAD/CAM blocks (Cerasmart, GC; Enamic, Vita Zahnfabrik) were cut in slabs of 4-mm thickness, divided into six groups, and subjected to the following surface treatments: group 1: no treatment; group 2: sandblasting (SB); group 3: SB + silane (Si); group 4: SB + Si + flowable composite (see below); group 5: 5% hydrofluoric acid etching (HF) + Si; and group 6: 37% phosphoric acid etching (H3PO4) + Si. Sections of the same group were luted together (n=3: 3 sandwich specimens/group) using a dual-cure self-adhesive cement for all groups, except for the sections of group 4 that were luted using a light-curing flowable composite. After three weeks of storage in 0.5% chloramine at 37°C, the sandwich specimens were sectioned in rectangular microspecimens and trimmed at the interface to a dumbbell shape (1.1-mm diameter). One half of the specimens was subjected to a microtensile bond strength (μTBS) test, and the other half was tested after six months of water storage (aging). Data were statistically analyzed with a linear mixed-effects model for the factors surface treatment, material type, and aging, together with their first-degree interactions (α=0.05).

Results: The lowest bond strengths were obtained in the absence of any surface treatment (group 1), while the highest μTBSs were obtained when the surface was roughened by either SB or HF, this in combination with chemical adhesion through Si. Loss in bond strength was observed after six-month aging when either surface roughening or silanization, or both, were omitted.

Conclusions: Both the composite and polymer-infiltrated ceramic CAD/CAM blocks appeared equally bonding-receptive regardless of the surface treatment used. Creating a microretentive surface by either SB or HF, followed by chemical adhesion using Si, is mandatory to maintain the bond strength after six months.

Influence of remaining tooth structure and restorative material type on stress distribution in endodontically treated maxillary premolars: A finite element analysis

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

How tooth preparation and material type affect the stress distribution of endodontically treated teeth restored with endocrowns remains unclear.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this finite element (FE) study was to determine the influence of the quantity of remaining dental tissues and material type on stress distribution in endodontically treated maxillary premolars using 3-dimensional FE analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Five 3-dimensional FE models were constructed on the basis of the restorative methods used and the quantity of preserved tooth tissues: a sound maxillary premolar, an endodontically treated maxillary premolar restored with composite resin, and endodontically treated maxillary premolars restored with endocrowns with thicknesses of 1.0 mm, 2.0 mm, and 3.0 mm. The following endocrown materials were used: Paradigm MZ100, IPS Empress, IPS e.max CAD, and In-Ceram Zirconia. Stress distributions were analyzed under vertical and oblique loads.

RESULTS

As the quantity of preserved dental tissues increased, the von Mises stress in dentin decreased, and the peak von Mises strain value of the cement layer increased. When the elastic modulus of the endocrown material increased, the von Mises stress in endocrown and dentin increased, and the peak von Mises strain value of the cement layer decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the conservative preparation of teeth for endocrowns is likely to protect the residual tooth structure, it may cause future cohesive bonding failure. An increase in the elastic modulus of the material may benefit the durability of bonding between the endocrown and the abutment tooth; however, it may cause fracture of the residual tooth structure.

Micro-shear bond strength of different resin cements to ceramic/glass-polymer CAD-CAM block materials

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydrofluoric acid treatment on bond strength of resin cements to three different types of ceramic/glass containing CAD-CAM block composite materials.

METHODS

CAD-CAM block materials of polymer infiltrated (Vita Enamic), resin nanoceramic (Lava Ultimate) and nanoceramic (Cerasmart) with a thickness of 1.5mm were randomly divided into two groups according to the surface treatment performed. In Group 1, specimens were wet-ground with silicon carbide abrasive papers up to no. 1000. In Group 2, 9.6% hydrofluoric acid gel was applied to ceramics. Three different resin cements (RelyX, Variolink Esthetic and G-CEM LinkAce) were applied to the tubes in 1.2-mm thick increments and light-cured for 40s using LED light curing unit. Half of the specimens (n=10) were submitted to thermal cycling (5000 cycles, 5-55°C). The strength measurements were accomplished with a universal testing machine (Lloyd Instruments) at a cross-head speed of 0.5mm/min until the failure occurs. Failure modes were examined using a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope. The data were analyzed with multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Tukey's post hoc tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

There were significant differences between ceramics and resin cements (p<0.001). However, hydrofluoric acid gel treatment had no effect on bond strength values (p=0.073). In addition, thermal cycling significantly decreased bond strength values of resin cements to ceramics (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of appropriate resin cement systems with different ceramic/glass-polymer materials might promote the bonding capacity of these systems.

Active and Passive Application of the Phosphoric Acid on the Bond Strength of Lithium Disilicate

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of passive or active phosphoric acid (PA) application after hydrofluoric acid (HA) treatment on the microshear bond strength of lithium disilicate. Thirty ceramic discs were made with IPS Emax 2 (10 mm thick and 10 mm diameter). The specimens were divided into 3 groups, A: 9.6% HA application; AF: 9.6% HA application + cleaning with 37% PA in passive mode and AFF: 9.6% HA application + cleaning with 37% PA in active mode. For the microshear test, four tygons (0.9 mm diameter and 0.2 mm high) were filled with resin cement (RelyX Ultimate) and placed on the ceramic disks. After testing, the fracture modes were examined under scanning electron microscopy. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post test (α=0.05). The bond strength values were significantly higher in Group AFF (11.0±2.5 MPa) compared with group A (8.1±2.6 MPa) (p<0.002). AF group was not statistically different (9.4±2.5 MPa) from Group A. It was concluded that the active application of 37% PA after 9.6% HA increases the microshear bond strength values between the resin cement and lithium disilicate ceramic.