Prevention of root caries with dentin adhesives.

This in vitro investigation determined the feasibility of using dentin adhesives to protect root surfaces against caries. The roots of 22 recently extracted human teeth were all painted with a protective lacquer leaving two unprotected small windows. On each specimen, one window (control) was left untreated and the other window (experimental) was treated using a dentin adhesive (Scotchbond Multi-Purpose). The roots were then immersed in an in vitro acetate/calcium/phosphate demineralization model at pH 4.3. After 70 days, the samples were removed and sectioned through the windows. The undecalcified ground sections were examined under transmitted and polarized light. Lesions characteristic of natural root caries were seen in the untreated control windows. No such lesions were apparent in the experimental windows. The results of this preliminary study suggest that dentin adhesives may provide protection against root caries.

Posterior composite and glass ionomer/composite laminate restorations: 2-year clinical results.

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate and compare the clinical performance of two posterior composite materials, and two placement techniques, unlaminated and laminated to glass ionomer base. Forty Class II carious lesions were randomly assigned for restoration with one of two composites: Status or Ful-Fil; and using one of two techniques: with and without a glass ionomer base. In the 20 restorations using the laminate technique, the glass ionomer base covered the dentin and extended to the cavosurface in the gingival third of the proximal box. The restorations were evaluated clinically at 24 hours, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months. The clinical parameters used for the examination were: anatomic form, marginal adaptation, color, secondary caries, marginal discoloration and contact. Bitewing radiographs were taken at 24 hours and at 24 months to evaluate gingival margin discrepancy. Impressions of the restorations were made for fabrication of stone dies. Of the 40 restorations, 38 (95%) were available for evaluation at 24 months. For both materials there was a deterioration in anatomic form, in marginal adaptation, and in marginal discoloration. Anatomic form was significantly worse with Status (P less than 0.05). Of the 20 restorations placed using the laminate technique, two had observable loss of the glass ionomer material. Radiographic radiolucencies were observed for both materials and with both techniques. For the laminate technique, all radiolucencies were between the glass ionomer and the composite. The radiographic observations did not change after the initial evaluation. All the restorations were functioning well at 24 months, but longer observation will be required to determine whether there is a clinically significant difference between the two placement techniques.

Dental implants: a survey of patients' attitudes.

This study measured the psychologic attitudes of patients to implant prostheses and compared their status before and after therapy. Questionnaires were mailed to 95 patients with implants placed and restored at a university dental school. The implants had been in position for an average of 2.2 years. The patients had previously worn removable complete or partial dentures. Different questions addressed eating, speaking, relationships, employment, social life, esthetics, maintenance, and overall dental health. Sixty-one questionnaires were returned (64%). Satisfaction with the implant prosthesis was significantly greater than for the denture (p less than 0.0001). Responses to individual questions indicated that confidence was improved (88%), implants were worth the trouble (97%), the procedure would be worth repeating (89%), and overall dental health was improved (98%). This survey suggests that patients' attitudes toward their dental health improve significantly after treatment with implant prostheses.