Influence of the postpolymerization type and time on the flexural strength and dimensional stability of 3D printed interim resins.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The mechanical strength of 3-dimensionally (3D) printed interim resins is unclear but influenced by printing parameters. Evidence regarding standardization of the postpolymerization type and time for 3D printed interim resins is sparse. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of postpolymerization type and time on flexural strength and dimensional stability of 3D printed resins for interim restorations. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 288 bars were 3D printed (Form 2; Formlabs, stereolithography-SLA, 50 µm, 30 degrees), (25×2×2 mm; International Organization for Standardization-ISO 4049:2019) abraded and randomly divided into 9 groups (n=30) according to postpolymerization (Ultraviolet device-UV; Microwave with water-MWA; Microwave without water-MW) and time (15, 20, and 30 minutes for UV; and 5, 8, and 10 minutes for MW and MWA). Each bar was then measured with digital calipers at 11 points for length, thickness, and width before and after postpolymerization to analyze dimensional stability. The flexural strength was then measured (σ; 980.6 N, 1 mm/minute) and the fractured surfaces were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy. The σ (MPa) data were evaluated by using a 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) pairwise comparisons test (α=.05). Dimensional stability data (mm) were analyzed by using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner multiple comparisons. The Weibull analysis was performed with σ data. RESULTS: The 2-way ANOVA revealed that all factors and their interaction were significant for σ (P<.001). The UV groups presented the highest σ values, being statistically higher than all MW and MWA groups. The Weibull analysis revealed that postpolymerization UV groups found the highest values regarding the characteristic strength, although the MW 8-minute group (13.71) found the highest value for the Weibull modulus. Furthermore, the Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that only the postpolymerization factor was significant for dimensional stability (P<.001). The postpolymerization microwave groups found greater expansion variations at all times, with the MW 8-minute group (0.78 ±0.54) presenting the greatest variation in dimensional stability. CONCLUSIONS: UV was determined to be the most suitable type of postpolymerization for interim printed resin among the postpolymerization methods, regardless of the application time. The postpolymerization MW groups found greater variations in dimensional stability.

The Effect of a 10-MDP-Based Dentin Adhesive as Alternative for Bonding to Implant Abutment Materials.

Bonding to different dental restorative materials is challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a 10-MDP-based dentin adhesive on the shear bond strength (SBS) of self-adhesive resin cement (RC) to implant abutment materials. One hundred and twenty specimens were obtained from zirconia (ZO), cobalt-chromium alloy (CoCr), and commercially pure titanium (Ti), which were treated as follows (n = 10): control group-non-treated (CG), 10-MDP-based dentin adhesive (SB), light-cured SB (SB-LC), and zirconia primer (ZP). Blocks of RC were buildup and, after 24 h, were tested for bond strength. Data of SBS (MPa) were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey test (α = 0.05). There was no difference in SBS among materials for CG and ZP, higher SBS were recorded for Ti SB and Ti SB-LC compared to ZO upon the same surface treatments. For the comparisons among treatments, SB-LC showed the highest SBS for CoCr. For ZO and Ti, higher SBS were recorded with SB and SB-LC. No cohesive failures were observed. It was concluded that the surface treatment with 10-MDP-based materials increased the bond strength of the resin cement to abutment materials, which showed to be material dependent.

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.

Monoclinic phase transformation and mechanical durability of zirconia ceramic after fatigue and autoclave aging.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the influence of two aging procedures on the biaxial flexural strength of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia ceramics. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Disc-shaped zirconia specimens and (ZE: E.max ZirCAD, Ivoclar; ZT: Zirkon Translucent, Zirkonzahn) (N = 80) (∅:12 mm; thickness:1.2 mm, ISO 6872) were prepared and randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 per group) according to the aging procedures: C: Control, no aging; M: mechanical cycling (2 × 106 cycles/3.8 Hz/200 N); AUT: Aging in autoclave at 134°C, 2 bar for 24 h; AUT + M: Autoclave aging followed by mechanical cycling. After aging, the transformed monoclinic zirconia (%) were evaluated using X-ray diffraction and surface roughness was measured using atomic force microscopy. The average grain size was measured by scanning electron microscopy and the specimens were submitted to biaxial flexural strength testing (1 mm/min, 1000 kgf in water). Data (MPa) were statistically analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Aging procedures significantly affected (p = 0.000) the flexural strength data but the effect of zirconia type was not significant (p = 0.657). AUTZT (936.4 ± 120.9b ) and AUT + MZE (867.2 ± 49.3b ) groups presented significantly higher values (p < 0.05) of flexural strength than those of the control groups (CZT : 716.5 ± 185.7a ; CZE : 779.9 ± 114a ) (Tukey's test). The monoclinic phase percentage (%) was higher for AUTZE (71), AUTZT (66), AUT + MZE (71), and AUT + MZM (66) compared to the C groups (ZE:0; ZT:0). Surface roughness (µm) was higher for AUTZE (0.09), AUTZT (0.08), AUT + MZE (0.09 µm), and AUT + MZT (0.09 µm) than those of other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Regardless of the zirconia type, autoclave aging alone or with mechanical aging increased the flexure strength but also induced higher transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic phase in both zirconia materials tested. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1972-1977, 2017.

Durability and Weibull Characteristics of Lithium Disilicate Crowns Bonded on Abutments with Knife-Edge and Large Chamfer Finish Lines after Cyclic Loading.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the durability of lithium disilicate crowns bonded on abutments prepared with two types of finish lines after long-term cyclic loading. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pressed lithium disilicate all-ceramic molar crowns were bonded (Variolink II) to epoxy abutments (height: 5.5 mm, Ø: 7.5 mm, conicity: 6°) (N = 20) with either knife-edge (KE) or large chamfer (LC) finish lines. Each assembly was submitted to cyclic loading (1,200,000×; 200 N; 1 Hz) in water and then tested until fracture in a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). Failure types were classified and further evaluated under stereomicroscope and SEM. The data (N) were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Weibull distribution values including the Weibull modulus (m), characteristic strength (0), probability of failure at 5% (0.05), 1% (0.01), and correlation coefficient were calculated. RESULTS: Type of finish line did not significantly influence the mean fracture strength of pressed ceramic crowns (KE: 1655 ± 353 N; LC: 1618 ± 263 N) (p = 0.7898). Weibull distribution presented lower shape value (m) of KE (m = 5.48; CI: 3.5 to 8.6) compared to LC (m = 7.68; CI: 5.2 to 11.3). Characteristic strengths (0) (KE: 1784.9 N; LC: 1712.1 N) were higher than probability of failure at 5% (0.05) (KE: 1038.1 N; LC: 1163.4 N) followed by 1% (0.01) (KE: 771 N; LC: 941.1 N), with a correlation coefficient of 0.966 for KE and 0.924 for LC. Type V failures (severe fracture of the crown and/or tooth) were more common in both groups. SEM findings showed that fractures occurred mainly from the cement/ceramic interface at the occlusal side of the crowns. CONCLUSION: Lithium disilicate ceramic crowns bonded onto abutment teeth with KE preparation resulted in similar fracture strength to those bonded on abutments with LC finish line. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Pressed lithium disilicate ceramic crowns may not require invasive finish line preparations since finish line type did not impair the strength after aging conditions.

Effects of aging procedures on the topographic surface, structural stability, and mechanical strength of a ZrO2-based dental ceramic.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of different aging methods on the degradation and flexural strength of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia (Y-TZP) METHODS: Sixty disc-shaped specimens (∅, 12mm; thickness, 1.6mm) of zirconia (Vita InCeram 2000 YZ Cubes, VITA Zahnfabrik) were prepared (ISO 6872) and randomly divided into five groups, according to the aging procedures (n=10): (C) control; (M) mechanical cycling (15,000,000 cycles/3.8Hz/200N); (T) thermal cycling (6,000 cycles/5-55°C/30s); (TM) thermomechanical cycling (1,200,000 cycles/3.8Hz/200N with temperature range from 5°C to 55°C for 60s each); (AUT) 12h in autoclave at 134°C/2bars; and (STO) storage in distilled water (37°C/400 days). After the aging procedures, the monoclinic phase percentages were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and topographic surface analysis was performed by 3D profilometry. The specimens were then subjected to biaxial flexure testing (1mm/min, load 100kgf, in water). The biaxial flexural strength data (MPa) were analyzed by 1-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). The data for monoclinic phase percentage and profilometry (Ra) were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests. RESULTS: ANOVA revealed that flexural strength was affected by the aging procedures (p=0.002). The M (781.6MPa) and TM (771.3MPa) groups presented lower values of flexural strength than did C (955MPa), AUT (955.8MPa), T (960.8MPa) and STO (910.4MPa). The monoclinic phase percentage was significantly higher only for STO (12.22%) and AUT (29.97%) when compared with that of the control group (Kruskal-Wallis test, p=0.004). In addition, the surface roughnesses were similar among the groups (p=0.165). SIGNIFICANCE: Water storage for 400 days and autoclave aging procedures induced higher phase transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic; however, they did not affect the flexural strength of Y-TZP ceramic, which decreased only after mechanical and thermomechanical cycling.

Influence of air-particle deposition protocols on the surface topography and adhesion of resin cement to zirconia.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the influence of air-particle abrasion protocols on the surface roughness (SR) of zirconia and the shear bond strength (SBS) of dual-polymerized resin cement to this ceramic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sintered zirconia blocks (n = 115) (Lava, 3M ESPE) were embedded in acrylic resin and polished. The specimens were divided according to the 'particle type' (Al: 110 µm Al2O3; Si: 110 µm SiO2) and 'pressure' factors (2.5 or 3.5 bar) (n = 3 per group): (a) Control (no air-abrasion); (b) Al2.5; (c) Si2.5; (d) Al3.5; (e) Si3.5. SR (Ra) was measured 3-times from each specimen after 20 s of air-abrasion (distance: 10 mm) using a digital optical profilometer. Surface topography was evaluated under SEM analyses. For the SBS test, 'particle type', 'pressure' and 'thermocycling' (TC) factors were considered (n = 10; n = 10 per group): Control (no air-abrasion); Al2.5; Si2.5; Al3.5; Si3.5; ControlTC; Al2.5TC; Si2.5TC; Al3.5TC; Si3.5TC. After silane application, resin cement (Panavia F2.0) was bonded and polymerized. Specimens were thermocycled (6.000 cycles, 5-55°C) and subjected to SBS (1 mm/min). Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey's and Dunnett tests (5%). RESULTS: 'Particle' (p = 0.0001) and 'pressure' (p = 0.0001) factors significantly affected the SR. All protocols significantly increased the SR (Al2.5: 0.45 ± 0.02; Si2.5: 0.39 ± 0.01; Al3.5: 0.80 ± 0.01; Si3.5: 0.64 ± 0.01 µm) compared to the control group (0.16 ± 0.01 µm). For SBS, only 'particle' factor significantly affected the results (p = 0.015). The SiO2 groups presented significantly higher SBS results than Al2O3 (Al2.5: 4.78 ± 1.86; Si2.5: 7.17 ± 2.62; Al3.5: 4.97 ± 3.74; Si3.5: 9.14 ± 4.09 MPa) and the control group (3.67 ± 3.0 MPa). All TC specimens presented spontaneous debondings. SEM analysis showed that Al2O3 created damage in zirconia in the form of grooves, different from those observed with SiO2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: Air-abrasion with 110 µm Al2O3 resulted in higher roughness, but air-abrasion protocols with SiO2 promoted better adhesion.

Low-temperature degradation of a Y-TZP ceramic after surface treatments.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of zirconia surface treatments on low-temperature degradation (LTD). Disc-shaped specimens were subjected to one of four surface treatments, denoted as C (control-no surface treatment), Si (air abrasion with 30 µm silica-modified alumina particles), Al (air abrasion with 30 µm alumina particles), and Gr (grinding with 120 grit diamond discs). Half of the samples were submitted to autoclave treatment for 12 h (127°C, 1.5 bar). Samples were characterized by x-ray diffraction and profilometer analysis and were subjected to biaxial flexural strength test. All of the groups exhibited an increase in the amount of monoclinic phase (m-phase) after LTD. The t→m transformation was remarkable for the specimens from the C group, which also exhibited a significant increase in strength. The Gr group also exhibited an increase in strength but lower initial roughness, which probably suppressed LTD on the zirconia surface. The specimens subjected to air abrasion exhibited higher initial amounts of m-phase and a small increase in m-phase after LTD; the strength was not affected in these groups. The effects of LTD were different with each surface treatment applied. Apparently, LTD may be suppressed by smoother surfaces or the presence of an initial amount of m-phase on zirconia surface.

Effects of thickness, processing technique, and cooling rate protocol on the flexural strength of a bilayer ceramic system.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the thickness, processing technique, and cooling protocol of veneer ceramic influence the flexural strength of a bilayer ceramic system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four bar-shaped specimens (20mm×4mm×1mm) of yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia (Vita In-Ceram YZ, Vita) were fabricated (ISO 6872) and randomly divided into 8 groups (n=8) according to the factors "processing technique" (P - PM9 and V - VM9), "thickness" (1mm and 3mm), and "cooling protocol" (S - slow and F - fast). The veneer ceramics were applied only over one side of the bar-shaped specimens. All specimens were mechanically cycled (2×10(6) cycles, 84N, 3.4Hz, in water), with the veneer ceramic under tension. Then, the specimens were tested in 4-point bending (1mm/min, load 100kgf, in water), also with the veneer ceramic under tension, and the maximum load was recorded at first sign of fracture. The flexural strength (σ) was calculated, and the mode of failure was determined by stereomicroscopy (30×). The data (MPa) were analyzed statistically by 3-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). RESULTS: ANOVA revealed that the factor "thickness" (p=0.0001) was statistically significant, unlike the factors "processing technique" (p=0.6025) and "cooling protocol" (p=0.4199). The predominant mode of failure was cracking. SIGNIFICANCE: The thickness of the veneer ceramic has an influence on the mechanical strength of the bilayer ceramic system, regardless of processing technique and cooling protocol of the veneer ceramic.

Air-particle abrasion on zirconia ceramic using different protocols: effects on biaxial flexural strength after cyclic loading, phase transformation and surface topography.

This study evaluated the effect of different air-particle abrasion protocols on the biaxial flexural strength and structural stability of zirconia ceramics. Zirconia ceramic specimens (ISO 6872) (Lava, 3M ESPE) were obtained (N=336). The specimens (N=118, n=20 per group) were randomly assigned to one of the air-abrasion protocols: Gr1: Control (as-sintered); Gr2: 50 µm Al2O3 (2.5 bar); Gr3: 50 µm Al2O3 (3.5 bar); Gr4: 110 µm Al2O3(2.5 bar); Gr5: 110 µm Al2O3 (3.5 bar); Gr6: 30 µm SiO2 (2.5 bar) (CoJet); Gr7: 30 µm SiO2(3.5 bar); Gr8: 110 µm SiO2 (2.5 bar) (Rocatec Plus); and Gr9: 110 µm SiO2 (3.5 bar) (duration: 20 s, distance: 10 mm). While half of the specimens were tested immediately, the other half was subjected to cyclic loading in water (100,000 cycles; 50 N, 4 Hz, 37 °°C) prior to biaxial flexural strength test (ISO 6872). Phase transformation (t→m), relative amount of transformed monoclinic zirconia (FM), transformed zone depth (TZD) and surface roughness were measured. Particle type (p=0.2746), pressure (p=0.5084) and cyclic loading (p=0.1610) did not influence the flexural strength. Except for the air-abraded group with 110 µm Al2O3 at 3.5 bar, all air-abrasion protocols increased the biaxial flexural strength (MPa) (Controlnon-aged: 1,030 ± 153, Controlaged: 1,138 ± 138; Experimentalnon-aged: 1,307 ± 184-1,554 ± 124; Experimentalaged: 1,308 ± 118-1,451 ± 135) in both non-aged and aged conditions, respectively. Surface roughness (Ra) was the highest with 110 µm Al2O3(0.84 µm. FM values ranged from 0% to 27.21%, higher value for the Rocatec Plus (110 µm SiO2) and 110 µm Al2O3 groups at 3.5 bar pressure. TZD ranged between 0 and 1.43 µm, with the highest values for Rocatec Plus and 110 µm Al2O3 groups at 3.5 bar pressure.

Effect of air-particle abrasion protocols on the biaxial flexural strength, surface characteristics and phase transformation of zirconia after cyclic loading.

This study evaluated the effect of air-particle abrasion protocols on the biaxial flexural strength, surface characteristics and phase transformation of zirconia after cyclic loading. Disc-shaped zirconia specimens (Ø: 15mm, thickness: 1.2mm) (N=32) were submitted to one of the air-particle abrasion protocols (n=8 per group): (a) 50µm Al2O3 particles, (b) 110µm Al2O3 particles coated with silica (Rocatec Plus), (c) 30µm Al2O3 particles coated with silica (CoJet Sand) for 20s at 2.8bar pressure. Control group received no air-abrasion. All specimens were initially cyclic loaded (×20,000, 50N, 1Hz) in water at 37°C and then subjected to biaxial flexural strength testing where the conditioned surface was under tension. Zirconia surfaces were characterized and roughness was measured with 3D surface profilometer. Phase transformation from tetragonal to monoclinic was determined by Raman spectroscopy. The relative amount of transformed monoclinic zirconia (FM) and transformed zone depth (TZD) were measured using XRD. The data (MPa) were analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey's tests and Weibull modulus (m) were calculated for each group (95% CI). The biaxial flexural strength (MPa) of CoJet treated group (1266.3±158(A)) was not significantly different than that of Rocatec Plus group (1179±216.4(A,B)) but was significantly higher than the other groups (Control: 942.3±74.6(C); 50µm Al2O3: 915.2±185.7(B,C)). Weibull modulus was higher for control (m=13.79) than those of other groups (m=4.95, m=5.64, m=9.13 for group a, b and c, respectively). Surface roughness (Ra) was the highest with 50µm Al2O3 (0.261µm) than those of other groups (0.15-0.195µm). After all air-abrasion protocols, FM increased (15.02%-19.25%) compared to control group (11.12%). TZD also showed increase after air-abrasion protocols (0.83-1.07µm) compared to control group (0.59µm). Air-abrasion protocols increased the roughness and monoclinic phase but in turn abrasion with 30µm Al2O3 particles coated with silica has increased the biaxial flexural strength of the tested zirconia.

Influence of acid-etching and ceramic primers on the repair of a glass ceramic.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different primers on the microtensile bond strength (µTBS) between a feldspathic ceramic and two composites. Forty blocks (6.0 x 6.0 x 5.0 mm³) were prepared from Vita Mark II . After polishing, they were randomly divided into 10 groups according to the surface treatment: Group 1, hydrofluoric acid 10% (HF) + silane; Group 2, CoJet + silane; Group 3, HF + Metal/Zirconia Primer; Group 4, HF + Clearfil Primer; Group 5, HF + Alloy Primer; Group 6, HF + V-Primer; Group 7, Metal/Zirconia Primer; Group 8, Clearfil Primer; Group 9, Alloy Primer; Group 10, V-Primer. After each surface treatment, an adhesive was applied and one of two composite resins was incrementally built up. The sticks obtained from each block (bonded area: 1.0 mm² ± 0.2 mm) were stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 30 days and submitted to thermocycling (7,000 cycles; 5 degrees C/55 degrees C ± 1 degree C). The µTBS test was carried out using a universal testing machine (1.0 mm/min). Data were analyzed using ANOVA and a Tukey test (a = 0.05). The surface treatments significantly affected the results (P < 0.05); no difference was observed between the composites (P > 0.05). The bond strength means (MPa) were as follows: Group 1a = 29.6; Group 1b = 33.7; Group 2a = 28.9; Group 2b = 27.1; Group 3a = 13.8; Group 3b = 14.9; Group 4a = 18.6; Group 4b = 19.4; Group 5a = 15.3; Group 5b = 16.5; Group 6a = 11; Group 6b = 18; Groups 7a to 10b = 0. While the use of primers alone was not sufficient for adequate bond strengths to feldspathic ceramic, HF etching followed by any silane delivered higher bond strength.

Effect of different polymerization devices on the degree of conversion and the physical properties of an indirect resin composite.

Polymerization of indirect resin composites (IRC) is carried out in the 'laboratories using special photo-polymerization devices to achieve a higher degree of conversion (DC). Such devices present variation in chambers and light output which may have consequences on the chemical and physical properties of IRCs. This study evaluated the effect of different polymerization devices on the flexural strength, Vickers microhardness and DC of an IRC. Specimens were prepared from an IRC material, Sinfony (3M ESPE), using special molds for flexural strength test (N=30) (25 x 2 x 2 mm, ISO 4049), Vickers microhardness test (N=30) (5 x 4 mm) and for DC (N=30) utilizing Micro-raman Spectroscopy. All specimens were submitted to initial polymerization with a Visio Alpha unit (3M ESPE) and then randomly divided into three groups (n=10/ group). Specimens in Group 1 (control) received additional polymerizations using a Visio Beta Vario device (3M ESPE), and those in Group 2 and Group 3 using Powerlux (EDG) and Strobolux (EDG) devices, respectively. DC and mechanical tests were then conducted. For the mechanical tests, the data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p < 0.05) and for DC, one-way ANOVA was used. Polymerization in Strobolux (Group 3) resulted in significantly lower flexural strength (MPa) values (134 +/- 27) compared to Visio Beta Vario (165 +/- 20) (Group 1) (p < 0.05). The lowest microhardness values (Kg/mm2) were obtained in Group 3 (30 +/- 1) (p < 0.05). DC was similar in all groups (75 +/- 1, 91 +/- 5, 85 +/- 7% for Visio Beta Vario, Powerlux and Strobolux, respectively) (p = 0.1205). The type of polymerization device may affect the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of the IRC tested. DC also seems to be affected by the type of polymerization device but the results were not significant.

Effect of different polymerization devices on the degree of conversion and the physical properties of an indirect resin composite

Polymerization of indirect resin composites (IRC) is carried out in the laboratories using special photo-polymerization devices to achieve a higher degree of conversion (DC). Such devices present variation in chambers and light output which may have consequences on the chemical and physical properties of IRCs. This study evaluated the effect of different polymerization devices on the flexural strength, Vickers microhardness and DC of an IRC. Specimens were prepared from an IRC material, Sinfony (3M ESPE), using special molds for flexural strength test (N=30) (25x2x2 mm, ISO 4049), Vickers microhardness test (N=30) (5x4 mm) and for DC (N=30) utilizing Micro-raman Spectroscopy. All specimens were submitted to initial polymerization with a Visio Alpha unit (3M ESPE) and then randomly divided into three groups (n=10/ group). Specimens in Group 1 (control) received additional polymerizations using a Visio Beta Vario device (3M ESPE), and those in Group 2 and Group 3 using Powerlux (EDG) and Strobolux (EDG) devices, respectively. DC and mechanical tests were then conducted. For the mechanical tests, the data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p<0.05) and for DC, one-way ANOVA was used. Polymerization in Strobolux (Group 3) resulted in significantly lower flexural strength (MPa) values (134±27) compared to Visio Beta Vario (165±20) (Group 1) (p<0.05). The lowest microhardness values (Kg/mm2) were obtained in Group 3 (30±1) (p<0.05). DC was similar in all groups (75±1, 91±5, 85±7 % for Visio Beta Vario, Powerlux and Strobolux, respectively) (p=0.1205). The type of polymerization device may affect the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of the IRC tested. DC also seems to be affected by the type of polymerization device but the results were not significant.

As polimerizacoes de resinas compostas indiretas (RCI) sao realizadas em Laboratorio em dispositivos fotopolimerizadores especiais para que seja alcancado um maior grau de conversao (GC). Estes dispositivos apresentam variacoes nas cameras e nas lampadas polimerizadoras as quais podem gerar consequencias nas propriedades fisicas e quimicas das RCIs. Este estudo avaliou o efeito de diferentes unidades polimerizadoras na resistencia a flexao, dureza Vickers e GC de uma RCI. Amostras da RCI Sinfony (3M ESPE) foram preparadas, utilizando matrizes especiais para o teste de resistencia a flexao (N=30) (25x2x2 mm, ISO 4049), teste de microdureza Vickers (N=30) (5x4 mm) e para o GC (N=30), utilizando a espectroscopia Micro-raman. Todas as amostras foram submetidas a polimerizacao inicial na unidade Visio Alpha (3M ESPE) e em seguida elas foram divididas aleatoriamente em tres grupos (n=10/por grupo). As amostras do Gr1 (controle) tiveram sua polimerizacao final realizada na unidade Visio Beta Vario (3M ESPE), e as do Gr2 e Gr3 nas unidades Powerlux (EDG) e Strobolux (EDG), respectivamente e entao os testes mecanicos e do GC foram conduzidos. Para os testes mecanicos, os dados foram analisados utilizando a analise de Variancia (ANOVA) e o teste de Tukey (p<0.05) e ANOVA 1-fator para o GC. A polimerizacao na unidade Strobolux (Gr3) gerou valores de resistencia a flexao (MPa) significativamente inferiores (134±27) comparado a unidade Visio Beta Vario (165±20) (Gr1) (p<0.05). Os menores valores de microdureza (Kg/mm2) foram obtidos para o Gr3 (30±1) (p<0.05). O GC em todas as unidades polimerizadoras (75±1, 91±5, 85±7 % para Visio Beta Vario, Powerlux e Strobolux, respectivamente) foi semelhante entre os grupos (p=0.1205). O tipo de unidade polimerizadora afetou a resistencia a flexao e a dureza Vickers da RCI testada. O GC tambem foi afetado pelo tipo de unidade polimerizadora, mas a diferenca nao foi significativa.

Opaque layer firing temperature and aging effect on the flexural strength of ceramic fused to cobalt-chromium alloy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of the opaque layer firing temperature and mechanical and thermal cycling on the flexural strength of a ceramic fused to commercial cobalt-chromium alloy (Co-Cr). The hypotheses were that higher opaque layer temperatures increase the metal/ceramic bond strength and that aging reduces the bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Metallic frameworks (25 x 3 x 0.5 mm(3); ISO 9693) (N = 60) were cast in Co-Cr and airborne-particle abraded (Al(2)O(3): 150 mum) at the central area of the frameworks (8 x 3 mm(2)) and divided into three groups (N = 20), according to the opaque layer firing temperature: Gr1 (control)-900 degrees C; Gr2-950 degrees C; Gr3-1000 degrees C. The opaque ceramic (Opaque, Vita Zahnfabrick, Bad Säckingen, Germany) was applied, and the glass ceramic (Vita Omega 900, Vita Zahnfabrick) was fired onto it (thickness: 1 mm). While half the specimens from each group were randomly tested without aging (water storage: 37 degrees C/24 hours), the other half were mechanically loaded (20,000 cycles; 50 N load; distilled water at 37 degrees C) and thermocycled (3000 cycles; 5 degrees C to 55 degrees C, dwell time: 30 seconds). After the flexural strength test, failure types were noted. The data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha= 0.05). RESULTS: Gr2 (19.41 +/- 5.5 N) and Gr3 (20.6 +/- 5 N) presented higher values than Gr1 (13.3 +/- 1.6 N) (p= 0.001). Mechanical and thermal cycling did not significantly influence the mean flexural strength values (p > 0.05). Increasing the opaque layer firing temperature improved the flexural bond strength values (p < 0.05). The hypotheses were partially accepted. CONCLUSION: Increasing of the opaque layer firing temperature improved the flexural bond strength between ceramic fused to Co-Cr alloy.

Analysis of tooth enamel after excessive bleaching: a study using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy.

This study assessed alterations on bovine enamel after excessive bleaching. Coronal portions of bovine teeth (n = 30) were sectioned and divided into three groups (n = 10 per group). The coronal parts were further cut incisocervically into two halves. While one half received no bleaching (control), the other half was subjected to either one (group 1), three (group 2), or five bleaching sessions (group 3) with 35% hydrogen peroxide. The enamel surfaces were then analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Excessive bleaching affected the surface morphology and chemistry of the bovine enamel. EDS analysis showed the highest decrease in calcium ion percentages in groups 2 and 3 when compared to their nonbleached halves. Oxygen and phosphorus percentages were comparable on both the control and bleached enamel, regardless of the number of bleaching sessions. Consecutive bleaching sessions with 35% hydrogen peroxide may lead to morphologic and specific elemental changes when performed in a short period of time. Calcium ion percentages may decrease when this bleaching agent is used for more than one session. Int J Prosthodontics 2010;23:29-32.

Effect of sodium ascorbate and the time lapse before cementation after internal bleaching on bond strength between dentin and ceramic.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of the elapsed time (ET) after nonvital bleaching (NVB) and sodium ascorbate application (10%) (SAA) on the shear bond strength of dentin to ceramic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine incisors were selected, internally bleached (35% carbamide peroxide) for 9 days and submitted to the following treatments (n = 10): G1, G2, G3-luting after 1, 7, and 14 days; G4, G5, and G6-luting after SAA, 1, 7, and 14 days, respectively. G7 and G8 were not bleached: G7-luting 24 hours after access cavity sealing; G8-luting 24 hours after access cavity sealing after SAA. After NVB, the vestibular dentin was exposed and flattened. The SAA was applied to the dentin (G4, G5, G6, G8) for 10 minutes, and it was then washed and dried. The dentin was etched (37% phosphoric acid), and an adhesive system (Single Bond 2) was applied. Feldspathic ceramic discs (VM7; 4-mm diameter, 3-mm thick) were luted with a dual-resin agent (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE Dental Products, St. Paul, MN). After 24 hours, specimens were submitted to shear test on a universal testing machine. The data (MPa) were submitted to ANOVA and Dunnet's test (5%). RESULTS: The means (+/- SD) obtained were (MPa): G1 (14 +/- 4.5), G2 (14.6 +/- 3.1), G3 (14 +/- 3.7), G4 (15.5 +/- 4.6), G5 (19.87 +/- 4.5), G6 (16.5 +/- 3.7), G7 (22.8 +/- 6.2), and G8 (18.9 +/- 5.4). SAA had a significant effect on bond strength (p= 0.0054). The effect of ET was not significant (p= 0.1519). G5 and G6 presented higher values than the other bleached groups (p < 0.05) and similar to G7 and G8 (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: After NVB, adhesive luting to dentin is recommended after 7 days if sodium ascorbate has been applied prior to dentin hybridization.

Conversion degree of indirect resin composites and effect of thermocycling on their physical properties.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the degree of conversion (DC) of four indirect resin composites (IRCs) with various compositions processed in different polymerization units and investigated the effect of thermal aging on the flexural strength and Vicker's microhardness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens were prepared from four IRC materials, namely Gr 1: Resilab (Wilcos); Gr2: Sinfony (3M ESPE); Gr3: VITA VMLC (VITA Zahnfabrik); Gr4: VITA Zeta (VITA Zahnfabrik) using special molds for flexural strength test (N = 80, n = 10 per group) (25 x 2 x 2 mm(3), ISO 4049), for Vicker's microhardness test (N = 80, n = 10 per group) (5 x 4 mm(2)) and for DC (N = 10) using FT-Raman Spectroscopy. For both flexural strength and microhardness tests, half of the specimens were randomly stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 24 hours (Groups 1 to 4), and the other half (Groups 5 to 8) were subjected to thermocycling (5000 cycles, 5 to 55 +/- 1 degree C, dwell time: 30 seconds). Flexural strength was measured in a universal testing machine (crosshead speed: 0.8 mm/min). Microhardness test was performed at 50 g. The data were analyzed using one-way and two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (alpha= 0.05). The correlation between flexural strength and microhardness was evaluated with Pearson's correlation test (alpha= 0.05). RESULTS: A significant effect for the type of IRC and thermocycling was found (p= 0.001, p= 0.001) on the flexural strength results, but thermocycling did not significantly affect the microhardness results (p= 0.078). The interaction factors were significant for both flexural strength and microhardness parameters (p= 0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Thermocycling decreased the flexural strength of the three IRCs tested significantly (p < 0.05), except for VITA Zeta (106.3 +/- 9.1 to 97.2 +/- 14 MPa) (p > 0.05) when compared with nonthermocycled groups. Microhardness results of only Sinfony were significantly affected by thermocycling (25.1 +/- 2.1 to 31 +/- 3.3 Kg/mm(2)). DC values ranged between 63% and 81%, and were not significantly different between the IRCs (p > 0.05). While a positive correlation was found between flexural strength and microhardness without (r = 0.309) and with thermocycling (r = 0.100) for VITA VMLC, negative correlations were found for Resilab under the same conditions (r =-0.190 and -0.305, respectively) (Pearson's correlation coefficient). CONCLUSION: Although all four IRCs presented nonsignificant DC values, flexural strength and microhardness values varied between materials with and without thermocycling.

Influence of surface treatment on the shear bond strength of ceramics fused to cobalt-chromium.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of surface treatment on the shear bond strength between a Co-Cr alloy and two ceramics. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight metal cylinders were made (thickness: 4 mm, height: 3.7 mm) according ISO TR 11405. The 48 metallic cylinders were divided into four groups (n = 12), according to the veneering ceramic (StarLight Ceram and Duceram Kiss) and surface treatments: air-particle abrasion with Al(2)O(3) or tungsten drill (W). Gr1: StarLight + Al(2)O(3); Gr2: StarLight + W; Gr3: Duceram + Al(2)O(3); and Gr4: Duceram + W. The specimens were aged using thermal cycling (3000x, 5 to 55 degrees C, dwell time: 30 seconds, transfer time: 2 seconds). The shear test was performed with a universal testing machine, using a load cell of 100 kg (speed: 0.5 mm/min) and a specific device. The bond strength data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (5%), and the failure modes were analyzed using an optical microscope (30x). RESULTS: The means and standard deviations of the shear bond strengths were (MPa): G1 (57.97 +/- 11.34); G2 (40.62 +/- 12.96); G3 (47.09 +/- 13.19); and G4 (36.80 +/- 8.86). Ceramic (p= 0.03252) and surface treatment (p= 0.0002) significantly affected the mean bond strength values. CONCLUSIONS: Air-particle abrasion with Al(2)O(3) improved the shear bond strength between metal and ceramics used.

A comparison of the film thickness of two adhesive luting agents and the effect of thermocycling on their microTBs to feldspathic ceramic.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of thermocycling (TC) on the microtensile bond strength (microTBS) of two luting agents to feldspathic ceramic and to measure their film thickness (FT). For the microTBS test, sixteen blocks (6.4 x 6.4 x 4.8 mm) were fabricated using a feldspathic ceramic, etched with 10% hydrofluoric acid, rinsed and treated with the silane agent. The ceramic blocks were divided into two groups (n= 8): Gr1: dual-cured resin cement and Gr2: flowable resin. The luting agents were applied on the treated surfaces. Microsticks (1 +/-0. 1mm2) were prepared and stored under two conditions: dry, specimens immediately submitted to the microTBS test, and TC (6,000 cycles; 5 degrees C-55 degrees C). The microTBS was evaluated using a universal testing machine (1 mm/min). The microTBS data (MPa) were submitted to two-way ANOVA and Tukey' test (5%). For the FT test (ISO 4049), 0.05 ml of each luting agent (n=8) was pressed between two Mylar-covered glass plates (150 N) for 180 seconds and light polymerized. FT was measured using a digital paquimeter (Model 727-2001). The data (mm) were submitted to one-way ANOVA. The luting cement did not influence the microTBS results (p= 0.4467). Higher microtensile bond values were found after TC (20.5 +/- 8.6 MPa) compared to the dry condition (13.9 +/- 4. 7MPa), for both luting agents. The luting agents presented similar film thicknesses: Gr1- 0.052 +/- 0.016 mm; Gr2-0.041 +/- 0.003 mm. The luting agents presented similar film thickness and microTBS values, in dry and TC conditions and TC increased the bond strength regardless of the luting agent.