Physicochemical Properties and Bioactive Potential of a New Epoxy Resin-based Root Canal Sealer.

The aim of this study was to evaluate physicochemical properties and bioactive potential of Sealer Plus, in comparison with MTA Fillapex, Sealapex and AH Plus. Setting time, flow, and radiopacity were evaluated based on ISO 6876 Standard. Flow was also assessed in area (mm²). The solubility and volumetric change of the sealers were evaluated after 7 and 30 days of immersion in distilled water. Solubility was evaluated by the difference in mass of materials before and after immersion. Volumetric change was evaluated by using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). The bioactive potential was observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) after immersion in PBS. Data were compared using ANOVA and Tukey tests (α=0.05). Sealer Plus presented the shortest setting time (196 min.) and Sealapex the longest (912 min.) (p<0.05). AH Plus showed the highest radiopacity (9.5 mm Al) and MTA Fillapex the lowest (2.7 mm Al) (p<0.05). All the sealers presented flow in accordance with ISO 6876/2012 (>17 mm). Sealer Plus showed low solubility and volumetric change (<1%), and MTA Fillapex showed the highest solubility (>25%), and volumetric change (>4%) after all time intervals (p<0.05). MTA Fillapex was the only sealer that showed bioactive potential. In conclusion, Sealer Plus presented proper physicochemical properties. However, this sealer did not present a bioactive potential.

Physicochemical Properties and Dentin Bond Strength of a Tricalcium Silicate-Based Retrograde Material.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and the apical dentin bond strength of the tricalcium silicate-based Biodentine in comparison to white MTA and zinc oxide eugenol-based cement (ZOE). Setting time and radiopacity were evaluated according to ISO 6876:2012 specification. Final setting time, compressive strength and pH were also assessed. Material's bond strength to the apical root canal dentin was measured by the push-out assay. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey-Krammer post-hoc test. Biodentine presented the shortest initial (16.2±1.48 min) and final setting time (35.4±5.55 min). Radiopacity of Biodentine (2.79±0.27 mmAl) does not agree with ISO 6876:2012 specifications. On the other hand, Biodentine showed higher compressive strength after 21 days (37.22±5.27 MPa) and higher dentin bond strength (11.2±2.16 MPa) in comparison to white MTA (27.68±3.56 MPa for compressive strength and 2.98±0.64 MPa for bond strength) (p<0.05). Both MTA and Biodentine produced an alkaline environment (approximately pH 10) (p>0.05) compared to ZOE (pH 7). It may be concluded that Biodentine exhibited faster setting, higher long-term compressive strength and bond strength to the apical dentin than MTA and ZOE.

Physicochemical Properties and Dentin Bond Strength of a Tricalcium Silicate-Based Retrograde Material

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and the apical dentin bond strength of the tricalcium silicate-based Biodentine in comparison to white MTA and zinc oxide eugenol-based cement (ZOE). Setting time and radiopacity were evaluated according to ISO 6876:2012 specification. Final setting time, compressive strength and pH were also assessed. Material’s bond strength to the apical root canal dentin was measured by the push-out assay. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey-Krammer post-hoc test. Biodentine presented the shortest initial (16.2±1.48 min) and final setting time (35.4±5.55 min). Radiopacity of Biodentine (2.79±0.27 mmAl) does not agree with ISO 6876:2012 specifications. On the other hand, Biodentine showed higher compressive strength after 21 days (37.22±5.27 MPa) and higher dentin bond strength (11.2±2.16 MPa) in comparison to white MTA (27.68±3.56 MPa for compressive strength and 2.98±0.64 MPa for bond strength) (p<0.05). Both MTA and Biodentine produced an alkaline environment (approximately pH 10) (p>0.05) compared to ZOE (pH 7). It may be concluded that Biodentine exhibited faster setting, higher long-term compressive strength and bond strength to the apical dentin than MTA and ZOE.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas e a resistência de união à dentina apical do cimento Biodentine em comparação ao MTA branco e cimento à base de óxido de zinco e eugenol (OZE). O tempo de presa e a radiopacidade foram avaliados de acordo com as especificações ISO 6876:2012. O tempo de presa final, a resistência à compressão e o pH também foram avaliados. A resistência de união dos materiais à dentina apical do canal radicular foi avaliada por meio do ensaio push-out. Dados foram analisados por ANOVA e teste complementar de Tukey-Krammer. Biodentine apresentou o menor tempo de presa inicial (16,2±1,48 min) e final (35,4±5,55 min). Os valores de radiopacidade do Biodentine (2,79±0,27 mmAl) não estão de acordo com as especificações ISO 6876:2012. Por outro lado, este material apresentou maior resistência à compressão após 21 dias (37,22±5,27 MPa) e maiores valores de adesão à dentina (11,2±2,16 MPa) em comparação ao MTA branco (27,68±3,56 MPa de resistência à compressão e 2,98±0,64 MPa de resistência de união) (p>0.05). Ambos os materiais produziram ambiente alcalino (aproximadamente 10) (p>0.05) em comparação ao OZE (pH 7). Pode-se concluir que o Biodentine demonstrou endurecimento mais rápido e apresentou maior resistência à compressão e resistência de união à dentina apical do que MTA e OZE.

Physicochemical properties of calcium silicate cements associated with microparticulate and nanoparticulate radiopacifiers.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper was to evaluate the physicochemical properties of calcium silicate cements with different chemical compositions, associated with radiopacifying agents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) Angelus, calcium silicate cement with additives (CSC), and resinous calcium silicate cement (CSCR) were evaluated, with the addition of the following radiopacifiers: microparticles (micro) or nanoparticles (nano) of zirconium oxide (ZrO(2)), niobium oxide (Nb(2)O(5)), bismuth oxide (Bi(2)O(3)), or calcium tungstate (CaWO(4)). Setting time was evaluated using Gilmore needles. Solubility was determined after immersion in water. The pH and calcium ion release were analyzed after 3, 12, and 24 h and 7, 14, and 21 days. The data obtained were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test, at a level of significance of 5 %. RESULTS: CSC + CaWO(4) and CSCR + ZrO(2) micro, Nb(2)O(5) and CaWO(4) presented results similar to MTA, with a shorter final setting time than the other associations. CSC and CSCR+ ZrO(2) micro presented a higher degree of flow. All the cements evaluated presented low solubility. The materials presented alkaline pH and released calcium ions. CONCLUSIONS: ZrO(2) micro radiopacifier may be considered a potential substitute for Bi(2)O(3) when associated with CSC or CSCR. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The proposed materials, especially when associated with ZrO(2), are potential materials for use as alternatives to MTA.

Calcium Silicate-Based Cements Associated with Micro- and Nanoparticle Radiopacifiers: Physicochemical Properties and Bioactivity.

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical properties and bioactivity of two formulations of calcium silicate-based cements containing additives (CSCM) or resin (CSCR), associated with radiopacifying agents zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and niobium oxide (Nb2O5) as micro- and nanoparticles; calcium tungstate (CaWO4); and bismuth oxide (Bi2O3). MTA Angelus was used as control. Methods. Surface features and bioactivity were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and the chemical composition by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS-X). Results. CSCM and CSCR presented larger particle sizes than MTA. Hydroxyapatite deposits were found on the surface of some materials, especially when associated with the radiopacifier with ZrO2 nanoparticles. All the cements presented calcium, silicon, and aluminum in their composition. Conclusion. Both calcium silicate-based cements presented composition and bioactivity similar to MTA when associated with the radiopacifiers evaluated.

Influence of the gutta-percha taper and finger spreader on lateral condensation effectiveness

Introduction: Lateral condensation effectiveness may be influenced by the gutta-percha and finger spreader taper used during root canal obturation. Objective: To evaluate the penetration ability of finger spreader into simulated root canals prepared using MTwo rotary system and filled with different gutta-percha and finger spreader tapers. Material and methods: Resin blocks with curved root canals had the apical diameter enlarged up to #25.06 and distributed into groups (n = 6) according to the gutta-percha taper (#25.02, #25.04, and #25.06) and the finger spreader (#30 and #35 NiTi, and stainless steel B) used to perform cold lateral condensation. After applying a load of 1.5 Kg over the finger spreaders' head, the distance between the finger spread tip and the apical limit of the root canal preparation were obtained. The data were submitted to Anova and Tukey-Krammer's test, with 5% of significance. Results: The gutta-percha cones with 0.02 taper enabled higher finger spreader penetration when compared to 0.04 and 0.06 tapers (p < 0.05), which were similar between each other (p > 0.05), regardless of the type and diameter of the finger spreader used. When different finger spreaders were compared among themselves, stainless steel B showed higher penetration ability (p < 0.05). Conclusion: It was concluded that the stainless-steel finger spreaders showed superior penetration ability and gutta-percha with lower tapers enabled a more effective lateral condensation at the apical third.

Chemical characterization and bioactivity of epoxy resin and Portland cement-based sealers with niobium and zirconium oxide radiopacifiers.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to characterize and to evaluate the bioactivity potential of experimental root canal sealers (ES) based on Portland cement, epoxy resin with nano- and micro-particles of niobium or zirconium oxide used as radiopacifiers in comparison to AH Plus and MTA Fillapex. METHODS: Specimens of the sealers (10 mm in diameter×1 mm thick) were prepared and the radiopacity was evaluated according to ISO 6876 (2012) specifications. Characterization of the sealers was performed under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) immediately after setting and after immersion for 28 days in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS). In addition X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy were also performed. The pH and calcium ion release were measured after 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after completion of seating using a digital pH meter and an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, respectively. RESULTS: The experimental sealers exhibited an average radiopacity of 2.5 mm thickness of aluminum, which was similar to MTA Fillapex (P>0.05) and inferior to AH Plus (P<0.05). AH Plus did not show bioactivity. Although the experimental sealers did not exhibit the formation of hydration product, they encouraged the deposition of crystalline spherical structures of calcium deficient phosphate. The highest pH and calcium release values were observed with the experimental sealers (P<0.01). ES-Nb-micro was the only sealer to present hexagonal shaped crystal deposition. SIGNIFICANCE: Novel root canal sealers based on a mixture of Portland cement, epoxy resin and radiopacifier exhibited a degree of bioactivity although no evidence of cement hydration was demonstrated on material characterization. The radiopacifier particle size had limited effect on the sealer microstructure and chemical properties.

Investigation of the effect of sealer use on the heat generated at the external root surface during root canal obturation using warm vertical compaction technique with System B heat source.

INTRODUCTION: During warm vertical compaction of gutta-percha, root canal sealers with different chemical compositions absorb the heat generated inside the root canal. The aim of this research was to assess physicochemical modifications of sealers subjected to the System B heat source (Analytic Technology, Redmond, WA) and to evaluate the effect that the use of different sealers has on the heat transfer to the external root surface. METHODS: Three proprietary brand sealers (AH Plus [Dentsply International, Addlestone, UK], Pulp Canal Sealer [Kerr Corporation, Orange, CA], MTA Fillapex [Angelus Dental Solutions, Londrina, PR, Brazil]) and a prototype sealer based on Portland cement were assessed. The heat generated on the surfaces of System pluggers and the heat dissipation at different levels (apical, midroot, and cervical) over root surface while using different sealers was assessed using thermocouples. Data were collected in 3 different environmental conditions with the tooth suspended in air, immersed in Hank's balanced salt solution, or gelatinized Hank's balanced salt solution. Chemical changes in the sealers induced by the heat were monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The effect of heat changes on the setting time and compressive strength of the sealers was also assessed. RESULTS: The continuous wave plugger sustained a rise in temperature at a maximum of 80°C at the instrument shank. The highest change in temperature on the external root surface was recorded after 1.5 minutes from the start of heating, and it was restored to body temperature by 6 minutes. Environmental conditions affected heat dissipation for all the sealers in the midroot and cervical regions and the highest increase in temperature (∼60°C) recorded in air. In the midroot and cervical regions, the type of sealer used did not affect the rise in temperature. In the apical region, AH Plus obturations resulted in a greater rise in temperature, and the chemical composition of this sealer was affected by high temperature; it also induced a reduction in sealer setting time and strength. CONCLUSIONS: It could be concluded that surrounding conditions, such as temperature and humidity, exerted influence on heating dissipation during the continuous wave of the condensation obturation technique and that root canal sealers presented different conductive/isolating properties. Furthermore, the physical and chemical properties of AH Plus were negatively affected by the changes in temperature.

Interface of dentine to root canal sealers.

OBJECTIVE: Root canal sealers can interact physically or chemically with dentine. The aim of this study was to characterize the dentine-root canal sealer interface of experimental sealers based on Portland cement using an epoxy-based vehicle in comparison to an epoxy resin sealer, AH Plus. METHODS: Root canals were biomechanically prepared and filled with any one of the four experimental epoxy sealers containing Portland cement with micro- and nano-particles of either zirconium oxide or niobium oxide radiopacifers, or AH Plus. The dentine-sealer's interfaces were assessed by coronal penetration of fluorescent microspheres, the penetration of sealers labelled with Rhodamine B inside the dentine tubules (following obturation with gutta-percha and sealers using System B technique) assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, and the chemical characterization of dentine-sealers interface by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) line scans. RESULTS: No penetration of fluorescent microspheres at the root-dentine to sealer interface was recorded for all test materials. Sealers presented greater ability to penetrate within the dentinal tubules at the coronal and mid-root thirds. The experimental sealers containing radiopacifier nano-particles exhibited a more homogeneous microstructure along the whole length of the canal. EDS-line scans results showed a migration of silicon and niobium into dentine. Peak overlap between zirconium and the phosphorous compromised the identification of the migration of the zirconium oxide into dentine. CONCLUSIONS: All five sealers promoted coronal sealing. The experimental sealers exhibited promising characteristics and were comparable to AH Plus sealer. Elemental migration of the experimental sealers suggests material interaction with dentine which was not displayed by AH Plus.

Propriedades físico-químicas e mecânicas, potencial bioativo e caracterização da interface dentina-cimento de cimentos endodônticos experimentais à base de cimento Portland associados à radiopacificadores micro e nanoparticulados / Physicochemical and mechanical properties, bioactivity potential and characterization of the dentin-sealer interface of experimental root sealers based on Portland cement with micro and nano particulate radiopacifiers

O cimento Portland é constituído por silicato de cálcio e a associação com aditivos e veículos conferem características que podem viabilizar seu uso como cimento endodôntico. No entanto, o cimento Portland não apresenta radiopacidade própria, o que torna necessário a adição de um agente radiopacificador à mistura para ser utilizado como material dentário. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades físico-químicas e mecânicas, o potencial bioativo e caracterizar a interface dentina-cimento de cimentos endodônticos experimentas à base de cimento Portland (ES) contendo nano ou micro partículas de óxido de zircônio ou óxido de nióbio. O tempo de presa, resistência à compressão, escoamento, espessura de filme, radiopacidade, solubilidade e estabilidade dimensional foram avaliadas de acordo com a norma ISO 6876:2012, enquanto que a liberação de fomaldeído foi avaliada por meio de cromatografia gasosa. A resistência de união dentinária foi avaliada por meio de teste push-out e tanto a caracterização da microestrutura dos cimento quanto a análise do potencial bioativo foram realizadas utilizando energia dispersiva de raios-x, difractometria e espectroscopia infravermelha. A interface dentina-cimento foi avaliada com relação à penetração de microesferas fluorescentes e examinada em microscopia confocal e microscopia eletrônica de varredura associada à escaneamento por energia dispersiva de raios-x linear. Os dados foram submetidos aos testes ANOVA e Tukey (p < 0,05). Com exceção da radiopacidade, os ES apresentaram propriedades físico-químicas de acordo com as especificações ISO 6876, adequada resistência de união à dentina, potencial bioativo e promoveram selamento coronário e interação química com a dentina.

Portland Cement is composed by calcium silicate and the association with additives or vehicles, may confer characteristics to enable the use of this cement as root canal sealer. However, Portland cement lacks in radiopacity which requires the addition of a radiopacifying agent to the mixture to be used as dental material. The purpose of this study was to assess the physicochemical and mechanical properties, the bioactivy potential and to characterize the dentin-sealers interfaces of Portland-based experimental root canal sealers (ES) containing nano or micro particles of zirconium oxide or niobium oxide. Setting time, compressive strength, flow ability, film thickness, radiopacity, solubility and dimensional stability were evaluated according to ISO 6876:2012 standards, whereas formaldehyde realease was investigated using gas-cromatography. Dentin bond strength was evaluated by push-out test and the sealer's microestruture and bioactivity potential were perfomed using X-ray energy espectroscopy, Xray diffractometry and infrared spectroscopy. Dentin-sealers interface was assessed with respect to fluorescent microspheres penetration and it was also examined using confocal microscope and scanning electron microscope coupled to X-ray energy dispersive line scans. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05). With the exception of radiopacity, ES showed physicochemical properties according to ISO 6876:2012 specifications, adequate dentin bond strength, great bioactivity potential and promoted coronal sealing and chemical interaction with dentin

Radiopacity and flow of different endodontic sealers.

The present study evaluated the radiopacity and flow of different endodontic sealers: AH Plus, Endo CPM, MTA Fillapex, Sealapex, Epiphany, and Epiphany SE. For the radiopacity test, six specimens measuring 10 mm in diameter and 1 mm in thickness were fabricated from each material. They were radiographed on an occlusal film alongside an aluminum step wedge. Radiographs were digitized to determine the radiopacity equivalence in millimeters of aluminum. To evaluate the flow, a 120 g load was placed on top of a glass slab containing 0.05 +/- 0.005 mll of sealer. The diameters of each material were measured (mm) with a caliper and samples were photographed. Digitized images were analyzed using the UTHSCSA Image Tool for Windows software, to determine the sealer area (mm2). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test at 5% significance. AH Plus and Epiphany SE presented the greatest radiopacity (12.5 mm Al and 12.0 mm Al, respectively) (p > 0.05), followed by Epiphany (9.6 mm Al) and Fillapex (8.9 mm Al). Endo CPM (5.46 mm Al) and Sealapex (5.51 mm Al) presented lower radiopacity. MTA Fillapex presented significantly higher values of flow than other sealers (33.11 mm and 844.9 mm2). AH Plus, Epiphany, and Epiphany SE had similar values. Endo CPM (21.05 mm and 342.8 mm2) and Sealapex (19.98 mm and 352.5 mm2) presented the lowest flow values (p > 0.05). All sealers presented radiopacity and flow values according to ISO and ANSI/ADA recommendations.

Repercussões periapicais em dentes com necrose pulpar / Periapical repercussion of pulpal necrosis

As doenças da polpa dental são consequências da ação de fatores químicos, físicos e principalmente bacteriológicos. O resultado desta ação pode se manifestar a curto ou longo prazo, produzindo sinais e sintomas característicos de cada doença. A necrose pulpar ocorre quando as funções vitais da polpa são interrompidas, iniciando-se um processo de degeneração que, se não tratado precocemente, levará a disseminação bacteriana ao osso alveolar produzindo lesões ósseas periapicais. Estas lesões periapicais associadas à necrose pulpar resultam dos mesmos fatores etiológicos, contudo apresentam características clínico-radiográficas peculiares e diversificadas sintomatologias, importantes no diagnóstico diferencial, que conduzem o tratamento. De acordo com o exame clínico e radiográfico, as lesões periapicais podem ser classificadas em: Pericementite Apical; Abscesso Periapical; Granuloma Periapical; Cisto Periapical e Osteíte Condensante. Este estudo tem como objetivo expor e discutir, a partir da literatura, a etiologia e as características histológicas, clínicas e radiográficas das doenças periapicais resultantes da necrose pulpar.

Dental pulp illnesses are a consequence of the actions of mainly bacteriological, but also chemical and physical factors. The results of these actions can be reveled after short or long time periods, showing characteristic signals and symptoms of each pathology. Pulp necrosis occurs when the pulp?s vital functions are interrupted, starting a degenerative process. If this degenerative process is not promptly treated it will result in bacterial dissemination into the alveolar bone producing periapical bone lesions. These periapical lesions related to pulp necrosis result from the same etiologic factors, but they present particular clinical and radiographical features and diverse symptoms that are important to differentiate the diagnosis that will determine the treatment. According to the clinical and radiographical features, the periapical lesions can be classified as follows: Apical pericementitis, Periapical Abscess, Periapical Granuloma, Periapical Cyst and Condensing Osteitis. The objective of this study was to expose and discuss, through a review, the etiological factors and histological, clinical and radiographical features of the periapical illnesses resulting from necrosis.

Radiopacity and flow of different endodontic sealers. / Radiopacity and flow of different endodontic sealers.

The present study evaluated the radiopacity and flow of different endodontic sealers: AH Plus, Endo CPM, MTA Fillapex, Sealapex, Epiphany, and Epiphany SE. For the radiopacity test, six specimens measuring 10 mm in diameter and 1 mm in thickness were fabricated from each material. They were radiographed on an occlusal film alongside an aluminum step wedge. Radiographs were digitized to determine the radiopacity equivalence in millimeters of aluminum. To evaluate the flow, a 120 g load was placed on top of a glass slab containing 0.05 +/- 0.005 mll of sealer. The diameters of each material were measured (mm) with a caliper and samples were photographed. Digitized images were analyzed using the UTHSCSA Image Tool for Windows software, to determine the sealer area (mm2). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukeys test at 5

significance. AH Plus and Epiphany SE presented the greatest radiopacity (12.5 mm Al and 12.0 mm Al, respectively) (p > 0.05), followed by Epiphany (9.6 mm Al) and Fillapex (8.9 mm Al). Endo CPM (5.46 mm Al) and Sealapex (5.51 mm Al) presented lower radiopacity. MTA Fillapex presented significantly higher values of flow than other sealers (33.11 mm and 844.9 mm2). AH Plus, Epiphany, and Epiphany SE had similar values. Endo CPM (21.05 mm and 342.8 mm2) and Sealapex (19.98 mm and 352.5 mm2) presented the lowest flow values (p > 0.05). All sealers presented radiopacity and flow values according to ISO and ANSI/ADA recommendations.

Effect of different restorative procedures on the fracture resistance of teeth submitted to internal bleaching.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different restorative procedures on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth submitted to intracoronal bleaching. Fifty upper central incisors were distributed into 5 groups: GI - healthy teeth; GII - endodontically treated teeth sealed with Coltosol; GIII - endodontically treated teeth bleached and sealed with Coltosol; GIV - endodontically treated teeth bleached and restored with composite resin; and GV - endodontically treated teeth bleached and restored with a fiberglass post and composite resin. In the bleached specimens, a cervical seal was made prior to bleaching with 38% hydrogen peroxide. The gel was applied on the buccal surface and in the pulp chamber, and was then light-activated for 45 s. This procedure was repeated three times per session for four sessions, and each group was submitted to the restorative procedures described above. The specimens were submitted to fracture resistance testing in a universal testing machine. There were statistically significant differences among the groups (p < 0.05). The mean value found for GIII was the lowest (0.32 kN) and was significantly different from the values found for GI (0.75 kN), GII (0.67 kN), GIV (0.70 kN), and GV (0.72 kN), which were not significantly different from each other (p > 0.05). The restorative procedures using composite resin were found to successfully restore the fracture resistance of endodontically treated and bleached teeth.

Effect of different restorative procedures on the fracture resistance of teeth submitted to internal bleaching

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different restorative procedures on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth submitted to intracoronal bleaching. Fifty upper central incisors were distributed into 5 groups: GI - healthy teeth; GII - endodontically treated teeth sealed with Coltosol; GIII - endodontically treated teeth bleached and sealed with Coltosol; GIV - endodontically treated teeth bleached and restored with composite resin; and GV - endodontically treated teeth bleached and restored with a fiberglass post and composite resin. In the bleached specimens, a cervical seal was made prior to bleaching with 38% hydrogen peroxide. The gel was applied on the buccal surface and in the pulp chamber, and was then light-activated for 45 s. This procedure was repeated three times per session for four sessions, and each group was submitted to the restorative procedures described above. The specimens were submitted to fracture resistance testing in a universal testing machine. There were statistically significant differences among the groups (p < 0.05). The mean value found for GIII was the lowest (0.32 kN) and was significantly different from the values found for GI (0.75 kN), GII (0.67 kN), GIV (0.70 kN), and GV (0.72 kN), which were not significantly different from each other (p > 0.05). The restorative procedures using composite resin were found to successfully restore the fracture resistance of endodontically treated and bleached teeth.

Microhardness of radicular dentin treated with 980-nm diode laser and different irrigant solutions.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the microhardness of radicular dentin after treatment with 980-nm diode laser and different irrigant solutions. BACKGROUND DATA: There are few reports of the consequences of diode laser irradiation emitted at 980 nm on the mechanical properties of dentin. METHODS: Seventy-two single canal, human canines with complete root formation were randomly distributed among three groups (n=24), according to the irrigant solution used in the biomechanical preparation: distilled water; 1% NaOCl; and, 1% NaOCl + 17% EDTA. These groups subsequently were divided into three subgroups (n=8), according to the diode laser parameter: no irradiation (control); 1.5 W/100 Hz; and 3.0 W/100 Hz. Laser was applied with helicoidal movements for 20 sec. Roots were sectioned in slices and the fragment corresponding to the middle third was submitted to the microhardness test (KHN) at depths of 30, 90, 150, and 300 µm. RESULTS: ANOVA and Tukey tests showed that the microhardness of the groups irradiated with 1.5 W/100 Hz (49.7±11.2) and 3.0 W/100 Hz (50.6±11.9) were statistically similar to each other (p>0.05) and different (p<0.05) from the non-irradiated group (45.0±9.7). Higher microhardness values were obtained at 150 µm (49.2±11.0) and 300 µm (52.3±11.3) which were similar among themselves and different (p<0.05) only at the depth of 30 µm (44.4±10.5). No differences were found among the irrigant solutions (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The microhardness of the radicular dentin increased after irradiation with 980-nm diode laser.

Evaluation of physico-chemical properties of Portland cements and MTA.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hydrogenionic potential and electrical conductivity of Portland cements and MTA, as well as the amount of arsenic and calcium released from these materials. In Teflon molds, samples of each material were agitated and added to plastic flasks containing distilled water for 3, 24, 72 and 168 h. The results were analyzed with a Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test for global comparisons and a Dunn-Tukey test for pairwise comparisons. The results revealed no significant differences in the pH of the materials (p > 0.05). The electrical conductivity of the cements were not statistically different (p > 0.05). White non-structural cement and MTA BIO released the largest amount of calcium ions into solution (p < 0.05), while arsenic release was insignificant in all of the materials (p > 0.05). The results indicated that the physico-chemical properties of Portland cements and MTA were similar. Furthermore, all materials produced an alkaline environment and can be considered safe for clinical use because arsenic was not released. The electrical conductivity and the amount of calcium ions released into solution increased over time.

Evaluation of physico-chemical properties of Portland cements and MTA

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hydrogenionic potential and electrical conductivity of Portland cements and MTA, as well as the amount of arsenic and calcium released from these materials. In Teflon molds, samples of each material were agitated and added to plastic flasks containing distilled water for 3, 24, 72 and 168 h. The results were analyzed with a Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test for global comparisons and a Dunn-Tukey test for pairwise comparisons. The results revealed no significant differences in the pH of the materials (p > 0.05). The electrical conductivity of the cements were not statistically different (p > 0.05). White non-structural cement and MTA BIO released the largest amount of calcium ions into solution (p < 0.05), while arsenic release was insignificant in all of the materials (p > 0.05). The results indicated that the physico-chemical properties of Portland cements and MTA were similar. Furthermore, all materials produced an alkaline environment and can be considered safe for clinical use because arsenic was not released. The electrical conductivity and the amount of calcium ions released into solution increased over time.