Biobank of fungi from marine and terrestrial Antarctic environments.

Harsh and extreme environments, such as Antarctica, offer unique opportunities to explore new microbial taxa and biomolecules. Given the limited knowledge on microbial diversity, this study aimed to compile, analyze and compare a subset of the biobank of Antarctic fungi maintained at the UNESP's Central of Microbial Resources (CRM-UNESP). A total of 711 isolates (240 yeasts and 471 filamentous fungi) from marine and terrestrial samples collected at King George Island (South Shetland Islands, Antarctica) were used with the primary objective of investigating their presence in both marine and terrestrial environments. Among the yeasts, 13 genera were found, predominantly belonging to the phylum Basidiomycota. Among the filamentous fungi, 34 genera were represented, predominantly from the phylum Ascomycota. The most abundant genera in the marine samples were Metschnikowia, Mrakia, and Pseudogymnoascus, while in the terrestrial samples, they were Pseudogymnoascus, Leucosporidium, and Mortierella. Most of the genera and species of the CRM-UNESP biobank of Antarctic fungi are being reported as an important target for biotechnological applications. This study showed the relevance of the CRM-UNESP biobank, highlighting the importance of applying standard methods for the preservation of the biological material and associated data (BMaD), as recommended in national and international standards.

Randomized in situ study on the efficacy of CO2 laser irradiation in increasing enamel erosion resistance.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this double-blind, randomized in situ study was to evaluate the erosion-preventive effect of a specific set of CO2 laser parameters, associated or not with fluoride. METHODS: Two hundred forty bovine enamel blocks were prepared for individual palatal appliances (n = 6 samples/appliance). The study had four phases of 5 days each, with ten volunteers and the following treatments: CO2 laser irradiation (L), fluoride treatment (F), combined fluoride and laser treatment (FL), and no treatment, control (C). Laser irradiation was performed at 0.3 J/cm2 (5 µs/226 Hz/10.6 µm) and the fluoride gel contained AmF/NaF (12'500 ppm F-/pH = 4.8-6). For erosive demineralization, the appliances were immersed extra-orally in citric acid (0.05 M/20 min/pH = 2.3) twice daily. Analysis of enamel surface loss was done using a 3D-laser profilometer on 3 days. Additionally, fluoride uptake was quantified and scanning electron microscopies were done. Data were analyzed with repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc pairwise comparisons (α = 0.05). RESULTS: At all analyzing days, both laser groups caused the lowest means of enamel loss, which were also statistically significant lower than C (p < 0.05). At day 5, FL means ± SD (33.6 ± 12.6 µm) were even significantly lower than all other groups (C 67.8 ± 15.4 µm; F 57.5 ± 20.3 µm; L 46.8 ± 14.5 µm). Significantly increased enamel fluoride uptake was observed for both fluoride-containing groups (p < 0.05) at day 1. CONCLUSION: Compared to the control, the CO2 laser irradiation with a specific set of laser parameters (0.3 J/cm2/5 µs/226 Hz) either alone or in combination with a fluoride gel (AmF/NaF) could significantly decrease enamel erosive loss up to 5 days in situ. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Combined CO2 laser-fluoride treatment has a significant anti-erosive effect.

Prevention of toothbrushing abrasion of acid-softened enamel by CO(2) laser irradiation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of CO(2) laser irradiation (10.6µm) at 0.3J/cm(2) (0.5µs; 226Hz) on the resistance of softened enamel to toothbrushing abrasion, in vitro. METHODS: Sixty human enamel samples were obtained, polished with silicon carbide papers and randomly divided into five groups (n=12), receiving 5 different surface treatments: laser irradiation (L), fluoride (AmF/NaF gel) application (F), laser prior to fluoride (LF), fluoride prior to laser (FL), non-treated control (C). After surface treatment they were submitted to a 25-day erosive-abrasive cycle in 100ml sprite light (90s) and brushed twice daily with an electric toothbrush. Between the demineralization periods samples were immersed in supersaturated mineral solution. At the end of the experiments enamel surface loss was determined using a contact profilometer and morphological analysis was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For SEM analysis of demineralization pattern, cross-sectional cuts of cycled samples were prepared. The data were statistically analysed by one-way ANOVA model with subsequent pairwise comparison of treatments. RESULTS: Abrasive surface loss was significantly lower in all laser groups compared to both control and fluoride groups (p<0.0001 in all cases). Amongst the laser groups no significant difference was observed. Softened enamel layer underneath lesions was less pronounced in laser-irradiated samples. CONCLUSION: Irradiation of dental enamel with a CO(2) laser at 0.3J/cm(2) (5µs, 226Hz) either alone or in combination with amine fluoride gel significantly decreases toothbrushing abrasion of softened-enamel, in vitro.

Rehardening of acid-softened enamel and prevention of enamel softening through CO2 laser irradiation.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of the present study were to investigate whether irradiation with a CO(2) laser could prevent surface softening (i) in sound and (ii) in already softened enamel in vitro. METHODS: 130 human enamel samples were obtained and polished with silicon carbide papers. They were divided into 10 groups (n = 13) receiving 5 different surface treatments: laser irradiation (L), fluoride (AmF/NaF gel) application (F), laser prior to fluoride (LF), fluoride prior to laser (FL), non-treated control (C); and submitted to 2 different procedures: half of the groups was acid-softened before surface treatment and the other half after. Immersion in 1% citric acid was the acid challenge. Surface microhardness (SMH) was measured at baseline, after softening and after treatment. Additionally, fluoride uptake in the enamel was quantified. The data were statistically analysed by two-way repeated measurements ANOVA and post hoc comparisons at 5% significance level. RESULTS: When softening was performed either before or after laser treatment, the L group presented at the end of the experiments SMH means that were not significantly different from baseline (p = 0.8432, p = 0.4620). Treatment after softening resulted for all laser groups in statistically significant increase in SMH means as compared to values after softening (p < 0.0001). Enamel fluoride uptake was significantly higher for combined laser-fluoride treatment than in control (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: Irradiation of dental enamel with a CO(2) laser at 0.3J/cm(2) (5 µs, 226 Hz) not only significantly decreased erosive mineral loss (97%) but also rehardened previously softened enamel in vitro.

Dentine caries inhibition through CO(2) laser (10.6µm) irradiation and fluoride application, in vitro.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to investigate whether dentine irradiation with a pulsed CO(2) laser (10.6µm) emitting pulses of 10 ms is capable of reducing dentine calcium and phosphorus losses in an artificial caries model. DESIGN: The 90 dentine slabs obtained from bovine teeth were randomly divided into six groups (n=15): negative control group (GC); positive control group, treated with fluoride 1.23% (GF); and laser groups irradiated with 8 J/cm(2) (L8); irradiated as in L8+fluoride 1.23% (L8F); irradiated with 11 J/cm(2) (L11); irradiated as in L11+fluoride 1.23% (L11F). After laser irradiation the samples were submitted to a pH-cycling model for 9 days. The calcium and phosphorous contents in the de- and remineralization solutions were measured by means of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer--ICP-OES. Additionally intrapulpal temperature measurements were performed. The obtained data were analysed by means of ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). RESULTS: In the demineralization solutions the groups L11F and GF presented significantly lower means of calcium and phosphorous losses than the control group; and in L11F means were significantly lower than in the fluoride group. Both irradiation parameters tested caused intrapulpal temperature increase below 2°C. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that under the conditions of this study, CO(2) laser irradiation (10.6 µm) with 11 J/cm(2) (540 mJ and 10 Hz) of fluoride treated dentine surfaces decreases the loss of calcium and phosphorous in the demineralization process and does not cause excessive temperature increase inside the pulp chamber.

CO2 Laser (10.6 microm) parameters for caries prevention in dental enamel.

Although CO(2) laser irradiation can decrease enamel demineralisation, it has still not been clarified which laser wavelength and which irradiation conditions represent the optimum parameters for application as preventive treatment. The aim of the present explorative study was to find low-fluence CO(2) laser (lambda = 10.6 microm) parameters resulting in a maximum caries-preventive effect with the least thermal damage. Different laser parameters were systematically evaluated in 3 steps. In the first experiment, 5 fluences of 0.1, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 J/cm(2), combined with high repetition rates and 10 micros pulse duration, were chosen for the experiments. In a second experiment, the influence of different pulse durations (5, 10, 20, 30 and 50 micros) on the demineralisation of dental enamel was assessed. Finally, 3 different irradiation times (2, 5 and 9 s) were tested in a third experiment. In total, 276 bovine enamel blocks were used for the experiments. An 8-day pH-cycling regime was performed after the laser treatment. Demineralisation was assessed by lesion depth measurements with a polarised light microscope, and morphological changes were assessed with a scanning electron microscope. Irradiation with 0.3 J/cm(2), 5 micros, 226 Hz for 9 s (2,036 overlapping pulses) increased caries resistance by up to 81% compared to the control and was even significantly better than fluoride application (25%, p < 0.0001). Scanning electron microscopy examination did not reveal any obvious damage caused by the laser irradiation.

The neuroprotective effect of dental pulp cells in models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of dental pulp cells (DPCs) in in vitro models of Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. Primary cultures of hippocampal and ventral mesencephalic neurons were treated for 24 h with amyloid beta (Abeta(1-42)) peptide 1-42 and 6-OHDA, respectively. DPCs isolated from adult rat incisors were previously cultured in tissue culture inserts and added to the neuron cultures 2 days prior to neurotoxin treatment. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT assay. The co-culture with DPCs significantly attenuated 6-OHDA and Abeta(1-42)-induced toxicity in primary cultures of mesencephalic and hippocampal neurons, and lead to an increase in neuronal viability in untreated cultures, suggesting a neurotrophic effect in both models. Furthermore, human dental pulp cells expressed a neuronal phenotype and produced the neurotrophic factors NGF, GDNF, BDNF, and BMP2 shown by microarray screening and antibody staining for the representative proteins. DPCs protected primary neurons in in vitro models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and can be viewed as possible candidates for studies on cell-based therapy.

In vitro radiographic analysis of Nd:YAG-laser-irradiated dentin.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on the dentin radiographic image. Previous studies have shown that Nd:YAG laser irradiation is capable of promoting morphological and chemical changes of the dentin surface, indicating the possibility of an alteration of its radiographic image. Dentin of 2-mm-thick mid-coronal sections from 68 extracted posterior teeth was irradiated for 30 s by a Nd:YAG laser (lambda=1,064 nm) on one half of its surface area. The other half was left as a control. The irradiation parameters were: 80 mJ/pulse, 0.8 W, 10 Hz, with a 320-mum flexible quartz optic fiber in contact mode. The 68 samples were radiographed with a 70-kV X-ray setup. The focus-film distance was established as 30 cm and there was no distance between the object and the film. The X-ray exposure time was set as 0.16 s and the radiographic film used was an F-speed dental film. The obtained radiographic images were submitted to a densitometric analysis. The images analyzed showed that there were statistically significant differences between the density of the irradiated dentin images and the non-irradiated dentin images. The image density data showed that the irradiated dentin radiographic images were 6.36% more radiopaque than the non-irradiated dentin images. The Nd:YAG laser irradiation of dentin is able to alter its radiographic image, producing more radiopaque images of the irradiated dentin.

Nd:YAG laser influence on microleakage of class V composite restoration.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to evaluate Nd:YAG laser influence on microleakage of class V composite restorations. BACKGROUND DATA: There are few studies concerning laser with restorative materials, considering microleakage. One more sent. METHODS: Thirty six cavities were prepared and divided into three groups (n = 12): group 1, control; group 2, Nd:YAG laser irradiation before adhesive technique; group 3, Nd:YAG laser irradiation after adhesive technique was used as the single bottle. Adhesive system Nd:YAG laser parameters were 320 microm of fiberoptic; energy/pulse of 40 mJ of energy/pulse; repetition rate of 15 Hz; power of 0.6 W; pulsed and non-contact, 1 mm from the surface; 30 seconds in scanning mode; energy density was 49.76 J/cm(2). Cavities were restored with microhybrid composite. After having used a polishing technique, thermocycling and impermeabilization procedures were performed and specimens were submitted to a microleakage test consisting of immersion in aqueous solution of 50% silver nitrate for 8 h, in the total absence of light. After washing and drying procedures, teeth were embedded to facilitate buccal-lingual vertical sectioning. Microleakage was revealed by light. RESULTS: We accomplished Kruskal-Wallis test at 5% level of confidence and observed no statistically significant difference between the tested groups. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the obtained results, it was possible to conclude that Nd:YAG laser in the parameters used, has no influence on marginal microleakage in composite restorations, independent of the moment the laser was used.

Comparative study of dentine permeability after apicectomy and surface treatment with 9.6 microm TEA CO2 and Er:YAG laser irradiation.

Failure of apicectomies is generally attributed to dentine surface permeability as well as to the lack of an adequate marginal sealing of the retrofilling material, which allows the percolation of microorganisms and their products from the root canal system to the periodontal region, thus compromising periapical healing. The purpose of this study was to evaluate dentine and the marginal permeability after apicectomy and surface treatment with 9.6 micro m TEA CO(2) or Er:YAG 2.94 micro m laser irradiation. Sixty-five single rooted human endodontically treated teeth were divided into five experimental groups: group I (control), apicectomy with high speed bur; group II, similar procedure to that of group I, followed by dentinal surface treatment with 9.6 micro m CO(2) laser; group III, similar procedure to group I followed by dentinal surface treatment with Er:YAG laser 2.94 micro m; group IV, apicectomy and surface treatment with CO(2) 9.6 micro m laser; and group V, apicectomy and surface treatment with Er:YAG laser 2.94 micro m. The analysis of methylene blue dye infiltration through the dentinal surface and the retrofilling material demonstrated that the samples from the groups that were irradiated with the lasers showed significantly lower infiltration indexes than the ones from the control group. These results were compatible with the structural morphological changes evidenced through SEM analysis. Samples from groups II and IV (9.6 micro m CO(2)) showed clean smooth surfaces, fusion, and recrystallized dentine distributed homogeneously throughout the irradiated area sealing the dentinal tubules. Samples from groups III and V (Er:YAG 2.94 micro m) also presented clean surfaces, without smear layer, but roughly compatible to the ablationed dentine and without evidence of dentinal tubules. Through the conditions of this study, the Er:YAG 2.94 micro m and the 9.6 micro m CO(2) laser used for root canal resection and dentine surface treatment showed a reduction of permeability to methylene blue dye.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy: effects of Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers on apical seals after apicoectomy and retrofill.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the dentinal and marginal permeability of the cut surface after apicoectomy, treatment and retrocavity preparation with Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysed the morphological alteration of dentin caused by laser irradiation through an optical fiber. BACKGROUND DATA: Numerous studies have shown the beneficial effects of laser treatment upon sealing dental apex, avoiding the changes of organic fluids, microorganisms and their by-products between the root canal system and periapex. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four extracted and endodontically treated teeth were divided into three groups: GI, apices were resected with Er:YAG laser (350 mJ; 4 Hz) treatment of cut dentinal surface and retrocavity were lased with this same laser (120 mJ; 4 Hz; bur 2051) using the optical fiber 50/10; GII, apicoectomy was performed similar to GI, however the cut dentinal surface was treated with Nd:YAG laser through optical fiber, as well as the retrocavity preparation (100 mJ; 15 Hz; 1.5 W); and GIII (control group), high speed burs were used. RESULTS: Analysis of methylene blue dye penetration into dentin demonstrated that the specimens of the groups irradiated with laser showed to have lower infiltration indices than the control group. These results were compatible with structural and morphological injuries, evidenced by SEM. CONCLUSION: Under the conditions of the present study, apicoectomy using Er:YAG laser, followed by dentinal surface irradiation and retrocavity preparation with Nd:YAG laser, showed to be an alternative clinical tool able to reduce the dentinal permeability.

Nd:YAG laser influence on microleakage of class V composite restoration.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research was to evaluate the influence of the Nd:YAG laser on microleakage of class V composite restorations. BACKGROUND DATA: There has been very little research that concerns microleakage resulting from the use of lasers and restorative materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six cavities were prepared and divided into three groups (n = 12) as follows: Group 1, control; Group 2, Nd:YAG laser irradiation before adhesive technique; Group 3, Nd:YAG laser irradiation after adhesive technique. Nd:YAG laser parameters were 320 micro m of fiberoptics; energy/pulse of 40 mJ of energy/pulse; repetition rate of 15 Hz; power of 0.6 W; pulsed and non-contact, 1 mm from the surface; 30 sec in scanning mode; energy density was 49,76 J/cm(2). Cavities were restored with microhybrid composite. After polishing, thermocycling and impermeabilization procedures were performed and specimens were submitted to a microleakage test, with complete immersion in aqueous solution of 50% silver nitrate for 8 h, in the total absence of light. After washing and drying, teeth were embedded to facilitate buccal-lingual vertical sectioning. Microleakage was revealed by light. RESULTS: We used the Kruskal-Wallis test at a 5% level of confidence and observed no statistically significant difference among the tested groups. CONCLUSION: It was possible to conclude that Nd:YAG laser does not influence marginal microleakage on composite restorations, independent of the moment the laser had been used.

In vitro study of the effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on the apical sealing of endodontic fillings performed with and without dentin plugs.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Nd:YAG laser irradiation on the apical sealing of root canal fillings with or without a dentin plug. BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies have shown that Nd:YAG laser irradiation of root canal wall dentin promotes its melting, recrystallization, and therefore a less permeable surface. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty extracted and endodontically treated teeth were divided into three groups. Eight specimens of each group were evaluated by means of quantitative analysis, measuring the marginal apical dye leakage. The remaining two specimens were evaluated by means of qualitative analysis, using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). For the quantitative analysis, the samples of group I were obturated. In group II, the apical third of the samples were irradiated by the Nd:YAG laser at four exposures of 100 mJ/pulse, 1 W, 10 Hz, 3 sec, and obturated. In group III, an apical dentin plug was condensed and lased using the same parameters of group II, and the root canals were obturated. The samples evaluated by SEM were prepared as those analyzed quantitatively; however, their root canals were not filled. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences among the groups regarding dye leakage. Group II showed the minor leakage average, followed, in order, by groups I and III. SEM analysis revealed open dentinal tubules in group I; melting and recrystallizing of the apical root dentin in group II; and melting and recrystallizing of a portion of the dentin plug in group III. CONCLUSION: The Nd:YAG laser irradiation of the root canal apical third without the presence of dentin plug significantly improved the quality of the apical sealing under the experimental conditions tested.

The use of Er:YAG, Nd:YAG and Ga-Al-As lasers in periapical surgery: a 3-year clinical study.

OBJECTIVES: In an attempt to increase the successful rate of endodontic surgical procedures this study proposes the use of an association of three lasers in apicectomy: Er:YAG laser, (wavelength 2.94 microm pulse mode), Nd:YAG laser (wavelength 1.064 microm, pulse mode), and Ga-Al-As laser, (wavelength of 790 nm, continuous wave). BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies have shown the low success rate of apicectomy by conventional methods due to the presence of remaining bacteria in the surgical site. METHODS: The Er:YAG laser was used to perform osteotomy and root resection without vibration, discomfort, less contamination of the surgical site, and no smear-layer on the dentine surface. The Nd:YAG laser irradiation through a fiber performed sealing of the dentinal tubules and bacterial reduction of the cavity bone. In addition, the improvement of healing and better post-operative achieved with the Ga-Al-As laser encourages the use of those lasers in periapical surgeries. RESULTS: Three years follow-up examination of the clinical case showed radiographically significant decrease of the radiolucent periapical area and no clinical signs and symptoms. CONCLUSION: The outcome of this clinical case indicates that the use of those lasers could be considered an alternative, suitable, and useful method to perform an apicectomy.

Microleakage and nanoleakage: influence of laser in cavity preparation and dentin pretreatment.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to verify if the application of the Nd:YAG laser following pretreatment of dentin with adhesive systems that were not light cured in class V cavities and were prepared with Er:YAG laser would promote better sealing of the gingival margins when compared to cavities prepared the conventional way. BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies had shown that the pretreatment of dentin with laser irradiation after the application of an adhesive system is efficient in achieving higher shear bond and tensile bond strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Er:YAG laser (Kavo-Key, Germany) with 350 mJ, 4 Hz, and 116.7 J/cm2 was used for cavity preparation. The conventional preparation was made with diamond bur mounted in high-speed turbine. Dentin treatment was accomplished using an Nd:YAG laser (Pulse Master 1000, ADT. USA) at 60 mJ, 10 Hz, and 74.65/cm2 following application of the adhesive system. The cavities were stored with Single Bond/Z100 and Prime & Bond NT/TPH. Eighty bovine incisors were used, and class V preparations were done at buccal and lingual surfaces divided into eight groups: (1) Er:YAG preparation + Prime & Bond NT + TPH; (2) Er:YAG preparation + Single Bond + Z100; (3) Er:YAG preparation + Single Bond + Nd:YAG + Z100; (4) Er:YAG preparation + Prime & Bond NT + Nd:YAG + TPH; (5) conventional preparation + Prime & Bond NT + TPH; (6) conventional preparation + Single Bond + Z100; (7) conventional preparation + Single Bond + Nd:YAG + Z100; (8) conventional preparation + Prime & Bond NT + Nd:YAG + TPH. All specimens were thermocycled for 300 full cycles between 5 degrees C+/-2 degrees C and 55 degrees C+/-2 degrees C (dwell time of 30 sec), and stored in 50% silver nitrate solution for 24 h soaked in photodeveloping solution and exposed to fluorescent light for 6 h. After this procedure, the specimens were sectioned longitudinally in 3 portions and the extension of microleakage at the gingival wall was determined following a criteria ranging from 0 to 4 using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The medium portion sectioned of each specimen was polished and prepared for nanoleakage avaliation by SEM. RESULTS: Kruskall-Wallis and Miller statistical tests determined that group 3 presented less microleakage and nanoleakage. CONCLUSION: Application of the Nd:YAG laser following pretreatment of dentin with adhesive Single Bond non-photocured Single Bond adhesive in cavities prepared with Er:YAG promote better sealing of the gingival margins.

Nd:YAG laser effects on the microleakage of composite resin restorations.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated microleakage of composite restorations submitted to marginal treatment with Nd:YAG laser and surface sealant. BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies have demonstrated that Nd:YAG-lased enamel melted and became recrystallized with a morphologic appearance similar to lava, and has been used clinically in the sealing of enamel pits and fissures. METHODS: Class V cavities in enamel of human premolars were restored with composite resin (Z100, 3M) and randomly divided in six groups: G1, control; G2, surface sealant marginal treatment; G3 to G6, were treated with pulsed Nd:YAG laser (1.064 microm) marginal treatment, contact fiberoptic (300 microm), air cooling, for 30 seconds, powers of 1.2-2 W, repetition rates of 20-30 Hz, energies of 40-100 mJ. Teeth were impermeabilized, immersed in a rhodamine dye, sectioned, and evaluated under stereomicroscope microscopy with scores. RESULTS: There were significant differences between marginal treatments; there were no differences between groups 1, 2, and 4, and 3,5, and 6; lower values of microleakage were at groups 3, 5, and 6 (Kruskal-Wallis,p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Nd:YAG laser showed improved marginal sealing and decreased microleakage of composite resins restorations.

The bactericidal effect of Ho:YAG laser irradiation within contaminated root dentinal samples.

OBJECTIVE: This in vitro study investigates the bactericidal effect of pulsed Ho:YAG laser irradiation in the depth of contaminated dentin specimens. BACKGROUND DATA: Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of laser irradiation in bacterial reduction of infected root canal. METHODS: Root dentin of bovine teeth were sliced longitudinally in 180 samples of 100 microm, 300 microm, and 500 microm thickness, sterilized, dried, and inoculated on one side, with 1 microL of Enterococcus faecalis suspension. The opposite side's were irradiated four times for 5 seconds each with Ho:YAG laser irradiation, a wavelength of 2.10 microm, using four different energy settings: 1 W/5 Hz; 1 W/10 Hz; 1.5 W/5 Hz, and 2.0 W/5 Hz through a 320-microm quartz fiber at an angle of approximately 5 degrees. In addition, two control groups were investigated, the first was inoculated and not submitted to any treatment, the second was inoculated and treated with NaOCl and H2O2. The remaining bacteria from each dentin sample in a transport media were removed by vibration, serially diluted, and plated out on culture dishes selective for Enterococcus faecalis. RESULTS: When compared with the untreated control group or even with the group treated with NaOCl plus H2O2, counting of colonies forming units (CFU) from the laser-treated samples revealed a high significant bacterial elimination with a maximum of 98.46% and a minimum of 83.65%. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate a significant decrease of the bacterial population in depth, suggesting that the Ho:YAG laser irradiation could be effective to eliminate the microorganisms harbored within dentin or contaminated canals.

Nd:YAG laser influence on tensile bond strength of self-etching adhesive systems.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the tensile bond strength of composite resin on enamel and dentine, treated with Nd:YAG laser before and after bonding procedures. BACKGROUND DATA: The use of laser radiation in dentistry is being developed day by day. One of the possible applications of dental lasers includes increasing the quality of self-etching bonding systems. METHODS: Forty-eight human teeth were used and separated into six groups: Group 1 (enamel control), Clearfil Liner Bond 2V (CLB 2V); group 2 (enamel), Nd:YAG + CLB 2V; group 3 (enamel), CLB 2V + Nd:YAG; group 4 (dentine control), CLB 2V; group 5 (dentine), Nd:YAG + CLB 2V; group 6 (dentine), CLB 2V + Nd:YAG. Tensile bond strength was performed. RESULTS: Enamel means (15,54) were lower than dentine means (20,38). Bond strength of laser before (15,73) was lower than laser after (20,65). Interaction results G1 x G3; G2 x G3; G4 x G1; G2 x G5 were statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Tensile bond strength of composites reached with self-etching adhesive systems were greater in dentine than in enamel. The best moment for application of Nd:YAG laser is after the use of adhesive system. Self-etching adhesive systems tested in this study can be used together with Nd:YAG laser without compromising to adhesion to dentine.

Microleakage of resin-based composite restorations with ceramic inserts.

PURPOSE: To evaluate dye penetration of proximal vertical slot resin-based composite (RBC) restorations as a function of cavity size and restorative material employed (RBC, ceramic inserts with low-viscosity resin, and RBC with low-viscosity resin liner). Microleakage was measured using rank scoring and linear measurement of dye penetration and ANOVA and non-parametric tests were used to evaluate the statistical significance of the results. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety erupted crack- and caries-free mandibular third molars, extracted for orthodontic reasons, were used. Proximal vertical slots were prepared on the mesial surfaces of the teeth using diamond instruments at high speed under distilled water coolant. Teeth were placed randomly into nine groups. Three sizes of diamond burs of an ultrasonic cavity preparation system were used under low energy in order to standardize cavity size and shape, each tip size being used in 30 different teeth. The gingival margins were prepared 1 mm above the cemento-enamel junction. Specimens were etched, prepared with bonding agent, restored using three different materials, and immersed in a 50% AgNO3 solution for 8 hrs and sectioned to evaluate the dye penetration. RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed no statistically significant differences among the nine groups.