RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Calcium silicate-based types of cement have gained recognition in various dental applications due to their exceptional sealing capabilities, bioactivity, and minimal adaptability. However, these materials have certain shortcomings that can lead to mechanical failures and premature degradation. The inclusion of metal ions into their structure is expected to promote their biological activity. This article focuses on the preparation and characterization of calcium silicate cement to enhance its fundamental material properties, by introducing zinc and silver while retaining its biomaterial characteristics. AIM: This study aims to evaluate the biomedical potential of zinc and silver-impregnated bioactive calcium silicate cement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The calcium silicate powder was synthesized via the sol-gel method. Tetraethyl orthosilicate, calcium nitrate, silver nitrate, and zinc nitrate were sequentially added to create the bioactive calcium silicate material. The synthesized particles underwent physicochemical characterization using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and biological characterization through in vitro hemocompatibility assays. RESULTS: The study's results revealed the presence of multiple crystalline phases (Ag6Si2O7, Zn2SiO4, CaCO3) as indicated by X-ray diffraction. Raman spectra displayed vibrations associated with Si-O-Si and Zn-O bonding in the zinc and silver-infused bioactive calcium silicate. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed a mixture of spherical and sheet-like morphologies, while energy dispersive spectra confirmed the presence of elements Ca, Si, Zn, Ag, O, and C. In vitro hemocompatibility testing affirmed the material's biocompatible nature. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the zinc and silver-infused calcium silicate cement was successfully synthesized through an in-house procedure and demonstrated biocompatibility. The inclusion of zinc and silver, known for their osteogenic and antimicrobial properties, is anticipated to enhance the cement's biological properties and broaden its utility in dentistry. Further in vitro and in vivo investigations are imperative to validate its clinical applications and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its efficacy.
RESUMO
The objective of this survey was to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and practice of digital dentures among dentists. This is a cross-sectional survey conducted from January to February, 2022. Fifteen close-ended questions were framed and circulated among 150 dental practitioners and interns using an online survey form. The responses were collected and statistically analyzed. The results summarize that 95.3% were aware of digital dentures and 4.7% were not. About 60.1% do not use digital workflow, 27% do not have essential equipment, 9.5% were not confident in practicing digital dentures, and 3.4% found that it was inaccurate, showed poor retention, and a well-skilled technician was required. Most dental practitioners are aware of digital dentures. Among all practitioners with postgraduation were more aware of digital dentures than the interns and undergraduate practitioners. Most dentists do not practice digital dentures due to the high initial setup cost and maintenance. The majority of practitioners agree that digital dentures will be the ultimate tool in future dentistry.
