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5 pages, 206 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties

by Grzegorz Chladek

Materials 2023, 16(4), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16041432 - 8 Feb 2023

Viewed by 972

Abstract

Billions of people suffer from dental problems and that number is constantly increasing [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

16 pages, 3463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Degradation of Polylactide and Polycaprolactone as a Result of Biofilm Formation Assessed under Experimental Conditions Simulating the Oral Cavity Environment

by Dawid Łysik, Piotr Deptuła, Sylwia Chmielewska, Robert Bucki and Joanna Mystkowska

Materials 2022, 15(20), 7061; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15207061 - 11 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1865

Abstract

Polylactide (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) are biodegradable and bioabsorbable thermoplastic polymers considered as promising materials for oral applications. However, any abiotic surface used, especially in areas naturally colonized by microorganisms, provides a favorable interface for microbial growth and biofilm development. In this study, [...] Read more.

Polylactide (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) are biodegradable and bioabsorbable thermoplastic polymers considered as promising materials for oral applications. However, any abiotic surface used, especially in areas naturally colonized by microorganisms, provides a favorable interface for microbial growth and biofilm development. In this study, we investigated the biofilm formation of C. krusei and S. mutans on the surface of PLA and PCL immersed in the artificial saliva. Using microscopic (AFM, CLSM) observations and spectrometric measurements, we assessed the mass and topography of biofilm that developed on PLA and PCL surfaces. Incubated up to 56 days in specially prepared saliva and microorganisms medium, solid polymer samples were examined for surface properties (wettability, roughness, elastic modulus of the surface layer), structure (molecular weight, crystallinity), and mechanical properties (hardness, tensile strength). It has been shown that biofilm, especially S. mutans, promotes polymer degradation. Our findings indicate the need for additional antimicrobial strategies for the effective oral applications of PLA and PCL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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10 pages, 3386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in the Surface Texture of Thermoplastic (Monomer-Free) Dental Materials Due to Some Minor Alterations in the Laboratory Protocol—Preliminary Study

by Bozhana Chuchulska, Ilian Hristov, Boyan Dochev and Raycho Raychev

Materials 2022, 15(19), 6633; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15196633 - 24 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1545

Abstract

Contemporary thermoplastic monomer-free prosthetic materials are widely used nowadays, and there are a great variety available on the market. These materials are of interest in terms of the improvement of the quality features of the removable dentures. The aim of this study is [...] Read more.

Contemporary thermoplastic monomer-free prosthetic materials are widely used nowadays, and there are a great variety available on the market. These materials are of interest in terms of the improvement of the quality features of the removable dentures. The aim of this study is to establish how minimal changes in the laboratory protocol of polyamide prosthetic base materials influence the surface texture. Two polyamide materials intended for the fabrication of removable dentures bases were used—Perflex Biosens (BS) and VertexTM ThermoSens (TS). A total number of 20 coin-shaped samples were prepared. They were injected under two different modes—regular, as provided by the manufacturer, and modified, proposed by the authors of this study. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) under four magnifications—×1000, ×3000, ×5000, and ×10,000—was conducted. With minimal alterations to the melting temperature (5 °C) and the pressure (0.5 Bar), in Biosens, no changes in terms of surface improvement were found, whereas in ThermoSens, the surface roughness of the material significantly changed in terms of roughness reduction. By modifying the technological mode during injection molding, a smoother surface was achieved in one of the studied materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 2029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of the Mechanical Properties, Water Sorption, and Solubility of Antibacterial Copolymers of Quaternary Ammonium Urethane-Dimethacrylates and Triethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate

by Marta W. Chrószcz-Porębska, Izabela M. Barszczewska-Rybarek and Grzegorz Chladek

Materials 2022, 15(16), 5530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15165530 - 11 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1734

Abstract

The use of dental composites based on dimethacrylates that have quaternary ammonium groups is a promising solution in the field of antibacterial restorative materials. This study aimed to investigate the mechanical properties and behaviors in aqueous environments of a series of six copolymers [...] Read more.

The use of dental composites based on dimethacrylates that have quaternary ammonium groups is a promising solution in the field of antibacterial restorative materials. This study aimed to investigate the mechanical properties and behaviors in aqueous environments of a series of six copolymers (QA:TEG) comprising 60 wt.% quaternary ammonium urethane-dimethacrylate (QAUDMA) and 40 wt.% triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA); these copolymers are analogous to a common dental copolymer (BG:TEG), which comprises 60 wt.% bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate (Bis-GMA) and 40 wt.% TEGDMA. Hardness (HB), flexural strength (FS), flexural modulus (E), water sorption (WS), and water solubility (SL) were assessed for this purpose. The pilot study of these copolymers showed that they have high antibacterial activity and good physicochemical properties. This paper revealed that QA:TEGs cannot replace BG:TEG due to their insufficient mechanical properties and poor behavior in water. However, the results can help to explain how QAUDMA-based materials work, and how their composition should be manipulated to produce the best performance. It was found that the longer the N-alkyl chain, the lower the HB, WS, and SL. The FS and E increased with the lengthening of the N-alkyl chain from eight to ten carbon atoms. Its further extension, to eighteen carbon atoms, caused a decrease in those parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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15 pages, 5299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Candida albicans Suspension on the Mechanical Properties of Denture Base Acrylic Resin

by Grzegorz Chladek, Michał Nowak, Wojciech Pakieła and Anna Mertas

Materials 2022, 15(11), 3841; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15113841 - 27 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2055

Abstract

Yeast-like fungi such as Candida albicans (C. albicans) are the primary pathogenic microorganism in the oral cavity of denture wearers. The research available so far, conducted according to a protocol based on the exposure of specimens to a C. albicans suspension [...] Read more.

Yeast-like fungi such as Candida albicans (C. albicans) are the primary pathogenic microorganism in the oral cavity of denture wearers. The research available so far, conducted according to a protocol based on the exposure of specimens to a C. albicans suspension and their cutting with water cooling, shows that hard polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) prosthetic materials are not only surface colonized, but also penetrated by microorganisms in a short time. This justifies the hypothesis that exposure to a suspension of the C. albicans strain causes the changes in mechanical properties due to surface colonization and/or penetration of the samples. In the current study, the chosen mechanical properties (flexural strength, flexural modulus, tensile strength, impact strength, ball indentation hardness, and surface Vickers hardness at 300 g load) of the PMMA denture base material Vertex RS (Vertex-Dental, The Netherlands) exposed for 30, 60, and 90 days to a suspension of C. albicans were investigated. The potential penetration of yeast was examined on the fractured surfaces (interior of specimens) to eliminate the risk of the contamination of samples during cutting. There was no influence on the flexural strength, flexural modulus, tensile strength, impact strength, or ball indentation hardness, but a significant decrease in surface hardness was registered. Microscopic observations did not confirm the penetration of C. albicans. On the surface, blastospores and pseudohyphae were observed in crystallized structures and in traces after grinding, which indicates that in clinical conditions, it is not penetration but the deterioration of surface quality, which may lead to the formation of microareas that are difficult to disinfect, causing rapid recolonization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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11 pages, 2551 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Poly(methyl methacrylate) with Oleic Acid as an Efficient Candida albicans Biofilm Repellent

by Milica Petrović, Marina Randjelović, Marko Igić, Milica Randjelović, Valentina Arsić Arsenijević, Marijana Mionić Ebersold, Suzana Otašević and Irena Milošević

Materials 2022, 15(11), 3750; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15113750 - 24 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2161

Abstract

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), widely used in dentistry, is unfortunately a suitable substrate for Candida (C.) albicans colonization and biofilm formation. The key step for biofilm formation is C. albicans ability to transit from yeast to hypha (filamentation). Since oleic acid [...] Read more.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), widely used in dentistry, is unfortunately a suitable substrate for Candida (C.) albicans colonization and biofilm formation. The key step for biofilm formation is C. albicans ability to transit from yeast to hypha (filamentation). Since oleic acid (OA), a natural compound, prevents filamentation, we modified PMMA with OA aiming the antifungal PMMA_OA materials. Physico-chemical properties of the novel PMMA_OA composites obtained by incorporation of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% OA into PMMA were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and water contact angle measurement. To test antifungal activity, PMMA_OA composites were incubated with C. albicans and the metabolic activity of both biofilm and planktonic cells was measured with a XTT test, 0 and 6 days after composites preparation. The effect of OA on C. albicans morphology was observed after 24 h and 48 h incubation in agar loaded with 0.0125% and 0.4% OA. The results show that increase of OA significantly decreased water contact angle. Metabolic activity of both biofilm and planktonic cells were significantly decreased in the both time points. Therefore, modification of PMMA with OA is a promising strategy to reduce C. albicans biofilm formation on denture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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12 pages, 1714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Properties of Three Resin-Based Dental Composites against Streptococcus mutans

by Simonetta D’Ercole, Francesco De Angelis, Virginia Biferi, Chiara Noviello, Domenico Tripodi, Silvia Di Lodovico, Luigina Cellini and Camillo D’Arcangelo

Materials 2022, 15(5), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15051891 - 3 Mar 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2454

Abstract

Antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of restorative dental materials may improve restorative treatment outcomes. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate Streptococcus mutans capability to adhere and form biofilm on the surface of three commercially available composite resins (CRs) with different [...] Read more.

Antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of restorative dental materials may improve restorative treatment outcomes. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate Streptococcus mutans capability to adhere and form biofilm on the surface of three commercially available composite resins (CRs) with different chemical compositions: GrandioSO (VOCO), Venus Diamond (VD), and Clearfil Majesty (ES-2). Disk-shaped specimens were manufactured by light-curing the CRs through two glass slides to maintain a perfectly standardized surface topography. Specimens were subjected to Planktonic OD_600nm, Planktonic CFU count, Planktonic MTT, Planktonic live/dead, Adherent Bacteria CFU count, Biomass Quantification OD_570nm, Adherent Bacteria MTT, Concanavalin A, and Scanning Electron Microscope analysis. In presence of VOCO, VD, and ES2, both Planktonic CFU count and Planktonic OD_600nm were significantly reduced compared to that of control. The amount of Adherent CFUs, biofilm Biomass, metabolic activity, and extracellular polymeric substances were significantly reduced in VOCO, compared to those of ES2 and VD. Results demonstrated that in presence of the same surface properties, chemical composition might significantly influence the in vitro bacterial adhesion/proliferation on resin composites. Additional studies seem necessary to confirm the present results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 4114 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cytotoxic Potential of Denture Adhesives on Human Fibroblasts—In Vitro Study

by Ewa Sobolewska, Piotr Makowiecki, Justyna Drozdowska, Ireneusz Dziuba, Alicja Nowicka, Marzena Wyganowska-Świątkowska, Joanna Janiszewska-Olszowska and Katarzyna Grocholewicz

Materials 2022, 15(4), 1583; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15041583 - 20 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2228

Abstract

(1) In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the availability of denture adhesives for stabilizing removable dentures. The aim of the present study was to assess the cytotoxicity of three denture adhesives on human fibroblasts. (2) Methods: Three denture adhesives [...] Read more.

(1) In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the availability of denture adhesives for stabilizing removable dentures. The aim of the present study was to assess the cytotoxicity of three denture adhesives on human fibroblasts. (2) Methods: Three denture adhesives were analyzed. Fibroblast cultures were established for the study and control groups in order to assess the incidence of necrosis and to evaluate the microscopic intracellular alterations induced. Following incubation with (study groups) or without adhesives (control group), trypan blue dye exclusion assay was used to determine the number of viable and/or dead cells. Microscopic specimens were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, scanned, digitally processed and then analyzed by a histopathologist. (3) Results: All three denture adhesives analyzed demonstrated various toxic effects in vitro on human fibroblast: quantitative evaluation—45.87–61.13% reduction of cell viability (p = 0.0001) and slight to moderate cytotoxicity in qualitative evaluation. (4) Conclusions: Denture adhesive creams demonstrated a toxic effect on human fibroblasts in vitro in quantitative and qualitative evaluation. In vivo observations are needed to find out if denture adhesives present a cytotoxic effect in patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 2913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Potential Ability to Penetrate into the Hard Tissues of the Root of an Experimental Preparation with the Characteristics of a Dental Infiltratant, Enriched with an Antimicrobial Component—Preliminary Study

by Małgorzata Fischer, Małgorzata Skucha-Nowak, Bartosz Chmiela and Anna Korytkowska-Wałach

Materials 2021, 14(19), 5654; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14195654 - 28 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2323

Abstract

Infiltration is a method of penetration with a low viscosity resin that penetrates deep into demineralised tooth tissue and fills the intergranular spaces, hence reducing porosity. Carious lesions initially located at the enamel–cement junction are usually found in elderly patients. Those spots are [...] Read more.

Infiltration is a method of penetration with a low viscosity resin that penetrates deep into demineralised tooth tissue and fills the intergranular spaces, hence reducing porosity. Carious lesions initially located at the enamel–cement junction are usually found in elderly patients. Those spots are predisposed to bacterial adhesion originating both from biofilm and from gingival pocket bacteria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the penetration of an experimental preparation, which has the characteristics of a dental infiltrant, enriched with an antibacterial component, into the decalcified root cement tissues of extracted human teeth in elderly patients. An experimental preparation with the characteristics of a dental infiltrant was prepared, applied, and polymerised on the surface of extracted, previously decalcified human teeth. The control sample was Icon (DMG, Hamburg, Germany). The ability of the preparations to penetrate deep into the root cement was evaluated using scanning electron and light microscopy. The study showed that an experimental preparation could potentially be used for treatment of early carious lesions within the tooth root in elderly patients, among others, as it penetrates deep into demineralised tissues. More research is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The One-Year In Vivo Comparison of Lithium Disilicate and Zirconium Dioxide Inlays

by Rini Behera, Lora Mishra, Darshan Devang Divakar, Abdulaziz A. Al-Kheraif, Naomi Ranjan Singh and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2021, 14(11), 3102; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14113102 - 5 Jun 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3167

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the one-year clinical performance of lithium disilicate (LD) and zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) class II inlay restorations. Thirty healthy individuals who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled for the study. The patients were [...] Read more.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the one-year clinical performance of lithium disilicate (LD) and zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) class II inlay restorations. Thirty healthy individuals who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled for the study. The patients were randomly divided into two study groups (n = 15): LD (IPS e.max press) and ZrO₂ (Dentcare Zirconia). In the ZrO₂ group, the internal surfaces of the inlays were sandblasted and silanized with Monobond N (Ivoclar, Leichsteistein, Germany). In the LD group, the internal surfaces of the inlays were etched with 5% hydrofluoric acid. The ceramic inlays were cemented with self-cure resin cement (Multilink N). Clinical examinations were performed using modified United State Public Health Codes and Criteria (USPHS) after 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 months and 1 year. The one-year survival rate was evaluated. In total, one failure was observed in the ZrO₂ group. The survival probability after 1 year for the ZrO₂ inlays was 93%, and for the LD inlays was 100%, which was statistically insignificant. The differences between both groups for most USPHS criteria (except for colour match) were statistically insignificant. Within the imitations of the present study, the lithium disilicate- and zirconia dioxide-based inlays exhibited comparable clinical performances. However, the colour and translucency match was superior for the lithium disilicate restorations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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15 pages, 3166 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Evaluation of the Properties of Urethane Dimethacrylate-Based Dental Resins

by Agata Szczesio-Wlodarczyk, Monika Domarecka, Karolina Kopacz, Jerzy Sokolowski and Kinga Bociong

Materials 2021, 14(11), 2727; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14112727 - 21 May 2021

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 3420

Abstract

Most of the dental materials available on the market are still based on traditional monomers such as bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and ethoxylated bisphenol-A dimethacrylate (Bis-EMA). The interactions that arise in the monomer mixture and the characteristics [...] Read more.

Most of the dental materials available on the market are still based on traditional monomers such as bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (Bis-GMA), urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA), triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and ethoxylated bisphenol-A dimethacrylate (Bis-EMA). The interactions that arise in the monomer mixture and the characteristics of the resulting polymer network are the most important factors, which define the final properties of dental materials. The use of three different monomers in proper proportions may create a strong polymer matrix. In this paper, fourteen resin materials, based on urethane dimethacrylate with different co-monomers such as Bis-GMA or Bis-EMA, were evaluated. TEGDMA was used as the diluting monomer. The flexural strength (FS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), and hardness (HV) were determined. The impacts of material composition on the water absorption and dissolution were evaluated as well. The highest FS was 89.5 MPa, while the lowest was 69.7 MPa. The median DTS for the tested materials was found to range from 20 to 30 MPa. The hardness of the tested materials ranged from 14 to 16 HV. UDMA/TEGDMA matrices were characterized by the highest adsorption values. The overall results indicated that changes in the materials’ properties are not strictly proportional to the material’s compositional changes. The matrices showed good properties when the composite contained an equal mixture of Bis-GMA/Bis-EMA and UDMA or the content of the UDMA monomer was higher. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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12 pages, 1486 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of Cytotoxic Properties of an Experimental Preparation with Features of a Dental Infiltrant

by Małgorzata Fischer, Anna Mertas, Zenon Paweł Czuba and Małgorzata Skucha-Nowak

Materials 2021, 14(9), 2442; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14092442 - 8 May 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2370

Abstract

Microinvasive dentistry is based on the treatment of early carious lesions with the use of dental infiltrants. The commercially available Icon dental infiltrant does not contain any bacteriostatic component. An experimental preparation enriched with the missing component was synthesised. The aim of this [...] Read more.

Microinvasive dentistry is based on the treatment of early carious lesions with the use of dental infiltrants. The commercially available Icon dental infiltrant does not contain any bacteriostatic component. An experimental preparation enriched with the missing component was synthesised. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the experimental preparation. Mouse fibroblasts of the L-929 lineage were used for the in vitro study. Cell morphology and viability were assessed. In the cytotoxicity analysis, it was shown that the experimental preparation (42.8 ± 10.3) after 24 h at two-fold dilution showed similar cytotoxicity to Icon (42.7 ± 8.8) (p > 0.05), while at four-fold dilution experimental preparation (46.7 ± 3.1), it was less toxic than Icon (34.2 ± 3.1) (p < 0.05). The experimental preparation has the potential to provide an alternative to the Icon commercial preparation. Further research is needed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the experimental preparation over a longer period of time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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15 pages, 8179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Liquid Rubber Addition on the Physicochemical Properties, Cytotoxicity, and Ability to Inhibit Biofilm Formation of Dental Composites

by Krzysztof Pałka, Małgorzata Miazga-Karska, Joanna Pawłat, Joanna Kleczewska and Agata Przekora

Materials 2021, 14(7), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14071704 - 30 Mar 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2184

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of modification with liquid rubber on the adhesion to tooth tissues (enamel, dentin), wettability and ability to inhibit bacterial biofilm formation of resin-based dental composites. Two commercial composites (Flow-Art–flow type with 60% ceramic [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of modification with liquid rubber on the adhesion to tooth tissues (enamel, dentin), wettability and ability to inhibit bacterial biofilm formation of resin-based dental composites. Two commercial composites (Flow-Art–flow type with 60% ceramic filler and Boston–packable type with 78% ceramic filler; both from Arkona Laboratorium Farmakologii Stomatologicznej, Nasutów, Poland) were modified by addition of 5% by weight (of resin) of a liquid methacrylate-terminated polybutadiene. Results showed that modification of the flow type composite significantly (p < 0.05) increased the shear bond strength values by 17% for enamel and by 33% for dentine. Addition of liquid rubber significantly (p < 0.05) reduced also hydrophilicity of the dental materials since the water contact angle was increased from 81–83° to 87–89°. Interestingly, modified packable type material showed improved antibiofilm activity against Steptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis (quantitative assay with crystal violet), but also cytotoxicity against eukaryotic cells since cell viability was reduced to 37% as proven in a direct-contact WST-8 test. Introduction of the same modification to the flow type material significantly improved its antibiofilm properties (biofilm reduction by approximately 6% compared to the unmodified material, p < 0.05) without cytotoxic effects against human fibroblasts (cell viability near 100%). Thus, modified flow type composite may be considered as a candidate to be used as restorative material since it exhibits both nontoxicity and antibiofilm properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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18 pages, 3234 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An In Vitro Study on the Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oil Modified Resin Composite against Oral Pathogens

by Barbara Lapinska, Aleksandra Szram, Beata Zarzycka, Janina Grzegorczyk, Louis Hardan, Jerzy Sokolowski and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2020, 13(19), 4383; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13194383 - 1 Oct 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3578

Abstract

Modifying the composition of dental restorative materials with antimicrobial agents might induce their antibacterial potential against cariogenic bacteria, e.g., S.mutans and L.acidophilus, as well as antifungal effect on C.albicans that are major oral pathogens. Essential oils (EOs) are widely [...] Read more.

Modifying the composition of dental restorative materials with antimicrobial agents might induce their antibacterial potential against cariogenic bacteria, e.g., S.mutans and L.acidophilus, as well as antifungal effect on C.albicans that are major oral pathogens. Essential oils (EOs) are widely known for antimicrobial activity and are successfully used in dental industry. The study aimed at evaluating antibacterial and antifungal activity of EOs and composite resin material (CR) modified with EO against oral pathogens. Ten EOs (i.e., anise, cinnamon, citronella, clove, geranium, lavender, limette, mint, rosemary thyme) were tested using agar diffusion method. Cinnamon and thyme EOs showed significantly highest antibacterial activity against S.mutans and L.acidophilus among all tested EOs. Anise and limette EOs showed no antibacterial activity against S.mutans. All tested EOs exhibited antifungal activity against C.albicans, whereas cinnamon EO showed significantly highest and limette EO significantly lowest activity. Next, 1, 2 or 5 µL of cinnamon EO was introduced into 2 g of CR and microbiologically tested. The modified CR showed higher antimicrobial activity in comparison to unmodified one. CR containing 2 µL of EO showed the best antimicrobial properties against S.mutans and C.albicans, while CR modified with 1 µL of EO showed the best antimicrobial properties against L.acidophilus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 5920 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of ZrO₂ Addition on Structural and Biological Activity of Phosphate Glasses for Bone Regeneration

by M. Mohan Babu, P. Syam Prasad, P. Venkateswara Rao, S. Hima Bindu, A. Prasad, N. Veeraiah and Mutlu Özcan

Materials 2020, 13(18), 4058; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13184058 - 12 Sep 2020

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3146

Abstract

Zirconium doped calcium phosphate-based bioglasses are the most prominent bioactive materials for bone and dental repair and regeneration implants. In the present study, a 8ZnO–22Na₂O–(24 − x)CaO–46P₂O₅–xZrO₂ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.7, all are in mol%) [...] Read more.

Zirconium doped calcium phosphate-based bioglasses are the most prominent bioactive materials for bone and dental repair and regeneration implants. In the present study, a 8ZnO–22Na₂O–(24 − x)CaO–46P₂O₅–xZrO₂ (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.7, all are in mol%) bioglass system was synthesized by the conventional melt-quenching process at 1100 °C. The glass-forming ability and thermal stability of the glasses were determined by measuring the glass transition temperature (T_g), crystallization temperature (T_c), and melting temperature (T_m), using differential thermal analysis (DTA). The biological activity of the prepared samples was identified by analyzing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectra (SEM-EDS), before and after immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF) for various intervals of 0, 1 and 5 days, along with the magnitude of pH and the degradation of glasses also evaluated. The obtained results revealed that the glass-forming ability and thermal stability of glasses increased with the increase in zirconia mol%. The XRD, FTIR, and SEM-EDS data confirmed a thin hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer over the sample surface after incubation in SBF for 1 and 5 days. Furthermore, the development of layer found to be increased with the increase of incubation time. The degradation of the glasses in SBF increased with incubation time and decreased gradually with the increase content of ZrO₂ mol% in the host glass matrix. A sudden rise in initial pH values of residual SBF for 1 day owing to ion leaching and increase of Ca²⁺ and PO₄³⁻ ions and then decreased. These findings confirmed the suitability of choosing material for bone-related applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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13 pages, 3813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Glass Fiber Reinforced Composite Orthodontic Retainer: In Vitro Effect of Tooth Brushing on the Surface Wear and Mechanical Properties

by Maria Francesca Sfondrini, Pekka Kalevi Vallittu, Lippo Veli Juhana Lassila, Annalisa Viola, Paola Gandini and Andrea Scribante

Materials 2020, 13(5), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13051028 - 25 Feb 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4019

Abstract

Fiber reinforced composites (FRCs) are metal free materials that have many applications in dentistry. In clinical orthodontics, they are used as retainers after active treatment in order to avoid relapse. However, although the modulus of the elasticity of FRCs is low, the rigidity [...] Read more.

Fiber reinforced composites (FRCs) are metal free materials that have many applications in dentistry. In clinical orthodontics, they are used as retainers after active treatment in order to avoid relapse. However, although the modulus of the elasticity of FRCs is low, the rigidity of the material in the form of a relatively thick retainer with a surface cover of a flowable resin composite is known to have higher structural rigidity than stainless steel splints. The aim of the present study is to measure load and bending stress of stainless steel wires, as well as flowable resin composite covered and spot-bonded FRC retainer materials after tooth brushing. These materials were tested with a three point bending test for three different conditions: no brushing, 26 min of brushing, and 60 min of brushing. SEM images were taken before and after different times of tooth brushing. Results showed that stainless steel was not significantly affected by tooth brushing. On the other hand, a significant reduction of values at maximum load at fracture was reported for both FRC groups, and uncovered FRCs were most affected. Concerning maximum bending stress, no significant reduction by pretreatment conditions was reported for the materials tested. SEM images showed no evident wear for stainless steel. Flowable resin composite covered FRCs showed some signs of composite wear, whereas spot-bonded FRCs, i.e., without the surface cover of a flowable resin composite, showed signs of wear on the FRC and exposed glass fibers from the FRC’s polymer matrix. Because of the significant changes of the reduction of maximum load values and the wear for spot-bonded FRCs, this technique needs further in vitro and in vivo tests before it can be performed routinely in clinical practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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24 pages, 4518 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effect of Antibacterial Silver-Releasing Filler on the Physicochemical Properties of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Denture Base Material

by Grzegorz Chladek, Katarzyna Pakieła, Wojciech Pakieła, Jarosław Żmudzki, Marcin Adamiak and Cezary Krawczyk

Materials 2019, 12(24), 4146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12244146 - 11 Dec 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4013

Abstract

Colonization of polymeric dental prosthetic materials by yeast-like fungi and the association of these microorganisms with complications occurring during prosthetic treatment are important clinical problems. In previously presented research, submicron inorganic particles of silver sodium hydrogen zirconium phosphate (S–P) were introduced into poly(methyl [...] Read more.

Colonization of polymeric dental prosthetic materials by yeast-like fungi and the association of these microorganisms with complications occurring during prosthetic treatment are important clinical problems. In previously presented research, submicron inorganic particles of silver sodium hydrogen zirconium phosphate (S–P) were introduced into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) denture base material which allowed for obtaining the antimicrobial effect during a 90 day experiment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the flexural strength, impact strength, hardness, wear resistance, sorption, and solubility during three months of storage in distilled water. With increasing S–P concentration after 2 days of conditioning in distilled water, reduced values of flexural strength (107–72 MPa), impact strength (18.4–5.5 MPa) as well as enhanced solubility (0.95–1.49 µg/mm³) were registered, but they were at acceptable levels, and the sorption was stable. Favorable changes included increased hardness (198–238 MPa), flexural modulus (2.9–3.3 GPa), and decreased volume loss during wear test (2.9–0.2 mm³). The percentage changes of the analyzed properties during the 90 days of storage in distilled water were similar for all materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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11 pages, 1496 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Aging in Solvents on Dental Cements Hardness and Diametral Tensile Strength

by Agata Szczesio-Wlodarczyk, Karolina Rams, Karolina Kopacz, Jerzy Sokolowski and Kinga Bociong

Materials 2019, 12(15), 2464; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12152464 - 2 Aug 2019

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2813

Abstract

Prosthetic materials must exhibit adequate resistance to the oral environment. The aim of this paper was to study the resistance of selected cements used for cementing restorations (Breeze—composite, Adhesor Carbofine—zinc-polycarboxylate and IHDENT–Giz type II—glass-ionomer) against ethanol, soda and green tea solutions. The highest [...] Read more.

Prosthetic materials must exhibit adequate resistance to the oral environment. The aim of this paper was to study the resistance of selected cements used for cementing restorations (Breeze—composite, Adhesor Carbofine—zinc-polycarboxylate and IHDENT–Giz type II—glass-ionomer) against ethanol, soda and green tea solutions. The highest values of hardness and DTS (diametral tensile strength) were obtained by composite cement (HV = 15–31, DTS = 34–45 MPa). Ethanol solution had the greatest impact on the hardness value of composite cement, and soda solution on zinc-polycarboxylate cement. No significant differences were noted in the DTS values of composite cements after immersion in solvents; however, the DTS value of zinc-polycarboxylate cement increased after prolonged immersion time in ethanol and the DTS of glass-ionomer cement (IHDENT Giz type II) clearly decreased after submersion in soda solutions. Variation in pH across the range of 6 (tea) to 9 (soda solution) had a low impact on the properties of dental cements. Extended exposure to solvents appears to worsen the properties of cements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

11 pages, 1065 KiB

Open AccessReview

Residual Adhesive Removal Methods for Rebonding of Debonded Orthodontic Metal Brackets: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Guillermo Grazioli, Louis Hardan, Rim Bourgi, Leina Nakanishi, Elie Amm, Maciej Zarow, Natalia Jakubowicz, Patrycja Proc, Carlos Enrique Cuevas-Suárez and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2021, 14(20), 6120; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14206120 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3760

Abstract

Debonding of orthodontic brackets is a common occurrence during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, the best option for treating debonded brackets should be indicated. This study aimed to evaluate the bond strength of rebonded brackets after different residual adhesive removal methods. This systematic review and [...] Read more.

Debonding of orthodontic brackets is a common occurrence during orthodontic treatment. Therefore, the best option for treating debonded brackets should be indicated. This study aimed to evaluate the bond strength of rebonded brackets after different residual adhesive removal methods. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, SciELO, Scopus, LILACS, IBECS, and BVS databases were screened up to December 2020. Bond strength comparisons were made considering the method used for removing the residual adhesive on the bracket base. A total of 12 studies were included for the meta-analysis. Four different adhesive removal methods were identified: sandblasting, laser, mechanical grinding, and direct flame. When compared with new orthodontic metallic brackets, bond strength of debonded brackets after air abrasion (p = 0.006), mechanical grinding (p = 0.007), and direct flame (p < 0.001) was significantly lower. The use of an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser showed similar shear bond strength (SBS) values when compared with those of new orthodontic brackets (p = 0.71). The Er:YAG laser could be considered an optimal method for promoting the bond of debonded orthodontic brackets. Direct flame, mechanical grinding, or sandblasting are also suitable, obtaining clinically acceptable bond strength values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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25 pages, 2534 KiB

Open AccessReview

Selected Spectroscopic Techniques for Surface Analysis of Dental Materials: A Narrative Review

by Katarzyna Kaczmarek, Andrzej Leniart, Barbara Lapinska, Slawomira Skrzypek and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2021, 14(10), 2624; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14102624 - 17 May 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5760

Abstract

The presented work focuses on the application of spectroscopic methods, such as Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, Ultraviolet and Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray spectroscopy, and Mass Spectrometry (MS), which are widely employed in the investigation of the surface [...] Read more.

The presented work focuses on the application of spectroscopic methods, such as Infrared Spectroscopy (IR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, Ultraviolet and Visible Spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray spectroscopy, and Mass Spectrometry (MS), which are widely employed in the investigation of the surface properties of dental materials. Examples of the research of materials used as tooth fillings, surface preparation in dental prosthetics, cavity preparation methods and fractographic studies of dental implants are also presented. The cited studies show that the above techniques can be valuable tools as they are expanding the research capabilities of materials used in dentistry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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14 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessReview

Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Glass-Ionomer Dental Cements: A Review

by John W. Nicholson, Sharanbir K. Sidhu and Beata Czarnecka

Materials 2020, 13(11), 2510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13112510 - 31 May 2020

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 6885

Abstract

This paper reviews the strategies that have been reported in the literature to attempt to reinforce glass-ionomer dental cements, both conventional and resin-modified. These cements are widely used in current clinical practice, but their use is limited to regions where loading is not [...] Read more.

This paper reviews the strategies that have been reported in the literature to attempt to reinforce glass-ionomer dental cements, both conventional and resin-modified. These cements are widely used in current clinical practice, but their use is limited to regions where loading is not high. Reinforcement might extend these applications, particularly to the posterior dentition. A variety of strategies have been identified, including the use of fibres, nanoparticles, and larger particle additives. One problem revealed by the literature survey is the limited extent to which researchers have used International Standard test methods. This makes comparison of results very difficult. However, it does seem possible to draw conclusions from this substantial body of work and these are (1) that powders with conventional particle sizes do not reinforce glass-ionomer cements, (2) certain fibres and certain nanoparticles give distinct improvements in strength, and (3) in the case of the nanoparticles these improvements are associated with differences in the morphology of the cement matrix, in particular, a reduction in the porosity. Despite these improvements, none of the developments has yet been translated into clinical use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

11 pages, 973 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Surface Treatments of Glass Fiber-Reinforced Post on Bond Strength to Root Dentine: A Systematic Review

by Lora Mishra, Abdul Samad Khan, Marilia Mattar de Amoedo Campos Velo, Saurav Panda, Angelo Zavattini, Fabio Antonio Piola Rizzante, Heber Isac Arbildo Vega, Salvatore Sauro and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2020, 13(8), 1967; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13081967 - 23 Apr 2020

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6485

Abstract

The objective of this systematic review was to determine the influence of surface treatment of glass fiber posts on bond strength to dentine. Laboratory studies were searched in MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, PubMed Central, Scopus, and Web of Science search engine. All authors interdependently [...] Read more.

The objective of this systematic review was to determine the influence of surface treatment of glass fiber posts on bond strength to dentine. Laboratory studies were searched in MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, PubMed Central, Scopus, and Web of Science search engine. All authors interdependently screened all identified articles for eligibility. The included studies were assessed for bias. Because of the considerable heterogeneity of the studies, a meta-analysis was not possible. Twelve articles were found eligible and included in the review. An assessment of the risk of bias in the included studies provided a result that classified the studies as low, medium, and high risk of bias. The available evidence indicated that the coronal region of the root canal bonded better to the glass fiber post than apical regions. Phosphoric acid, hydrogen peroxide, and silane application enhance post’s retentiveness. In light of the current evidence, surface treatment strategies increase the bond strength of glass fiber post to dentine. However, recommendations for standardized testing methods and reporting of future clinical studies are required to maintain clinically relevant information and to understand the effects of various surface treatment of glass fiber post and their bond strength with dentine walls of the root canal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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20 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bio-Inductive Materials in Direct and Indirect Pulp Capping—A Review Article

by Marta Kunert and Monika Lukomska-Szymanska

Materials 2020, 13(5), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13051204 - 7 Mar 2020

Cited by 132 | Viewed by 17019

Abstract

The article is aimed at analyzing the available research and comparing the properties of bio-inductive materials in direct and indirect pulp capping procedures. The properties and clinical performances of four calcium-silicate cements (ProRoot MTA, MTA Angelus, RetroMTA, Biodentine), a light-cured calcium silicate-based material [...] Read more.

The article is aimed at analyzing the available research and comparing the properties of bio-inductive materials in direct and indirect pulp capping procedures. The properties and clinical performances of four calcium-silicate cements (ProRoot MTA, MTA Angelus, RetroMTA, Biodentine), a light-cured calcium silicate-based material (TheraCal LC) and an enhanced resin-modified glass-ionomer (ACTIVA BioACTIVE) are widely discussed. A correlation of in vitro and in vivo data revealed that, currently, the most validated material for pulp capping procedures is still MTA. Despite Biodentine’s superiority in relatively easier manipulation, competitive pricing and predictable clinical outcome, more long-term clinical studies on Biodentine as a pulp capping agent are needed. According to available research, there is also insufficient evidence to support the use of TheraCal LC or ACTIVA BioACTIVE BASE/LINER in vital pulp therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

30 pages, 2035 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Guide through the Dental Dimethacrylate Polymer Network Structural Characterization and Interpretation of Physico-Mechanical Properties

by Izabela Maria Barszczewska-Rybarek

Materials 2019, 12(24), 4057; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma12244057 - 5 Dec 2019

Cited by 104 | Viewed by 6895

Abstract

Material characterization by the determination of relationships between structure and properties at different scales is essential for contemporary material engineering. This review article provides a summary of such studies on dimethacrylate polymer networks. These polymers serve as photocuring organic matrices in the composite [...] Read more.

Material characterization by the determination of relationships between structure and properties at different scales is essential for contemporary material engineering. This review article provides a summary of such studies on dimethacrylate polymer networks. These polymers serve as photocuring organic matrices in the composite dental restorative materials. The polymer network structure was discussed from the perspective of the following three aspects: the chemical structure, molecular structure (characterized by the degree of conversion and crosslink density (chemical as well as physical)), and supramolecular structure (characterized by the microgel agglomerate dimensions). Instrumental techniques and methodologies currently used for the determination of particular structural parameters were summarized. The influence of those parameters as well as the role of hydrogen bonding on basic mechanical properties of dimethacrylate polymer networks were finally demonstrated. Mechanical strength, modulus of elasticity, hardness, and impact resistance were discussed. The issue of the relationship between chemical structure and water sorption was also addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composite and Polymeric Materials for Dentistry: Enhancing Antimicrobial and Mechanical Properties)

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