Multiple correlations of material parameters of light-cured dental composites

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to explore the correlations between the Knoop hardness, Young's modulus, viscosity, and polymerization shrinkage of an experimental dental composite, in order to determine the temporal variations of the material properties during the polymerization process.MethodsThe digital image correlation method was employed to measure the polymerization shrinkage along the curing depth of bar-shape specimens (cross-section 4 mm × 2 mm and length 10 mm) of an experimental composite RZE045. The shrinkage data were correlated with the Knoop microhardness measured on specimens prepared in consistent conditions. Another series of tests were performed on cuboid composite samples (cross-section 4 mm × 4 mm and height 5 mm) with different degrees of conversions to determine the correlations among microhardness, Young's modulus and viscosity. Further correlations between shrinkage, Young's modulus and viscosity were then derived, from which the temporal variations of the mechanical parameters during curing were estimated.ResultsAlong the curing depth, the Knoop microhardness of the experimental composite RZE045 decreased more rapidly than its volumetric shrinkage. A power function was employed to describe their relation. On the other hand, Knoop microhardness was found to be proportional to Young's modulus and viscosity. These linear correlations also seemed to be applicable to other materials including unfilled resins, silica glass and other dental composites.SignificanceCorrelations between material parameters of dental composites allowed the rapid temporal variations of Young's modulus and viscosity during curing to be estimated based on the measured polymerization shrinkage-strain history.     

Effect of storage time on the viscoelastic properties of elastomeric impression materials

PurposeThe aim of this study was to evaluate creep and viscoelastic properties of dental impression materials after different storage times.MethodsSix commercially available impression materials (one polyether and five silicones) were tested after being stored for 30 min to 2 weeks under both static and dynamic testing. Shear and Young's moduli, dynamic viscosity, loss tangent and other viscoelastic parameters were calculated. Four of the materials were tested 1 h after setting under creep for three hours and recovery was recorder for 50 h.ResultsThe tested materials showed differences among them, while storage time had significant influence on their properties. Young's modulus E ranged from 1.81 to 12.99 MPa with the polyether material being the stiffest. All of the materials showed linear viscoelastic behavior exhibiting permanent deformation after 50 h of creep recovery.ConclusionAs storage time affects the materials’ properties, pouring time should be limited in the first 48 h after impression.     

Laser surface treatment to improve mechanical properties of cast titanium

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the effect of laser surface treatment on the mechanical properties of cast titanium and to compare with those of the Co–Cr alloy.MethodsDumbbell-shaped cast specimens were prepared for commercially pure titanium (grade 2) and Co–Cr alloy. The cast titanium specimens were laser-treated on the surface using a dental Nd:YAG laser machine at 240 V and 300 V. After laser treatment, tensile testing was conducted to obtain the tensile strength, percent elongation and modulus of elasticity. The hardness depth profile was made from the cast subsurface (25 μm) to 1500 μm in depth using the cross-sections of the cast rods with the same diameter as the dumbbell. The data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA/post hoc tests (p < 0.05).ResultsThe highest tensile strength was obtained for the titanium specimens laser-treated with 300 V followed by the 240 V and the control specimens. The laser-treated titanium specimens with 300 V showed a tensile strength equivalent to the Co–Cr alloy. Although the highest modulus of elasticity was found for the specimens laser-treated with 240 V, there were no significant differences in elastic modulus among 240 V, 300 V and Co–Cr. The laser-treated groups showed significantly lower hardness at the subsurface of 25 μm and maintained their hardness until the depth of 400 μm. The hardness of the control group was very high at 25 μm depth, and dramatically decreased until the 200 μm depth.ConclusionThe results of tensile testing and hardness depth-profiling indicated that the laser treatment significantly improved the mechanical properties of cast titanium by improving the surface integrity of the cast surface contamination.     

The viscoelastic behavior of dental adhesives: A nanoindentation study

ObjectivesIn order to predict the long-term performance of dental adhesives, it is necessary to understand their mechanical properties. The objective of this study was to use a new nanoindentation technique to characterize the in-plane linear viscoelastic properties of dental adhesive layers.MethodsThe dental adhesives used were Clearfil SE Bond (CSE) and Clearfil Tri-S Bond (CTS) by Kuraray Medical and Single Bond (SIB) and Single Bond Plus (SBP) by 3M ESPE. A thin film of each adhesive was made on a micro-glass slide, and was then tested on a nanoindenter system (ENT 1100, Elionix) with a Berkovich indenter at a constant loading rate of 0.1 mN/s up to a maximum load of 1.8 mN. The load–displacement data of the loading segment were fitted to a curve to find best fit parameters for a generalized Kelvin viscoelastic model, from which creep compliance and Young's modulus were calculated. The modulus results were compared to the values calculated by the nanoindentation device.ResultsThe experimental data fitted well to the viscoelastic model for all materials (R > 0.9999). SIB and CTS showed higher creep compliance compared to SBP and CSE. The modulus values obtained using the model were 4.0, 2.6, 2.4 and 4.2 GPa for CSE, CTS, SIB and SBP, respectively. The nanoindentation default software designed for time-independent materials significantly overestimated the modulus values up to 2.5 times.ConclusionAs generally expected for polymer materials, the adhesives tested showed time-dependent viscoelastic behavior. The mechanical evaluation techniques developed for time-independent materials ignore this behavior and may not be appropriate for dental adhesives.     

Influence of methyl mercaptan at early setting stages on the properties of self curing addition silicone resilient denture lining materials

PurposeThe aim of the present study was to clarify the influence of early setting conditions on the properties of self curing addition silicone resilient denture lining materials.MethodsFour auto-mix types of commercial self curing addition silicone resilient denture lining materials were used. Agar plates containing various concentrations of methyl mercaptan (MMP) were prepared and cylindrical specimens (10 mm in height and 10 mm in diameter) of silicone liners were set on the agar plate. The Shore A hardness of the agar-contacted surface of the specimen was measured at 0, 1, 7 and 28 days after stored in 37 °C water. The viscoelastic properties (instantaneous elastic modulus, coefficient of viscosity and permanent deformation) of two silicone liners, which showed a great decrease in the Shore A hardness by agar contact, were determined by a creep meter.ResultsThe Shore A hardness, coefficient of viscosity, and instantaneous elastic modulus deceased when the specimen was set on the MMP containing agar plate, but the permanent deformation of these specimens increased.ConclusionThe exposure to MMP at the early setting stage influenced the properties of self curing addition silicone resilient denture lining materials.     

Graded structures for damage resistant and aesthetic all-ceramic restorations

ObjectivesClinical studies revealed several performance deficiencies with alumina- and zirconia-based all-ceramic restorations: fracture; poor aesthetic properties of ceramic cores (particularly zirconia cores); and difficulty in achieving a strong ceramic–resin-based cement bond. We aim to address these issues by developing a functionally graded glass/zirconia/glass (G/Z/G) structure with improved damage resistance, aesthetics, and cementation properties.MethodsUsing a glass powder composition developed in our laboratory and a commercial fine zirconia powder, we have successfully fabricated functionally graded G/Z/G structures. The microstructures of G/Z/G were examined utilizing a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The crystalline phases present in G/Z/G were identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Young's modulus and hardness of G/Z/G were derived from nanoindentations. Critical loads for cementation radial fracture in G/Z/G plates (20 mm × 20 mm, 1.5 or 0.4 mm thick) bonded to polycarbonate substrates were determined by loading with a spherical indenter. Parallel studies were conducted on homogeneous yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) controls.ResultsThe G/Z/G structure consists of an outer surface aesthetic glass layer, a graded glass–Y-TZP layer, and a dense Y-TZP interior. The Young's modulus and hardness increase from surface to interior following power-law relations. For G/Z/G plates of 1.5 and 0.4 mm thick, critical loads for cementation radial fracture were 1990 ± 107 N (mean ± S.D., n = 6) and 227 ± 20 N (mean ± S.D., n = 6), respectively, which were ～30 and 50% higher than those for their monolithic Y-TZP counterparts (1388 ± 90 N for 1.5 mm and 113 ± 10 N for 0.4 mm thick; mean ± S.D., n = 6 for each thickness). A 1-sample t-test revealed significant difference (p < 0.001) in critical loads for radial fracture of G/Z/G and homogeneous Y-TZP for both specimen thicknesses.SignificanceOur results indicate that functionally graded G/Z/G structures exhibit improved damage resistance, aesthetics, and potentially cementation properties compared to homogeneous Y-TZP.     

Effect of thermal cycling on flexural properties of carbon–graphite fiber-reinforced polymers

ObjectivesTo determine flexural strength and modulus after water storage and thermal cycling of carbon–graphite fiber-reinforced (CGFR) polymers based on poly(methyl methacrylate) and a copolymer matrix, and to examine adhesion between fiber and matrix by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).MethodsSolvent cleaned carbon–graphite (CG) braided tubes of fibers were treated with a sizing resin. The resin mixture of the matrix was reinforced with 24, 36, 47 and 58 wt% (20, 29, 38 and 47 vol.%) CG-fibers. After heat polymerization the specimens were kept for 90 days in water and thereafter hydrothermally cycled (12,000 cycles, 5/55 °C). Mechanical properties were evaluated by three-point bend testing. After thermal cycling, the adhesion between fibers and matrix was evaluated by SEM.ResultsHydrothermal cycling did not decrease flexural strength of the CGFR polymers with 24 and 36 wt% fiber loadings; flexural strength values after thermocycling were 244.8 (±32.33) MPa for 24 wt% and 441.3 (±68.96) MPa for 36 wt%. Flexural strength values after thermal cycling were not further increased after increasing the fiber load to 47 (459.2 (±45.32) MPa) and 58 wt% (310.4 (±52.79) MPa).SEM revealed good adhesion between fibers and matrix for all fiber loadings examined.ConclusionsThe combination of the fiber treatment and resin matrix described resulted in good adhesion between CG-fibers and matrix. The flexural values for fiber loadings up to 36 wt% appear promising for prosthodontic applications such as implant-retained prostheses.     

Structure, chemical composition and mechanical properties of coronal cementum in human deciduous molars

ObjectivesIt was hypothesized that the coronal cementum containing collagen forms a weak junction with enamel unlike the well integrated DEJ and CDJ.MethodsThe hypothesis was investigated in two parts: (1) evaluate the structure, chemical composition and mechanical properties of coronal cementum and its junction with enamel using scanning electron microscopy, micro-X-ray computed tomography, and atomic force microscopy. The chemical composition and mechanical properties were determined by evaluating the spatial variations of inorganic (PO₄^3? ν₁ mode at 960 cm^?1) and organic (C–H deformation at 1452 cm^?1; C–H stretch at 2940 cm^?1) contents using Raman microspectroscopy and elastic modulus and hardness values using nanoindentation. (2) Estimate the strength and evaluate the microstructure of coronal cementum interface with enamel using SEM and MicroXCT?.Results and conclusionsCoronal cementum is heterogeneous because it is a combination of laminar acellular afibrillar cementum and acellular extrinsic fiber cementum with relatively higher organic content. It integrates micromechanically via a scallop-like weak interface with enamel unlike the biomechanically efficient DEJ and CDJ and is continuous with primary root cementum. A single tooth could exhibit all three types of cementum enamel junctions; an overlap, butt and a gap depending on the sectioning plane. The elastic modulus of coronal cementum (11.0 ± 5.8 GPa) is significantly lower (p < 0.05; Student's t-test with 95% confidence interval) than primary cementum (15.8 ± 5.3 GPa).     

Freeze-dried acellular dermal matrix graft: Effects of rehydration on physical,chemical, and mechanical properties

ObjectivesTo test the effect of rehydration time over the range prescribed in the manufacturer's protocol on (1) the biomechanical properties and on (2) the recovery and stabilization of the collagenous matrix of AlloDerm^®.MethodsA sterile dish containing warm saline solution was prepared, and samples rehydrated for 5 min. Subsequently, three other dishes with the solution were prepared and samples assigned into three groups according to the total rehydration time: 10 min (G1), 20 min (G2), and 40 min (G3). Uni-axial tensile testing was used to assess the biomechanical properties of the different groups and the control (dry condition). Physico-chemical properties were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) as a function of rehydration time.ResultsANOVA revealed a significant change in tensile strength (p = 0.0269) and in elastic modulus (p = 0.0306) for AlloDerm following different rehydration times. The lowest tensile strength was in the dry condition, whereas the highest was achieved after a 40 min rehydration. The shortest rehydration periods did not result in a statistically significant (p > 0.05) change in elastic modulus. However, after 40 min the elastic modulus increased significantly when compared to the shortest periods. FT-IR confirmed the protein backbone recovery of the graft matrix after rehydration. DSC scans of rehydrated samples showed visible shifts in the denaturation temperature to higher values compared to as-received sample (dry) suggesting stronger polymer–water bridge formation, supporting the increase in the biomechanical properties.SignificanceThe current study suggests that there are major changes on the biomechanical properties of the collagenous graft as rehydration time increases, which were also structurally confirmed by the physico-chemical analyses. Clinicians must be aware that the rehydration times of the manufacturer's protocol result in a significant range in mechanical and physico-chemical properties. Therefore, a rehydration time of at least 20 min guarantees not only better handling and mechanical properties but, most importantly, supplies a material that closely resembles the natural tissue.     

The effect of a ceramic coating on the cpTi–porcelain bond strength

ObjectivesTo investigate the bond strength between cpTi and low fusing porcelains after different treatments.Methods72 patterns were covered with a ceramic coating and invested with phosphate-bonded material (group A), another 72 were invested with magnesia material (group B) and all cast with cpTi. 31 solid castings were selected from each group. The castings of group B were ground and sandblasted, while the castings of group A were only sandblasted. Aluminum content of the metal surface was determined by EDS and castings were submitted to a 3-point bending test to determine the modulus of elasticity (E). The porcelains Duceratin Plus, Noritake Ti22 and Triceram were applied respectively and specimens were submitted to a 3-point bending test. The fracture mode and the remaining porcelain were determined by optical microscopy and SEM/EDS. Bond strength and fracture mode were calculated by two-way ANOVA.ResultsThe E of groups A and B was 98.3 GPa and 98.6 GPa respectively. The bond strength was 26 ± 3 MPa (Duceratin Plus), 28 ± 3 MPa (Noritake Ti22), 27 ± 2 MPa (Triceram) for group A and 24 ± 1 MPa, 29 ± 2 MPa, 27 ± 1 MPa for group B respectively. No significant differences were found for the same porcelain between the two groups (p < 0.05). A significant difference was found between Duceratin Plus and Noritake Ti22, for group B (p < 0.05). The mode of failure was mainly adhesive for all specimens. A significant reduction in aluminum was recorded in all subgroups.SignificanceThe special coating of patterns makes the Ti casting procedure inexpensive, without reducing the metal–ceramic bond strength.     

Metallurgical characterization of experimental Ag-based soldering alloys

AimTo characterize microstructure, hardness and thermal properties of experimental Ag-based soldering alloys for dental applications.Materials and methodsAg12Ga (AgGa) and Ag10Ga5Sn (AgGaSn) were fabricated by induction melting. Six samples were prepared for each alloy and microstructure, hardness and their melting range were determined by, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Vickers hardness testing and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).ResultsBoth alloys demonstrated a gross dendritic microstructure while according to XRD results both materials consisted predominately of a Ag-rich face centered cubic phase The hardness of AgGa (61 ± 2) was statistically lower than that of AgGaSn (84 ± 2) while the alloys tested showed similar melting range of 627–762 °C for AgGa and 631–756 °C for AgGaSn.ConclusionThe experimental alloys tested demonstrated similar microstructures and melting ranges. Ga and Sn might be used as alternative to Cu and Zn to modify the selected properties of Ag based soldering alloys.     

Evaluation of physical properties of fiber-reinforced composite resin

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate physical properties of a fiber-reinforced CAD/CAM resin disc, which included woven layers of multi-directional glass fibers.MethodsFiber orientations of CAD/CAM specimens (TRINIA, SHOFU) were specified as longitudinal (L), longitudinal-rotated (LR), and anti-longitudinal (AL). A fiber-reinforced composite (everX posterior, GC (E)) and a conventional composite (Beauti core flow paste, SHOFU (B)) were also tested.A three-point bending test and a tensile test with notchless prism-shaped specimens were conducted using a universal testing machine (AUTOGRAPH AG-IS, Shimadzu). A water absorption test was also carried out after the specimens were stored in water for 24 h or 1 week. Flexural strength and fracture toughness were obtained by conducting a three-point bending test.ResultsTRINIA L and LR groups showed significantly high flexural strength (254.2 ± 22.3 and 248.8 ± 16.7 MPa, respectively). Those were approximately 2.5 times higher than those in AL, E, and B groups (96.8–98.0 MPa) (p < 0.05, ANOVA and Tukey HSD test). No significant difference was shown in flexural modulus among the experimental groups. The fracture toughness in L group (9.1 ± 0.4 MPa/m^1/2) was found to be significantly higher than those in other groups (1.9–3.0 MPa/m^1/2; p < 0.05). TRINIA group demonstrated significantly lower water absorption (4.7 ± 1.9 μg/mm³) than did E (16.1 ± 3.1 μg/mm³) and B (17.3 ± 3.7 μg/mm³) groups (p < 0.05).SignificanceTRINIA demonstrated distinct anisotropy. TRINIA can be used as a superior restorative material when specifying directions of its fiber mesh layers.     

Effect of storage in artificial saliva and thermal cycling on Knoop hardness of resin denture teeth

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the effect of different storage periods in artificial saliva and thermal cycling on Knoop hardness of 8 commercial brands of resin denture teeth.MethodsEigth different brands of resin denture teeth were evaluated (Artplus group, Biolux group, Biotone IPN group, Myerson group, SR Orthosit group, Trilux group, Trubyte Biotone group, and Vipi Dent Plus group). Twenty-four teeth of each brand had their occlusal surfaces ground flat and were embedded in autopolymerized acrylic resin. After polishing, the teeth were submitted to different conditions: (1) immersion in distilled water at 37 ± 2 °C for 48 ± 2 h (control); (2) storage in artificial saliva at 37 ± 2 °C for 15, 30 and 60 days, and (3) thermal cycling between 5 and 55 °C with 30-s dwell times for 5000 cycles. Knoop hardness test was performed after each condition. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = .05).ResultsIn general, SR Orthosit group presented the highest statistically significant Knoop hardness value while Myerson group exhibited the smallest statistically significant mean (P < .05) in the control period, after thermal cycling, and after all storage periods. The Knoop hardness means obtained before thermal cycling procedure (20.34 ± 4.45 KHN) were statistically higher than those reached after thermal cycling (19.77 ± 4.13 KHN). All brands of resin denture teeth were significantly softened after storage period in artificial saliva.ConclusionStorage in saliva and thermal cycling significantly reduced the Knoop hardness of the resin denture teeth. SR Orthosit denture teeth showed the highest Knoop hardness values regardless the condition tested.     

The influence of denture supporting tissue properties on pressure-pain threshold: –Measurement in dentate subjects–

PurposeThe present study was designed to clarify the relationship between the properties of the palatal mucosa and the pressure-pain threshold.MethodsThree parts of the palatal mucosa of 17 dentate subjects were measured: the median part of the palate, the lateral part of the first molar, and the midpoint between these two parts. The subjects were instructed to press a pushbutton when he or she felt pressure-pain. The probe pressure was gradually increased (1 N/s). The thickness (T) (mm) and elasticity (E) (MPa) were used as the parameters of the properties of the palatal mucosa, whereas pressure (P) (MPa), compressibility (C) (%), and subsidence (S) (mm) were used as the parameters of the pressure-pain threshold. The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to consider the data of distribution of normality for each measurement point, as obtained from the 17 subjects. A Kruskal–Wallis test and a Wilcoxon signed rank test were performed for multiple comparisons, the Bonferroni method was used to compensate for the P-value. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was calculated.ResultsT correlated with the values of S at the median points (P = 0.001) and midpoints (P = 0.011).ConclusionThickness can be an index of the amount of relief where pain is caused easily. In addition, modulus of elasticity is important as an indicator of the bearing ability of denture support tissues, it is necessary to consider how to evaluate the modulus of elasticity and to evaluate the relationship between the parameters of the pain threshold.     

Manufacture,characterisation and properties of novel fluorcanasite glass–ceramics

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the manufacture and characterisation of different compositions of fluorcanasite glass–ceramics with reduced fluorine content and to assess their mechanical and physical properties.MethodsThree compositional variations (S80, S81 and S82) of a fluorcanasite glass were investigated. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) identified crystallisation temperatures and phases. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) determined the element composition in the glass–ceramics. Different heat treatments [2 h nucleation and either 2 or 4 h crystallisation] were used for the glasses. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examined the microstructure of the cerammed glass. The chemical solubility, biaxial flexural strength, fracture toughness, hardness and brittleness index of S81 and S82 fluorcanasite were investigated with lithium disilicate (e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) as a commercial comparison. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey's multiple comparison tests (P < 0.05). Weibull analysis was employed to examine the reliability of the strength data.ResultsAll compositions successfully produced glasses. XRD analysis confirmed fluorcanasite formation with the S81 and S82 compositions, with the S82 (2 + 2 h) showing the most prominent crystal structure. The chemical solubility of the glass–ceramics was significantly different, varying from 2565 ± 507 μg/cm² for the S81 (2 + 2 h) to 722 ± 177 μg/cm² for the S82 (2 + 2 h) to 37.4 ± 25.2 μg/cm² for the lithium disilicate. BFS values were highest for the S82 (2 + 2 h) composition (250 ± 26 MPa) and lithium disilicate (266 ± 37 MPa) glass–ceramics. The fracture toughness was higher for the S82 compositions, with the S82 (2 + 2 h) attaining the highest value of 4.2 ± 0.3 MPa m^1/2(P = 0.01). The S82 (2 + 2 h) fluorcanasite glass–ceramic had the lowest brittleness index.ConclusionThe S82 (2 + 2 h) fluorcanasite glass–ceramic has acceptable chemical solubility, high biaxial flexural strength, fracture toughness and hardness.Clinical significanceA novel glass–ceramic has been developed with potential as a restorative material. The S82 (2 + 2 h) has mechanical and physical properties that would allow the glass–ceramic to be used as a machinable core material for veneered resin-bonded ceramic restorations.     

Reinforcement of experimental composite materials based on amorphous calcium phosphate with inert fillers

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to examine the influence of the addition of glass fillers with different sizes and degrees of silanization percentages to remineralizing composite materials based on amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP).MethodsFour different materials were tested in this study. Three ACP based materials: 0-ACP (40 wt% ACP, 60 wt% resin), Ba-ACP (40 wt% ACP, 50 wt% resin, 10 wt% barium-glass) and Sr-ACP (40 wt% ACP, 50 wt% resin, 10 wt% strontium-glass) were compared to the control material, resin modified glass ionomer (Fuji II LC capsule, GC, Japan). The fillers and composites were characterized using scanning electron microscopy. Flexural strength and modulus were determined using a three-point bending test. Calcium and phosphate ion release from ACP based composites was measured using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy.ResultsThe addition of barium-glass fillers (35.4 (29.1–42.1) MPa) (median (25–75%)) had improved the flexural strength in comparison to the 0-ACP (24.8 (20.8–36.9) MPa) and glass ionomer control (33.1 (29.7–36.2) MPa). The admixture of strontium-glass (20.3 (19.5–22.2) MPa) did not have any effect on flexural strength, but significantly improved its flexural modulus (6.4 (4.8–6.9) GPa) in comparison to 0-ACP (3.9 (3.4–4.1) GPa) and Ba-ACP (4.6 (4.2–6.9) GPa). Ion release kinetics was not affected by the addition of inert fillers to the ACP composites.SignificanceIncorporation of barium-glass fillers to the composition of ACP composites contributed to the improvement of flexural strength and modulus, with no adverse influence on ion release profiles.     

Synthesis and evaluation of modified urethane dimethacrylate resins with reduced water sorption and solubility

ObjectivesNew aliphatic and aromatic urethane dimethacrylate monomers containing pendant phenyl methoxy or ethyl substituents were synthesized in order to reduce the water sorption and solubility of urethane dimethacrylate systems. Selected properties including flexural strength, flexural modulus, water sorption and solubility, and water contact angle were evaluated. Hoy's solubility parameters were also calculated to rank copolymer hydrophilicity.MethodsFilled (20%) composite resins were formulated with each of the newly synthesized dimethacrylates as well as the commercially available urethane dimethacrylate monomer, UDMA. Flexural strength, flexural modulus, water sorption and solubility of the urethane composites were evaluated after light-cured specimens were immersed in water for seven days. Water contact angles were measured on the surface of each material. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Ryan–Einot–Gabriel–Welsch multiple range tests (α = 0.05).ResultsA significant reduction of nearly 30% and 40% in water uptake was observed with composite polymers containing pendant ethyl and phenyl methoxy groups, respectively, compared to UDMA (p < 0.05). Urethane copolymers containing pendant ethyl groups also showed a significant reduction in water solubility (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was found between contact angle and water sorption as well as Hoy's δ_h for hydrogen bonding forces.SignificanceThe results of this study indicate that the incorporation of pendant hydrophobic substituents within the monomer backbone may be an effective method in reducing the water sorption and water solubility of urethane based dimethacrylate systems. The use of Hoy's solubility parameters to determine the relative hydrophilicity of a polymer may be limited by its three-dimensional chemical structure.     

Fallibility of Pont's index in a Bangladeshi population

PurposeNumerous indices have been proposed to help the clinician decide how much maxillary expansion will be required to alleviate crowding. The aim of this study is to test the fallibility of Pont's index in a Bangladeshi population, by assessing the applicability of this index in a Bangladeshi population and to compare the results with inter gender, inter normal occlusion, class I malocclusion, class II and class III malocclusion.Materials and methodsDental casts of 220 Bangladeshi individuals, comprising 95 males and 125 females (age range, 18–24 years, mean age = 20). The records belonged to 100 subjects with normal occlusion. Sixty subject with class I malocclusion, including those who showed crowding more than 5 mm and 30 subjects each with class II and class III malocclusion. Arch widths were compared between the measured and the predicted values derived from Pont's formula. Comparative statistics were applied.ResultsNo significant differences were detected between inter gender and inter normal occlusion and malocclusions. The average predicted inter-premolar width (39.18 ± 2.13 mm) and inter-molar widths (48.97 ± 2.65 mm) were higher than the actual measured means. The premolar index (85.82) and molar index (66.93) of the Bangladeshi were higher than the original Pont's indices.ConclusionSignificant correlations were noted for inter-premolar and inter-molar width. The findings suggest that Pont's index potentially overestimate the arch expansion required to alleviate crowding.     

Thermo and mechanical cycling and veneering method do not influence Y-TZP core/veneer interface bond strength

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of thermal and mechanical cycling and veneering technique on the shear bond strength of Y-TZP (yttrium oxide partially stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal) core–veneer interfaces.Materials and methodsCylindrical Y-TZP specimens were veneered either by layering (n = 20) or by pressing technique (n = 20). A metal ceramic group (CoCr) was used as control (n = 20). Ten specimens for each group were thermal and mechanical cycled and then all samples were subjected to shear bond strength in a universal testing machine with a 0.5 mm/min crosshead speed. Mean shear bond strength (MPa) was analysed with a 2-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p < 0.05). Failure mode was determined using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).ResultsThermal and mechanical cycling had no influence on the shear bond strength for all groups. The CoCr group presented the highest bond strength value (p < 0.05) (34.72 ± 7.05 MPa). There was no significant difference between Y-TZP veneered by layering (22.46 ± 2.08 MPa) or pressing (23.58 ± 2.1 MPa) technique. Failure modes were predominantly adhesive for CoCr group, and cohesive within veneer for Y-TZP groups.ConclusionsThermal and mechanical cycling, as well as the veneering technique does not affect Y-TZP core–veneer bond strength.Clinical significanceDifferent methods of veneering Y-TZP restorations would not influence the clinical performance of the core/veneer interfaces.     

Effect of loading conditions on the fracture toughness of zirconia

PurposeA Vickers hardness indenter was pressed into yttria-stabilized zirconia (Y-TZP) by the indentation fracture method (IF method).MethodsThe effect on the calculated Vickers hardness, fracture toughness values, and indentation fracture load (9.8, 49, 98, 196, and 294 N) was examined to deduce the optimum conditions of the IF method. Calculated Vickers hardness and fracture toughness values were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance and then multiple comparisons (Scheffe). The appearance of on indentation and cracks was also evaluated using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM).ResultsIndentation of Y-TZP was generated by 9.8 and 49 N of indentation fracture load, however cracks could not be confirmed with the microscope attached to the Vickers hardness tester. Both indentation and cracks were observed at 98, 196 and 294 N of indentation fracture load obtained values of 7.1 and 6.8 MPam^1/2. Cracks noted at the 98 N were not clear, whereas the 196 and 294 N showed especially clear cracks. Due to the hardness of zirconia and the light loads, fracture toughness values for 9.8, 49, and 98 N could not be calculated. There was no significant difference between 196 and 294 N, when calculated fracture toughness values were analyzed with multiple comparisons. SEM revealed clear indentation and cracks, that extended linearly, but no chips or fractures were observed. Surface changes were observed at 196 and 294 N that are presumed to be accompanied by phase transition around the cracks.ConclusionsOptimum experimental conditions of the indentation fracture load in the IF method were determined as 196 and 294 N.