Effect of plasma on composition of human enamel and cementum pellicle

Abstract – Slabs of human enamel and cementum were incubated with plasma alone or with various mixtures of plasma and saliva. Proteins and glycoproteins that adsorbed to the surface of the slabs in 0 to 60 min were labeled by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed ¹²⁵I-iodination and by mild periodate oxidation followed by NaB³H₄ reduction. The labeled components were separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and visualized by autoradiography or fluorography. From plasma alone, a 58 and a 66 kDa protein (probably albumin) were adsorbed to the enamel surface in relatively equal amounts, but no ¹²⁵I-labeled components were detected on the cementum surface in the absence of saliva. Adding 10% saliva to the incubation mixture promoted the adsorption of the 58 and 66 kDa components to cementum. In addition, another set of proteins, including components of 44, 47, 29, and 25 kDa, was adsorbed to both cementum and enamel in the presence of saliva. These six proteins were the major ¹²⁵I-labeled species in all of the pellicles formed from mixtures of plasma and saliva. The electrophoretic mobility of the major 120 and 140 kDa ³H-labeled sialoglycoproteins adsorbed to both cementum and enamel was similar to that of the low-molecular-weight mucin of submandibular/sublingual saliva.     

Coronal displacement of cementum: Correlation between age and coronal movement of cementum in impacted teeth

This study was conducted on 48 impacted and 51 erupted mailary permanent canine teeth exteracted from healthy patients aged 13–73 years. Longitudinal buccolingual ground sections were prepared. The distance between the edges of cementum and enamel in each specimen was measured with an eyepiece micrometer. A correlation test was applied between age and the distance between enamel and cementum measurements. In impacted teeth, depending age, cementum ahd a tendency to overlap the enamel; there was a linear correlation betwen age and coronal displacement of cementum (n-2 = 46, r = 0.69, distance (μm) = 21.7* age (years)-440, p<0.001). No correlation between age and coronal displacement was found in erupted teeth (n-2 = 49, r = -0.23, p>0.05). Resutlts of the study indicated that the cementum in impacted teeth migrated coronally during the ageing process. This may affect the impacted teeth and may be a mechanism by which the teeth are protected at the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). This phenomenon could be used in forensic dentistry to determine could be used in forensic dentistry to determine age. The absence of correlation in erupted teeth could be attributed to the masking effects of extrinsic factors.     

Monitoring demineralization and remineralization of human dentin by characterization of its structure with resonance-enhanced AFM-IR chemical mapping,nanoindentation, and SEM

Objective

This research aimed at monitoring demineralization and remineralization of dentin and its collagen matrix at the nanoscale by amorphous, microcrystalline, and in situ formed hydroxyapatite.

The proteoglycans of human cementum: immunohistochemical localization in healthy, periodontally involved and ageing teeth

Cementum is believed to play a regulatory role in periodontal regeneration through a variety of macromolecules present in its extracellular matrix (ECM), among which are the proteoglycans (PG). The PG of human cementum have not been fully characterized. This study has used a standard indirect immunoperoxidase technique to investigate the presence and distribution of PG species within the ECM of human cementum. Freshly extracted human permanent teeth were separated into 8 age groups; each group was subdivided to include healthy and periodontally involved teeth, which were then fixed, demineralized and wax-embedded. Sections were incubated with polyclonal antibodies recognizing protein core epitopes in the large chondroitin sulphate PG versican and the small interstitial PG decorin, biglycan, fibromodulin and lumican. Immunoreactivity to versican, decorin, biglycan and lumican was evident at the borders and lumina of a proportion of lacunae and canaliculi surrounding cementocytes in cellular cementum, as well as on inserted periodontal ligament (PDL) fibres. Biglycan was also present along incremental lines in cellular cementum, whereas staining for fibromodulin was negative. In acellular cementum, no immunoreactivity was evident with any of the antibodies used except on inserted PDL fibres. These results indicate that versican, decorin, biglycan and lumican are components of the ECM of cellular, but not of acellular cementum. Neither age nor periodontal diseases appear to qualitatively influence the PG population of cementum. The distribution of PG epitopes around a proportion of cementocytes suggests the existence of different cementocyte subpopulations, or a differential response of these cells to yet undefined stimuli.     

Two-dimensional patterns of human enamel thickness on deciduous (dm1, dm2) and permanent first (M1) mandibular molars

Objective

To characterise patterns of enamel thickness on deciduous (dm1, dm2) and permanent first (M1) mandibular molars and evaluate these against functional and morphological interpretative models.

Methods

Histological sections of mesial and distal cusps from 69 unworn molars were produced and examined using transmitted light microscopy. Enamel cap area, dentine area, as well as average and linear measurements of enamel thickness were recorded from digital images of the sections using image analysis software. Comparisons were made along the molar row, and between the mesial and distal sections of each tooth, using univariate and multivariate inferential statistics.

Results

The enamel cap area, dentine area, and average enamel thickness increased from the anterior to the posterior molars. The greatest proportional increase in linear enamel thickness occurred between the outside surface of the lingual cusps when dm1 was compared to dm2, and between the outside surface of the buccal cusps when dm2 was compared to M1. The enamel cap area increased from the mesial to the distal sections in M1. Dentine area decreased from the mesial to distal sections in dm1. Enamel cap and dentine areas did not change across dm2.

Conclusion

Results for the deciduous molars are interpreted within a functional model of mastication, in which the dm2 dissipates less laterally orientated loads compared to dm1. Differences in enamel thickness between dm2 and M1 support previous functional interpretations for this permanent molar. Some mesial-distal results are not easily explained from either a functional or a morphological perspective and suggest an underlying developmental constraint.     

Physical and chemical properties of model composites containing quaternary ammonium methacrylates

Objective

Investigate physical and chemical properties of model composites formulated with quaternary ammonium salt monomers (QAS) at different concentrations and alkyl chains lengths

Structure and mechanical properties of Ank/Ank mutant mouse dental tissues—An animal model for studying periodontal regeneration

Enamel, dentine and cementum are dental tissues with distinct functional properties associated with their unique hierarchical structures. Some potential ways to repair or regenerate lost tooth structures have been revealed in our studies focused on examining teeth obtained from mice with mutations at the mouse progressive ankylosis (ank) locus. Previous studies have shown that mice with such mutations have decreased levels of extracellular inorganic pyrophosphate (PP_i) at local sites resulting in ectopic calcification in joint areas and in formation of a significantly thicker cementum layer when compared with age-matched wild-type (WT) tissue [Ho AM, Johnson MD, Kingsley DM. Role of the mouse ank gene in control of tissue calcification and arthritis. Science 2000;289:265-70; Nociti Jr FH, Berry JE, Foster BL, Gurley KA, Kingsley DM, Takata T, et al. Cementum: a phosphate-sensitive tissue. J Dent Res 2002;81:817-21]. As a next step, to determine the quality of the cementum tissue formed in mice with a mutation in the ank gene (ank/ank), we compared the microstructure and mechanical properties of cementum and other dental tissues in mature ank/ank vs. age-matched WT mice. Backscattered scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses on mineralized tissues revealed no decrease in the extent of mineralization between ank/ank cementum vs. WT controls. Atomic-force-microscopy-based nanoindentation performed on enamel, dentine or cementum of ank/ank vs. age-matched WT molars revealed no significant difference in any of the tested tissues in terms of hardness and elastic modulus. These results indicate that the tissue quality was not compromised in ank/ank mice despite faster rate of formation and more abundant cementum when compared with age-matched WT mice. In conclusion, these data suggest that this animal model can be utilized for studies focused on defining mechanisms to promote cementum formation without loss of mechanical integrity.     

Surface morphology and mechanical properties of new-generation flowable resin composites for dental restoration

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to characterize the surface morphology and the elastic properties of four dental restorative flowable composites currently on the market (Venus Diamond Flow, Vertise Flow, Filtex Supreme XT Flow, Surefil SDR Flow). Additionally, one adhesive system (Adhese One F) and one non-flowable composite (Venus Diamond) have also been characterized as the control materials.

Methods

Surface morphology was studied by both scanning electron and atomic force microscopy, and the elastic modulus and the hardness measured by instrumented indentation. Grain analysis was performed on the microscopic images, and statistical analysis was carried out on the results of the nanoindentation measurements.

Results

It was observed that Vertise, Filtek XT and Surefil SDR exhibit stiffness similar to the non-flowable Venus Diamond, whereas Venus Diamond Flow presents itself as the more compliant flowable composite, with Adhese showing intermediate stiffness. Grain analysis of the images confirmed the general rule that the mechanical properties improve with increasing filler loading, with the notable exception of Vertise Flow that shows modulus and hardness as high as 9.1 ± 0.6 and 0.43 ± 0.03 GPa, respectively, for an estimated loading of only ∼40% by volume.

Significance

Whereas generally flowable composites are confirmed not to possess sufficiently strong mechanical properties for bulk restorations, exceptions can eventually be found upon appropriate laboratory screening, as presently seems to be the case for Vertise Flow. However, real practice in actual restorations and respective clinical evaluation are required for final assessment of the suggested results.     

Structural,mechanical and chemical evaluation of molar-incisor hypomineralization-affected enamel: A systematic review

ObjectivesTo systematically assess and contrast reported differences in microstructure, mineral density, mechanical and chemical properties between molar-incisor-hypomineralization-affected (MIH) enamel and unaffected enamel.MethodsStudies on extracted human teeth, clinically diagnosed with MIH, reporting on the microstructure, mechanical properties or the chemical composition and comparing them to unaffected enamel were reviewed. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar) were screened; hand searches and cross-referencing were also performed.ResultsTwenty-two studies were included. Fifteen studies on a total of 201 teeth investigated the structural properties, including ten (141 teeth) on microstructure and seven (60 teeth) on mineral density; six (29 teeth) investigated the mechanical properties and eleven (87 teeth) investigated the chemical properties of MIH-affected enamel and compared them to unaffected enamel. Studies unambiguously found a reduction in mineral quantity and quality (reduced Ca and P content), reduction of hardness and modulus of elasticity (also in the clinically sound-appearing enamel bordering the MIH-lesion), an increase in porosity, carbon/carbonate concentrations and protein content compared to unaffected enamel.Findingswere ambiguous with regard to the extent of the lesion through the enamel to the enamel-dentin junction, the Ca/P ratio and the association between clinical appearance and defect severity.ConclusionsThere is an understanding of the changes related to MIH-affected enamel. The association of these changes with the clinical appearance and resulting implications for clinical management are unclear.Clinical significanceMIH-affected enamel is greatly different from unaffected enamel. This has implications for management strategies. The possibility of correlating the clinical appearance of MIH-affected enamel with the severity of enamel changes and deducing clinical concepts (risk stratification etc.) is limited.     

Bioactivity,physical and chemical properties of MTA mixed with propylene glycol

Objective

To investigate the physical (setting time, hardness, flowability, microstructure) and chemical (pH change, calcium release, crystallinity) properties and the biological outcomes (cell survival and differentiation) of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) mixed using different proportions of propylene glycol (PG) and water.

Material and Methods

White MTA was mixed with different water/PG ratios (100/0, 80/20 and 50/50). Composition (XRD), microstructure (SEM), setting time (ASTM C266-13), flowability (ANSI/ADA 57-2000), Knoop hardness (100 g/10 s) and chemical characteristics (pH change and Ca2+ release for 7 days) were evaluated. Cell proliferation, osteo/odontoblastic gene expression and mineralization induced by MTA mixed with PG were evaluated. MTA discs (5 mm in diameter, 2 mm thick) were prepared and soaked in culture medium for 7 days. Next, the discs were removed and the medium used to culture dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) for 28 days. Cells survival was evaluated using MTS assay (24, 72 and 120 h) and differentiation with RT-PCR (ALP, OCN, Runx2, DSPP and MEPE) and alizarin red staining (7 and 14 days). Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc analysis (a=0.05).

Results

The addition of PG significantly increased setting time, flowability and Ca²⁺ release, but it compromised the hardness of the material. SEM showed that 50/50 group resulted porous material after setting due to the incomplete setting reaction, as shown by XRD analysis. The addition of PG (80/20 and 50/50) was not capable to improve cell proliferation or to enhance gene expression, and mineralized deposition of DPSC after 7 and 14 days as compared to the 100/0.

Conclusion

Except for flowability, the addition of PG did not promote further improvements on the chemical and physical properties evaluated, and it was not capable of enhancing the bioactivity of the MTA.     

Effect of titania addition and sintering temperature on the microstructure,optical, mechanical and biological properties of the Y-TZP/TiO2 composite

ObjectiveThe aims of this study were: 1) to evaluate the effect of sintering temperature on microstructure, density and flexural strength of a 3Y-TZP/TiO₂ composite containing 12.5 wt% of TiO₂ compared to 3Y-TZP specimens (control); 2) to compare 3Y-TZP with the experimental 3Y-TZP/TiO₂ composite, both sintered at 1400 °C, with respect to the following parameters: optical properties, characteristic strength, Weibull modulus, fatigue behavior, induction of osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation (mineralization nodules formation).MethodsThe 3Y-TZP and 3Y-TZP/TiO₂ powders were uniaxially pressed and sintered at 1200 °C, 1300 °C, 1400 °C or 1500 °C for one hour in a furnace. The microstructural analysis consisted of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The density was measured by the Archimedes' principle and the flexural strength was obtained by the biaxial flexure test. The optical properties were measured using a spectrophotometer operating in the visible light wavelength range. The step-stress accelerated life testing was performed by the pneumatic mechanical cycler and the biological behavior achieved by using osteoblast-like cells (Osteo-1 cell line).ResultsTetragonal zirconia was identified in all groups and cubic zirconia was identified only at 3Y-TZP group. The addition of TiO₂ decreased the values of density and flexural strength of the composite 3Y-TZP/TiO₂ in relation to 3Y-TZP regardless of the sintering temperature. The color difference between the two materials was not significant regarding L*a*b* parameters. The composite showed higher probability of failure, and induced higher proliferation and differentiation than control.SignificanceThe composite developed have good aesthetic and biologics properties. However, its microstructure and mechanical properties need to be improved for future dental implant applications.     

Influence of postwashing process on the elution of residual monomers,degree of conversion,and mechanical properties of a 3D printed crown and bridge materials

ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the effects of the postwashing method and time on the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of three-dimensional (3D) printed crown and bridge resin.MethodsDLP (digital light processing)-printed specimens produced from Nextdent crown & bridge (C&B) resins were washed separately using an ultrasonic bath and rotary washer with TPM (tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether) for 3 min, 6 min, 10 min, 20 min, and 1 h. Postcuring was applied for 30 min to each specimen after the washing process. The flexural strength, Vickers hardness, water sorption and solubility, degree of conversion (DC), elution of residual monomers, and biocompatibility of the specimens were evaluated.ResultsThe ultrasonic bath showed greater washing efficacy by reducing the residual HEMA (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) from 2.0634 ppm to 0.1456 ppm and reducing the residual TEGDMA (triethylene glycol dimethacrylate) from 1.4862 ppm to 0.1484 ppm. With prolonged washing, the flexural strength significantly decreased from 129.67 ± 6.66 MPa (mean±standard deviation) to 103.17 ± 7.20 MPa, while the Vickers hardness increased slightly for the first 6 min and then decreased thereafter significantly. The DC was 87.78 ± 1.34% after 3 min and then gradually decreased with extended washing time. The cytotoxicity significantly decreases with the increment of the washing time.SignificanceThe washing effect on the elution of residual monomers was better for an ultrasonic bath than for a rotary washer. Extending the washing time reduces the mechanical properties and cytotoxicity of the Nextdent C&B resin.     

激光焊,脉冲氩弧焊,电子束焊焊接钛材机械性能的比较

目的：比较激光焊、电子束焊、脉冲氩弧焊焊接钛的机械性能，寻求一种高质量的牙科焊钛方式。方法：采用Ｉｎｓｔｒｏｎ万能拉伸实验机测试焊接区的拉伸负荷、屈服负荷，计算伸长量，用扫描电子显微镜观察断口情况，用金相显微镜观察焊接区的金相变化，并测量焊接区的显微硬度。结果：激光焊钛的拉伸负荷与电子束焊、脉冲氩弧焊无明显区别；激光焊Ｔｉ－６Ａ１－４Ｖ的拉伸负荷与脉冲氩弧焊、电子束焊及原材料无明显区别。激光焊接区的显微硬度及热影响区最小，脉冲氩弧焊的显微硬度及热影响区最大。结论：激光焊接较脉冲氩弧焊及电子束焊更适用于牙科焊接钛。     

Development and characterization of self-etching adhesives doped with 45S5 and niobophosphate bioactive glasses: Physicochemical,mechanical, bioactivity and interface properties

ObjectiveThe aim of study was to develop and characterize experimental bioactive glasses (45S5 and niobophosphate bioactive glass (NbG)) and evaluate the effects of their addition in self-etching adhesive systems on physicochemical, mechanical, and bioactive properties, microtensile bond strength (μTBS), and nanoleakage (NL).MethodsTwo-step self-etching adhesive systems containing 5, 10, and 20 wt.% of 45S5 and NbG bioactive glasses were developed. An experimental adhesive without microparticles and a commercial adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond) were used as control groups. The materials were evaluated for their degree of conversion (DC%), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), softening in solvent, radiopacity, sorption and solubility, alkalizing activity (pH), ionic release, and bioactivity. μTBS and NL were evaluated after 24 h and 1 year of storage. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and post-Holm-Sidak tests (α = 0.05).ResultsThe addition of the two bioactive glasses did not change the values of the degree of conversion, ultimate tensile strength, and softening in solvent. The adhesive system containing 20% NbG showed the highest radiopacity. The incorporation of 45S5 increased water sorption and solubility, raised the pH, and allowed the release of large amounts of calcium. After 28 days of immersion in simulated body fluid, the 45S5 adhesive precipitated hydroxyapatite and calcium carbonate (SEM/EDX, ATR/FTIR, and XDR). The addition of 45S5 and NbG to the adhesives improved the stability of the resin-dentin interface after 1 year.SignificanceThe incorporation of microparticles from 45S5 bioactive glass in self-etching adhesive systems is considered an excellent alternative for the development of a bioactive adhesive that improves the integrity of the hybrid layer on sound dentin.     

Structure, castability and mechanical properties of commercially pure and alloyed titanium cast in graphite mould

This report is a study of structure, castability, mechanical properties as well as corrosion behaviour of titanium doped with up to 5 weight percentage (wt%) of a series of alloy elements, including Ta, Mo, Nb, Hf, Zr, Sn, Bi and Ag. The results indicate that, with addition of 1 wt% alloy element, Bi and Mo were most effective in enhancing the castability of titanium. With more alloy elements added, the castability values of most alloys more or less decreased. Except Ti-Mo system, all Ti alloys with a fine acicular morphology had the same crystal structure (hcp) as that of c.p. Ti with a typical lath type morphology. When 3 wt% or more Mo was added, a finer orthorhombic alpha' phase was formed. The microhardness and bending strength values of Ti alloys were all higher than those of c.p. Ti. Among all alloys, Ti-Mo system exhibited the highest hardness and strength level. For a certain alloy, the bending strength did not necessarily increase with its alloy content. Except Ti-5Zr and Ti-Mo alloys, the bending moduli of most alloy systems were not much different from that of c.p. Ti. All alloys showed an excellent resistance to corrosion in Hanks' solution at 37 degrees C.     

Modification of conventional glass-ionomer cements with N-vinylpyrrolidone containing polyacids, nano-hydroxy and fluoroapatite to improve mechanical properties

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to enhance the mechanical strength of glass-ionomer cements, while preserving their unique clinical properties. METHODS: Copolymers incorporating several different segments including N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) in different molar ratios were synthesized. The synthesized polymers were copolymers of acrylic acid and NVP with side chains containing itaconic acid. In addition, nano-hydroxyapatite and fluoroapatite were synthesized using an ethanol-based sol-gel technique. The synthesized polymers were used in glass-ionomer cement formulations (Fuji II commercial GIC) and the synthesized nanoceramic particles (nano-hydroxy or fluoroapatite) were also incorporated into commercial glass-ionomer powder, respectively. The synthesized materials were characterized using FTIR and Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Compressive, diametral tensile and biaxial flexural strengths of the modified glass-ionomer cements were evaluated. RESULTS: After 24h setting, the NVP modified glass-ionomer cements exhibited higher compressive strength (163-167MPa), higher diametral tensile strength (DTS) (13-17MPa) and much higher biaxial flexural strength (23-26MPa) in comparison to Fuji II GIC (160MPa in CS, 12MPa in DTS and 15MPa in biaxial flexural strength). The nano-hydroxyapatite/fluoroapatite added cements also exhibited higher CS (177-179MPa), higher DTS (19-20MPa) and much higher biaxial flexural strength (28-30MPa) as compared to the control group. The highest values for CS, DTS and BFS were found for NVP-nanoceramic powder modified cements (184MPa for CS, 22MPa for DTS and 33MPa for BFS) which were statistically higher than control group. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that, both NVP modified and nano-HA/FA added glass-ionomer cements are promising restorative dental materials with improved mechanical properties.     

Root resorption and its association with alterations in physical properties, mineral contents and resorption craters in human premolars following application of light and heavy controlled orthodontic forces

OBJECTIVES: To study the effect of different orthodontic force levels on cementum, investigating from the point of view of its physical properties, alterations in the mineral components, type and location of the resorption craters and the exploration in 3D of space. DESIGN: In vivo human premolars subjected to heavy and light forces were employed for this study. After a period of movement they were analyzed for hardness and elasticity. Also, the mineral composition measuring Ca, P and F of the cementum root surface was investigated. A new method for volumetric analysis of resorption craters was developed. RESULTS: There were no significant differences for hardness and elastic modulus between the light and heavy force groups and no significant effects for different tooth positions. Significant inter-individual variation in the Ca, P and F concentrations was noted. Force-related data showed that mean volume of the resorption crater in light-force group was 3.49-fold greater than the control group, and the heavy-force group 11.59-fold more than control group. The heavy force group had 3.31-fold greater total resorption volume then light force group. Buccal cervical and lingual apical regions demonstrated significantly more resorption craters than the other regions. The 2D measurements were strongly correlated to 3D measurements. CONCLUSION: The application of light and heavy forces did not show any statistically significant differences in hardness and elastic modulus when compared with untreated teeth. The inconsistent increase or decrease of Ca, P and F contents between control and experimental teeth at sites of compression and tension were difficult to explain. There was more resorption by volume in the heavy force group as compared with the light group and controls. Our data also suggested that the high-pressure zones might be more susceptible to resorption after 28 days of force application.     

Spectroscopic analyses reveal radiotherapy-induced variations in elemental composition and crystallite properties of human permanent teeth enamel

ObjectiveTo study the effect of radiation therapy on the structural and elemental composition of permanent teeth enamel in vitro.MethodsSections from 21 noncarious healthy human teeth were exposed to a cumulative radiation dose of 20–80 Gy. The sections were subjected to electron dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to study the elemental composition, the ratio of inorganic and organic content, and the mineralization and crystalline properties of the hydroxyapatite crystal structure respectively. All measures were taken on specified areas of enamel surface before and after radiation exposure and compared.ResultsIn FTIR and EDS studies, the calcium to phosphorus (Ca/P) and carbonate to phosphate (CO₃^2?/PO^3-₄) ratios were significantly different (P < 0.05) in teeth sections exposed to 80 Gy, indicating the deterioration of inorganic calcium and phosphorous content. The XRD spectrum data showed loss of peaks at seven specific 2θ coordinate areas, flattened peaks and an increase in the crystallite size in the radiation-exposed groups due to mineralization loss and alteration of the hydroxyapatite crystal matrix in the tooth enamel.ConclusionsRadiotherapy can induce significant variations in the inorganic and organic functional groups constituting the tooth enamel surface; and these variations are dose dependent. The mechanism responsible for delamination and radiation caries needs to be explored by studying the protein lysis pattern, which might be a leading factor causing the enamel degradation and radiation caries.