Biomedical subjects

J M Antonucci

Publications and source records attributed to J M Antonucci.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2007

Effect of particle size of an amorphous calcium phosphate filler on the mechanical strength and ion release of polymeric composites.

The random clustering of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) particles within resin matrices is thought to diminish the strength of their polymerized composites. The objective of this study was to elucidate the effect of ball-milling on the particle size distribution (PSD) of ACP fillers and assess if improved dispersion of milled ACP in methacrylate resin sufficiently enhanced filler/matrix interactions to result in improved biaxial flexure strength (BFS), without compromising the remineralizing potential of the composites. Unmilled and wet-milled zirconia-hybridized ACP (Zr-ACP) fillers were characterized by PSD analysis, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and chemical analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Composite specimens made from a photoactivated, ternary methacrylate resin admixed with a mass fraction of 40% of un-milled or milled Zr-ACP were evaluated for the BFS (dry and wet) and for the release of calcium and phosphate ions into saline solutions. While having no apparent effect on the structure, composition, and morphology/topology of the fillers, milling significantly reduced the average size of Zr-ACP particulates (median diameter, d(m) = 0.9 +/- 0.2 microm) and the spread of their PSD. Better dispersion of milled Zr-ACP in the resins resulted in the improved BFS of the composites, even after aqueous soaking, and also gave a satisfactory ion release profile. The demonstrated improvement in the mechanical stability of anti-demineralizing/remineralizing ACP composites based on milled Zr-ACP filler may be beneficial in potentially extending their dental utility.

Calcium Phosphates↗

PubMed2006

Dental composites based on amorphous calcium phosphate - resin composition/physicochemical properties study.

This study explores how the resin composition/structure affects the physicochemical properties of copolymers and their amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)-filled composites. A series of photo-polymerizable binary and ternary matrices are formulated utilizing 2,2-bis[ p-(2(')-hydroxy-3(')methacryloxypropoxy)phenyl]propane, 2,2-bis[ p-(2(')-methacryloxypropoxy)phenyl]-propane (EBPADMA), or a urethane dimethacrylate as base monomers, and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate or hexamethylene dimethacrylate (HmDMA) with or without 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as diluent monomer. Unfilled copolymers and composites filled with 40% by mass zirconia-hybridized ACP are evaluated for biaxial flexure strength (BFS), degree of conversion (DC), mineral ion release, polymerization shrinkage (PS), and water sorption (WS). The average DC values are 82-94% and 74-91% for copolymers and composites, respectively. Unrelated to the resin composition, the PS values of composites are up to 8.4 vol. % and the BFS values of wet composite specimens are on average 51 +/- 8 MPa. The maximum WS values attained in copolymers and composites reach 4.8 mass%. Inclusion of hydrophobic HmDMA monomer in the matrices significantly reduces the WS. The levels of Ca and PO(4) released from all types of composites are significantly above the minimum necessary for the re-deposition of apatite to occur. Elevated Ca, and to a lesser extent PO(4) release, is observed in HEMA-containing, ternary EBPADMA formulations. Further resin reformulations may be needed to improve the PS of composite specimens. Poor dispersion of ;as-synthesized' ACP within the composite contributes to their inferior mechanical performance.

Calcium↗

PubMed2006

Nano DCPA-whisker composites with high strength and Ca and PO(4) release.

The main challenges facing composite restorations are secondary caries and bulk fracture. The objective of this study was to develop nano DCPA (dicalcium phosphate anhydrous)-whisker composites with high strength and Ca and PO(4) ion release to combat caries. Flexural strength for the nano DCPA-whisker composites at a nano DCPA:whisker mass ratio of 1:2 ranged from (148 +/- 9) MPa to (167 +/- 23) MPa, significantly higher than the (103 +/- 32) MPa of an inlay/onlay commercial control composite without Ca-PO(4) release. The nano DCPA-whisker composite released PO(4) to a concentration of (1.95 +/- 0.13) mmol/L and Ca of (0.68 +/- 0.05) mmol/L. Compared with previous conventional Ca- and PO(4)-releasing composites, the nano DCPA-whisker composites had strengths two-fold higher, and released comparable or higher levels of Ca and PO(4). In conclusion, combining nano-DCPA with whiskers yielded novel composites that released high levels of Ca and PO(4) requisite for remineralization. These high-strength composites may provide a unique combination of stress-bearing and caries-inhibiting capabilities.

Analysis of Variance↗

PubMed2004

Effect of chemical structure and composition of the resin phase on mechanical strength and vinyl conversion of amorphous calcium phosphate-based composites.

The mechanical properties of recently developed bioactive, antidemineralizing/remineralizing, amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)-based composites need improvement. The objective of this study was to elucidate the effect of structure and composition of resins on the biaxial flexure strength (BFS) and the degree of conversion (DC) of composites attained after photo-polymerization. Two series of 2,2-bis[p-(2'-hydroxy-3'-methacryloxypropoxy)phenyl]propane (Bis-GMA)/triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA)/X (X being a neutral or acidic comonomer) ternary resins were prepared and mixed with a mass fraction of 40% of zirconia-hybridized ACP. Both unfilled copolymers and their composites were evaluated for BFS (dry and wet specimens after 2 weeks of immersion in buffered saline) and for DC (after 24 h at 23 degrees C). It was found that for the neutral X monomers, no correlation existed between the hydrophobic/hydrophilic character of the X monomer and the BFS values of the immersed composites. A flexible monomethacrylate yielded copolymers and composites with the highest DC. For the resins utilizing the acidic comonomers, methacrylic acid and mono-4-(methacryloyloxy) ethyltrimellitate (4MET), dry composites with improved BFS values were obtained. 4MET composites exhibited the least loss of strength of all the ternary resin ACP materials. The effect of acidic X on DC was most pronounced for maleic acid copolymers.

Biocompatible Materials↗

PubMed2003

Continuous-fiber preform reinforcement of dental resin composite restorations.

OBJECTIVES: Direct-filling resin composites are used in relatively small restorations and are not recommended for large restorations with severe occlusal-stresses. The aim of this study was to reinforce composites with fiber preforms, and to investigate the effects of layer thickness and configurations on composite properties. It was hypothesized that fiber preforms would significantly increase the composite's flexural strength, work-of-fracture (toughness) and elastic modulus. METHODS: Glass fibers were silanized, impregnated with a resin, cured, and cut to form inserts for tooth cavity restorations. Also fabricated were three groups of specimens of 2mm x 2mm x 25 mm: a fiber preform rod in the center of a hybrid composite; a thin fiber layer on the tensile side of the specimens; and a thin fiber layer sandwiched in between layers of a hybrid composite. These specimens were tested in three-point flexure to measure strength, work-of-fracture and modulus. Optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to examine the restorations and the fiber distributions. RESULTS: Microscopic examinations of insert-filled tooth cavities showed that the fibers were relatively uniform in distribution within the preform, and the inserts were well bonded with the surrounding hybrid composite. Specimens consisting of a fiber preform rod in the center of a hybrid composite had a flexural strength (mean (SD); n=6) of 313 (19)MPa, significantly higher than 120 (16)MPa of the hybrid composite without fibers (Tukey's at family confidence of 0.95). The work-of-fracture was increased by nearly seven times, and the modulus was doubled, due to fiber preform reinforcement. Similar improvements were obtained for the other two groups of specimens. SIGNIFICANCE: Substantial improvements in flexural strength, toughness and stiffness were achieved for dental resin composites reinforced with fiber preforms. The method of embedding a fiber preform insert imparts superior reinforcement to restorations and should improve the performance of direct-filling resin composites in large restorations with high occlusal-loads.

Composite Resins↗

PubMed2003

Volumetric contraction and methacrylate conversion in photo-polymerized amorphous calcium phosphate/methacrylate composites.

Because of its relatively high solubility in aqueous media and its rapid transformation to hydroxyapatite, amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) has been utilized as the filler phase of resin-based bioactive composites that have remineralization potential. The objectives of this study were to determine how various methacrylate resins and various types of ACP fillers affect acrylic vinyl conversion and polymerization shrinkage (PS). Several types of photo-crosslinkable resin systems were prepared and admixed with a mass fraction of 40% of either unhybridized, silica- or zirconia-hybridized ACP. After visible light-activated photo-polymerization ACP composites were assessed by near infrared spectroscopy for degree of vinyl conversion and by mercury dilatometry for PS. It was found for these composites that vinyl conversion was independent of filler type but strongly dependent on the type and composition of the resin phase. PS, on the other hand, showed more complex dependence both on the resin type and composition and, in some cases, on the type of ACP. In order to obtain ACP/methacrylate-based composites with maximal vinyl conversion, resin type and composition are of primary importance. However, in order to minimize volume contraction on polymerization it appears necessary to consider both the resin and filler type of these bioactive composites.

Biocompatible Materials↗

PubMed2002

Silica- and zirconia-hybridized amorphous calcium phosphate: effect on transformation to hydroxyapatite.

The goal of this study was to determine the effect that silica and zirconia have on the stability of bioactive amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) mineral, i.e., in retarding its transformation to hydroxyapatite (HAP). The glass-forming agents, tetraethoxysilane and zirconyl chloride, were introduced individually during the low-temperature preparation of ACP. These hybrid ACPs (Si-ACP and Zr-ACP, respectively) as well as the control, unhybridized ACP (u-ACP), were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, specific surface area measurements, and chemical analysis (Ca/PO(4) ratio of the solids) before being dispersed in one of the following four test solutions: N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine-N'-2-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES)-buffered (pH = 7.40) saline solutions with 0 microg/g fluoride (test solution A1), 1 microg/g fluoride (test solution A2), and 10 microg/g fluoride (test solution A3), or a lactic acid-containing solution (pH = 5.10, adjusted with NaOH; test solution B). Aliquots were taken at predetermined time intervals for solution Ca and PO(4) analysis. Solids isolated after 30 and 90 min exposure to solution B as well as the final dissolution/transformation products from all four solution experiments were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Regardless of the type of experimental solution used, slower conversion to HAP was observed with the hybrid ACPs compared with u-ACP. The retarding effect of the Si or Zr species in the hybridized ACPs is probably due to these ions specifically blocking, by adsorption, potential sites for HAP nucleation and growth. The stability of ACP toward HAP conversion increased in the following order: u-ACP < Si-ACP < Zr-ACP. Hybrid ACP fillers, especially Zr-ACP, could be utilized in applications in which it is desired to enhance performance of composites, sealants, and/or adhesives in preventing demineralization or actively promoting remineralization.

Calcium Phosphates↗

PubMed2001

Interfacial shear strengths of dental resin-glass fibers by the microbond test.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using the microbond test (MBT) to probe the durability of the bond between a polymerized dental resin with differently silanized E-glass fibers. METHODS: The E-glass fibers were silanized with equivalent amounts of two types of acrylic-silane coupling agents: 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) and 10-methacryloxydecyltrimethoxysilane (MDTMS), a more hydrophobic silane coupling agent than MPTMS. Unsilanized E-glass fibers were used as the control. Microdroplets of a photo-activated dental resin were applied on the fiber and photocured with visible light irradiation (470 nm). Subsequently, the specimens were tested in shear after 24h storage in air at 23 degrees C or water at 60 degrees C. RESULTS: The mean interfacial shear strength (tau) and the standard deviation in MPa for the three systems in 23 degrees C in air (n>7) were: 33.8(10.1), 33.7(8.9) and 15.3(4.2) for the MPTMS silanized, MDTMS silanized, and unsilanized fibers, respectively. When the three types of fibers were first exposed to 60 degrees C water for 24h prior to having the microdroplets of the resin bonded to them, the strength values of the MDTMS silanized fibers and the control fibers remained essentially unchanged at (n> or =7) 31.8(7.7) and 17.5(4.9)MPa respectively; the MPTMS specimens showed a significant decrease to 15.8(4.8)MPa. Similar trends were observed when the fibers had microdroplets of the resin bonded to them prior to aqueous exposure. SIGNIFICANCE: These results indicate that the microbond test has the sensitivity to measure changes at the interface between polymerized dental resins and variously silanized E-glass fibers. It appears that surface modification of the fibers with the more hydrophobic silane coupling agent MDTMS promotes enhanced resistance to degradation from exposure to water. The microbond test has the potential for studying dental adhesion involving small bonded areas under a variety of conditions with different adhesive systems and substrates.

Composite Resins↗

PubMed2001

Polymer properties on resins composed of UDMA and methacrylates with the carboxyl group.

The properties of dental matrix resins have been improved by synthesis of new monomers. However, except for improvements in water-resistance, monomers with better mechanical properties than Bis-GMA and UDMA could not being synthesized. Changing the point of emphasis, we tried to improve the mechanical properties controlling the matrix resin higher structure using noncovalent bonds. We prepared a matrix resin structured by UDMA, which is a high viscosity base monomer with imino groups, and by a low viscosity acidic monomer with carboxyl groups, which permits noncovalent bonds such as hydrogen bonds or electrostatic interaction with imino groups. The maximal mechanical strength for matrix resins structured by UDMA and an acidic monomer was obtained with a composition of imino groups and carboxyl groups at a ratio of 1:1. This mechanical strength value was higher than those obtained with UDMA resin or with a Bis-GMA/TEGDMA/UDMA resin with typical composition. The improvement in mechanical properties may be due to the complex based on noncovalent bonds, between the imino groups of UDMA and the carboxyl groups of the acidic monomers.

Aminobenzoates↗

PubMed2000

Physicochemical evaluation of bioactive polymeric composites based on hybrid amorphous calcium phosphates.

Amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)-filled methacrylate composites were recently found to effectively remineralize in vitro caries-like enamel lesions. Their inferior mechanical properties compared to glass-filled composites, however, limit their use as a dental restorative material. In this study, the feasibility of introducing glass-forming elements (tetraethoxysilane or zirconyl chloride) during the low-temperature synthesis of ACP was investigated. Composites based on such hybrid fillers (mass fraction, 40%) were evaluated to establish whether hybridization strengthened the composites via improved interfacial interactions with the polymer phase without compromising the release of the mineral ions. Two types of visible-light cured resins were prepared: BTHZ resin from 2, 2-bis[p-(2'-hydroxy-3'-methacryloxypropoxy)phenyl]propane (BisGMA), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and zirconyl methacrylate (ZrM), and TP resin from TEGDMA and pyromellitic glycerol dimethacrylate (PMGDM). Hybridized fillers and BTHZ- and TP-based composites were characterized by the IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, dissolution/transformation kinetic studies, and biaxial flexure strength (BFS) testing before and after immersion in buffered saline solutions. The feasibility of improving the BFS via hybridization, while retaining, if not enhancing the remineralizing potential was demonstrated for BTHZ-based composites. Both BFS and remineralizing ability of the TP-composites, however, deteriorated upon their exposure to an aqueous environment. Therefore, hybridized ACP-filled BTHZ composites have a potential for utilization in more demanding restorative, sealant, and adhesive applications.

Calcium Phosphates↗

PubMed2000

Indentation modulus and hardness of whisker-reinforced heat-cured dental resin composites.

OBJECTIVES: Recent studies showed that ceramic whisker reinforcement imparted a two-fold increase in the strength of dental composites. The aim of this study was to investigate the indentation response and measure the elastic modulus, hardness, and brittleness of whisker-reinforced heat-cured resin composites as a function of filler level, heat-cure temperature, and heat-cure duration. METHODS: Silica particles were fused onto silicon nitride whiskers to facilitate silanization and to roughen the whiskers for improved retention in matrix. Whisker filler mass fractions of 0, 20, 40, 60, 70, 74 and 79% were tested. Heat-cure temperature ranged from 100 to 180 degrees C, and duration from 10 min to 24 h. A nano-indentation system enabled the measurement of elastic modulus. Fracture toughness was measured and composite brittleness index was calculated. An inlay/onlay composite and a prosthetic composite were tested as controls. RESULTS: Whisker filler level and heat-cure duration had significant effects on composite properties, while heat-cure temperature had non-significant effects. The whisker composite with 79% filler level had a modulus in GPa (mean (SD); n = 6) of 26.9 (1.0), significantly higher than 15.1 (0.2) of an inlay/onlay control, and 16.1 (0.3) of a prosthetic control (Tukey's multiple comparison test; family confidence coefficient = 0.95). The fracture toughness in MPa.m1/2 was 2.22 (0.26) for the whisker composite, higher than 0.95 (0.11) for inlay/onlay control, and (1.13 +/- 0.19) for prosthetic control. The brittleness index was (0.49 +/- 0.07) for whisker composite, lower than (1.02 +/- 0.12) for inlay/onlay control and (0.63 +/- 0.13) for prosthetic control. SIGNIFICANCE: Whisker filler level had a profound influence, heat-cure duration had significant effects, while temperature did not have significant effects, on the properties of whisker composite. The whisker composite had significantly higher elastic modulus and fracture toughness, and lower brittleness than the inlay/onlay and prosthetic controls.

Analysis of Variance↗

PubMed2000

Dental resin composites containing ceramic whiskers and precured glass ionomer particles.

OBJECTIVES: Glass ionomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, and compomer materials are susceptible to brittle fracture and are inadequate for use in large stress-bearing posterior restorations. The aim of this study was to use ceramic single crystal whiskers to reinforce composites formulated with precured glass ionomer, and to examine the effects of whisker-to-precured glass ionomer mass ratio on mechanical properties, fluoride release, and polishability of the composites. METHODS: Silica particles were fused onto silicon nitride whiskers to facilitate silanization and to improve whisker retention in the matrix. Hardened glass ionomer was ground into a fine powder, mixed with whiskers, and used as fillers for a dental resin. Four control materials were also tested: a glass ionomer, a resin-modified glass ionomer, a compomer, and a hybrid composite. A three-point flexural test was used to measure flexural strength, modulus, and work-of-fracture. A fluoride ion-selective electrode was used to measure fluoride release. Composite surfaces polished simulating clinical procedures were examined by SEM and profilometry. RESULTS: At whisker/(whisker + precured glass ionomer) mass fractions of 1.0 and 0.91, the whisker composite had a flexural strength in MPa (mean (SD); n = 6) of (196 (10)) and (150 (16)), respectively, compared to (15 (7)) for glass ionomer, (39 (8)) for resin-modified glass ionomer, (89 (18)) for compomer, and (120 (16)) for hybrid composite. The whisker composite had a cumulative fluoride release of nearly 20% of that of the glass ionomer after 90 days. The whisker composites had surface roughness comparable to the hybrid resin composite. SIGNIFICANCE: Composites filled with precured glass ionomer particles and whiskers exhibit moderate fluoride release with improved mechanical properties; the whisker-to-glass ionomer ratio is a key microstructural parameter that controls fluoride release and mechanical properties.

Acrylic Resins↗

PubMed2000

Load-bearing behavior of a simulated craniofacial structure fabricated from a hydroxyapatite cement and bioresorbable fiber-mesh.

Calcium phosphate cements (CPC) have proven successful in the repair of small, non-stress bearing skeletal defects. These cements do not have sufficient tensile strength or fracture toughness to allow their use in stress-bearing applications. It was hypothesized that a bioresorbable fiber mesh would improve the load-bearing behavior of shell structures fabricated of CPC. This study used a biaxial flexure fixture to compare the work-to-fracture values of discs made of: (1) CPC; (2) CPC reinforced with a bioresorbable two-dimensionally oriented poly(glactin) fiber-mesh; and (3) poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) that were immersed in a serum-like solution for 0-28 days. CPC-mesh and PMMA discs were indistinguishable at 0, 1 and 7 days, based on work-to-fracture data. CPC and CPC-mesh discs were indistinguishable at day 28, because of fiber hydrolysis. The knitted fiber-mesh was effective in improving load-bearing behavior of a calcium phosphate cement for potential structural repair of bone defects.

Journal Article↗

PubMed1999

Dimethacrylate monomers with varied fluorine contents and distributions.

OBJECTIVES: There are many unique properties associated with fluorinated polymers that make these materials attractive for use in the challenging oral environment. This study was devised to better define the influence of fluorine content and its structural distribution on properties of fluorinated resins and composites, especially with regard to their water-related and mechanical properties. METHODS: A series of fluorinated dimethacrylate monomers was prepared by reaction of aromatic diepoxides with fluoroalcohols and subsequent conversion of the resulting diols to the methacrylates. Composites based on monomer systems comprised of the fluorinated monomers with 1,10-decamethylene dimethacrylate and reinforced with silanized quartz filler were evaluated for conversion, water contact angle, water sorption and diametral tensile strength. RESULTS: By selection of reactants, fluorine was introduced as trifluoromethyl groups, extended fluoroalkyl pendant chains, or combinations of the two. Photopolymerization conversion among the experimental composites was generally equal to or greater than that of a conventional Bis-GMA/TEGDMA composite. While the water contact angles generally increased with fluorine content, no correlation was obtained between fluorine content and water sorption of the composites. The mechanical strength of the fluorinated composites showed a general decline with increasing fluorine content and consistent variations due to specific structural features. SIGNIFICANCE: A versatile route to fluorinated dimethacrylates with diverse structural and fluorine distribution patterns is presented. Composites from these monomers are very hydrophobic but have relatively low mechanical strength. The monomers described can be considered as useful additives to moderate the water sorption of conventional resins. However, the results of this study point to specific fluorinated resin structures that are expected to provide a more optimal balance between hydrophobicity and mechanical strength that will improve the long-term performance of dental composites.

Alcohols↗

PubMed1999

Effect of powder grinding on hydroxyapatite formation in a polymeric calcium phosphate cement prepared from tetracalcium phosphate and poly(methyl vinyl ether-maleic acid).

The primary aim of this study was to determine if cements based on poly(methyl vinyl ether-maleic acid) (PMVE-Ma) and tetracalcium phosphate resulted in hydroxyapatite formation. In addition, the mechanical strength of this type of polymeric calcium phosphate cement was evaluated. Cements were prepared by mixing, in a powder/liquid mass ratio of 3.0, an aqueous solution of PMVE-Ma (mass fraction = 25%) and tetracalcium phosphate powders ground for various periods of time. The tetracalcium phosphate powders and set cements were characterized by means of X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Mechanical strengths of the cements were tested 24 h after mixing. Prolonged grinding of tetracalcium phosphate powder decreased particle size and/or crystallite size and increased lattice distortion. This enhanced the reactivity of the tetracalcium phosphate powder and elevated the extent of crosslinking between PMVE-Ma molecules, resulting in improved mechanical strength. Hydroxyapatite formation was detected in the cement prepared with the most finely ground tetracalcium phosphate powder. The conversion of residual tetracalcium phosphate particles to more thermodynamically stable hydroxyapatite crystals will reduce the solubility of the polymeric cement and increase its biocompatibility.

Calcium Phosphates↗

PubMed1999

Ceramic whisker reinforcement of dental resin composites.

Resin composites currently available are not suitable for use as large stress-bearing posterior restorations involving cusps due to their tendencies toward excessive fracture and wear. The glass fillers in composites provide only limited reinforcement because of the brittleness and low strength of glass. The aim of the present study was to reinforce dental resins with ceramic single-crystalline whiskers of elongated shapes that possess extremely high strength. A novel method was developed that consisted of fusing silicate glass particles onto the surfaces of individual whiskers for a two-fold benefit: (1) to facilitate silanization regardless of whisker composition; and (2) to enhance whisker retention in the matrix by providing rougher whisker surfaces. Silicon nitride whiskers, with an average diameter of 0.4 microm and length of 5 microm, were coated by the fusion of silica particles 0.04 microm in size to the whisker surface at temperatures ranging from 650 degrees C to 1000 degrees C. The coated whiskers were silanized and manually blended with resins by spatulation. Flexural, fracture toughness, and indentation tests were carried out for evaluation of the properties of the whisker-reinforced composites in comparison with conventional composites. A two-fold increase in strength and toughness was achieved in the whisker-reinforced composite, together with a substantially enhanced resistance to contact damage and microcracking. The highest flexural strength (195+/-8 MPa) and fracture toughness (2.1+/-0.3 MPa x m(1/2)) occurred in a composite reinforced with a whisker-silica mixture at whisker:silica mass ratio of 2:1 fused at 800 degrees C. To conclude, the strength, toughness, and contact damage resistance of dental resin composites can be substantially improved by reinforcement with fillers of ceramic whiskers fused with silica glass particles.

Ceramics↗

PubMed1999

Demineralizing effect of dental cements on human dentin.

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to verify the hypothesis that dentin surfaces are demineralized during placement of four kinds of chemically setting cements (zinc phosphate cement, luting glass-ionomer cement, restorative glass-ionomer cement, and zinc polycarboxylate cement). METHOD AND MATERIALS: Sixty cemented dentin disks were observed under scanning electron microscopy and with confocal laser scanning microscopy after use of an argon-ion etching technique. To determine the surface effects of the cements, 30 dentin surfaces were treated with 1 of 6 freshly mixed cements (5 per group) for 60 seconds. The disks were subjected to rinsing with a water spray and ultrasonic washing prior to scanning electron microscopic observation. RESULTS: Observation of cemented dentin specimens revealed that the dentin was not completely demineralized at the interface formed by the cement and dentin and that the extent and depth of demineralization along the interface tended to be nonuniform. Zinc phosphate cement caused the greatest demineralization of dentin, followed by luting glass-ionomer cement. The extent of demineralization with restorative glass-ionomer cement or zinc polycarboxylate cement was less discernible. Confocal laser scanning microscopy generally confirmed scanning electron microscopic observations and revealed that most of the specimens showed close adaptation of the cements to the dentin surfaces. CONCLUSION: Acid-containing cements have self-etching properties that are effective, to various degrees, in removing the smear layer and promoting close adaptation to dentin surfaces.

Acid Etching, Dental↗

PubMed1998

Mechanical properties of bioactive amorphous calcium phosphate/methacrylate composites.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine whether amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)-containing composites, which have the ability to release mineralizing levels of Ca and PO4 ions, have appropriate mechanical properties for use as base and lining materials. METHODS: Composites of pyrophosphate-stabilized ACP particulates (mass fraction of 40%) and photo-activated methacrylate resins (mass fraction of 60%) were tested for biaxial flexure strength (BFS), diametral tensile strength (DTS), and compressive strength (CS). Hydroxyapatite (HAP; mass fraction of 40%), and micro-sized glass (mass fraction of 50%) composites as well as a commercial visible light curable base/liner were also tested. The significance between mean values was determined by Student-Newman-Keuls multiple comparisons (p < 0.05). RESULTS: BFS of dry and wet (24 h at 37 degrees C in water) ACP composites (60.3 and 62.0 MPa, respectively) were significantly lower than those of the comparison materials (79.2-109.3 MPa). CS values were likewise lower (62.9 MPa dry and 67.6 MPa wet vs 80.6-196.8 MPa) except for the wet base/liner (58.5 MPa). DTS of the dry ACP composite (21.8 MPa) was comparable with that of the HAP (22.8 MPa) and glass (25.5 MPa) composites, but lower than that of the base/liner (36.2 MPa). DTS decreased significantly when the ACP composite was wet (17.8 MPa). SIGNIFICANCE: These results suggest that the remineralizing ACP polymeric composites, although mechanically weaker in some respects than other polymeric composites, have properties suitable for use as base and lining materials.

Analysis of Variance↗