Abstract
This study aims to compare flexural strength and flexural modulus of different resin-based composites (RBCs) and to determine the impact of dietary solvents on flexural properties. Forty specimens (12x2x2mm) for each of two conventional (Aura Easy [AE]; Harmonize [HN]) and one bulk fill (Sonic Fill 2 [SF2]) were fabricated using customised plastic moulds. Specimens were light-cured, measured and randomly divided into four groups. The groups (n=10) were conditioned for 7 days at 37°C: in one of media: air (control), artificial saliva (SAGF), 0.02N citric acid and 50% ethanol–water solution. After conditioning, the specimens subjected to flexural testing. Two-way ANOVA and one-way ANOVA (post hoc: Tukey’s or Dunnett T3 tests) were used at a=0.05. Significant differences in flexural properties were observed between materials and conditioning media. Flexural strength and modulus values ranged from 124.85MPa to 51.25MPa; and 6.76GPa to 4.03GPa, respectively. The highest flexural properties were obtained with conditioning in air. Exposure to aqueous solutions generally reduced flexural properties. In conclusion, the effect of dietary solvents on flexural properties were material and medium dependent. For functional longevity of restorations, patients’ alcohol intake should be considered during material selection. Dietary advice (reduce alcohol consumption) should be given to patients post operatively.
Highlights
In modern dentistry today, increased aesthetic and mechanical demands for restorative materials to mimic natural tooth foster the development and consistent improvements of direct tooth coloured restorative materials [1]
Dental restorative materials are formulated to meet the criteria of high flexural strength because they are subjected to adverse oral environment and considerable masticatory force, which cause permanent deformation [6]
The lowest flexural strength was noted after storing in ethanol except for Sonic Fill 2 (SF2)
Summary
In modern dentistry today, increased aesthetic and mechanical demands for restorative materials to mimic natural tooth foster the development and consistent improvements of direct tooth coloured restorative materials [1]. RBCs are routinely subjected to certain amounts of flexural forces and stresses from masticatory actions in the oral environment, which have considerable effects on their durability and clinical performance [3]. Flexural properties are crucial factors in selecting dental restorative materials for the clinical durability of restoration [4]. It is important for dental clinicians and material researchers to identify the flexural properties (flexural strength and flexural modulus) of RBC materials [5]. Dental restorative materials are formulated to meet the criteria of high flexural strength because they are subjected to adverse oral environment and considerable masticatory force, which cause permanent deformation [6]. Materials with higher flexural modulus are stiffer than materials with lower flexural modulus [7]
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